Appendices Public Realm Design Manual

A
Appendices
The Corniche,
Abu Dhabi
A1 Glossary 4 Design Stage Avenue-Hierarchy 55 A3 Plant List 80
7
Standards for Streetscape
Design Stage Street-Hierarchy 56

Planting 82 Contents
A2 Checklist Standards for Streetscape Plant List 83 A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6
Design Stage Access Lane-Hierarchy 57 Trees 84
Checklist Introduction 8
Standards for Streetscape Palms 104
Planning Stage Universal 10
Design Elements Standards for POS 58 Shrubs 109
Standards for Public Realm
/ Streetscap Groundcover and Grasses 125
Design Stage Universal 18
Design Elements Standards for POS 62 Succulents and Perennials 137
Standards for Public Realm
Design Stage Universal Standards 20 Climbers 147

Design Elements Standards for 74
for POS Native Plants 152
Streetscapes
Design Stage Emirate-Hierarchy 28
Operation Stage Universal Standards 78
Standards for POS 159
for Public Realm A4 Irrigation Guide
Design Stage Municipality-Hierarchy 32
Standards for POS
A5 Acknowledgements 162
Design Stage District-Hierarchy 36
Standards for POS
Design Stage Neighbourhood- 40 A6 Image Credits 164

Hierarchy Standards for POS
Design Stage Local-Hierarchy 42

Standards for POS
Design Stage Universal Standards 44

for Streetscape
Design Stage Boulevard-Hierarchy 54

Standards for Streetscape
The following are definitions for key terms used in Fareej ‘May’ statements
A1 the Public Realm Design Manual.
Assembly Space
A traditional neighbourhood system.
Gathering Area
Permitted in the design; discretionary based on
programming needs, function, site conditions.
Glossary A generous and well-defined open space area that A feature area designed to accommodate groups of Media Wall
is paved to accommodate large public gatherings for people; and provide relief from the heat and sun. Can A graphic digital information/communication feature.
special events and ceremonies include site furniture, shade structures, landscaping,
fountain, drinking fountain, art/sculpture, interpretive Meyadeen
Baraha displays. Small, public, central meeting open areas within a
A small semi-private open space located in a fareej fareej (Meydan is the single for Meyadeen).
(barahaat is the plural of baraha). Hardscape
Biodiversity Ground plane surfacing material primarily used to Multi-modal
The diversity of plant and animal life in a particular accommodate circulation needs and public gathering/ The movement of people by more than one method
habitat. assembly; material is made from a manufacturing of transport.
process.
Bioswale Multi-modal Station
A wide, shallow, vegetated ditch that is designed to Heat Island A centralised hub or station that integrates and unites
filter silt and sediment from surface storm water An area with consistently higher temperatures than various modes of transportation; can include air,
runoff. surrounding areas because of a greater retention of rail, boat, public transit, vehicular, parking, bicycle,
heat from buildings, concrete, and asphalt. pedestrian.
Buffer
A space and/or landscape feature designed to Hierarchy Mushtarak
provide separation to reduce or mitigate impacts A series of ordered groupings of elements within a Shared-use access streetscape where pedestrians
between conflicting uses; and provide protection for system. and cyclists have equal access and provision as
environmentally sensitive areas. motorised vehicles.
Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT)
Commercial Pavilion The height of the water at the highest possible Natural Materials
A structure that combines indoor space and covered theoretical tide. Construction material that comes from the earth or
outdoor space, used primarily for retail, commercial, plants and retains the character and qualities of its
entertainment purposes to stimulate activity and Hydrozones original state; has undergone limited manufacturing
enhance the appeal/attraction of a place. A distinct grouping of plants with similar water and or processing.
climatic needs.
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) Open Space
Strategic opportunities identified during project Kiosk An area of land or water that remains in an
planning and design to enhance public safety by A small free-standing structure designed to provide undeveloped, natural state as well as landscapes with
reducing the potential for crime; often includes information or for the sale of refreshments; can be low intensity development for public use, such as
eliminating concealment areas, maintaining open interactive and used for interpretation, education, Parks, Linear Spaces and Waterfronts.
sightlines, locating activity areas in clear view, wayfinding.
enhancing communication ability, providing adequate Open Space Network
illumination, maximising public access/use of space. Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT) The parks, waterfronts and other publicly accessible
The height of the water at the lowest possible land designated for passive and active recreation,
theoretical tide. and all links that connect these spaces within the
Urban Growth Boundary.
A 4 Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices

Open Space Standards Public Realm Staging Area water, and energy resources as integral aspects of
The required percentage of a site to be provided All open areas within a community visible to the A feature area designed to provide a transitory the development.
as parks or other open public space (not including public or for public gathering or assembly. gathering space between parking lot and primary site
streets). feature or destination. Trail
Public Realm Categories A pedestrian and/or cycling circulation path.
Outdoor Classroom This includes Open Space and Streetscapes. Setback
A small outdoor educational space with organised The minimum distance between a property line Treated Sewage Elluent (TSE)
or clustered seating designed to accommodate Public Art or demarcated boundary and the location where a Treated wastewater used for landscape or plant
gatherings of approximately 30-40 people. An artistic work that is created and located for public structure or facility can be built. irrigation.
accessibility. Public art is either located in or clearly
Overlook seen from the public realm, such as a street, park, Sikka Typology
A design feature that provides a prominent viewing urban plaza or public building. It includes all art forms Paved pedestrian only path located between plots The systematic classification of types that have
place. and may be permanent or temporary artworks (such (sikkak is the plural of sikka). characteristics, traits or functions in common.
as performance art and exhibitions). Public art may
Parks be freestanding or integrated into building exteriors, Softscape Universal Access
Publicly accessible open spaces within a community it may take the form of unique functional objects Elements of the landscape that comprised live, The ability of all people to have equal and unobstructed
for recreational use. Parks may include natural areas (such as seats or gates), but not architectural design, horticultural elements; may also include synthetic opportunity to experience the public realm regardless
such as mountain ridges, desert landscapes and wadi advertising signs or commercial branding. materials that exhibit similar characteristics and of social status, ethnicity, or physical, mental and
systems. appearance. sensory ability.
Public Service Building
Park-and-Ride A facility that includes public restrooms and could Special Features Wadi
A parking strategy to reduce private motor vehicle include showers, changing rooms, lockers, rental Key design element(s) that are intended as primary A valley or dry river bed.
traffic in busy areas by providing a remote parking kiosk, first aid room or food concession. Perimeter attractions or places of activity in the public realm.
lot that links users to alternative transportation outdoor space can include shaded seating areas, site Water Feature
opportunities. furniture, drinking fountains, etc. Stewardship A design element that emphasises the display of water;
Refers to the responsibility to care for the world’s may include pools, fountains, cascades, spray jets.
Pathway Recreation Area: Active natural resources - land, air, wildlife and water -
A track or route along which pedestrians and/or A defined outdoor space designed to accommodate sustainably so future generations can enjoy them. Waterfront
cyclists are intended to travel. organised/programmed sporting events or All land areas along the water’s edge.
spontaneous and intense active play. Constructed of Streetscape
Picnic Shelter synthetic turf or rubberised asphalt. The visual elements of a street including, but not Water Play Feature
A permanent, open aired structure which houses limited to, the road, sidewalk, street furniture, trees An amenity intended primarily for use by children
picnic tables, benches and other facilities. Recreation Area: Passive and open spaces that combine to form the street’s that allows creative interaction with water for play
A defined outdoor space designed to accommodate character. purposes; includes water that sprays, mists, bubbles,
Placemaking rest, relaxation, lounging. Constructed of natural turf. cascades, showers, or employs other effect. It does
The process of creating and managing Parks, Sustainability not include standing water; and eliminates/drastically
Streetscapes, Waterfronts and Public Places that ‘Shall’ statements Sustainability creates and maintains the conditions reduces potential for drowning.
will attract people because they are pleasurable or Mandatory to comply with the PRDM regulation. under which humans and nature can exist in
interesting. productive harmony, and that permit fulfilling the Wayfinding
‘Should’ statements social, economic and other requirements of present The process by which people orient themselves
Recommended to comply with the PRDM guideline. and future generations. It identifies an attitude in within the environment and navigate their way from
development that considers a site’s natural land, place to place.
Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices 5 A

Corniche Park,
Abu Dhabi
A2
Checklist
The following tables contain all

the standards within the PRDM
and outline the corresponding
submission requirements to be
submitted for approval.
Figure A1 illustrates the hierarchy of all standards contained within the PRDM at Planning, Design and Operation Stages. The following checklist describes the submission
A2 requirements to demonstrate compliance with all standards. The standards related to Design Elements are only applicable if the Design Elements is included in the
design. Guidelines included within the PRDM are not included in the checklist although it is recommended they are followed whenever applicable.
Checklist Introduction
PLANNING STAGE DESIGN STAGE OPERATION &

REGULATIONS REGULATIONS MAINTENANCE
Public Open
Public Open
Space Operations
Site & Context Space
Assessment Universal
Univ Standards
Universaal Standards
Universal Standar
s
Hierarchy specific
Standards
Public
Open Space Streetscapes
Streetscapes Maintenance
Standards
Universal Standards
tandards
Universal Standards
Hierarchy specific
Standards
Public Open
Key Public Realm
Space &
(Public Open Space
& Streetscape) Streetscapes
PS = PLANNING STAGE STANDARD

DS = DESIGN STAGE STANDARD
Universal Design Strategy
Strate
GR = DESIGN ELEMENT GENERAL Standards Standards
(Only Required
Requir if
REQUIREMENTS Design Strategy is
DES = DESIGN ELEMENT STANDARD Selected)
OS = OPERATION STAGE STANDARD

ID = ESTIDAMA CREDIT REFERENCE
FIGURE A1: Overview of the hierarchy of Standards applicable at different stages of a project.

This review checklist has been provided as a summary of all standards that apply to the Planning, Design and Operation of all Public Open Space and Streetscape. It is
to be used by design teams and reviewers from all agencies, to ensure that all regulations have been considered and applied in order to meet the requirements of the
PRDM. In the checklist, reviewers of each standard are presented as icons. These icons are described below.
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Planning Stage Universal Standards for Public Realm
Planning Stage Standards

A2
A2
PS
Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance
PS
P2.1 PS-1 The boundaries, overall site area, and the site area excluding Planning Stage report: showing clearly indicated boundaries of
the right-of-way, community facility plots, utility plots and the site and measurement of overall site area.
corridors, and agricultural plots SHALL be clearly defined.
P2.2 PS-2 The OSF SHALL be reviewed for specific POS requirements. Planning Stage report: demonstrating understanding of OSF
requirements and outlining how these have influenced the
POS proposal.
P2.3 PS-3 A Natural System Assessment SHALL be undertaken PCRS Submissions requirements outlined within PCRS.
NS-R1
P2.4 PS-4 A Site Assessment SHALL be undertaken. Planning Stage report: elements to be included:
• Current access and movement network to the site including
location of public transit network and stops, pedestrian and
cycle routes;
• Views;
• Solar access;
• Utilities and infrastructure constraints;
• Existing facilities relevant to site development.
P2.4 PS-5 A Context Assessment of a 2km zone surrounding the site Planning Stage report: elements to be included:
SHALL be undertaken. • Assessment of urban grain and character of the context
area;
• Identification of the size, quantity, type and features of all
public open space and streetscape within the surrounding
area;
• Identification of the type, size and quality of all publicly
accessible Sport and Play facilities in the area;
• Location of pedestrian and cycle route.
P2.5 PS-6 The settlement context SHALL be defined in accordance with Planning Stage report: outlining calculation of settlement
the CFPS methodology. context.
P3.2 PS-7 A percentage of at least 20% of the site (excluding the right- Planning Stage report: outlining measurements, calculations
of-way, community facility plots, utility plots and corridors, and rationale for allocation of POS.
and agricultural plots) SHALL be allocated for POS in Urban
Settlements.

