Love this video, but as a Dubai resident, I want to clarify a few points: Expensive: Yes, Dubai can be pricey, especially in tourist hotspots like Dubai Mall, Business Bay restaurants, and retail areas within that district. However, there are affordable options for food, shopping, and entertainment if you know where to look. Other Emirati cities like Sharjah and Abu Dhabi offer a more budget-friendly lifestyle, including lower school fees, transportation, and shopping costs. Spatial Planning: You're right about the ineffective spatial planning. The roads are poorly designed, the houses often lack quality, there's no proper drainage system, and everything feels cramped. It can be suffocating. Nature: There's no real nature here-everything is either artificial or grown from scratch, and it still lacks greenery. For those who love the outdoors, hiking, farming, and plants, Dubai can feel quite fake. However, the desert remains beautiful, and there's a tradition of desert camping in the winter. Parks: Dubai's extreme heat makes outdoor activities nearly impossible. It's so hot that being outside for more than five minutes can feel unbearable. While there are parks in family communities, the intense heat keeps people indoors. To compensate, Dubai offers a plethora of indoor, air-conditioned entertainment options, including indoor parks, communal spaces, and even indoor skiing. These provide opportunities for socializing and building community in a comfortable environment. Dubai is often associated with luxury and expense, and while that's true, it's possible to live within your means. You just need to avoid the high-end crowd and find the more affordable options available.
You’re spot on, I’ve always sensed a void with Dubai, like it lacks soul. Cities that don’t allow for walking suck, it’s similar to the States, you can’t walk anywhere, it feels like the buildings are going to swallow you. European cities are better planned and understood that fundamental need for human connection in their designs.
U walk inside the malls. You will di€ if u walk there in the Dubai(dessert) in the 50-55 degrees heat of the sun. there is no aircon outside... u will di€ in that heat!!
@@bigthangz5489I just finished a 2 hour walk outside here, the heat is bad but you can manage, it also isn't like this for most of the year, one month from now the weather will be great all the way to may 2025. The biggest obstacle to walking here is indeed the infrastructure besides, Abu Dhabi which has the same weather is by far more walkable than Dubai
As much as joburg has it flaws but it’s CBD is very walkable and you enjoy the path Like from marshalltown you have your ghandi square and Main Street and you can walk until Newtown junction or braamfontein without a problem
@@Frasweiler yeah no doubt but in the case of Dubai I doubt the whole city is as walkable as joburg like way you can walk from Brixton to maboneng If joburg was that clean and crime free I doubt a lot of people would be riding taxis that much
In town planning, the design you are suggesting is called community-based planning. We build spaces and buildings for better human development outcomes. Perhaps, their idea of better of outcomes is different from ours
Dubai was built in a hurry and was more focused on record breaking architecture that grabs attention that they neglected how all the elements will work together on a humane level. I used to follow Dubai from the early 2000's and took a lot of inspiration from some of their ambition, but they neglected a very key element in all that, how do they make all the different developers sync to build a unified city for people, and the distances are just too much, its like Johannesburg on steroids.
Exactly what we talk about in my Spatial planning class, i get you mna .Sense of belonging through yourgreen infrastructure is important in Town planning , pedestrian access is key so that people can save and contribute to mitigation of carborn emission. Ndiyakuva mna
bruh you just expressed everything I always felt about Dubai...They thought about over the top construction projects but very little about town planning!
Great video and you spot on, a city needs a street life and not having a street life makes a place feel lifeless, unfortunately because of the existence of a car, urban planners have prioritised the movement of cars over creating large communal spaces that are intertwined, every building and structure just feels like its own concrete island
The part about the transportation in the city is so accurate. The city isn't made for pedestrians and even connecting from city to city through metro or bus is tasking
This video just confirmed exactly what I felt when I went there. I actually did walk from Al Rigga, Deira to the Museum of the Future and I was usually the only one on the road. I normally walk around cities on entry just get a sense of the place and that place really was eerily desolate.
I worry that Sandton and Waterfall are developing in the exact same way. Complete lack of street life, inaccessible spaces, more and more malls. It lends itself to a closed lifestyle.
Disagree on Sandton, it literally has parks& walkways so is a very outdoorsy liveable area, unless you think Sandton only means Sandton CBD. Sandton is a whole suburb with one of the largest urban forests in the world
I disagree Sandton and waterfall are not closed communities they are built safety in mind not a closed community. Perhaps cape town is closest to Dubai its not really a city rooted in culture and human interaction. Its also a tourist city
The commenter wasn't saying Sandton is like Dubai, he said it's BECOMING like Dubai. It's not just Sandton, this ridiculous proliferation of security villages and cordoned off areas for only wealthy people will make SA become more and more like Dubai. We must stop this degradation before it becomes too serious to fix.
Great video, i've been a resident here in Dubai for over 5 years, i just don't like the fact that in Dubai if you miss an offramp it will add 15 to 20 mutes on your travel time, the road planning is absurd 🤣. There are very limited cross bridges over highways.
Your opinion video started to make sense for me when you mentioned the double up something I can relate to, and maybe because I haven't been to Dubai I was struggling a bit to understand until the double up moment 😂. Thanks bro I really appreciate your channel it's very informative and love how you break up your topics.
