Dubai’s Road Naming Committee, chaired by Dawoud Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality, has launched an innovative initiative inviting public suggestions for naming new roads. This move aligns with the Committee’s goal to integrate heritage, identity, and futuristic visions into the city’s roadways.
The Committee, established under Executive Council Decision No. 35 of 2021, aims to simplify navigation in Dubai by combining names and numbers for road identification. This system will aid motorists and visitors in locating various destinations, including government and private establishments.
Al Hajri highlighted the Committee’s sophisticated methodology in road naming, reflecting Dubai’s status as a global city. The new naming process will not only include traditional elements but also factor in land use and developmental projects in different sectors and regions.
A distinctive feature of this initiative is the use of inference in the naming process. This approach links names to specific site characteristics, roadside signs, and other unique features, enhancing visitors’ connection with locations. For instance, roads in Al Khawaneej 2 area were named after local trees and flowers, like Al Ghaf Street, fostering a sense of local heritage.
The Committee, comprising representatives from various Dubai authorities and experts, focuses on identifying roads needing names, suggesting options, and revising existing names. The public participation phase will commence soon, inviting residents to contribute their suggestions, fostering community engagement and reflecting the diverse identity of Dubai.