A 70-meter-long air-conditioned walkway in Al Mamoura, Abu Dhabi now provides pedestrians with a cooler outdoor experience, even during peak summer months. Located near cafes and offices, this innovative corridor enhances comfort while promoting a more walkable city.
Designed for Comfort and Functionality
Opened in late December by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), the walkway is a pilot project for year-round pedestrian-friendly spaces. It features a built-in cooling system beneath the floor, noise-reducing walls, and a specially designed roof.
“The roof filters sunlight while keeping the area cooler,” explained Hamda Al Hashemi, Director of the Urban Design Division at DMT. “The walls block external noise, and the cooling system in the floor improves walking comfort.”
Aiming for a More Walkable City
This initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi vision of making the city more pedestrian-friendly, especially during the intense summer heat. “We’ve seen similar projects in cities like Doha, so we know this approach works,” Al Hashemi said.
Al Mamoura was chosen because it already has a high number of pedestrians from nearby offices and residential areas. This location allows experts to analyze its effectiveness before expanding to other areas.
Future Expansion and Sustainability Plans
Right now, the walkway uses a conventional cooling system, but future corridors may include solar power and eco-friendly technology. “Sustainability is a priority. We are exploring renewable energy and other green design features,” Al Hashemi confirmed.
With summer temperatures often exceeding 45°C, these corridors could provide much-needed relief while supporting a healthier, more active urban lifestyle.