Great analysis. I’ve never been to Dubai but I get your critique and frustration about the flaws in their design thinking. A core differentiator between design and art is that design has the obligation to dress the fundamental issue of being fit of purpose as a main priority and beautification secondarily. Therefore, in my opinion, the measure of success of the design should mostly be weighted on its usefulness within the environment it exist in, not how pretty it looks 🤷🏾♀️ So I’m with you.
It might have to do with the fact that social control in an authoritarian society is easier when mobility is diminished which is what the Egyptian government is doing with the New Administrative Capital
Interesting Take,but I was in Singapore and it's super expensive for No reason and the huge cost is to it's Citizens,it's beautiful with No Soul, everyone is miserable Bro. Check. Dubai is not that expensive when compared to Singapore and there's more in Dubai.. Check out documentaries about the quality of life in Singapore
Okay here’s my 2 cents as a South African that has lived in Dubai for 6 years now, about the town planning, Dubai isn’t designed for walking on purpose, this is the desert. You’re not meant to walk in Dubai, it’s 50 degrees celsius outside, no one wants to walk anywhere. Regarding communities, the population here is 90% expat and most never plan to have roots here, everyone plans to eventually go home and that can happen very abruptly, so “community” is not a priority. That’s all.
If this is the case, I do not think its worth going to dubai, I dont wanna be in a concrete jungle, I have enough of that in jozi and cape town. If I want the desert, we have it here in cape town or I can go to Namibia, which I have been. So besides the vanity projects, there is nothing uniquely dubai there
Dubai feels like a Video game. It was built to cater to the rich and it shows. Wealthy people are notoriously transient. That's why there's so many empty housing developments and sparsely populated public squares in the city.
The way you're describing Dubai reminds me of Sandton. The building lack any character or definition that when you look at a building you can't tell if it's a residence our another law firm
The big disclaimer about Dubai is it's not for community/family type of experience. It's a transactional space, finnish and klaar. It doesn't communicate culture or any aspect of the arab region
Great video! From an Architects perspective, the concept of designing car-centric cities is outdated. Instead, we should focus on human-centric designs that follow desirable routes/"dablap" based on human behavior and preferences, rather than pre-planned walkways or sidewalks. and as for the new gaudy buildings, It's crucial for a city and a country to tell their story through architecture, preserving heritage and history when designing new buildings.
I've never been to Dubai but I'm a walker, I love the outdoors, greenery and nature in general, so being in a Uber to go everywhere is not it for me, I would be frustrated. The skyscrapers are nice, but their not the soul of the place (or are they🤔). For the love of travel, I will keep it on my bucket list.😎
Dubai is also expensive for Brits- fresh produce is pricier than in UK (I remember paying £5 for 2 avocados) coz it's in the desert. But it's safe/fun/top services/many opportunities. 5000AED (£1,000.00) at the time could get you a monthly rented room overlooking the beach!!
having lived in and around the uae for the better part of the last two decades, i would honestly vouch for their walkability in a few areas, however it is true that both public transport and infrastructure can be lacking, especially in newer developments
You nailed it brethren! Many cities should copy from Europe and China in terms of infrastructure in relation to movement around the city. Jozi is a mix of New York and London.
I do not think that the urban planning of major cities came out of any grand design of spatial planning "there is no such" but more on the evolution of spaces, economies and the living environment. Dubai has had little time compared to any many major cities to evolve, because with evolution of spaces you build on the previous environment, challenges and building ideas of the city. Dubai was built as an expatriate city of the middle east to serve a primary purpose of creating a trading business hub, as it evolves it will be more cohesive and will accommodate an integrated community.
I just came back from dubai and my experience this time around was totally different from the few times I've been there. Old town dubai had everything you are complaining about. There's a sense of community there. You can easily walk around and also interact with locals, i must say i did not enjoy that(ngizibonele i downtown jozi e clean nje mna😂😂 The other side is more futuristic and modern, allows one to dream. Honestly i enjoy this dreamy side of the city because if i wanted a sense of community I'd stay right here at home for that🤷♀️
Dubai its a moving train Journey,they get things Done,it's a Best city on planet.there is no City you can compare it in South Africa.ive been living here for 12Years and guess what I'm a South African.here they build this place as they want.so let's not compare.thats why Citizen here are very happy bcs leaders take care of their Citizens
I think you assessment of these cities is spot. I have not travelled much. In some place I have only been to their airport. I sound Dubai to be soulless, sanitized and show-offishy. And that was just in taking off and riding on an airport bus. I landed at the airport in the Netherlands and I was mesmerized. I landed at JFK and was neutral. The city of New York was great for walking but unfriendly. I loved Central Park. I was in Cyprus and felt at home.
I hear exactly what you're saying a lot of these new developments have a very cut and paste feel which doesn't feel real or authentic, it feels rather dystopian.
I totally get what you saying, as much as I've never been there. But from what I've seen when searching and what is shared on socials. There no sense of originality in Dubai instead they seem to be trying too much and they seem not to have no limit. I still wish to go there, for shopping experience. To get to understand what is it that makes it so special to shop there, because it is not like they got the most famous fashion designers or playing much role in fashion creation other than being sellers of luxury stuff.
I was there last year and felt there was something off about it...found that it lacked character and was not designed for people to connect. Very plastic and a lot of copy and paste architectural wise...you might be right about Dubai suffering from 'new money' syndrome.
