Dubai Municipality has launched the world’s first AI-powered park design challenge.
The initiative, announced on Sunday, June 28, 2026, follows directives from His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE. It asks participants to re‑imagine Al Safa 2 Park on the city’s west side, using artificial intelligence to guide every stage of the design process.
“The launch of the world’s first AI-powered park design challenge reflects Dubai’s ambition to lead the future of urban innovation by combining advanced technologies with human‑centred design.”
— Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General, Dubai Municipality
The challenge seeks concepts that improve sustainability, accessibility, wellbeing and social interaction. Submissions must include a master plan supported by data analysis, visualisations, detailed drawings and an explanation of how AI tools shaped the design. Organisers stress that final decisions will remain human‑led, with AI acting as a supportive tool.
AI tools reshape park planning
Participants are expected to use AI for site analysis, user insight gathering and scenario testing. The technology can model shade patterns, micro‑climate effects and foot‑traffic flows, helping designers optimise spatial layouts and environmental responses. By feeding real‑time data into generative models, designers can explore multiple concepts quickly, narrowing down options that best serve community needs.
The municipality hopes the integrated ecosystem of AI tools will deepen understanding of how people use public spaces. By visualising potential outcomes early, designers can refine proposals before construction, reducing waste and improving cost efficiency. The approach aligns with Dubai’s broader push for smart, sustainable urban development.
Open call invites designers and innovators
The competition is open to urban planners, architects, landscape architects, students, researchers, startups and AI specialists. Applicants must demonstrate how AI was embedded in their workflow, whether for concept exploration, environmental optimisation or performance improvement. The call aims to attract bold ideas from a diverse pool, fostering collaboration between creative and technical fields.
Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality, highlighted the social impact of parks. “Parks play a direct role in shaping community wellbeing, social connection and everyday quality of life,” he said, adding that AI‑enhanced designs could unlock new insights into people and place.
Entries will be evaluated on creativity, feasibility and the depth of AI integration. Winners will see their designs considered for implementation at Al Safa 2 Park, turning digital concepts into tangible public spaces that reflect Dubai’s vision for a smart, livable future.
Frequently asked questions
What is the AI‑powered park design challenge launched by Dubai Municipality?
Dubai Municipality announced the world’s first AI‑powered park design challenge, inviting designers, researchers and tech innovators to re‑imagine Al Safa 2 Park using artificial intelligence throughout the design process.
Who can enter Dubai Municipality’s AI park design challenge?
The open call is aimed at urban planners, architects, landscape architects, students, researchers, startups and AI specialists who can demonstrate how AI was embedded in their design workflow.
What must a submission include for the AI‑powered park design challenge?
Submissions must contain a master plan supported by data analysis, visualisations, detailed drawings and an explanation of how AI tools shaped the design, while final decisions remain human‑led.
How will AI be used in designing Al Safa 2 Park?
AI will assist with site analysis, user‑insight gathering, scenario testing, modelling shade patterns, micro‑climate effects and foot‑traffic flows, enabling designers to optimise layouts and reduce waste before construction.
When was the AI‑powered park design challenge announced?
The initiative was announced on Sunday, 28 June 2026, following directives from Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai.
What are the main goals of Dubai Municipality’s AI park design challenge?
The challenge aims to generate sustainable, accessible, people‑centred concepts that improve wellbeing and social interaction, while leveraging AI to enhance efficiency, reduce waste and support Dubai’s smart‑city vision.