P3.2 PS-8 A percentage of at least 15% of the site (excluding the right- Planning Stage report: outlining measurements, calculations
and agricultural plots) SHALL be allocated for POS in Suburban
Settlements.
P3.2 PS-9 A percentage of at leaste 10% of the site (excluding the right- Planning Stage report: outlining measurements, calculations
and agricultural plots) SHALL be allocated for POS in Rural
Settlements.
P3.2 PS-10 If an Overall Site Area is sub-divided into areas of different Planning Stage report: outlining measurements, calculations
settlement classifications, the overall quantity of POS required and rationale for allocation of POS.
SHALL be the sum of each required amount.
P3.3 PS-11 A demand based assessment SHALL be undertaken for sports Planning Stage report: outlining measurements, calculations
and recreation facilities provision based on predicted needs and rationale for allocation of POS type,
of the population.
P3.3 PS-12 A demand based assessment SHALL be undertaken for play Planning Stage report: outlining measurements, calculations
facility provision based on predicted needs of the population. and rationale for allocation of POS type,
P4.2 PS-13 90% of residents and workers within a development SHALL POS Layout Plan: outlining areas of development within 350m
be within 350 metres of a POS (of any hierarchy). of a park (taken as a park boundary offset).
P5.2 PS-14 A mix of programmed uses, facilities and features SHALL be POS Layout Plan: outlining selected Design Elements and the
identified for inclusion within the public realm according to mix of uses, facilities and features to be included.
the selected Public Realm Design Elements.
P5.3 PS-15 The location of each hierarchy of POS SHALL directly relate Plan outlining proposed hierarchy of open spaces and how
to the streetscape hierarchy (i.e. Municipality POS should they relate to the streetscape hierarchy, to comply with Table
adjoin higher levels streetscapes, while Local POS should P2: Public Open Space Location and Access Standard.
adjoin smaller streets). POS shall be located on and primarily
accessed by the streetscape hierarchy as shown in PRDM’s
Table P2.

A2 Movement and Access
A2
PS
PS
P5.3 PS-16 A sustainable Movement and Access strategy SHALL be Plan indicating vehicular, transit, cycle and pedestrian
developed for the public realm, using a ‘Complete Streets’ movement within and around the site, detailing transit
methodology as outlined in the USDM and coordinating with stops, multi-modal nodes, location and proposed type of
the DMAT’s ‘Walking and Cycling Masterplan’, ensuring a safe crossing facilities for pedestrian and cyclists as well as
cohesive approach is pursued for the functional, technical and connections and linkages to surrounding infrastructure.
visual requirements of the public realm.
Sections outlining the proposed widths of the elements
included in the right of way.
Written strategy in support of the Movement and Access plan,

outlining how the plan responds to the existing network, the
proposed uses, activities and visitors demand for the site.
Mood board outlining the character and proposed treatment

of the different movement corridors and how they respond to
the uses and hierarchy of streetscape.
P5.3 PS-17 The public realm SHALL provide linkages to other major Plan indicating major features and destinations within the site
features and destinations. and contextual areas and the proposed public realm linkages.
Buildings
P5.3 PS-18 A strategy SHALL be developed that outlines the built Assessment of users and maintenance facilities requirements
structures required, based on anticipated demand to provide and graphic plan outlining proposed location, size and use of
refreshments, maintenance, community use and public toilets required buildings.
that are sustainable and appropriately scaled to the size and
use of the POS. Mood board OR written document outlining character and
proposed treatment of the buildings and how they responds
to the uses and hierarchy of the open space.
IDP-R2 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.

Shading
P5.3 PS-19 A strategy for achieving high levels of outdoor thermal LS-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
comfort within the public realm SHALL be provided.
Softscape
P5.3 PS-20 A soft landscape strategy SHALL be developed that ensures a Plan/s indicating plant types and hydrozones, inclusive of plant
good quality and sustainable green environment, appropriate images illustrating how the proposed soft landscape reflects
to the climate and natural environment of Abu Dhabi, water the proposed use, character/s, hierarchies and sustainability
usage allowances and the character of the public realm. of the public realm.
NS-R3 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
Hardscape
P5.3 PS-21 A hard landscape strategy SHALL be developed to ensure the Plan/s indicating hard landscape areas and proposed
provision of a coordinated palette of good quality materials treatments for the different elements of the public realm.
which reflect the public realm hierarchy and character.
Mood board/s outlining the type, size, colour, texture and any
proposed pattern, demonstrating the proposed character of
the different elements of the public realm.
SM-R3 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.

A2 Furniture
A2
PS
PS
P5.3 PS-22 A site furniture strategy SHALL be provided to ensure the Mood board/s outlining the palette of furniture proposed for
development of a coordinated palette of good quality furniture the site, including lighting element, seating, refuse/recycling,
which reflect the public realm hierarchy and character. bicycle racks, and shading structures, demonstrating a
coherent approach reflecting the hierarchy and character of
the site.
Public Art
P5.3 PS-23 A strategy for the incorporation of public art within the public Plan indicating proposed location of public art within the
realm SHALL be outlined. public realm and zone of visual influence. Proposed areas for
performance art or interactive elements within the public
realm should also be outlined.
Mood board OR narrative outlining concept, type, size,
character and proposed materials for public art, including the
rationale behind the proposals and how the public art respond
to the uses and hierarchy of the public realm.
Water Usage
P5.3 PS-24 A water usage strategy SHALL be developed, detailing PW-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
irrigation, water features and cooling of built facilities, to
outline how the public realm water allocation is to be utilised.
P5.3 PS-25 A stormwater management plan SHALL be developed for the PW-R3 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
site.

Lighting
P5.3 PS-26 A lighting strategy to provide adequate illumination to the Lighting strategy: outlining proposed level of lighting, the
public realm, reflecting the public realm hierarchy and timing, and the rationale for lighting provision in relation to
predicted level of activity, to ensure safety and encourage the public realm hierarchy and predicted level of activity.
appropriate night-time usage SHALL be developed.
Fences / Walls / Screens
P5.3 PS-27 A strategy outlining the proposed access, boundary treatment Plan/s indicating locations and typology of walls, fences and
and screening features for the public realm SHALL be screens and their scope, including limiting access at certain
provided. areas, or times, providing privacy areas, security concerns etc.
Service / Infrastructure
P5.3 PS-28 A services/ infrastructure strategy SHALL be developed that A combined plan, showing proposed locations of all the
outlines how the required facilities within the public realm services and infrastructure required within the public realm
will be serviced, incorporating elements such as potable and their relationship to proposed softscape.
water, TSE water, sewerage, power, renewable energy and
A narrative outlining the use of proposed utilities and
telecommunications infrastructure.
technologies, their supply location and connections points.

A2 Signage / Wayfinding
A2
PS
DS Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance
PS
P5.3 PS-29 A signage and wayfinding strategy SHALL be developed for Mood board and narrative with graphic examples of proposed
all the public realm, which takes account of the surrounding signage and wayfinding solutions, outlining their proposed
context. locations and identifying elements to be signposted.
Safety / Security
P5.3 PS-30 A safety and security strategy SHALL be developed for the A comprehensive report appropriate for the scale of the
public realm, incorporating the principles of the Abu Dhabi development illustrating safety and security measures for the
Safety and Security Planning Manual (SSPM) to achieve Crime public realm.
Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), and UAE
Fire and Safety Code of Practice.
Parking
P5.3 PS-31 A demand-based parking strategy SHALL be developed for Written strategy outlining calculations of vehicular and
the public realm in line with the DMAT’s methodology. cycle parking requirements, based on buildings capacity/
uses, proposed public realm and its proposed programming
developed as per DMAT’s methodology, including a matrix
outlining how these requirements will be accommodated
(underground/ above ground parking areas, on site/ street).
Plan indicating types and proposed locations for parking

provisions on site, including cycle parking and other end-of-
ride facilities as outlined in Walking and Cycling Master Plan
(WCMP).

P5.3 PS-32 A comprehensive public realm strategy SHALL be produced A comprehensive report, with illustrative plans and narratives
covering all aspects of the proposed public realm network on as outlined above, responding to all Planning Stage Standards’
the site. requirements.
1
1: Street side parking, Abu Dhabi City, UAE

Design Stage Universal Standards for Public Realm
Design Stage Standards

A2
DS
D2.1 DS-1 The boundaries and overall site area SHALL be clearly defined. Survey plan, illustrating boundaries of the site and overall site
area.
D2.2 DS-2 A Site Assessment SHALL be undertaken of the existing site. Submission requirements outlined within PRRS (see NS-R1 for
information on section’s requirements).
Additional elements to be included in the report include:

• Current access and movement network to the site including
location of public transit network and stops, pedestrian
and cycle routes;
• Views;
• Solar access;
• Utilities and infrastructure constraints;
• Existing facilities relevant to site development.
D2.3 DS-3 A context assessment of a 700m offset zone surrounding the Submission requirements outlined within PRRS (see LS-R1
site SHALL be undertaken. for information on section’s requirements) and PRDM Section
D2.4.

1
1: Public realm at Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi City, UAE

Design Stage Universal Standards for POS

A2
DS
DS
D3.2 DS-4 Primary entrances, walkways and cycle paths SHALL be Layout and Context Plan: indicating hierarchy of routes and
located to connect the site to public transit stops, pedestrian connections to surrounding areas.
and cycle networks and key amenities and destinations in
the surrounding area.
D3.2 DS-5 A hierarchy of primary and secondary entrances SHALL be Hierarchy Plan/ Diagram: indicating hierarchy of entrances in
established that reflects the adjacent streetscapes hierarchy. relation to surrounding streetscape’s hierarchy.
D3.2 DS-6 Emergency vehicle access SHALL be ensured. Hierarchy Plan/ Diagram (above): indicating access and routes
suitable for Emergency Vehicles.
D3.2 DS-7 POS facilities SHALL be designed to conform to Universal Layout plan and details demonstrating compliance with DMAT
Access Standards in accordance with DMAT’s Transportation requirements.
Accessibility Standards and USDM guidance.
Buildings
D3.2 DS-8 Buildings SHALL be designed to high sustainability standards Written/illustrated document outlining character/s of open
and to reflect the character of the POS and its context. spaces and their context and how this has influenced
proposed building design.
IDP-R2 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
D3.2 DS-9 Maintenance buildings SHALL be located away from public General Layout Plan: indicating location of maintenance
use areas and screened if appropriate. buildings and screening if appropriate.
D3.2 DS-10 Buildings SHALL be located by taking account of sightlines Graphic Plan: indicating sightlines and views and how these
and views. have been retained/ enhanced by appropriate location of
buildings and landscape.

