The Urban Planning and Permits Centre (UPPC) will oversee implementation of the framework, which applies to mixed-use developments and tourism destinations, moving beyond traditional planning requirements to ensure communities are designed around people through walkable neighborhoods, connected mobility and vibrant public spaces.
“Every master plan approved today will shape how people live for generations,” said Eng. Abdulla Mohamed Alblooshi, Director-General of the UPPC. “Through the Livability by Design Framework, we are ensuring that growth is measured not only by what is built, but by the quality of life it creates.”
The framework embeds universal accessibility and high-quality public realm standards that support healthier, more inclusive and resilient communities. UPPC has completed an updated assessment checklist, supporting guidance documents, submission templates and communication materials ahead of implementation.
The existing submission and approval process will remain unchanged, enabling developers to integrate the new framework seamlessly while maintaining planning certainty and efficiency.
Eng. Mansour Al Harbi, Acting Executive Director of the Activation & Development Control Sector at the UPPC, said the framework provides greater clarity and consistency for developers from the earliest stages of project design.
“By defining livability expectations upfront, we are enabling developments that deliver stronger community outcomes while supporting efficient planning and more predictable approval processes. The result is a built environment that is more accessible, connected and responsive to the evolving needs of Abu Dhabi’s communities.”
The initiative reinforces Abu Dhabi’s growing international reputation for planning excellence, building on its position as the most liveable city in the MENA region according to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2026 Global Liveability Index.
Abu Dhabi’s property market has shown strong momentum in 2026, with transactions doubling to $31.86 billion in the first half of the year. The capital’s residential property values increased 17.8 percent year-on-year in the second quarter, while Hudayriyat Island led market performance with Dh19 billion in residential sales during H1 2026.
The framework supports Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become one of the world’s leading destinations to live, work and invest, with the livability mandate now applying to all major urban developments moving forward.