@@mooshtaffa it must be mentioned that I respect how you sought to be respectful in your criticism. You were careful to not bash. I’ve seen another video with the same opinion by Adam Something, a Hungarian RUclipsr. He was comically harsh yet still educational, but that’s his style.
South Africa is quite walkable. I know because l have done walkabouts while l used to live there. Yes, cities like Jozi are very spread out. But once you get to a Sandton, or a Soweto or a Midrand… you can really walk. Dubai could never be my kinda city (specifically, because of the reasons you stated).
I think your focus was too much on the city centre which I agree with. The highway is also a bit weird but besides that I like what emmaar is doing around the city centre cos that means the design of that place overall looks good when building up cos its one developer. When you span out to other places I found them walkable. The Palm and Marina for example. Even where burj al arab is. That whole area is walkable. The bikes that are there to rent also show that. Maybe I just love skyscrapers but I see nothing nothing with how they are building. My only problem is tall buildings that stick out in the middle of nowhere and its its just that one building
in architecture school we used to refer to dubai buildings as "pornchitecture". you guys can go figure how we arrived at that statement...... and no, big isnt better!!!!!!!!!
First of I want to understand what you mean by walk because you can’t walk from business bay to deira caus of time but you can walk from business bay to jumeirah, if you know where your going and the roads to walk from. Then if you wanna walk around still they are still connected. But maybe you visited Dubai during summer when is hot or maybe they people that took you around are very used to cars to the extent they don’t walk around anymore. I have lived in Dubai for few years and I definitely know that when I decide to walk I know how to take my walk and reach where am going or want to walk to. Again it’s all depends on a lot of factors…. I come in peace though
He named: 1. New York 2. Amsterdam 3. Paris 4. Shanghai 5. Beijing As examples. All culturally distinct from the UAE. You have to appreciate that its an islamic country similar to the other GCC group countries. Maybe compare it with other GCC partners like riyahd? Though i believe you made valid points technically. Theres an elephant in the room on dubai i refuse to mention
@@mooshtaffa it'd be great to hear your view on other GCC cities when you finally get around to visiting. I have my own views on them (GCC cities) personally (they're not positive, unfortunately) hence the elephant in the room statement. The smaller elephant: authenticity.
As someone that travels a bit myself, tourists prefer to see something that uniquely defines a place whether it be culture, people, foods or a type of lifestyle. Places like Dubai focus more on being like other famous countries hence why one may say it lacks soul. South Africa, China, Kenya are good examples of countries that kept their traditions while at the same time able to accommodate the rest of the world.
The way I see it Dubai often defies traditional city comparisons. It’s not about looking back in history or conforming to norms; rather, it’s a city with its eyes firmly set on the future. In one of your previous videos, you mentioned that many individuals from first-world countries are relocating in search of better living conditions. Notably, these individuals often belong to the top 10%-those with high status, high incomes, and distinct lifestyle preferences. From my observations, Dubai appears to cater specifically to this demographic. It offers luxury, safety, and tax incentives, all appealing to the affluent. The city's ambitious projects, rapid economic growth, and strategic global positioning also contribute to its allure. As some traditional powerhouses like the UK, US, Canada, and Australia face challenges, Dubai seems to have positioned themselves to emerge as a beacon for those seeking new opportunities. Dubai might not seem to cater to traditional urban planning like parks, daytime social activities, and pedestrian-friendly spaces. I don’t think this is by mistake, especially considering its a desert environment. Instead, it reflects Dubai’s future-oriented nature and its focus on a specific demographic who care little about those things-those who are (or aspire) to be high-status individuals. They seem to be a setting where people can be their best, accomplish anything, connect with other parts of the world, and network with like-minded people in a safe and welcoming environment where they're not being screwed with their wealth. This forward-looking approach extends to its architectural style as well. Dubai's architecture isn't merely about functionality; it's about making bold statements. The city is filled with iconic structures, each designed to showcase innovation, luxury, and a blend of futuristic vision with cultural elements. These landmarks not only serve practical purposes but meant to attract global attention, embodying the city's ambition and grandeur. There are unique nuances about Dubai that set it apart from most cities. Its unique governance, its vibrant nightlife (not so much 'daylife'), and the fact that a majority of its residents are expats. There's alse the city's migration patterns I've noticed, people leave during the summer and return in the 'cooler' months. Dubai is still evolving, and being a relatively young city built from a clean slate gives it a unique character. It’s not built out of necessity but out of sheer possibility which admittedly makes people on ground-level to feel alienated. I think we’re yet to see what Dubai will ultimately become, but its trajectory is undeniably fascinating. Sorry about the long comments but it's an interestig topic and great video as always✌
That is what happens when you build a city from scratch and hope people will come rather than building a city around communities that already exist because that city is built to meet the needs of communities that already exist there
Dubai is perfect for Africans, the Arabs just need to invest in Africans and make sure they offer premium value within Dubai. Africans will know what to do in those spaces.