Shading
D3.2 DS-11 Shading SHALL be provided to car parking, walkways, cycle LS-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
tracks and parking, play areas, seating and gathering areas.
D3.2 DS-12 The design and location of shade structures SHALL take LS-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
account of prevailing wind, solar paths throughout the day,
adjacent structures and landscaping.
Softscape
D3.2 DS-13 The sustainable and appropriate plant materials for the site Planting plan indicating grassed and planted areas,
location SHALL be determined with reference to the PRDM demonstrating site-appropriate plant species and hydrozones,
plant list. and including plant schedules outlining planting densities and
irrigation requirements.
D3.2 DS-14 Water usage for the POS SHALL not exceed 4.5l/m2 a day. PW-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
D3.2 DS-15 Extensive areas of irrigated turf SHALL be avoided. Planting plan indicating limited areas of natural turf.

A2 Hardscape
A2
DS
DS
D3.2 DS-16 All hardscape materials SHALL be durable, able to withstand Hardscape plan/s: indicating all hardscape materials, including
impact, harsh environment, vandalism and be appropriate for images, dimensions, characteristics and suppliers.
public place locations.
D3.2 DS-17 Modular paving materials SHALL be used in pedestrian areas SM-R4 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
to minimise waste due to maintenance operations.
D3.2 DS-18 All unshaded hardscape areas SHALL be constructed of light LS-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
coloured paving materials in order to minimise heat build up.
Care should be taken that this does not create high-glare
surfaces.
D3.2 DS-19 Hardscape materials for foot trafficked areas SHALL have a Hardscape plan/s (above): indicating appropriate surface
slip prevention rating of R12 or above, and all water features materials around water features.
SHALL be surrounded with slip-resistant materials.
D3.2 DS-20 All play structures SHALL be surrounded with suitable impact Hardscape plan/s (above): indicating impact materials around
material. play structures.

Furniture
D3.2 DS-21 Coordinated furniture designs SHALL be used, that are Mood board illustrating proposed furniture, materials and
contemporary, simple and appropriate to context. colours.
D3.2 DS-22 Site furniture SHALL employ good quality design and Mood board illustrating proposed furniture, materials and
materials, in order to withstand climatic conditions, heavy colours.
use and vandalism.
D3.2 DS-23 Refuse and recycling containers SHALL be provided at SM-R3 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
entrances and in gathering areas.
D3.2 DS-24 Shaded bicycle racks SHALL be provided at primary entrances. LS-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
Public Art
D3.2 DS-25 The provision of public art SHALL reflect guidelines from the Written document outlining any proposed Public Art, its
Public Art Design Element. typology, and rationale.
D3.2 DS-26 Public art SHALL be used to enhance the POS design in General layout plan, indicating proposed Public Art elements
strategic positions, such as focal points and gathering areas. and their location.

A2 Water Usage
A2
DS
DS
D3.2 DS-27 A detailed water efficiency strategy SHALL be developed, PW-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
detailing water features and irrigation requirements to outline
how water will be utilised across the site.
D3.2 DS-28 The provision of water features SHALL reflect guidelines from Narrative outlining any proposed Water Features, their
the Water Features Design Element. typology, and justification.
D3.2 DS-29 Water features SHALL be employed sparingly and judiciously, General layout plan, indicating proposed Water Features and
and located near areas of high activity and use. their location.
PW-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
D3.2 DS-30 Stormwater management measures SHALL be incorporated PW-R3 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
within site design.
Lighting
D3.2 DS-31 Lighting in POS SHALL be designed to: provide adequate Lighting plan: outlining the location, distance, and size of light
illumination to the POS, reduce glare into adjacent properties, standards and other lighting, illumination calculations, glare
minimise light pollution and impact on natural areas. and light pollution reduction strategies and coordination of all
lighting elements.
LS-R4 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
D3.2 DS-32 General illumination of large areas of landscaping SHALL NOT Lighting plan: outlining the location, distance, and size of light
be allowed. standards and other lighting, illumination calculations, glare
and light pollution reduction strategies and coordination of all
lighting elements.
D3.2 DS-33 All lighting in the public realm SHALL meet the lighting RE-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
requirements as stated in the DMAT ‘Lighting Standards’.
D3.2 DS-34 Lighting SHALL be used to clearly illuminate threads, risers Lighting plan: outlining illuminated elements within the site,
and any other level differences along primary and secondary
pathways.

Services / Infrastructure
D3.2 DS-35 Feeder pillars and utility cabinets SHALL be securely located Utilities plan/s: outlining location of all feeder pillars and utility
away from recreational, play and other active spaces and cabinets and underground units in relation to pedestrian and
SHALL NOT be directly accessible by the public. If a secure cyclists travel zones and location/treatment of maintenance
placement can not be achieved these SHALL be replaced with facilities.
underground units.
D3.2 DS-36 Energy and water metering and monitoring equipment SHALL PW-R2 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
be installed.
RE-R2 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
D3.2 DS-37 Commissioning of services and infrastructure SHALL be IDP-R3 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
considered throughout the design process.
Signage / Wayfinding
D3.2 DS-38 Signage and wayfinding elements SHALL have a clear Signage plan: outlining location and hierarchy of signage and
hierarchy, reinforcing primary entrances, pathways and wayfinding elements.
landmarks.
D3.2 DS-39 Signage SHALL be well placed and integrated into the POS, in Signage plan: outlining location and hierarchy of signage and
order to retain sightlines and maintain pedestrian or cyclists wayfinding elements.
through zones.
D3.2 DS-40 A unified visual language SHALL be used for all signage and Signage detail design: illustrating proposed designs, including
wayfinding materials, colours, scales and types. types, sizes, materials, colours, their coordination and lighting
if applicable.
D3.2 DS-41 All signage elements SHALL be durable, easily maintainable, Signage detail design: illustrating proposed designs, including
and use a non-reflective matte finish. types, sizes, materials, colours, their coordination and lighting
if applicable.
D3.2 DS-42 Signage and wayfinding SHALL be suitable for daytime and Signage detail design: illustrating proposed designs, including
night-time use and integrated with lighting in areas of high types, sizes, materials, colours, their coordination and lighting
night-time use. if applicable.

A2 Safety / Security
A2
DS
DS
D3.2 DS-43 POS design SHALL ensure a high level of safety and security General layout plan/s: demonstrating compliance with safety
for users, employing the principles and regulations of the Abu and security standards.
Dhabi Safety and Security Planning Manual (SSPM) to achieve
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) and
other applicable security risks, and UAE Fire and Safety Code
of Practice.
D3.2 DS-44 Security lighting with motion sensors SHALL be used. RE-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
D3.2 DS-45 All hazardous materials SHALL be avoided. SM-R1 Parking Layout Plan/s (above): demonstrating visual impact
considerations and clear, level access to primary entrances.
Parking
D3.2 DS-46 Parking SHALL be sufficiently set-back from high profile Parking Layout Plan/s: outlining all proposed parking locations
buildings and structures to minimise visual impact. and their relation to high profile buildings and open space
locations.
D3.2 DS-47 Parking SHALL be organised to minimise visual impact on Parking Layout Plan/s (above): demonstrating visual impact
the POS and provide a clear, level route between streets and considerations and clear, level access to primary entrances.
primary entrances.
D3.2 DS-48 Cycle parking and other end-of-ride facilities for cyclists Layout Plan outlining all proposed parking and facilities
SHALL be provided as per DMAT Walking and Cycling locations and schedule of parking provision in accordance
Masterplan (WCMP). with DMAT requirements.

1
1: Park at Mariah Island, Abu Dhabi City, UAE

Design Stage Emirate-Hierarchy Standards for POS

A2
DS
DS
D3.2.1 DS-49 A primary pathway SHALL be provided with a minimum width Hard landscape plan: indicating size and location of hard
of 4.5m. landscape features and proposed materials.
Softscape
D3.2.1 DS-50 The softscape SHALL reflect and strengthen the native Planting plan: outlining planting proposals based on local
landscape of the area. natural context, including matrix of irrigation demands.
D3.2.1 DS-51 Locally occurring, drought tolerant plant materials SHALL be Planting plan: outlining planting proposals based on local
used at natural densities. natural context, including matrix of irrigation demands.
D3.2.1 DS-52 Natural turf or areas of open grass SHALL be avoided. General layout plan: outlining surface treatment which
reflects the local context.
D3.2.1 DS-53 The natural ecosystem SHALL be allowed to be self- Planting plan: outlining planting proposals based on local
maintaining to the greatest extent possible. natural context, including guidance for future maintenance.
Furniture
D3.2.1 DS-54 The total seating area requirements SHALL be calculated Layout plan illustrating location and size of seating areas and
based on: schedule of calculations.
• 1 seating area per 40 linear metres of primary pathway; Mood board illustrating proposed furniture, materials and
• 1 seating area per 80 linear metres of secondary pathway. colours.
D3.2.1 DS-55 The total picnic table requirements SHALL be calculated based Layout plan illustrating location and number of picnic areas
on: and schedule of calculations.
• 1 picnic table per 80 linear metres of secondary pathway. Mood board illustrating proposed furniture, materials and
colours.

Lighting
D3.2.1 DS-56 Lighting SHALL be appropriately and sensitively designed, Lighting plan: outlining the location, distance, and size of light
selected and located to preserve the natural environment. standards and other lighting, illumination calculations, glare
lighting elements.
D3.2.1 DS-57 The use of continuous perimeter fencing SHALL be avoided Layout plan indicating fencing location, material and height.
unless carefully considered and justified.
Section indicating height, width and materials employed.
Written statement outlining justification for the inclusion of

fencing.
D3.2.1 DS-58 Interpretative displays SHALL be provided at entrances, along General layout plan: outlining size and location of proposed
pathways, at gathering areas and unique features. interpretative displays and an outline of displays’ content.
D3.2.1 DS-59 An identification sign to a maximum size of 5m2 with General layout plan: outlining size and location of proposed
appropriate mapping SHALL be provided at primary entrances. signage and wayfinding elements.

Parking
A2
DS
D3.2.1 DS-60 Parking areas SHALL be provided in accordance with DMAT Written and illustrated document demonstrating how the
standards to satisfy the estimated average daily users number. need and provision of parking has been calculated.

1
1: Mangrove ecosystem, Abu Dhabi City, UAE

Design Stage Municipality-Hierarchy for POS

A2
DS
DS
of 5m. landscape features and proposed materials.
D3.2.2 DS-63 A secondary pathway SHALL be provided with a minimum Hard landscape plan: indicating size and location of hard
width of 3.5m. landscape features and proposed materials.
Softscape
D3.2.2 DS-64 Limited natural turf SHALL be provided in passive recreation Planting plan: outlining areas of natural turf.
areas.
Furniture
D3.2,2 DS-65 The total seating area requirements SHALL be calculated Layout plan illustrating location and size of seating areas and
• 1 seating area per 30 linear metres of primary pathway;

• 1 seating area per 60 linear metres of secondary pathway.
Mood board illustrating proposed furniture, materials and
colours.
• 1 picnic table per 60 linear metres of secondary pathway.

colours.

