“Don’t design for families, design with the families” says UAE’s minister of families

Abu Dhabi's Minister of Families, Sana Muhammad Suhail, emphasized during a panel at LIVEX 2026 that the city must prioritize inclusive design, urging planners and designers to "design with the families" rather than "for them." Suhail highlighted a 2023 assessment of 23 sites in Abu Dhabi, which revealed that minor design changes in a neighborhood pilot resulted in a 65% increase in playtime and a 42% reduction in screen time among children.

She stressed the importance of creating a city that adapts to the needs of families, covering housing, mobility, health, education, and governance.

Shamis Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the Department of Community Development, introduced Abu Dhabi's People of Determination strategy, which comprises 30 initiatives across six areas and involves multiple stakeholders. The strategy aims to enhance independence and access in various aspects of life, including education, work, transport, and services. Al Dhaheri also announced an accessibility award, expanding its reach across the UAE with assistance from the ministry.

Dr. Muhannad Alazzeh, secretary-general of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, called for accessibility to extend beyond physical infrastructure to include access to information, communication, and services. He advocated for objective measures based on international standards like the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, involving people with disabilities in progress monitoring.

The officials cited public participation and coordination as key challenges to inclusive urban planning.

Abu Dhabi's City for Family framework addresses four segments: people of determination, children aged 0–8, families and caregivers, and senior citizens, aiming to incorporate their needs from the outset of city planning. The framework encompasses housing, mobility, health, education, and governance. Alazzeh expressed the long-term goal of making accessibility a shared expectation in planning and service delivery, with Abu Dhabi placing the quality of life at the core of its urban planning efforts.