That's why they have Abu Dhabi with stricter Islamic laws. In Abu Dhabi, they have desert hotel named Qasr El Sarab. In Qasr El Sarab, they provide Arab culture. Dubai is meant for business not culture
hai shame mina I think if you can afford it Dubai is it. Just nje for safety alone. The one thing that is very frustrating about our country South Africa 🇿🇦 is not being able to just buy any car you like because you still have to consider if the vehicle is a target for hijacking. Mina shame Crime iyangidina and safety alone nje is number one for me and that is what I didn't miss about Mzansi when I lived in Dubai. Dubai was just perfect for me. a Country where my woman could work late and come home late and I don't have to worry about her safety. You start driving Ama Porsche and other luxury cars in South Africa and boom you and your children are now targets for kidnapping hai ngeke. PEACE OF MIND for me I could pay whatever I have to just knowing that my family is safe even if I have to travel to work and no see them for a long time, No country in the world can match Mzansi if you took CRIME out of it, but nje crime alone hai makes Mzansi and its vibe not worth it. imagine ubanjwe inkunzi in town in the middle of the day with people just walking around watching. A country where you can leave you phone in a crowded shop and come back and get it becomes the country or city to live in.
Bro why funa ukuwalker in the 8 months heat of Dubai. Back in SA the climate is conducive for walking, stay for 12 months here and you will review your opinion futhi. I’ll take Dubai over the GNU country kodwa
One must remember that the Islam are conservatives, and I should think this influences their city planning. They are not keen on encouraging social spaces but have a history of appreciation for beautiful structure e.g Mosque. I also agree with the New Money Syndrome, they might be building these skyscrapers to show the world their abilities and/or it's even a competition amongst themselves as developers/affluent families.
Oh my what you saying makes sense the skyscrapers in Dubai don't make sense eg in new york you can see the buildings buitbin different era like Baroque, art Deco etc and you see the city transform through the ages but in Dubai they had every opportunity to buila a modern middle east high tech city, but they just copied America wit high-rises that dont serve a purpose that are so disjointed and the design style is different from the tower next to the is no cohesion and rand empty plots of sandy land that gets hijacked into a parking lot so you have nice view nice view patch of sand. Spatial planning It's so strange that you can't walk in Dubai you need to Uber or drive yourself the highways cut through every place of interest and if you off-ramp on the wrong lanes it takes like 30 of you to drive the wrong way so you can u-turn to attempt it again 🤷♂️🤷♂️ all the blocks feel like they are stand-alone you really can't bump in to people in Dubai its such a messed up city!
How does the ghetto look? That's where the real people live anyway and wouldn't walking in extreme heat be a health hazard for tourists coming from colder areas like Europe, Russia and so on? I wish uu could try and interview an expat with about 5 or more years living in Dubai their view might open minds.
![[SFM] Risky Recital](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/RzNkY1_Nk3o/mqdefault.jpg)
Love this video, but as a Dubai resident, I want to clarify a few points:
Expensive: Yes, Dubai can be pricey, especially in tourist hotspots like Dubai Mall, Business Bay restaurants, and retail areas within that district. However, there are affordable options for food, shopping, and entertainment if you know where to look. Other Emirati cities like Sharjah and Abu Dhabi offer a more budget-friendly lifestyle, including lower school fees, transportation, and shopping costs.
Spatial Planning: You're right about the ineffective spatial planning. The roads are poorly designed, the houses often lack quality, there's no proper drainage system, and everything feels cramped. It can be suffocating.
Nature: There's no real nature here-everything is either artificial or grown from scratch, and it still lacks greenery. For those who love the outdoors, hiking, farming, and plants, Dubai can feel quite fake. However, the desert remains beautiful, and there's a tradition of desert camping in the winter.
Parks: Dubai's extreme heat makes outdoor activities nearly impossible. It's so hot that being outside for more than five minutes can feel unbearable. While there are parks in family communities, the intense heat keeps people indoors. To compensate, Dubai offers a plethora of indoor, air-conditioned entertainment options, including indoor parks, communal spaces, and even indoor skiing. These provide opportunities for socializing and building community in a comfortable environment.
Dubai is often associated with luxury and expense, and while that's true, it's possible to live within your means. You just need to avoid the high-end crowd and find the more affordable options available.
Thanks So much for sharing bro. This is what makes the conversations more well rounded.
@@mooshtaffa Thanks for another good topic. I'm a big fan.
@kwangubane2256 Thanks for expanding on it.
Absolutely agreed with u Mjita.Danko
I’m glad that someone is able to articulate the shortfalls of their spatial planning. Thank you
You're spot on! RUclipsrs in urban planning like Adam Something have pointed this out.
You’re spot on, I’ve always sensed a void with Dubai, like it lacks soul. Cities that don’t allow for walking suck, it’s similar to the States, you can’t walk anywhere, it feels like the buildings are going to swallow you. European cities are better planned and understood that fundamental need for human connection in their designs.
In terms of walking Dubai is hot people would be fainting left and right
U walk inside the malls. You will di€ if u walk there in the Dubai(dessert) in the 50-55 degrees heat of the sun.
there is no aircon outside... u will di€ in that heat!!
