Sheikh Hamdan Attends Opening of First Community Space Under ‘Hewi Dubai’ Initiative

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, attended the inauguration of Hewi Nad Al Sheba, the first community space launched under the ‘Hewi Dubai’ initiative. 

The initiative draws inspiration from the traditional Emirati hewi an outdoor space within the home where families and neighbours naturally gather reflecting the spirit of belonging, connection and everyday social interaction within the historic fareej (neighbourhood). ‘Hewi Dubai’ aims to preserve these values while reimagining them through modern, inclusive community spaces.

Developed collaboratively by Dubai Municipality, the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), and ‘Ferjan Dubai’, the initiative seeks to strengthen social bonds, encourage outdoor activity, support local families and businesses, and bring residents of all ages together. Sheikh Hamdan emphasised that enhancing residents’ quality of life remains a top priority for Dubai’s leadership, describing it as the guiding principle behind the city’s development initiatives.

“The quality of life of Dubai’s residents will remain among our top priorities and the North Star guiding our initiatives,” Sheikh Hamdan said. “Hewi Dubai provides open community spaces that welcome senior citizens in calm and comfortable settings, while offering children a safe recreational environment that fosters social and cultural awareness.”

The inauguration was attended by Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications and Deputy Managing Director of DFF; Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality; along with several dignitaries and senior officials.

Designed with a contemporary aesthetic and a strong focus on sustainability, Hewi Nad Al Sheba encourages interaction, movement and social connection across generations. The space is divided into dedicated zones for children, adults and senior citizens, supporting meaningful engagement between neighbours and families. Native vegetation such as sidr and tamarisk trees has been incorporated, alongside locally sourced and sustainable materials including limestone, rammed earth and sand, while minimising the use of concrete and artificial turf.

The community space features several distinct zones tailored to different needs. Al Decha offers a calm gathering area near the mosque, while Al Saaha provides a flexible indoor-outdoor venue for meetings, celebrations and community events. Al Yalsa, overlooking the children’s play area, allows parents to relax while keeping an eye on their children. A dedicated walking path encourages residents to reconnect with nature.

To mark the opening, a curated programme of community activities has been launched. Highlights include an art exhibition showcasing photographs and illustrations of prominent Emirati figures and historical milestones, presented with support from the ‘Erth Dubai’ initiative. Traditional Emirati games hosted in the Al Decha area enable senior citizens to share experiences with younger generations.

Additional activities include interactive workshops for children, pop-up retail and craft stalls operated by Nad Al Sheba residents, and sports activities for all age groups, promoting health, wellbeing and active community participation.