Dubai to Launch First 'Hewi' Community Space on Jan 1, 2026, Reviving Traditional Courtyard Culture

In a unique blend of tradition and modern urban planning, Dubai is set to unveil its first "Hewi" community space on January 1, 2026. This innovative project, announced during Urban Future Week, is designed to revive the cherished Emirati tradition of the communal courtyard, creating a neighborhood hub that fosters social bonds across generations.

The term "hewi" in the Emirati dialect refers to the outdoor courtyard of a home—a timeless space for family, neighbors, and community to gather. The new Hewi space aims to translate this essence of openness, hospitality, and inter-generational connection into a public amenity for modern Dubai.

Co-Designed with the Community, for the Community

A defining feature of the project is its participatory design process. Children and local residents have been actively involved in shaping the space, ensuring it meets the real-world needs of its future users. This collaborative approach moves beyond creating a standard park, aiming instead to build a genuine social hub where community life can flourish organically.

Bridging Generations and Preserving Heritage

The initiative is deeply rooted in the vision of strengthening social fabric. Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facility Agency at Dubai Municipality, emphasized the project's ethos, noting the space will be positioned “close to a mosque where our senior citizens can keep an eye on children as they play.” He reflected on the values of the past, stating, “We didn’t need security guards when we had our grandfathers watching. Those were the values we grew up with.”

This design philosophy intentionally creates a setting where older residents can naturally observe and interact with younger generations, fostering a sense of communal trust and safety reminiscent of traditional Emirati life.

What to Expect from the Hewi Space

While full details of the amenities are yet to be published, the Hewi space is conceived as a multi-functional public area. It is expected to include:

• Play areas for children
• Comfortable seating zones for socializing
• Green spaces
• Sight-lines designed so elders can easily supervise children at play

The overarching goal is to create a neighborhood asset that feels like an extension of the home—a scaled-up version of the traditional Emirati courtyard.

A Significant Step in Urban Development

The Hewi project represents a conscious effort by Dubai to balance rapid urban expansion with social and cultural sustainability. By intentionally designing for multi-generational engagement, the city is prioritizing community ties and cultural continuity alongside physical development.

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Summary: A New Chapter for Community Life in Dubai

The launch of Dubai's first Hewi space on January 1, 2026, is more than the opening of a new park. It is a deliberate initiative to weave Emirati heritage into the urban landscape, creating a dedicated place for shared life and interaction. By blending traditional values with contemporary design, the Hewi space promises to become a vital heart for neighborhood vitality, marking an important step in the evolution of Dubai's community-focused infrastructure.