@@bigthangz5489I just finished a 2 hour walk outside here, the heat is bad but you can manage, it also isn't like this for most of the year, one month from now the weather will be great all the way to may 2025. The biggest obstacle to walking here is indeed the infrastructure besides, Abu Dhabi which has the same weather is by far more walkable than Dubai
As much as joburg has it flaws but it’s CBD is very walkable and you enjoy the path
Like from marshalltown you have your ghandi square and Main Street and you can walk until Newtown junction or braamfontein without a problem
There are places to walk in dubai, l understand its limited but also cool
@@Frasweiler yeah no doubt but in the case of Dubai I doubt the whole city is as walkable as joburg like way you can walk from Brixton to maboneng
If joburg was that clean and crime free I doubt a lot of people would be riding taxis that much
In town planning, the design you are suggesting is called community-based planning. We build spaces and buildings for better human development outcomes. Perhaps, their idea of better of outcomes is different from ours
Dubai was built in a hurry and was more focused on record breaking architecture that grabs attention that they neglected how all the elements will work together on a humane level. I used to follow Dubai from the early 2000's and took a lot of inspiration from some of their ambition, but they neglected a very key element in all that, how do they make all the different developers sync to build a unified city for people, and the distances are just too much, its like Johannesburg on steroids.
@@leshegomokganya2416 Facts!
As someone who is living in Dubai for the last 7 years, this has been a great video and nice to see this perspective as well.
Exactly what we talk about in my Spatial planning class, i get you mna .Sense of belonging through yourgreen infrastructure is important in Town planning , pedestrian access is key so that people can save and contribute to mitigation of carborn emission. Ndiyakuva mna
bruh you just expressed everything I always felt about Dubai...They thought about over the top construction projects but very little about town planning!
This is an awesome segment and I think South Africa was just blessed with some proper architecture.
The greatest country in the world
Bro we have style here hell with skyscrapers
I love how you explain things man. Your videos are very informative.
Great video and you spot on, a city needs a street life and not having a street life makes a place feel lifeless, unfortunately because of the existence of a car, urban planners have prioritised the movement of cars over creating large communal spaces that are intertwined, every building and structure just feels like its own concrete island
Feels disjointed … 🙃
I'm really enjoying the work your putting out and the pace at which we're receiving these as well.
The part about the transportation in the city is so accurate. The city isn't made for pedestrians and even connecting from city to city through metro or bus is tasking
This video just confirmed exactly what I felt when I went there. I actually did walk from Al Rigga, Deira to the Museum of the Future and I was usually the only one on the road. I normally walk around cities on entry just get a sense of the place and that place really was eerily desolate.
very poor planning and Americanisation (car-centric) leaves the city broke cause of all the maintenance of road infrastructure.
True, look at the municipalities all going bankrupt due to road infrastructure maintenence.
I worry that Sandton and Waterfall are developing in the exact same way. Complete lack of street life, inaccessible spaces, more and more malls. It lends itself to a closed lifestyle.
Sandton has lots of parks, walkways and bicycle lines, lots of trees as well.
Disagree on Sandton, it literally has parks& walkways so is a very outdoorsy liveable area, unless you think Sandton only means Sandton CBD. Sandton is a whole suburb with one of the largest urban forests in the world
I disagree Sandton and waterfall are not closed communities they are built safety in mind not a closed community. Perhaps cape town is closest to Dubai its not really a city rooted in culture and human interaction. Its also a tourist city
The commenter wasn't saying Sandton is like Dubai, he said it's BECOMING like Dubai. It's not just Sandton, this ridiculous proliferation of security villages and cordoned off areas for only wealthy people will make SA become more and more like Dubai. We must stop this degradation before it becomes too serious to fix.
@@thandisilec835 Preach....
Great video, i've been a resident here in Dubai for over 5 years, i just don't like the fact that in Dubai if you miss an offramp it will add 15 to 20 mutes on your travel time, the road planning is absurd 🤣.
There are very limited cross bridges over highways.
Your opinion video started to make sense for me when you mentioned the double up something I can relate to, and maybe because I haven't been to Dubai I was struggling a bit to understand until the double up moment 😂.
Thanks bro I really appreciate your channel it's very informative and love how you break up your topics.
Gotta bring it back home 🤣👌🏾
When he said double- up 😂 I felt it 😅😂
Great analysis.
I’ve never been to Dubai but I get your critique and frustration about the flaws in their design thinking.
A core differentiator between design and art is that design has the obligation to dress the fundamental issue of being fit of purpose as a main priority and beautification secondarily.
Therefore, in my opinion, the measure of success of the design should mostly be weighted on its usefulness within the environment it exist in, not how pretty it looks 🤷🏾♀️
So I’m with you.
Never been, never wanted to go… I’m a decent human-being!
Hahaha Nota stop it 🤣
Bro got an ego like ants have strength lol
😂😂😂😂 chief is petty
😂
It might have to do with the fact that social control in an authoritarian society is easier when mobility is diminished which is what the Egyptian government is doing with the New Administrative Capital
Interesting Take,but I was in Singapore and it's super expensive for No reason and the huge cost is to it's Citizens,it's beautiful with No Soul, everyone is miserable Bro. Check. Dubai is not that expensive when compared to Singapore and there's more in Dubai..
Check out documentaries about the quality of life in Singapore
Okay here’s my 2 cents as a South African that has lived in Dubai for 6 years now, about the town planning, Dubai isn’t designed for walking on purpose, this is the desert. You’re not meant to walk in Dubai, it’s 50 degrees celsius outside, no one wants to walk anywhere. Regarding communities, the population here is 90% expat and most never plan to have roots here, everyone plans to eventually go home and that can happen very abruptly, so “community” is not a priority. That’s all.
