His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), has announced the launch of the Hewi Dubai initiative. This ambitious project aims to breathe new life into Dubai’s public spaces by reviving the warmth and spirit of traditional Emirati neighborhoods, known as fareej.

Hewi Dubai is rooted in a human-centric vision that seeks to strengthen community ties by creating inclusive, culturally resonant spaces. The initiative is inspired by the values that have long defined Emirati society—family, togetherness, and a shared sense of belonging. His Highness highlighted the importance of these values, stating that “community bonds are among the core values Emirati families are raised on.”

He emphasized the responsibility of passing these values to future generations through thoughtful urban design that fosters connections among neighbors and provides spaces where families can gather, elders can engage, and children can play in safe, welcoming environments.

Sheikh Hamdan further noted that the spaces created under Hewi Dubai will be far from conventional. They will reflect the city’s cultural identity and future aspirations, while redefining the role of public spaces as extensions of daily life, heritage, and community values.

The first project under this initiative, Hewi Nad Al Sheba 4, serves as a prototype for a new generation of neighborhood spaces. Developed by the Dubai Future Foundation in collaboration with Dubai Municipality, this site was carefully chosen for its walkable layout and natural sense of community. Nestled between a mosque and a residential area in Nad Al Sheba 4, it marks a shift away from one-size-fits-all developments, adopting a co-designed, data-driven approach that aligns with the lifestyle and preferences of local residents.

At the heart of the park’s design is a commitment to comfort, connection, and cultural depth. The area near the mosque features Al Decha, a shaded social hub where older generations can gather, exchange stories, and enjoy traditional Arabic coffee or tea. Another key element is Al Saaha, a flexible space that blends indoor and outdoor environments, ideal for hosting community events, celebrations, and workshops that reflect the lives and traditions of the neighborhood’s residents. Families are also thoughtfully considered with Al Yalsa, a comfortable seating area that overlooks a children’s play zone, allowing parents to relax while keeping an eye on their kids or enjoying informal conversations.

Natural play areas and meandering walkways encourage movement and exploration, fostering intergenerational bonding in a setting that feels familiar and rooted. Every element of the park is designed to serve the community and reflect its rhythms, relationships, and stories.

Through Hewi Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan envisions a future where public spaces do more than serve; they inspire, connect, and preserve the cultural soul of Dubai in ways that are both timeless and forward-thinking.