Lighting
D3.2.2 DS-67 The primary pathways and accessible perimeter edges SHALL Lighting plan: outlining how different elements within the site
be illuminated. will be illuminated including the location, distance, and size of
light standards and other elements, illumination calculations,
glare and light pollution reduction strategies and coordination
of all lighting elements.
D3.2.2 DS-68 All pedestrian lighting SHALL be human scaled. Details of lighting elements to be used indicating size and their
relation to surrounding elements.
D3.2.2 DS-69 Sport facilities SHALL be illuminated as appropriate. Lighting plans for sport facilities demonstrating appropriate
illumination for the intended sport activity and associated
facilities as well as any spectators areas.
D3.2.2 DS-70 The use of continuous perimeter fencing SHALL be avoided Layout plan indicating fencing location, material and height.
unless carefully considered and justified.

fencing.
D3.2.2 DS-71 An identification sign to a maximum size of 3m2 with General layout plan: outlining size and location of proposed

Parking
A2
DS
standards to satisfy the estimated average daily users number. need and provision of parking has been calculated.
D3.2.2 DS-73 Parking provisions SHALL consist of shared off-site parking or Detail design of parking stalls, including 3D visuals and
underground parking if provided on-site. materials/ colours palette.
Special Features
D3.2.2 DS-74 Structures SHALL be designed to reflect the character of the Elevations showing structures size and design, illustrating
overall POS. how they relate to the context of the landscape, open space
or surrounding area.
D3.2.2 DS-75 Structures SHALL reflect the size and uses of the POS. General layout plan: outlining size and location of proposed
structures, demonstrating how they relate to the open space.
D3.2.2 DS-76 Play areas with a range of play structures SHALL be provided, Play area detail plan outlining play facilities, play equipment
suitable for all ages and abilities. images and indicating age and abilities for which they are
suitable.
D3.2.2 DS-77 Public bathrooms SHALL be provided as 1 facility every 500m Calculations of public bathroom facilities requirements based
and, based on expected visitors number, will include: on expected visitors number.
• 1 per 550 women;

• 1 per 1100 men;
• 1 baby changing room; General layout plan outlining size and location of proposed
• 1 disabled toilet. facilities and internal layout demonstrating compliance with
required numbers.

1
1: Jahli Park, Al Ain City, UAE

Design Stage District-Hierarchy Standards for POS

A2
DS
DS
width of 3m. landscape features and proposed materials.
Furniture

colours.

colours.

Lighting
D3.2.3 DS-83 All pedestrian lighting SHALL be human scaled. Details of lighting elements to be used indicating size and their
relation to surrounding elements.
D3.2.3 DS-84 Sport facilities SHALL be illuminated as appropriate. Lighting plans for sport facilities demonstrating appropriate
illumination for the intended sport activity and associated
facilities as well as any spectators areas.
D3.2.3 DS-85 The use of continuous perimeter fencing SHALL be carefully Layout plan indicating fencing location, material and height.
considered and justified.

fencing.
D3.2.3 DS-86 An identification sign to a maximum size of 3m 2 with General layout plan: outlining size and location of proposed

Parking
A2
DS
standards, to satisfy the estimated average daily users need and provision of parking has been calculated.
number.
D3.2.3 DS-88 Parking provisions SHALL consist of shared off-site parking or Detail design of parking stalls, including 3D visuals and
underground parking if provided on-site. materials/ colours palette.
Special Features
D3.2.3 DS-89 Structures SHALL be designed to reflect the character of the Elevations showing buildings size and design, illustrating how
surrounding area. they relate to the context of the landscape, open space or
surrounding area.
D3.2.3 DS-90 Structures SHALL reflect the size and uses of the POS. General layout plan: outlining size and location of proposed
buildings, demonstrating how they relate to the open space.
D3.2.3 DS-91 Play areas with a range of play structures SHALL be provided, Play area detail plan outlining play facilities, including play
suitable for all ages and abilities. equipment images and indicating age and abilities for which
they are suitable.
D3.2.3 DS-92 Public bathrooms SHALL be provided as 1 facility every 500m Calculations of public bathroom facilities requirements based
and, based on expected visitors number, will include: on expected visitors number.
• 1 per 550 women;

• 1 per 1100 men;
• 1 baby changing room; General layout plan outlining size and location of proposed
• 1 disabled toilet. facilities and internal layout demonstrating compliance with
required numbers.

1
1: Play area, Abu Dhabi City, UAE

Design Stage Neighbourhood-Hierarchy Standards for POS

A2
DS
DS
D3.2.4 DS-93 Open and contiguous frontages SHALL be provided on a General layout plan: indicating interface with surrounding
minimum of 1 adjacent street or sikka. streets or sikkak.
of 2.5m. landscape features and proposed materials.
width of 1.8m. landscape features and proposed materials.
Furniture
• 1 seating area per 20 linear metres of primary pathway; Mood board illustrating proposed furniture, materials and
• 1 seating area per 40 linear metres of secondary pathway. colours.
• 1 picnic table per 40 linear metres of secondary pathway. Mood board illustrating proposed furniture, materials and
colours.

Lighting
Special Features
D3.2.4 DS-99 Play structures SHALL be provided that accommodate a range Play area detail plan outlining play facilities, including play
of appropriate ages and abilities. equipment images and indicating age and abilities for which
they are suitable.

Design Stage Local-Hierarchy Standards for POS
Movement and Access

A2
DS
D3.2.5 DS-100 Open and contiguous frontages SHALL be provided on a General layout plan: indicating interface with surrounding
minimum of 1 adjacent street or sikka. streets or sikkak.
Lighting
D3.2.5 DS-102 The primary pathways SHALL be illuminated. Lighting plan: outlining how different elements within the site
will be illuminated including the location, distance, and size of
Parking
D3.2.5 DS-103 If located within a fareej, parking SHALL NOT be allowed. General layout plan: indicating parking location in relation to
fareej.

1
1: Primary pathway, Al Ain City, UAE

Design Stage Universal Standards for Streetscape

A2
DS
DS
D3.3.3 DS-104 Access for emergency vehicles SHALL be ensured. Streetscapes layout plan/s: indicating access and routes
suitable for Emergency Vehicles.
D3.3.3 DS-105 Safe and direct access SHALL be provided for pedestrian and Streetscapes layout plan/s (above): demonstrating clear
cyclists. pedestrian and cyclists through-zone.
D3.3.3 DS-106 A clear pedestrian ‘through zone’ SHALL be provided in Streetscapes layout plan/s (above): demonstrating clear
line with USDM standards, which is clear of all obstructions pedestrian through-zone.
including furniture, trees and vehicle overhang.
Streetscapes sections: outlining pedestrian ‘through zone’
and its relationship to other streetscape elements (furniture,
planting etc).
D3.3.3 DS-107 Cycling provision and facilities SHALL be accommodated Streetscapes layout plan/s (above): demonstrating cycling
within streetscapes according to USDM and DMAT’s Standards provision and facilities.
and Abu Dhabi Walking and Cycling Master Plan guidelines.
Streetscapes sections: outlining cycling provision and facilities
and their relationship to other streetscape elements (furniture,
planting etc).
D3.3.3 DS-108 Transit stops and facilities SHALL be accommodated within Streetscapes layout plan/s (above): demonstrating transit stops
streetscape according to the DMAT requirements. and facilities layout in accordance with DMAT requirements.
D3.3.3 DS-109 Taxi lay-by for drop-off and pick-up and associated facilities Streetscapes layout plan/s (above): demonstrating transit stops
SHALL be accommodated within streetscape according to the and facilities layout in accordance with DMAT requirements.
DMAT requirements.
D3.3.3 DS-110 Streetscapes SHALL be designed to conform to Universal Streetscapes layout plan/s and Detail plans demonstrating
Access Standards in accordance with DMAT’s Transportation conformity with DMAT’s Access Standards.
Accessibility Standards.
D3.3.3 DS-111 Safe pedestrian crossings with appropriate surface markings Streetscapes layout plan/s (above): outlining pedestrian
or variation in materials SHALL be provided linking key routes crossings.
to the POS.
Detail design of crossing points and illustration of markings/
materials.
D3.3.3 DS-112 Kerbs height SHALL be in accordance with USDM guidelines. Parking Layout Plan/s: outlining all proposed parking provisions
within the road corridor, in accordance to guidelines.
D3.3.3 DS-113 A continuous sidewalk SHALL be provided with direct Parking Layout Plan/s: outlining all proposed parking provisions
connections between destinations to form an unbroken and within the road corridor, in accordance to guidelines.
coordinated pedestrian network.

Shading
D3.3.3 DS-114 Shading SHALL be provided to car parking, walkways, cycle LS-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
tracks and parking, transit stops, play, seating and gathering
areas.
D3.3.3 DS-115 The design and location of shade structures SHALL take into LS-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
account prevailing winds, solar paths throughout the day,
adjacent structures and landscaping.
Softscape
D3.3.3 DS-116 The sustainable and appropriate plant materials for the site Planting plan indicating grassed and planted areas,
location SHALL be determined with reference to the PRDM demonstrating site-appropriate plant species and hydrozones,
plant list. and including plant schedules outlining planting densities and
irrigation requirements.
D3.3.3 DS-117 Water usage for the streetscapes SHALL NOT exceed 2 l/m2 PW-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
a day.
D3.3.3 DS-118 The use of natural turf in medians SHALL be avoided. Planting plan (above) indicating areas of natural turf.
D3.3.3 DS-119 Existing trees SHALL be preserved wherever possible, as Planting plan (above) indicating existing trees to be retained.
mature street trees create a greater sense of enclosure along
roads.
D3.3.3 DS-120 Large canopy trees SHALL be used to define circulation routes Planting plan (above) indicating existing trees to be retained.
and activity spaces.
D3.3.3 DS-121 Natural turf SHALL be used sparingly within the streetscapes. Planting plan (above) indicating limited areas of natural turf.

A2 Hardscape
A2
DS
DS
D3.3.3 DS-122 Materials SHALL be high quality, robust, able to withstand Hardscape plan/s: indicating all hardscape materials, including
impact, harsh environments and vandalism, and be consistent images, dimensions, characteristics and suppliers.
throughout the pedestrian way.
SM-R4 Submissions requirements outlined within PRRS.
D3.3.3 DS-123 Modular paving materials SHALL be used in pedestrian areas SM-R4 Submissions requirements outlined within PRRS.
to minimise waste due to maintenance operations.
D3.3.3 DS-124 All pedestrian areas SHALL be constructed of light coloured LS-R1 Submissions requirements outlined within PRRS.
paving materials in order to minimise heat build up. Care
should be taken that this does not create high-glare surfaces.
D3.3.3 DS-125 All water features SHALL be surrounded with slip-resistant SM-R4 Submissions requirements outlined within PRRS.
materials.