I never thought of a “double up” in the way you explained it. Interesting 🧐
If this is the case, I do not think its worth going to dubai, I dont wanna be in a concrete jungle, I have enough of that in jozi and cape town. If I want the desert, we have it here in cape town or I can go to Namibia, which I have been. So besides the vanity projects, there is nothing uniquely dubai there
That’s what got to me as well. I wasn’t ever in a state of FOMO about Dubai. But when I got a chance to go I went but I came back with this feeling …
Just be bold and say dubai is overrated 🤷🏽♂️. Phela you apologizing over and over to express your feelings
😂😂😂😂❤
Dubai feels like a Video game. It was built to cater to the rich and it shows. Wealthy people are notoriously transient. That's why there's so many empty housing developments and sparsely populated public squares in the city.
Bro you jus said what my friend said last week ,, word for word .
The way you're describing Dubai reminds me of Sandton. The building lack any character or definition that when you look at a building you can't tell if it's a residence our another law firm
The big disclaimer about Dubai is it's not for community/family type of experience. It's a transactional space, finnish and klaar. It doesn't communicate culture or any aspect of the arab region
Great video! From an Architects perspective, the concept of designing car-centric cities is outdated. Instead, we should focus on human-centric designs that follow desirable routes/"dablap" based on human behavior and preferences, rather than pre-planned walkways or sidewalks. and as for the new gaudy buildings, It's crucial for a city and a country to tell their story through architecture, preserving heritage and history when designing new buildings.
I've never been to Dubai but I'm a walker, I love the outdoors, greenery and nature in general, so being in a Uber to go everywhere is not it for me, I would be frustrated. The skyscrapers are nice, but their not the soul of the place (or are they🤔). For the love of travel, I will keep it on my bucket list.😎
For someone who travels as u do.i think ur conclusion explains exactly what is not missing,what it was made for.like ur crash courses....big up.
Dubai is also expensive for Brits- fresh produce is pricier than in UK (I remember paying £5 for 2 avocados) coz it's in the desert. But it's safe/fun/top services/many opportunities. 5000AED (£1,000.00) at the time could get you a monthly rented room overlooking the beach!!
having lived in and around the uae for the better part of the last two decades, i would honestly vouch for their walkability in a few areas, however it is true that both public transport and infrastructure can be lacking, especially in newer developments
Pretoria is walkable, like you can walk from the east to the west. Its just that we don't like walking anymore and because time is money
Very astute assessment
You nailed it brethren! Many cities should copy from Europe and China in terms of infrastructure in relation to movement around the city. Jozi is a mix of New York and London.
I wish you had also touched on Old Dubai..thats where you see the real face of common people and a bit of poverty
Your points are valid.
Great video as usual Zimasa lets hope Bin Salman pull a Khoshogi on you for this video lol 😆
i've never been to Dubai but everything you said it's what I always suspected
Dubai is kind of a show-off city, not exactly built with people in mind. Don't get me wrong it's not a bad city but it lacks that homey filling
I do not think that the urban planning of major cities came out of any grand design of spatial planning "there is no such" but more on the evolution of spaces, economies and the living environment. Dubai has had little time compared to any many major cities to evolve, because with evolution of spaces you build on the previous environment, challenges and building ideas of the city. Dubai was built as an expatriate city of the middle east to serve a primary purpose of creating a trading business hub, as it evolves it will be more cohesive and will accommodate an integrated community.
Bro please build your own city on city skyline , you'll really get why ! Loved the video ❤❤👌👌
I just came back from dubai and my experience this time around was totally different from the few times I've been there.
Old town dubai had everything you are complaining about. There's a sense of community there. You can easily walk around and also interact with locals, i must say i did not enjoy that(ngizibonele i downtown jozi e clean nje mna😂😂
The other side is more futuristic and modern, allows one to dream. Honestly i enjoy this dreamy side of the city because if i wanted a sense of community I'd stay right here at home for that🤷♀️
Maybe that’s it. They just don’t promote it enough like the other areas.
Dubai its a moving train Journey,they get things Done,it's a Best city on planet.there is no City you can compare it in South Africa.ive been living here for 12Years and guess what I'm a South African.here they build this place as they want.so let's not compare.thats why Citizen here are very happy bcs leaders take care of their Citizens
I think you assessment of these cities is spot. I have not travelled much. In some place I have only been to their airport. I sound Dubai to be soulless, sanitized and show-offishy. And that was just in taking off and riding on an airport bus. I landed at the airport in the Netherlands and I was mesmerized. I landed at JFK and was neutral. The city of New York was great for walking but unfriendly. I loved Central Park. I was in Cyprus and felt at home.
I completely agree with you Dubai. I left there not having a feel for the people or country.
I hear exactly what you're saying a lot of these new developments have a very cut and paste feel which doesn't feel real or authentic, it feels rather dystopian.
I totally get what you saying, as much as I've never been there. But from what I've seen when searching and what is shared on socials. There no sense of originality in Dubai instead they seem to be trying too much and they seem not to have no limit. I still wish to go there, for shopping experience. To get to understand what is it that makes it so special to shop there, because it is not like they got the most famous fashion designers or playing much role in fashion creation other than being sellers of luxury stuff.
Always said it's TOO "spaceshipish" and not homey at all.
