Mangrove Parks as Alternative Urbanscapes in Desert Environments: Abu Dhabi as a Case Study

Abstract

Mangroves in Abu Dhabi have allowed the creation of green coastlines and the development of bare land intrusions into appealing environments in desert landscapes. The Abu Dhabi coastline is currently being connected at the Eastern Mangroves on the main island of Abu Dhabi to newly urbanized islands such as Al Jubail Island via an extensive bridge that will cross Umm Lafina Island and vast mangrove landscapes. This is part of a broader plan to create connections to new urban islands to mainland Abu Dhabi such as Al Reem and Al Maryah islands through a series of bridges, roads, and related infrastructure. The most challenging aspect in Gulf state cities is creating green open spaces and parks due to the scarcity of water and extreme heat. Mangroves offer Abu Dhabi an alternative venue to connect urbanism and the environment because mangrove landscapes can be developed without the need for fresh water. Mangrove habitations are shaped by leisure and urban clusters, and have become destinations for expatriate communities to enjoy the view and watersports such as Kayaking. This research studies Mangrove waterfront landscapes in Abu Dhabi and new urban developments created in the Eastern Mangroves and Al-Jubail Island.

Keywords: Abu Dhabi Mangrove, Waterfronts, Public Space

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1001174