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Wed, Nov 12, 2025 | Jumada al-Awwal 21, 1447 | Fajr 05:14 | DXB 
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Look: Abu Dhabi's first air-conditioned outdoor walkway offers relief from heat
Although the first passageway uses a conventional cooling system, planners are exploring the use of solar power and other eco-friendly technologies
Alongside a row of cafes and offices in Al Mamoura, a 70-metre-long walkway offers pedestrians and customers a cooler outdoor experience — even in the peak of summer.
Opened in late December last year by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) after a year of design and construction, the Abu Dhabi air-conditioned outdoor walkway is a pilot project for more pedestrian-friendly experiences all year round.
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The shaded passageway features a built-in cooling system beneath the floor, noise-reducing walls, and a roof that allows filtered sunlight while reducing heat. “Every detail serves a purpose,” said Hamda Al Hashemi, Director of the Urban Design Division at DMT.
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“The roof lets in natural light while helping maintain a cooler environment. The walls were designed to block external noise. And the cooling system in the floor makes walking more comfortable.
"We wanted to make sure the corridor was not just functional but also comfortable for everyone using it, so our in-house team of architects and landscape designers carefully crafted the design,” she added.
The concept for this unique cooling space was driven by Abu Dhabi’s leadership, “aiming to make the city more walkable and comfortable, especially during the summer,” she explained. “We’ve seen similar concepts in places like Doha, so we know this approach can be effective.”
Al Mamoura was picked as the first location because there is already a steady flow of pedestrians from nearby offices and residential areas — a busy spot where people often walk between cafes and workspaces. “This location allows us to monitor how the corridor performs throughout the year, giving us valuable insights before we potentially expand the initiative to other areas."
When asked why the corridor isn’t located from parking areas to building entrances, Al Hashemi explained that this choice of location allows them to gather valuable insights before considering an expansion. "Our focus now is on studying its impact. If we move forward with more corridors, they will be placed in busy pedestrian areas to ensure they serve the community effectively.”
While this first walkway operates on a conventional cooling system, planners are exploring the integration of solar power and other eco-friendly technologies. “Sustainability is definitely a priority; we are looking into integrating renewable energy and additional green design elements into future corridors.”
With summer temperatures climbing beyond 45°C in the UAE, such corridors could provide major relief for pedestrians.
Haneen Dajani
Haneen Dajani is special correspondent in Abu Dhabi with over 15 years of reporting experience. She’s also a passionate athlete, full Ironman finisher, and mountaineer who loves to embark on unusual challenges.
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