I was there last year and felt there was something off about it...found that it lacked character and was not designed for people to connect. Very plastic and a lot of copy and paste architectural wise...you might be right about Dubai suffering from 'new money' syndrome.
Spatial design will forever be important
Forever 🔥
@@mooshtaffa it must be mentioned that I respect how you sought to be respectful in your criticism. You were careful to not bash. I’ve seen another video with the same opinion by Adam Something, a Hungarian RUclipsr. He was comically harsh yet still educational, but that’s his style.
South Africa is quite walkable. I know because l have done walkabouts while l used to live there.
Yes, cities like Jozi are very spread out. But once you get to a Sandton, or a Soweto or a Midrand… you can really walk.
Dubai could never be my kinda city (specifically, because of the reasons you stated).
16:12 that’s it. It’s a monument to “we are here now…despite all odds”
Zimasa, wena ufuna ama double ups in Dubai 😂 u can’t go to neighbors and ask for salt there. … On a serious note, good points though 👌
hahahahah, yes I want a double up
I think your focus was too much on the city centre which I agree with. The highway is also a bit weird but besides that I like what emmaar is doing around the city centre cos that means the design of that place overall looks good when building up cos its one developer. When you span out to other places I found them walkable. The Palm and Marina for example. Even where burj al arab is. That whole area is walkable. The bikes that are there to rent also show that.
Maybe I just love skyscrapers but I see nothing nothing with how they are building. My only problem is tall buildings that stick out in the middle of nowhere and its its just that one building
in architecture school we used to refer to dubai buildings as "pornchitecture".
you guys can go figure how we arrived at that statement......
and no, big isnt better!!!!!!!!!
Very interesting. So there’s an academic study into the way Dubai is developing, even in architecture. It makes so much sense
First of I want to understand what you mean by walk because you can’t walk from business bay to deira caus of time but you can walk from business bay to jumeirah, if you know where your going and the roads to walk from. Then if you wanna walk around still they are still connected. But maybe you visited Dubai during summer when is hot or maybe they people that took you around are very used to cars to the extent they don’t walk around anymore.
I have lived in Dubai for few years and I definitely know that when I decide to walk I know how to take my walk and reach where am going or want to walk to.
Again it’s all depends on a lot of factors…. I come in peace though
Okay, Mr. town planner.
He named:
1. New York
2. Amsterdam
3. Paris
4. Shanghai
5. Beijing
As examples. All culturally distinct from the UAE.
You have to appreciate that its an islamic country similar to the other GCC group countries. Maybe compare it with other GCC partners like riyahd? Though i believe you made valid points technically.
Theres an elephant in the room on dubai i refuse to mention
DBX is the only GCC country i've been to so far and I was comparing it to the cities that I've actually been to. Whats the elephant in the room
@@mooshtaffa it'd be great to hear your view on other GCC cities when you finally get around to visiting. I have my own views on them (GCC cities) personally (they're not positive, unfortunately) hence the elephant in the room statement. The smaller elephant: authenticity.
Thought provoking commentary...
Maybe also add this opinion segment at the end of each video you do so we get your personal views above the facts you present.
Maybe 🤔 great suggestion
9:41 I imagine that is why fuel is cheap, regarding the transport inefficiencies…
Hai mna i need a place with plant life, trees and grass, water within walking distance
and friendly climate.
As someone that travels a bit myself, tourists prefer to see something that uniquely defines a place whether it be culture, people, foods or a type of lifestyle.
Places like Dubai focus more on being like other famous countries hence why one may say it lacks soul. South Africa, China, Kenya are good examples of countries that kept their traditions while at the same time able to accommodate the rest of the world.
love this video
Why do South African slay queens fly to Dubai all the time? What are they doing there?
The way I see it Dubai often defies traditional city comparisons. It’s not about looking back in history or conforming to norms; rather, it’s a city with its eyes firmly set on the future. In one of your previous videos, you mentioned that many individuals from first-world countries are relocating in search of better living conditions. Notably, these individuals often belong to the top 10%-those with high status, high incomes, and distinct lifestyle preferences.
From my observations, Dubai appears to cater specifically to this demographic. It offers luxury, safety, and tax incentives, all appealing to the affluent. The city's ambitious projects, rapid economic growth, and strategic global positioning also contribute to its allure. As some traditional powerhouses like the UK, US, Canada, and Australia face challenges, Dubai seems to have positioned themselves to emerge as a beacon for those seeking new opportunities.
Dubai might not seem to cater to traditional urban planning like parks, daytime social activities, and pedestrian-friendly spaces. I don’t think this is by mistake, especially considering its a desert environment. Instead, it reflects Dubai’s future-oriented nature and its focus on a specific demographic who care little about those things-those who are (or aspire) to be high-status individuals. They seem to be a setting where people can be their best, accomplish anything, connect with other parts of the world, and network with like-minded people in a safe and welcoming environment where they're not being screwed with their wealth.
This forward-looking approach extends to its architectural style as well. Dubai's architecture isn't merely about functionality; it's about making bold statements. The city is filled with iconic structures, each designed to showcase innovation, luxury, and a blend of futuristic vision with cultural elements. These landmarks not only serve practical purposes but meant to attract global attention, embodying the city's ambition and grandeur.
