Dubai unveils a new process to name streets in the city.

Post by : Dr. Amrinder Pal Singh

Image credit-Dailyhunt

The Dubai Road Naming Committee has unveiled an innovative approach for naming roads within the emirate, aiming to amalgamate distinct elements of authentic heritage, identity, and futuristic aspirations. This novel methodology integrates names and numbers to designate internal roads, simplifying navigation for motorists and visitors. His Excellency Dawoud Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality and Chairman of the Dubai Road Naming Committee, emphasized the utility of this approach, aligning with the Executive Council Decision No. 35 of 2021 on the Dubai Road Naming Committee.

HE Al Hajri expressed, "The Committee has curated an innovative and sophisticated methodology to name roads in Dubai, reflecting the city’s excellence and in line with its position as a model for the best cities in the world." The initial phase of this initiative has seen the naming of roads in the Al Khawaneej 2 area, with names inspired by local trees and flowers, enhancing the emirate's distinctive identity. Examples include Al Ghaf Street, named after a prevalent local tree species, and streets like Al Sidr, Basil, Al Faggy, Al Samr, and Al Sharish.

These names not only reflect the cultural legacy of the emirate but also contribute to the futuristic vision of Dubai. For the first time, road names will play a role in designating land use and developmental projects in each sector and region. The Committee adopts the concept of inference, connecting names, roadside signs, and specific site features to create a mental association for visitors. The road signs will feature distinctive characters representing the key element of the road's new title.

Moreover, this innovative naming technique aids in seamless navigation, helping locate various destinations, government offices, and private sector establishments. The Dubai Road Naming Committee is committed to fostering public participation by inviting residents to suggest names inspired by the natural profile or predominant activities of different areas. Community involvement measures and procedures for accepting proposals will be announced in subsequent phases of the initiative.

Established by Executive Council Decision No. 35 of 2021, the committee is chaired by the Director General of Dubai Municipality, with members representing Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Centre, and four representatives with specialized experience from the Emirate of Dubai. The committee's mandate includes identifying roads in need of names, proposing options, and reviewing earlier designations.

This innovative road naming initiative aligns with Dubai's commitment to excellence, combining cultural significance and modernity to enhance the emirate's identity while facilitating efficient navigation and urban planning.