Furniture
D3.3.3 DS-126 Street furnishings SHALL be grouped in a linear zone that does General layout plan/s: showing location of street furnishing
not obstruct pedestrian circulation on sidewalks, vehicular and their relationship to site circulation.
access, parking, loading and service areas.
Street sections: showing location of street furnishing and their
relationship to site circulation.
D3.3.3 DS-127 Streetscape furniture SHALL employ high quality design and Mood board illustrating proposed furniture, materials and
materials, in order to withstand climatic conditions, heavy colours.
use and vandalism.
D3.3.3 DS-128 Coordinated furniture designs SHALL be used, that are Mood board illustrating proposed furniture, materials and
contemporary, simple and appropriate to context. colours.
D3.3.3 DS-129 A clear edge zone adjacent to the kerb SHALL be created, to Furniture plan/s (above): indicating a clear edge zone adjacent
allow for maintenance access and vehicle overrun. to the kerb.
Streetscape sections: indicating a clear edge zone adjacent to

the kerb.
D3.3.3 DS-130 Refuse and recycling containers SHALL be provided in areas Furniture plan/s (above): showing location of refuse and
of high demand such as transit stops, plazas and shopping recycling containers.
areas.

A2 Public Art
A2
DS
DS
D3.3.3 DS-131 The provision of public art SHALL reflect guidance from the Written document outlining any proposed Public Art, its
Public Art Design Element. typology, and rationale.
D3.3.3 DS-132 Public art SHALL be used to enhance the streetscape design General layout plan, indicating proposed Public Art elements
in strategic positions, such as focal points, gateways and and their location.
gathering areas.
Water Usage
D3.3.3 DS-133 A detailed water efficiency strategy SHALL be developed, PW-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
detailing water features and irrigation requirements to outline
how water will be utilised across the site.
D3.3.3 DS-134 The provision of water features SHALL reflect guidance from Written document outlining any proposed Water Features,
the Water Features Design Element. their typology, and justification.
D3.3.3 DS-135 Water features SHALL be employed sparingly and judiciously, General layout plan, indicating proposed Water Features and
and located near areas of high activity and use. their location.
D3.3.3 DS-136 Stormwater management measures SHALL be incorporated PW-R3 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
within site design.

Lighting
D3.3.3 DS-137 Lighting along streetscapes SHALL be designed to: provide Lighting plan: outlining the location, distance and size of light
adequate illumination to the through zone, reduce glare into standards and other lighting, illumination calculations, glare
adjacent properties, minimise light pollution and impact on and light pollution reduction strategies and coordination of all
adjacent areas. lighting elements.
D3.3.3 DS-138 Street lights and other lighting elements SHALL be coordinated Lighting plan (above).
and located at the edge of the pedestrian walking zone in a
way that does not obstruct circulation on sidewalks, vehicular
access, parking, loading and service areas.
D3.3.3 DS-139 All lighting in the public realm SHALL meet the lighting RE-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
requirements as stated in the DMAT ‘Lighting Standards’.
D3.3.3 DS-140 Lighting SHALL be used to clearly illuminate threads, risers Lighting plan (above).
and any other level differences along the through zone.
D3.3.3 DS-141 Lighting columns and trees SHALL be spaced to maintain Lighting plan (above).
adequate lighting levels on the travel lanes, pedestrian realm
and crossing locations.

A2 Fences / Walls / Screens
A2
DS
DS
D3.3.3 DS-142 If used near intersections, fences/walls/screens SHALL be Layout plan, indicating location of walls, including height,
located to retain sightlines. materials and sight lines.
Services / Infrastructure
D3.3.3 DS-143 Feeder pillars and utility cabinets SHALL be securely located Utilities plan/s: outlining location of all feeder pillars and utility
outside of the pedestrian and cyclist travel zone and shall not cabinets and underground units in relation to pedestrian and
be directly accessible by the public. If a secure placement can cyclists travel zones and location/treatment of maintenance
not be achieved, these SHALL be replaced with underground facilities.
units.
D3.3.3 DS-144 Energy and water metering and monitoring equipment SHALL PW-R2 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
be installed.
RE-R2 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
D3.3.3 DS-145 Commissioning of services and infrastructure SHALL be IDP-R3 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
considered throughout the design process.

D3.3.3 DS-146 Signage SHALL be well placed and integrated into the Signage plan: outlining location and hierarchy of signage and
streetscape environment, in order to retain sightlines and wayfinding elements in relation to sightlines and through
maintain pedestrian or cyclists through zones. zones.
D3.3.3 DS-147 A consistent hierarchy of signage and wayfinding elements Signage plan (above): outlining location and hierarchy of
SHALL be provided, appropriate for the size of the road signage and wayfinding elements.
corridor.
D3.3.3 DS-148 A unified visual language SHALL be used for all signage and Signage detail design: illustrating proposed designs, including
wayfinding materials, colours, scales and types. types, sizes, materials, colours, their coordination and lighting
if applicable.
D3.3.3 DS-149 All signage elements SHALL be durable, easily maintainable, Signage detail design (above): illustrating proposed designs,
avoid deep colours and use a non-reflective matte finish. including types, sizes, materials, colours, their coordination
and lighting if applicable.
D3.3.3 DS-150 Signage and wayfinding SHALL be suitable for daytime and Signage detail design: illustrating proposed designs, including
night-time use and integrated with lighting in areas of high types, sizes, materials, colours, their coordination and lighting
night-time use. if applicable.
D3.3.3 DS-151 Street names SHALL be located on all corners, perpendicular Signage plan (above): outlining location for street names.
to the path of travel.
Safety / Security
D3.3.3 DS-152 Streetscape design SHALL ensure a high level of safety and General layout plan/s: demonstrating compliance with safety
security for users, employing the principles of the Safety & and security standards.
Security Planning Manual (SSPM).
D3.3.3 DS-153 All hazardous materials SHALL be avoided. SM-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.

Parking
A2
DS
D3.3.3 DS-154 Appropriate parking provisions SHALL be included within the Parking Layout Plan/s: outlining all proposed parking provisions
road corridor, in accordance with USDM and DMAT guidelines. within the road corridor, in accordance to guidelines.
D3.3.3 DS-155 Parking SHALL be sufficiently set-back from high profile Parking Layout Plan/s: outlining all proposed parking locations
buildings and structures to minimise visual impact. and their relationship to high profile buildings and structures.
D3.3.3 DS-156 An accessible route SHALL be provided from designated Streetscapes layout plan/s and detail plans demonstrating
disabled access parking stalls to all accessible entrances. accessible routes from disabled access parking stalls to
accessible entrances.
D3.3.3 DS-157 Cycle parking and other end-of-ride facilities for cyclists General Layout Plan/s: outlining all proposed end-of-ride
SHALL be provided as per DMAT WCMP. facilities for cyclists, in accordance with guidelines.

1
1: Street side parking, Abu Dhabi

Design Stage Boulevard-Hierarchy Standards for Streetscape
Movement and Access

A2
A2
DS
DS
D3.3.4 DS-158 Continuous and obstacle-free pathways SHALL be provided General layout plan: outlining layout, width (clear of all
to allow for uninterrupted and safe travel for cyclists and obstructions) of all pathways and their connections to
pedestrians. facilities.
Softscape
D3.3.4 DS-159 Softscape SHALL be designed and maintained to preserve and Planting plan: indicating all planting along the streetscapes
enhance views. and proposed future maintenance if needed to retain views.
Furniture
D3.3.4 DS-160 Refuse and recycling containers SHALL be provided at street Furniture plan: indicating location, arrangement, type and
intersections, transit stops and gathering areas. style of all furniture elements.
D3.3.4 DS-161 The total seating area requirements SHALL be calculated Plan showing location of seating areas and calculation to
based on: demonstrate compliance with standard.
• 4 seating area per 250 linear metres of primary pathway.
Lighting
D3.3.4 DS-162 Security lighting SHALL be provided at destinations and Lighting plan: outlining the location, distance and size of light
transit stops. standards and other lighting, illumination calculations, glare
lighting elements.

Design Stage Avenue-Hierarchy Standards for Streetscape
Movement and Access
Softscape
Furniture
• 2 seating areas per 250 linear metres of primary pathway.
Lighting
lighting elements.

Design Stage Street-Hierarchy Standards for Streetscape

A2
DS
DS
Softscape
Furniture
Lighting
lighting elements.

Design Stage Access Lane-Hierarchy Standards for Streetscape
Movement and Access
to allow for uninterrupted and safe travel for pedestrians. obstructions) of all pathways and their connections to
facilities.
Softscape
D3.3.7 DS-174 In residential areas or wherever a wider width of pavement Planting plan indicating location, type and size of planting
allows, appropriate planting SHALL be incorporated. suitable for the space available.
D3.3.7 DS-175 Forward visibility SHALL be ensured through appropriate Planting plan: indicating all planting along the streetscapes
height and positioning of planting. and proposed future maintenance if needed to retain views.
Furniture
intersections and gathering areas. style of all furniture elements.

Design Elements’ Standards for POS / Streetscape
Ceremonial
A2
A2
DE
DS
D3.4.1 GR-1 Ceremonial Public Open Space Plan indicating location of Ceremonial Open Space/
Streetscape, its design, connections and context.
D3.4.1 GR-2 Ceremonial Streetscape Sections.
Narrative outlining the concepts for the Ceremonial Space,

proposed uses, operation and programming etc.
Applicable Standards
D3.4.1 DES-1 For GR-1 only: A primary pathway with a minimum width of Layout plan, indicating primary and secondary routes through
6m SHALL be provided, designed as the processional route the POS and their respective widths.
through the POS.
D3.4.1 DES-2 For GR-1 only: An assembly space SHALL be provided, linked to Layout plan, indicating primary and secondary routes through
a centralised processional route to accommodate ceremonial the POS and linked assembly space.
events.
D3.4.1 DES-3 Hardscape SHALL be designed to reflect the ceremonial Hardscape layout plans outlining formal design and dimensions
function of the POS/Route. appropriate to accommodate estimated amount of people/
infrastructure needed for ceremonial events.
D3.4.1 DES-4 High quality natural stone SHALL be used for hardscape. Hard landscape plan indicating materials for all hard landscape
area, stating size, colour, texture, layout pattern.
D3.4.1 DES-5 Total seating areas requirements SHALL be calculated based Layout plan indicating number and location of seating areas.
on:
D3.4.1 DES-6 Total picnic tables requirements SHALL be calculated based Layout plan indicating number and location of picnic tables.
on:

Linear Spaces
D3.4.2 GR-3 Extended Streetscapes Plan indicating location of Linear Open Space, its design,
connections and context.
D3.4.2 GR-4 Linear Public Open Spaces Sections.
D3.4.2 GR-5 Transition to Buildings Narrative outlining the concepts, proposed uses, programming
etc.
D3.4.2 DES-7 For GR-3 only: Access to adjacent buildings SHALL be kept Layout plan illustrating location of buildings’ access and
clear and emphasised where appropriate. specific landscape treatment if appropriate.
D3.4.2 DES-8 For GR-3 only: Planting within utilities corridors SHALL be Layout plan illustrating location of underground services and
carried out in accordance with the Utility Corridor Design above/ below ground utilities boxes etc, access and screening
Manual (UCDM) and use root barriers where appropriate. needed and landscape treatment in accordance to guidelines.
D3.4.2 DES-9 For GR-4 only: Total seating area requirements SHALL be Layout plan indicating number and location of seating areas.
calculated based on:
D3.4.2 DES-10 For GR-4 only: Planting within utilities corridors SHALL be Layout plan illustrating location of underground services and
carried out in accordance with the Utilities Corridor Design above/ below ground utilities boxes etc, access and screening
Manual (UCDM) and use root barriers where appropriate. needed and landscape treatment in accordance to guidelines.
D3.4.2 DES-11 For GR-5 only: Access to adjacent buildings SHALL be kept Layout plan illustrating location of buildings’ access and
clear and emphasised where appropriate. specific landscape treatment if appropriate.

