Urban development in arid regions: A comparative study of Masdar City and the new town of Hassi Messaoud
Rapid urbanization worldwide poses significant challenges in creating resilient urban environments, particularly in arid regions. This study examines the development of sustainable urban environments in desert climates through a comparative analysis of two distinct cities: Masdar City in...
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Serbian Geographical Society
2025-01-01
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| Series: | Glasnik Srpskog Geografskog Društva |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doiserbia.nb.rs/img/doi/0350-3593/2025/0350-35932501363B.pdf |
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| Summary: | Rapid urbanization worldwide poses significant challenges in creating
resilient urban environments, particularly in arid regions. This study
examines the development of sustainable urban environments in desert
climates through a comparative analysis of two distinct cities: Masdar City
in the United Arab Emirates and the New Town of Hassi Messaoud in Algeria.
Masdar City represents a high-tech, globally oriented model that integrates
advanced technologies, renewable energy, and innovative urban planning to
achieve a zero-carbon urban hub. In contrast, the New Town of Hassi Messaoud
adopts a regionally focused, socially inclusive approach, emphasizing
thermal comfort, cultural identity, and the relocation of populations at
risk due to industrial activities. By analysing their urban planning,
economic strategies, social dynamics, and environmental sustainability, this
study highlights the unique opportunities and challenges of desert
urbanization. Key findings reveal that Masdar City excels in technological
innovation and renewable energy integration but faces gaps in social
infrastructure, while Hassi Messaoud prioritizes social equity and
traditional design but encounters challenges in energy efficiency and
funding limitations. The study underscores the importance of balancing
technological advancements with social inclusivity, integrating traditional
and modern practices, and adopting adaptive, holistic approaches to urban
development. Lessons learned from these case studies provide valuable
insights for future urbanization and climate strategies, particularly in
arid regions, emphasizing the need for equitable, resilient, and
sustainable cities capable of addressing the interconnected challenges of
rapid urbanization and climate change. |
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| ISSN: | 0350-3593 2406-078X |