Introduction
The “Expo City Dubai” masterplan developed by UNStudio offers a comprehensive vision for transforming the Expo 2020 Dubai site into a mixed-use urban area that embraces sustainable development and innovative urban planning. The project is based on the adaptive reuse of more than 80% of the existing infrastructure, with adjustments made to meet the future needs of the Expo City Dubai.
Project Background
The idea for the project was launched following the success of Expo 2020 Dubai, which hosted over 24 million visitors from 192 countries during its six-month duration and later hosted COP 28. The plan aims to merge the legacy of the Expo with the requirements of sustainable urban development, in line with Dubai’s targets to reduce emissions and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. This is a key component of the Expo City Dubai vision.
“The masterplan was developed in collaboration with experts from various fields to ensure that the project aligns with Dubai’s sustainable development goals and the rehabilitation of existing infrastructure.”
— From the project content
Urban Design and Layout
The design adopts an approach that organizes the city spaces into a more efficient grid, differing from the organic layout of the former thematic districts. The new planning facilitates easier movement and access between different parts, while focusing on providing green and water spaces that enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors in Expo City Dubai.
District Divisions
The masterplan divides the project into five distinct districts:
- Expo Downtown: A high-density area featuring mixed-use buildings within Expo City Dubai.
- Expo Fields: An area dedicated to a healthy lifestyle, including sports fields, schools, housing, and retail outlets.
- Expo Hills: A low-density residential area with gardens and open spaces.
- Expo Business: A campus-style zone aimed at innovative and eco-friendly companies.
- Expo Valley: A low-density residential neighbourhood adjacent to the main site, scheduled for completion in 2026.
The design emphasizes the integration of green and blue spaces within each district of city, contributing to an improved urban environment and quality of life for both residents and visitors.
Environmental and Sustainability Goals
The plan focuses on achieving high standards in energy and water efficiency, enhancing biodiversity, and utilizing clean energy and alternative water sources. The project requires all buildings in The city to attain LEED Gold certification, while the infrastructure and public realm projects aim for BREEAM Excellent certification. Additionally, the WELL Community Gold Certification underlines the commitment to providing a healthy environment for residents.
“The plan emphasizes reducing energy and water consumption, increasing biodiversity, enhancing sustainable transport, and ensuring ample green spaces for each individual.”
— From the project content
Technical Details and Partners
A number of technical and advisory partners are involved in the project, including:
- Architecture and Design: UNStudio
- Landscape Design: SLA
- Engineering Consulting: Buro Happold
- Project Management Support: Vedra Developers FZ LLC
- Urban Planning and Infrastructure Restructuring: EGIS/WMI
Other project components within Expo City Dubai include studies on traffic impact, microclimate analysis, solid waste management, and the design of lighting and wayfinding systems.
Project Summary Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Expo City Dubai |
| Location | Dubai, United Arab Emirates |
| Designer | UNStudio |
| Main Partners | SLA, Buro Happold, EGIS/WMI, Vedra Developers FZ LLC |
| Project Area | 3.5 square kilometres |
| Expected Residents | Over 35,000 residents |
| Expected Professionals | Approximately 37,000 professionals |
| Annual Visitors | Around 50,000 visitors |
| Target Certifications | LEED Gold, BREEAM Excellent, WELL Community Gold |
| Project Goals | Sustainable urban development through adaptive reuse of existing infrastructure |
Conclusion
The Expo City Dubai masterplan reflects a comprehensive vision for redeveloping the Expo 2020 site in a manner that meets sustainable urban development standards. Expo City Dubai demonstrates flexible and systematic design methodologies that address present and future needs without disregarding the historical infrastructure, ultimately contributing to a balanced and integrated urban environment for all.