A2 Applicable Standards
A2
DE
DS
D3.4.2 DES-12 For GR-5 only: Continuity of movement and access SHALL Layout plan illustrating movement and access areas.
be ensured.
D3.4.2 DES-13 For GR-5 only: Kerb upstands height SHALL be in accordance Levels’ plan illustrating finished ground levels for all areas,
with USDM standards. falls and cross-falls ratio. Detailed sections illustrating
upstands height and cross-falls.
D3.4.2 DES-14 For GR-5 only: Kerb upstands height at transit stops SHALL Levels’ plan illustrating finished ground levels for all areas,
be in accordance with USDM standards. falls and cross-falls ratio. Detailed sections illustrating
D3.4.2 DES-15 For GR-5 only: If higher kerb upstands are required in Levels’ plan illustrating finished ground levels for all areas,
retrofitting, careful consideration SHALL be given to people falls and cross-falls ratio. Detailed sections illustrating
with mobility impairments. upstands height and cross-falls.
D3.4.2. DES-16 For GR-5 only: The standard cross-fall for the sidewalk SHALL Levels’ plan illustrating finished ground levels for all areas,
be up to and no steeper than 1:40 for new developments. falls and cross-falls ratio. Detailed sections illustrating
Public Art
D3.4.3 GR-6 Public Open Space - Public Art Plan indicating location of all Public Art elements and their
surroundings context and landscape treatment.
D3.4.3 GR-7 Streetscape - Public Art Narrative outlining the concepts for the Public Art elements,
their design, materials, colours etc.
D3.4.3 DES-17 For GR-6 only: Public Art SHALL be designed to ensure General layout plan and construction details: demonstrating
public safety. compliance with safety and security standards.
D3.4.3 DES-18 For GR-6 only: Public Art SHALL be designed to ensure General layout plan and construction details: demonstrating
public safety. compliance with safety and security standards.

Transit
D3.4.4 GR-8 Transit Corridors Plan of Transit related POS/Streetscape, its design, connections
and context.
D3.4.4 GR-9 Transit Interchanges Sections.
Narrative outlining the concepts for the Transit Open

Space/Streetscape, proposed treatments, operation and
programming etc.
D3.4.4 DES-19 The design of the streetscape and POS connected with Layout plan illustrating coordinated landscape interface for all
transit hubs SHALL be considered in their entirety, to provide transport facilities within the interchange.
a uniform and coordinated landscape interface to all the
transport facilities.
D3.4.4 DES-20 Above-ground utility structures SHALL be located outside of Utilities infrastructure plan outlining position of all above-
movement areas. ground elements, their access areas and screening if
appropriate.

Design Elements’ Standards for POS
A2 Conservation
A2
DE
DS
D3.4.5 GR-10 Conservation Plan outlining design of Conservation POS, its context and
connections.
Narrative outlining the concepts for the Conservation POS,
proposed uses, operation and programming etc.
D3.4.5 DES-21 Access SHALL NOT be allowed in areas of high environmental Access and movement plan: illustrating areas of high
sensitivity. environmental sensitivity’s exclusion zone.
D3.4.5 DES-22 Vehicular access SHALL be restricted. Access and movement plan: illustrating vehicular and
pedestrian areas.
D3.4.5 DES-23 Softscape SHALL incorporate the native landscape of the Survey plan illustrating existing native landscape, its location
conservation area. and condition.
D3.4.5 DES-24 Softscape SHALL use locally occurring, drought tolerant plant Planting plan, illustrating areas of existing/retained landscape
materials at natural densities. and proposed planting species and their density.
D3.4.5 DES-25 The natural ecosystem SHALL be allowed to be self- Proposed Management Plan for the area.
maintaining to the greatest extent possible.
D3.4.5 DES-26 Natural turf or areas of open grass SHALL NOT be allowed. Planting plan, illustrating areas of existing/retained landscape
and proposed planting species and their density.
D3.4.5 DES-27 Buildings SHALL be located off-site and designed to reflect Layout Plan indicating buildings location.
the unique character of the conservation area.
Mood Board outlining the character of the conservation area

and how this is reflected in the design of the buildings.

D3.4.5 DES-28 Only low-level lighting SHALL be used. Lighting plan and visualisations illustrating areas/ elements to
be illuminated and the proposed lighting effects reflecting the
character of the conservation area.
D3.4.5 DES-29 A primary pathway with a maximum width of 2.5m SHALL Layout plan indicating location and width of pathways.
be provided.
D3.4.5 DES-30 Total seating areas requirement SHALL be calculated based Layout plan indicating number and location of seating areas.
on:
and
D3.4.5 DES-31 Total picnic tables requirements SHALL be calculated based Layout plan indicating number and location of picnic tables.
on:
Family / Community
D3.4.6 GR-11 Family / Community Plan outlining design and appropriate features.
Narrative outlining proposed activities and features,

surrounding context and uses etc.
Food Growing
D3.4.7 GR-12 Food Growing LS-3 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.

A2 Heritage
A2
DE
DS
D3.4.8 GR-13 Heritage Statement of Heritage Significance.
Conservation Management Plan for the Heritage Asset.
Plan outlining proposed design for the Heritage Open Space.
Narrative including design response and proposed

interpretation strategy.
D3.4.8 DES-32 Vehicular access SHALL be restricted. Access and movement plan: illustrating vehicular, pedestrian
and parking areas.
D3.4.8 DES-33 Bollards or other design alternatives SHALL be provided at Access and movement plan: illustrating location of bollards to
access points to prevent vehicle access. restrict vehicular access.
D3.4.8 DES-34 A wayfinding map and interpretative displays SHALL be Access and movement plan: illustrating location of wayfinding
provided in staging area and along primary pathway. map and interpretative displays.
D3.4.8 DES-35 Parking SHALL be provided outside of the heritage site Access and movement plan: illustrating vehicular, pedestrian
boundary. and parking areas.
D3.4.8 DES-36 Softscape features SHALL be used to frame views and Layout plan, illustrating areas of feature planting.
allow for optimum viewing.

Oases Buffer
D3.4.9 GR-14 Oases Buffer Oases Management Plan if available.
Plan outlining proposed design for the Oases Buffer Open

Space.
Narrative including design response to Oases character and

proposed interpretation strategy.
D3.4.9 DES-37 Walls SHALL be replaced or repaired using materials and Walls’ survey report, illustrating areas of repair needed and
design consistent with original oases walls. proposed materials for repair.

Parking
A2
DS
D3.4.10 GR-15 Parking Plan of parking areas, including design, connections and
context. Illustrating areas of hard and soft landscape.
Planting Plan illustrating location and type and size of planting
used.
D3.4.10 DES-38 Parking areas SHALL be designed to provide efficient, safe, Parking Area Plan: illustrating vehicular and pedestrian/cycle
attractive parking areas for shared use. access and movement, parking provisions, separation, planting
and screening as appropriate.
Hard landscape details, illustrating finished levels, materials
and stormwater management proposals.
D3.4.10 DES-39 All parking spaces and circulation routes SHALL be well-lit. Lighting plan and details of lighting elements used.
D3.4.10 DES-40 Light SHALL be directed downwards and avoid light overspill Lighting plan and details of lighting elements used.
on adjacent properties, streets and POS.

Play
D3.4.11 GR-16 Play Population demand-based assessment to guide the provision

of facilities.
Plan outlining proposed design for the Play Space.
Narrative outlining the concepts for the Play Space.
Mood board of Play Equipment and Surfacing.
D3.4.11 DES-41 The Draft Abu Dhabi Sport Council’s (ADSC) Sport Master Plan Population demand-based assessment to guide the provision
SHALL be referred to for detailed guidance on demand-based of facilities.
play provision.
D3.4.11 DES-42 Equipped play areas SHALL be provided with 90% shade. Shading Plan: illustrating location and type of shade provided.
D3.4.11 DES-43 Lighting to play areas SHALL be provided in accordance with Lighting Plan: illustrating type of illumination to be provided,
DMAT’s Lighting Standards. in accordance with standards.
D3.4.11 DES-44 Provision of facilities for accompanying adult SHALL include Layout plan indicating location of shaded seating and picnic
a minimum of: tables associated with play facilities.
• 1 shaded seating per 20m2 of play area; and
• 1 picnic table for 40m2 of play area.

Regional Culture
A2
DS
D3.4.12 GR-17 Baraha Plan indicating location of Regional Culture POS, its design,
connections, context and specific features.
D3.4.12 GR-18 Meyadeen Sections.
D3.4.12 GR-19 Souq
D3.4.12 DES-45 For GR-17 only: Parking SHALL NOT be allowed adjacent Pedestrian Access and Parking Plan: illustrating location of
to a Baraha. parking provisions outside of pedestrian-only areas.
D3.4.12 DES-46 For GR-18 only: Parking SHALL NOT be allowed adjacent Pedestrian Access and Parking Plan: illustrating location of
to a Meydan. parking provisions outside of pedestrian-only areas.
D3.4.12 DES-47 For GR-19 only: Vehicle restrictions SHALL apply to the Souq External and internal movement plan for all areas of the Souq,
during public opening hours. Appropriate times for goods outlining hours of operation and vehicles access.
delivery and loading by vehicles SHALL be established.
D3.4.12 DES-48 For GR-19 only: The Souq SHALL include continuous and External and Internal movement plan for all areas of the Souq,
obstacle-free through-zones to allow for safe, uninterrupted illustrating width of obstacle-free through zones.
movement.

Religious
D3.4.13 GR-20 Religious Narrative outlining the concepts for the POS, proposed uses,
operation and programming related to specific religious use.
D3.4.13 DES-49 Lighting used SHALL be appropriate to the character of the Lighting plan and visualisations illustrating areas/ elements to
Mosque. be illuminated and the proposed lighting effects reflecting the
character of the Mosque.
D3.4.13 DES-50 All requirements of the Abu Dhabi Mosque Development Plan and narrative outlining specific MDR requirements and
Regulations (MDR) SHALL be complied with. how these have been incorporated in the design.
1
1: Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi City, UAE

Sport
A2
DS
D3.4.14 GR-21 Sport Population demand-based assessment to guide the provision
of facilities.
Plan outlining proposed design for the Sport facilities and its
surroundings.
Narrative outlining the concepts for the Sport POS.
Mood board of Sport Equipment and Surfacing.
D3.4.14 DES-51 The Draft Abu Dhabi Sport Council’s (ADSC) Sport Master Plan Population demand-based assessment based on ADSC’s
SHALL be referred to for detailed guidance on demand-based guidance.
sport provision.
D3.4.14 DES-52 International best practice for design of sports facilities Detail design for sport facilities referencing International best
SHALL be followed. practice.
D3.4.14 DES-53 Pitches SHALL be oriented to avoid low sun angles. Layout plan illustrating sport pitches’s and courts orientation.
D3.4.14 DES-54 Chain-link or other appropriate fencing SHALL be provided to Layout plan illustrating sport pitches’s fencing enclosure
enclose sport pitches, with a minimum height of 1.2m to a location and height.
maximum height of 3m.
D3.4.14 DES-55 Drinking water fountains SHALL be provided in close proximity Layout plan illustrating location of drinking water fountains.
to sport facilities.
D3.4.14 DES-56 Sport’s lighting to suit specific sports SHALL be provided in Lighting Plan: illustrating type of illumination to be provided,
accordance with DMAT’s Lighting Standards. in accordance with standards.
D3.4.14 DES-57 Lighting along the primary pathway SHALL be provided in Lighting Plan: illustrating type of illumination to be provided,
accordance with DMAT’s Lighting Standards. in accordance with standards.