There are unique nuances about Dubai that set it apart from most cities. Its unique governance, its vibrant nightlife (not so much 'daylife'), and the fact that a majority of its residents are expats. There's alse the city's migration patterns I've noticed, people leave during the summer and return in the 'cooler' months.
Dubai is still evolving, and being a relatively young city built from a clean slate gives it a unique character. It’s not built out of necessity but out of sheer possibility which admittedly makes people on ground-level to feel alienated. I think we’re yet to see what Dubai will ultimately become, but its trajectory is undeniably fascinating.
Sorry about the long comments but it's an interestig topic and great video as always✌
Let's keep the farmers safe in SA. Food costs a lot more outside SA (in most places).
an you give us an example if any city that is actually spacially well planed as a point of refence.
That is what happens when you build a city from scratch and hope people will come rather than building a city around communities that already exist because that city is built to meet the needs of communities that already exist there
Bhuti ndimyamthanda umsebenzi wakho
You'd swear zawufunda eQueens
Dale: but Queens is our brother 😁
Dubai is perfect for Africans, the Arabs just need to invest in Africans and make sure they offer premium value within Dubai. Africans will know what to do in those spaces.
Don't worry cause everything you say makes enough sense
I totally feel you Dubai just feels boring when you there...There's everything yet boring - it's a dull city
That's why they have Abu Dhabi with stricter Islamic laws. In Abu Dhabi, they have desert hotel named Qasr El Sarab. In Qasr El Sarab, they provide Arab culture. Dubai is meant for business not culture
This video just made me cancel my trip to Dubai 😴😂
What you're looking for is actually next door... Oman.
Really? I need to make up an excuse to go there mos.
Or Abu Dhabi
hai shame mina I think if you can afford it Dubai is it. Just nje for safety alone. The one thing that is very frustrating about our country South Africa 🇿🇦 is not being able to just buy any car you like because you still have to consider if the vehicle is a target for hijacking. Mina shame Crime iyangidina and safety alone nje is number one for me and that is what I didn't miss about Mzansi when I lived in Dubai. Dubai was just perfect for me. a Country where my woman could work late and come home late and I don't have to worry about her safety. You start driving Ama Porsche and other luxury cars in South Africa and boom you and your children are now targets for kidnapping hai ngeke. PEACE OF MIND for me I could pay whatever I have to just knowing that my family is safe even if I have to travel to work and no see them for a long time, No country in the world can match Mzansi if you took CRIME out of it, but nje crime alone hai makes Mzansi and its vibe not worth it. imagine ubanjwe inkunzi in town in the middle of the day with people just walking around watching. A country where you can leave you phone in a crowded shop and come back and get it becomes the country or city to live in.
It's like "first world" tourists expecting lions in Jozi.
Brilliant pespective
It isn't build to human scale 😢,unworkable and not community based
I can definitely see them denying you a visa next time you try to visit
Bro why funa ukuwalker in the 8 months heat of Dubai. Back in SA the climate is conducive for walking, stay for 12 months here and you will review your opinion futhi. I’ll take Dubai over the GNU country kodwa
It doesn't allow for vibrate spaces!
One must remember that the Islam are conservatives, and I should think this influences their city planning. They are not keen on encouraging social spaces but have a history of appreciation for beautiful structure e.g Mosque. I also agree with the New Money Syndrome, they might be building these skyscrapers to show the world their abilities and/or it's even a competition amongst themselves as developers/affluent families.
Oh my what you saying makes sense the skyscrapers in Dubai don't make sense eg in new york you can see the buildings buitbin different era like Baroque, art Deco etc and you see the city transform through the ages but in Dubai they had every opportunity to buila a modern middle east high tech city, but they just copied America wit high-rises that dont serve a purpose that are so disjointed and the design style is different from the tower next to the is no cohesion and rand empty plots of sandy land that gets hijacked into a parking lot so you have nice view nice view patch of sand.
Spatial planning
It's so strange that you can't walk in Dubai you need to Uber or drive yourself the highways cut through every place of interest and if you off-ramp on the wrong lanes it takes like 30 of you to drive the wrong way so you can u-turn to attempt it again 🤷♂️🤷♂️ all the blocks feel like they are stand-alone you really can't bump in to people in Dubai its such a messed up city!
How does the ghetto look? That's where the real people live anyway and wouldn't walking in extreme heat be a health hazard for tourists coming from colder areas
like Europe, Russia and so on? I wish uu could try and interview an expat with about 5 or more years living in Dubai their view might open minds.
You say 'like' a lot. Otherwise, you're flawless my gee.
Hahaha 😂 that’s when I’m just talking. I’ll be more aware of it.
No need to understand it, its a city that works well and is efficient.
Have you been to Russia my G
I want to go to see what all the hype is about. So many South Africans have moved there…
Soulless grandeur
Bars.
Its a shopping mall. I refuse to fly through there. Once was enough.
What you are doing is exactly what colonisers did. If you could change the things you're complaining about, Dubai will no longer be Dubai
Habibi come to Abu Dhabi, much better here.
Architects always favour form over function.
I wonder how meetings are between architects and civil engineers ?
Dubai would be a city you'd get If you gave a 10 year old unlimited money and ask him to build a city. Nothing about it makes sense.
😂😂 bra
Waterfall in the near future
Food in Dubai isnt that expensive ,