Dr Wael Sheta Speaks on Adapting Dubai’s Built Environment to Extreme Heat
In an interview with Khaleej Times Newspaper, Dr. Wael Sheta Assistant Professor at the Sustainable Design in the Built environment programme discussed how we can adapt to working in increasingly hot conditions in the UAE and, how the environment itself can be redesigned to reduce risk. The interview highlighted how Dubai’s built environment influences heat exposure, particularly for migrant workers residing in high-density accommodations.
His research combines real-world data and simulations to assess how factors like layout, vegetation, and materials impact thermal comfort. He emphasizes the value of interventions such as shaded pathways, green buffers, and native trees in lowering surface temperatures and easing heat stress in industrial zones like Al Quoz and Jebel Ali. While Dubai’s expansion of midday rest shelters shows progress, Sheta stresses the need for more data on their effectiveness. Ultimately, he believes true climate adaptation requires integrated efforts across research, policy, and industry to bridge the gap between innovation and practical, scalable solutions.
https://www.khaleejtimes.com/lifestyle/uae-companies-adapting-for-heat
Block 11, 1st and 2nd floor, Dubai International Academic City PO Box 345015, Dubai, UAE
Tel: +971 4 279 1400
Whatsapp: +971527447980
Email: [email protected]