Urban Spaces
D3.4.15 GR-22 Urban Spaces Plan indicating location of Urban Space, its design, and
connections.
Sections.
Narrative outlining the concepts, proposed uses, programming

etc.
Water Features
D3.4.16 GR-23 Water Features Plan indicating location of Urban Space, its design, and context.
Sections.
Narrative outlining the concepts, proposed uses, programming

etc.
D3.4.16 DES-58 Water features SHALL be employed sparingly and judiciously, Plans and narrative as above.
and located near areas of high activity and use.
D3.4.16 DES-59 Public water features creating a ‘ponding’ effect SHALL not Sections through the water feature illustrating depth of water
exceed 300mm of water depth. and its relation to surrounding topography.

Waterfront
A2
DS
D3.4.17 GR-24 Natural Waterfronts Plan outlining proposed design for the Waterfront facilities
and its surroundings.
D3.4.17 GR-25 Preservation Areas Narrative outlining the concepts for the Waterfront Space,
D3.4.17 GR-26 Recreation Areas Sections.
D3.4.17 GR-27 Urban Waterfront Areas
D3.4.17 DES-60 Continuous access to the waterfront SHALL be provided. Layout plan, demonstrating continuous access to the
waterfront.
D3.4.17 DES-61 Physical and visual connectivity to the waterfront from Layout plan, illustrating views and physical connections to the
surrounding areas SHALL be maintained and enhanced. waterfront from the surrounding areas.
D3.4.17 DES-62 Access points SHALL be utilised to frame waterfront views. Layout plan, illustrating access point treatment to emphasise
views.
D3.4.17 DES-63 The minimum width of waterfront area SHALL be designed to Layout plan, annotated with measurements and high-low tide
be at least 12m from the highest observable tide line to the level marks.
kerb-line of the street.
Sections illustrating changes to the waterfront width at high
and low tide, ensuring a minimum of 12m at all times.
D3.4.17 DES-64 All furniture SHALL be oriented to the water’s edge. Layout plan, illustrating position and orientation of furniture.
D3.4.17 DES-65 Parking lots, storage areas and similar uses SHALL be located Layout plan, illustrating position of all utilitarian uses that
away from the waterfront’s edge and in unobtrusive locations. might detract from visual amenity of the waterfront.

D3.4.17 DES-66 In designing lighting levels and colours, the overall effect Lighting plan and visualisations illustrating the overall effect
on patterns, repetition, focal points and rhythm within the of lighting on the panorama of the waterfront.
panorama of the waterfront SHALL be considered.
D3.4.17 DES-67 Use of red and green lighting SHALL be carefully considered to Lighting plan and visualisations illustrating the overall effect
avoid causing potential navigation hazard. of lighting on the panorama of the waterfront.
D3.4.17 DES-68 Feeder pillars and utility cabinets SHALL be placed in Utilities layout plan including locations and depth of all
underground chambers wherever possible. underground utilites and associated infrastructure such as
underground chambers.
D3.4.17 DES-69 For GR-24 only: Access to environmentally sensitive areas Access and movement plan outlining accessible and restricted
SHALL be restricted. areas (if applicable).
D3.4.17 DES-70 For GR-24 only: Boardwalks and viewing platforms SHALL Plans and 3D modelling of boardwalks and viewing platforms
be sensitively integrated with the landscape. illustrating their contextual integration with the landscape.
D3.4.17 DES-71 For GR-25 only: Disturbance and impact to the natural Layout plan outlining existing and proposed features,
environment SHALL be minimised. illustrating minimal impact to the natural environment.
Construction area plan outlining measures employed to protect
the natural environment during construction (including work
access, material storage on site etc.).
D3.4.17 DES-74 For GR-26 only: Disturbance and impact to the natural Layout plan outlining existing and proposed features,
environment SHALL be minimised. illustrating minimal impact to the natural environment.
Construction area plan outlining measures employed to protect
the natural environment during construction (including work
access, material storage on site etc.).
D3.4.17 DES-75 For GR-26 only: A continuous boardwalk promenade SHALL Plan illustrating location and design of continuous boardwalk
be provided at beach areas. promenade at beach areas.

A2
DS
D3.4.17 DES-76 For GR-27 only: A primary promenade pathway SHALL be Hard landscape plan: indicating size and location of hard
provided with a minimum width of 6m. landscape features and proposed materials.
D3.4.17 DES-77 For GR-27 only: A mix of on-site and off-site parking SHALL be Pedestrian Access and Parking Plan: illustrating location of
provided with direct and convenient access to the waterfront. parking provisions and their connection to the waterfront.

1
1: Natural Waterfront, Abu Dhabi City, UAE

Design Elements’ Standards for Streetscapes
Gateways
A2
DS
D3.4.18 GR-28 Gateways Plan outlining design of the Gateway its context and
connections.
Rendered views.
Narrative outlining the concepts for the Gateway.
1 2
1: Council Bluffs Gateway, Iowa, US 2: The Kelpies, Scotland

Pedestrian and Shared Use

A2
OS
D3.4.19 GR-29 Mushtarak Plan of Pedestrian/Shared Use Streetscapes, their design,
connections and context.
D3.4.19 GR-30 Pedestrian First Corridor Sections.
D3.4.19 GR-31 Sikka Narrative outlining the implementation of Abu Dhabi

Sikka Policy and the concepts for the Streetscapes,
proposed treatments, operation and programming etc.
D3.4.19 DES-78 For GR-29 only: The design SHALL balance the needs of Plan outlining how the design of the streetscape balance the
pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles. needs and ensure comfort and safety for the different users
identified for the streetscape.
D3.4.19 DES-79 For GR-29 only: Emergency vehicles access SHALL be Plan outlining emergency vehicles route and areas of
accommodated. hardscape suitable for emergency vehicles use.
D3.4.19 DES-80 For GR-30 only: Pedestrian and bicycle circulation SHALL Plan outlining pedestrian and bicycle circulation routes.
be accommodated.
D3.4.19 DES-81 For GR-31 only: Vehicular access and parking SHALL not be Streets and parking layout plans, indicating location of parking
allowed in sikkak. on vehicular RoW only.
D3.4.19 DES-82 For GR-31 only: Low-level, pedestrian-scaled lighting SHALL Lighting Plan.
be provided.

Scenic
A2
DS
D3.4.20 GR-32 Scenic Views study identifying important views.
Plan indicating location, layout and design of Scenic

streetscape.
Narrative outlining the concepts for the Scenic streetscape, its
design, materials, colours etc.
Rendered views.
Visual Impact Assessment.

1
1: Fossil dunes near Mussafah, Abu Dhabi City, UAE

Operation Stage Universal Standards for Public Realm
Operation
A2
OS
O2 OS-1 An Operation Manual SHALL be prepared, structured in Operation Manual comprising all sections outlined in Section
accordance with this guidance and identifying all operations O2.
requirements.
02 OS-2 Contact details of approved maintenance contractors and Operation Manual comprising contact details of approved
location of maintenance log SHALL be identified in the maintenance contractors.
Operation Manual.
02 OS-3 An up-to-date copy of the Operation Manual SHALL be kept Copy of Operation Manual available at the on-site or operator’s
at the on-site office (if applicable) or at the operators’ office. office.
02 OS-4 A Legionella Management Plan SHALL be prepared for all LS-R6 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
water systems on site.
02 OS-5 An incident log-book SHALL be produced and maintained by Incident log-book to detail any incidents occurring.
the management team, detailing all incidents (operational and
maintenance related).
02 OS-6 Lighting SHALL be operational in accordance with Estidama RE-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
and DMAT requirements.
02 OS-7 All maintenance staff SHALL be trained on the requirements Record of staff training to be kept on file at Management’s
of the Maintenance Manual. Office.
02 OS-8 A record of all training SHALL be kept on file within the Record of staff training to be kept on file at Management’s
Management’s Office. Office.
02 OS-9 Smoking SHALL be prohibited within POS. Monitoring report.

Maintenance
03 OS-10 A maintenance manual SHALL be prepared, structured in Maintenance Manual comprising all sections outlined in
accordance with this guidance and identifying all maintenance Section O3.
requirements.
03 OS-11 All maintenance equipment SHALL be stored within a safe Monitoring report.
area not accessible to the public.
03 OS-12 A list of maintenance requirements SHALL be drawn up, Monitoring report.
during monthly inspection reports and be actioned within a
week.
03 OS-13 Processes SHALL be put in place in case of emergency Maintenance Manual outlining processes to be followed for
maintenance. emergency maintenance.
03 OS-14 A waste and recycling strategy SHALL be prepared for each SM-R6 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
project.
SM-R3
03 OS-15 All maintenance requirements and works occurring within Maintenance activity log-book to detail all maintenance
the public realm SHALL be recorded within a maintenance requirements and works occurring.
activity log-book, its location to be identified in the operations
manual.
03 OS-16 A strategy for the efficient operation and maintenance of PW-R1 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
irrigation systems SHALL be prepared.
03 OS-17 Water meters SHALL be installed and monitored for efficiency PW-R2 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
and leak detection.
03 OS-18 A strategy for efficient operation and maintenance of PW-R3 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
stormwater systems SHALL be prepared.
03 OS-19 All trades (electricians, engineers etc.) SHALL be accredited in Copy of accreditation documentation or professional body
their respective fields to qualify for appointment. registration number.
03 OS-20 An MEP manual SHALL be produced by the appointed MEP Manual for all MEP systems on site.
maintenance contractor for all MEP systems on site.
03 OS-21 Electricity meters SHALL be installed and energy consumption RE-R2 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
monitored.
03 OS-22 Any abnormal monitoring results SHALL be immediately RE-R2 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.
investigated and rectified.
PW-R2

