Dubai has inaugurated its pioneering ‘Hewi’ community project in Nad Al Sheba, marking a significant advancement in urban social development. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Future Foundation, personally attended Wednesday’s launch ceremony.
The term ‘Hewi,’ derived from Emirati dialect, historically describes the outdoor courtyard area of traditional homes—a vital space for family gatherings, entertainment, and communal interaction. This new initiative reimagines these heritage concepts for contemporary urban living.
Developed through a strategic collaboration between Dubai Municipality and the Dubai Future Foundation, with support from ‘Ferjan Dubai,’ the project aims to cultivate a new generation of community spaces that reinforce social cohesion. The design philosophy emphasizes strengthening interpersonal bonds, promoting outdoor activities, supporting local family enterprises, and creating inclusive environments that unite residents across all age groups.
Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the cultural significance of the project, stating: “‘Hewi Dubai’ preserves the legacy of the traditional Emirati ‘fareej’ that previous generations experienced—environments that fundamentally shaped their values and enhanced social unity. Enhancing quality of life for Dubai’s residents remains our paramount priority and the guiding principle behind our initiatives.”
The Nad Al Sheba installation features several thoughtfully designed zones: ‘Al Decha’ provides a serene gathering space adjacent to the mosque; ‘Al Saaha’ offers flexible indoor-outdoor areas for neighborhood events and celebrations; ‘Al Yalsa’ creates comfortable seating arrangements for parents supervising children; and dedicated walking paths encourage reconnection with natural surroundings.