Abu Dhabi launches Livability by Design Framework for every major urban development

The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has introduced the Livability by Design Framework, a master planning assessment framework that places livability at the centre of every major urban development, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision of creating healthier, more connected and people-focused communities.

The move reinforces the Department's mandate to establish communities that contribute positively to long-term wellbeing, while supporting Abu Dhabi’s broader ambitions to be the global destination of choice to live, work and invest.

Overseen by the Urban Planning and Permits Centre (UPPC), the Framework applies to new and updated master plans accommodating more than 2,000 people, including mixed-use developments and tourism destinations.

Moving beyond traditional planning requirements, it embeds livability into every major development from the outset-ensuring communities are designed around people through walkable neighbourhoods, connected mobility, vibrant public spaces, universal accessibility and high-quality public realm that support healthier, more inclusive and resilient communities.

Eng. Abdulla Mohamed Alblooshi, Director-General of the UPPC, said, "Every master plan approved today will shape how people live for generations. Through the Livability by Design Framework, we are ensuring that growth is measured not only by what is built, but by the quality of life it creates. This framework reinforces Abu Dhabi’s commitment to designing communities where people feel connected, families thrive, businesses prosper, and every neighbourhood contributes to a healthier, more vibrant city.”

Ahead of implementation, UPPC has completed an updated assessment checklist, supporting guidance documents, submission templates and communication materials.

The existing submission and approval process will remain unchanged, enabling developers to integrate the new framework seamlessly while maintaining planning certainty and efficiency.

Eng. Mansour Al Harbi, Acting Executive Director of the Activation & Development Control Sector at the UPPC, said the Framework provides greater clarity and consistency for developers from the earliest stages of project design.

"By defining livability expectations upfront, we are enabling developments that deliver stronger community outcomes while supporting efficient planning and more predictable approval processes. The result is a built environment that is more accessible, connected and responsive to the evolving needs of Abu Dhabi’s communities," he said.

The initiative reinforces Abu Dhabi’s growing international reputation for planning excellence, building on its position as the most liveable city in the MENA region according to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2026 Global Liveability Index, while supporting the emirate’s ambition to become one of the world’s leading destinations to live, work and invest.