Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated Hewi Nad Al Sheba, the first site under the newly launched Hewi Dubai community space initiative. The opening marks a fresh step in Dubai’s efforts to strengthen neighbourhood life and everyday social connections.
At the launch, Sheikh Hamdan attended alongside senior officials in his capacity as Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai Future Foundation.
Reviving the spirit of traditional neighbourhoods
At its core, the Hewi Dubai initiative draws inspiration from the traditional Emirati concept of Hewi. In earlier neighbourhoods, this outdoor space formed the heart of the home, where families and neighbours gathered naturally.
Over time, these shared spaces helped build trust, cooperation, and a strong sense of identity within close-knit fareej communities.
By reinterpreting this idea for modern urban life, the initiative seeks to restore everyday social connections in a city shaped by rapid growth, while keeping community values firmly in focus.
A collaborative effort for community wellbeing
Dubai Municipality developed the project in partnership with the Dubai Future Foundation and Ferjan Dubai. Together, the entities designed shared spaces that promote outdoor activity, strengthen social ties, and support families and small local businesses.
During the inauguration, Sheikh Hamdan highlighted that preserving social values remains central to Dubai’s development. He explained that traditional neighbourhoods once played a vital role in building unity and cooperation, and said that this sense of belonging must continue for future generations.
At the same time, he pointed out that improving the quality of life continues to guide the city’s urban planning. Through the Hewi Dubai community space, residents can access calm areas for senior citizens and safe, engaging environments for children.
Design rooted in sustainability and inclusion
Hewi Nad Al Sheba features an open, contemporary layout that encourages movement, interaction, and everyday gatherings. Within the space, clearly defined zones cater to children, adults, and senior residents, allowing different age groups to share the environment with ease.
At the same time, sustainability shapes every design decision. Native plants such as sidr and tamarisk trees line the area, while locally sourced materials, including limestone, rammed earth, and sand, help reduce environmental impact. As a result, the project limits the use of concrete and artificial turf.
Spaces built for everyday connection
Several purpose-designed areas shape the community space. Al Decha provides a quiet gathering spot near the mosque. Al Saaha functions as a flexible indoor-outdoor venue for meetings, celebrations, and local events. Al Yalsa offers seating for parents overlooking the children’s play zone, while a walking path invites residents to spend time outdoors.
Together, these elements encourage neighbours to meet, pause, and reconnect.
Community at the centre of the launch
To mark the opening, organisers rolled out a series of community-led activities designed to bring residents together. As part of the programme, an art exhibition developed in collaboration with Erth Dubai highlights Emirati figures and key moments from the nation’s history.
Alongside this, traditional Emirati games take centre stage, giving senior citizens the chance to share cultural experiences with younger generations. Meanwhile, children’s workshops, pop-up retail and craft stalls run by residents, and sports activities focused on health and wellbeing add to the atmosphere.
With Hewi Nad Al Sheba now open, the Hewi Dubai community space initiative signals a new chapter in neighbourhood design. More importantly, it places people, heritage, and everyday connections at the heart of city life.
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