A3
Plant List
The Corniche,
Abu Dhabi
Planting 2. Soil Improvement 5. Mulch
A3
Planting within the Public Realm in Abu Dhabi should The ideal soil in a water-conserving landscape does The soil’s surface around plants should be covered
take account of and reflect the different environmental two things simultaneously: it drains quickly and with a mulch, such as leaves, coarse compost, coarse
conditions within the Emirate. These stretch from the stores water at the same time. palm bark, wood chips, bark or gravel. Mulch helps
humid, salt laden coastal environment to the drier retain soil moisture and temperature, prevent erosion
inland locations. This is achieved by increasing the amount of organic and block out competing weeds. Organic mulch will
material in the soil and keeping it well aerated. slowly incorporate with the soil, and will need to be
This will result in planting that is relevant and Compost is the ideal organic additive, unless the re-applied, “top-dressed”, from time to time. To be
suitable to its location, and reflects and enhances the xeriscape contains many succulents species as these effective, mulch needs to be a minimum of 3-5cm
character of the area. Appropriate planting will ensure species prefer lean soil. thick. There should be no areas of bare soil.
that plant material establishes quickly and thrive in
the environment, as well as a reduction in the amount
of irrigation, fertilisers and pesticides needed, and 3. Limit Turf Areas 6. Irrigation
generally a reduction in future maintenance needs.
The size of turf areas should be reduced as much as Water conservation is the goal, so avoiding
The 7 principles of Xeriscaping are particularly possible, while retaining some turf for open space, overwatering is essential.
appropriate and should be employed wherever functionality and visual appeal. When planting new
possible: turf, water-saving species adapted to your area Soaker hoses and drip-irrigation systems offer the
should be used. easiest and most efficient watering for xeriscapes
because they deliver water directly to the base of the
1. Water Conservation plant. This reduces moisture loss from evaporation.
4. Appropriate Plants They also deliver the water at a slow rate which
Consideration should be given to plot orientation and encourages root and soil absorption and reduces
existing features, areas of sun and shade, which will Plants that are native to the region and/or drought- pooling and erosion. In general, it’s best to water
help to establish zones of differing water needs. resistant should be used whenever possible. deeply and less frequently.
Natural or man made contours and the drainage Plants should be selected for their ultimate size.
patterns of the plot can be utilised by concentrating This reduces over-planting and future pruning 7. Maintaining the landscape
planting in lower areas where water would naturally maintenance.
drain to. Low-maintenance is one of the benefits of xeriscape.
For hot, dry areas with south and west exposure, Mulching will avoid most weeds from growing and any
Plants with similar watering needs should be grouped plants that need minimum water should be used. that grow should be removed to avoid competition for
(in hydrozones) to allow for a more efficient use of Along north and east-facing slopes and walls, plants water.
water. that are less drought tolerant could be chosen.
Sunlight calculators should be used to help establish Planting in general should not be over-fertilised
the ideal planting location for the landscape layout. as plants that grow quickly have softer leaves that
require more water.
Trees help to reduce evaporation by blocking wind
and shading the soil. Turf areas should not be cut too short - taller grass
is a natural mulch which shades the roots and helps
retain moisture.

Plant List • Tolerances are rated as:
The plant list includes a variety of species suitable • High (highly tolerant)
for the different environments of Abu Dhabi Emirate. • Medium (can be used with discretion)
Types of plants identified include: • Low (should be avoided or used sparingly, and/
or provided with buffer treatment)
• Trees
• Palms • Users Notes
• Shrubs
• Groundcover and Ornamental Grasses In addition, please refer to the Irrigation Rate Matrix
• Succulents and Perennials in Appendix 3 for detailed information regarding the
• Climbers irrigation rate according to classification for each
• Native plants (currently being developed for plant category.
commercial use)
Each plant identified as suitable for use within the Trees and Shading
public realm is listed in the matrix. The matrix
provides the following information: When trees are planted specifically to provide
shade, shading calculations should be carried out in
• Shape and expected size at maturity accordance with the shade requirements outlined
• Botanical Name within the PRRS.
• Common Name 1
• Native Species The final shade provision can be calculated using the
• Irrigation Classification: tree canopy sizes outlined within the plant list and by
planting trees at appropriate spacing to achieve the
S Low Irrigation Required required shade at the trees’ full maturity.
SS Medium Irrigation Required
SSS High Irrigation Required This methodology applies to the PRRS LS-R1
LS-R1
h Wetland location Outdoor Thermal Comfort Strategy.
• Hazards (Plants that are serious hazards should

be excluded from POS.)
• Inland Suitability
• Coastal Suitability
• Tolerance to different environmental elements:
• Drought Tolerance (can tolerate periods of

drought)
• Salinity Tolerance (can tolerate salt air and
different salt levels in the soil)
• Sun Tolerance (can tolerate full sun) 2 3
• Wind Tolerance (can be used in windy
conditions) 1: Streetscape, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi City, UAE
2: Seating Area, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi City, UAE
3: Linear Tree Planting, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi City, UAE

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
TREES SHAPE USER NOTES
NAME NAME
8m
May
Can be
be used
used as
as aa street
street tree,
tree,
park tree or for scenic routes
but not for locations that
Acacia arabica ArabicvAcacia  Thorns  High Medium High High depend
depend on
on uniformity.
uniformity. May
Can also
also
be appropriate for heritage
locations. Suitable for shelter
belts.
8m
5m
Good hardy species. Has
fragrant flowers that appear in
*
Acacia
farnesiana
Sweet Acacia  Thorns   High Medium High High clusters in late winter, followed
by persistent fruits which are
good for birds and wildlife.
7m
7m
Acacia
ehrenbergiana
Salam  Thorns  High Medium High High clusters in late winter, followed
7m
8m
Acacia nilotica Arabian Gum  Thorns  High Medium High High clusters in late winter, followed
7m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
5m
Considered as an important part
of the regional culture. Suitable
for heritage parks, desert parks
Acacia tortilis Samar  Thorns  High High High High and scenic roads but not for
urban parks or streets. It may
need insecticides spray yearly
for stem borer insect.
8m
9m
Good park tree, popular for its
*
Albizia light dappled shade, tropical
julibrissin
Silk Tree    Medium Medium High Medium
effect and fragrant flowers.
Short lived (approx. 20years).
10 m
10 m
Excellent street and park tree

Albizia Women’s for urban areas. Good deciduous
lebbeck Tongue
   High High High High
multi-stemmed park tree, with
widely spreading habit.
12 m
12 m
Alstonia Good park or street trees for

scholaris
Devil Tree   Medium Medium High High
urban areas.
10 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
12 m
Excellent urban tree for streets,
public plazas and parks. Very
Azadirachta
indica
Neem Tree    Medium Low High High successful in Al Ain. It sheds
leaves if it does not receive
sufficient irrigation.
8m
7m
Needs some shelter and west

Bauhinia Purple Orchid
purpurea Tree
  Medium Medium High Medium sun protection. Better grouped
with other trees.
5m
6m
Orchid Tree, Needs some shelter and west

Bauhinia
variegata
Poor Man’s   Medium Medium High Medium sun protection. Better grouped
Orchid with other trees.
6m
7m
Needs some shelter and west

Bauhinia White Orchid
variegata ‘Alba’ Tree
  Medium Medium High Medium sun protection. Better grouped
with other trees.
5m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
12 m
Spiny trunk when young, bright

Red Silk Cotton
Bombax ceiba
Tree
 Spines   High High High High red flowers in spring. Suitable
for diverse conditions.
9m
5m
Culturally significant species
as the source of Frankincense,
although not native to the
Frankincense
Boswellia sacra
Tree
   Medium Medium Medium Medium Arabian Gulf region. It grows
successfully on Sir Bani Yas and
in Al Ain with low irrigation
rates so has wide application.
7m
12 m
Extended trunk is a water

Brachychiton
populneus
Bottle Tree    High Medium High High storage device to ensure
survival in a very dry climate.
8m
6m
Best suited to park use in Al

Callistemon Weeping Ain. Water application should
viminalis Bottlebrush
   High Medium High High
be reduced in winter months to
achieve good flowering.
4.5 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
8m
Attractive, fast growing, small

Cassia siamea Sunshine Tree    High Medium High High
tree for urban areas.
7m
4m
Cassia
Scrambled Egg Attractive, fast growing, small
surattensis
Bush
  Medium Medium High High
tree for coastal urban areas.
(syn C.glauca)
4.5 m
18 m
Requires low irrigation
levels. Excessive water is
Casuarina Ironwood,
equisetifolia Coastal She-oak
  High High High High counterproductive as the tree
grows rapidly then declines and
loses its shape.
10 m
8m
Best suited to the drier climate
of Al Ain, where there are
Chitalpa Pink Butterfly
tashkentensis Bush
  Medium Medium Medium Low already good specimens. Needs
shelter from wind and afternoon
sun.
8m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
10 m
Best suited in the drier climate
of Al Ain, where there are
Chorisia
speciosa
Silk Floss Tree  Thorns   High Medium High High already a good specimens.
Needs shelter from wind and
afternoon sun.
10 m
6m
Citrus fruit tree, suitable for

Citrus maxima Pomelo   Low Low High High
oases or parks.
5m
6m
Citrus fruit tree, suitable for

Citrus mitis Calamondin   Low Low High High
oases or parks.
5m
15 m Although tolerant of harsh

conditions, it is best used along
highways or in locations where
Buttonwood,
Conocarpus the pollen will not aggravate
erectus
Button   High High High High
allergy sufferers. Can create
Mangrove
problems with roots spreading
into irrigation pipes (confirm
10 m with Municipality if acceptable).

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
5m
Although tolerant of harsh
Conocarpus Pollen conditions, it is best used along
Silver
erectus
Buttonwood
 Allergy  High High High High highways or in locations where
‘Silver Form’ Source the pollen will not aggravate
allergy sufferers.
6m
6m
Prefers coastal locations.

Yellow Geiger,
Cordia lutea
Muyuyo
  High High High Medium Produces fragrant, showy
flowers and edible fruits.
7m
6m
Well suited for Al Ain and Abu

Cordia myxa Lasura Tree
*    Medium Medium High Medium Dhabi as a street tree and park
tree.
6m
6m
Well suited for Al Ain and Abu

*
Cordia
sebestena
Geranium Tree   Medium Medium High Medium Dhabi as a street tree and park
tree.
5m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
8m
Coastal location only. Good,

Cordia Kou, Sea
subcordata Trumpet
  Medium Medium High Medium small tree for waterfront parks
and urban plazas near the sea.
12 m
12 m
Coastal location only. Good ,

Cupaniopsis Carrotwood,
anacardioides Tuckeroo Tree
  Medium Medium High Medium small tree for waterfront parks
and urban plazas near the sea.
10 m
20 m
Indian Not suitable for coastal

Dalbergia sissoo
Rosewood
  High Low High High
locations.
12 m
9m Use only in humid coastal areas.

Excellent park, urban plaza
and street tree but will not be
Royal Poinciana, uniform in character as they are
Delonix regia
Flamboyant
  High Low High High
grown from seed. Not attractive
during cooler months when
leaves fall. Needs to be irrigated
12 m with sweet water.

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
8m
Limited use as a park curiosity.
Dragon or Comes from Canary Islands, so
Dracaena draco Dragon’s Blood    High Medium Medium Medium climatically it needs protection
Tree from afternoon summer sun and
is best used in Abu Dhabi.
10 m
7m
Good, resilient tree. May be
used in parks or open spaces,
Kaffir Coral,
Erythrina caffra
Kaffirboom Tree
 Thorns  Medium Medium High High sikkas etc. where their informal
shape is not an issue. Good for
urban conditions.
11 m
6m
Erythrina Brazilian Coral
crista-galli Tree
 Thorns  Medium Medium High High sikkas etc. where their informal
urban conditions.
5m
10 m
Erythrina
variegata
Indian Coral Tree  Thorns  High Medium High High sikkas etc. where their informal
urban conditions.
10 m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
20 m
Large feature tree, best suited

Eucalyptus to parks. It can create problems
camaldulensis
River Red Gum    High High High High
with instability in sandy soils
due to the long stems.
10 m
25 m
Large feature tree, best suited

Eucalyptus Lemon Scented
citriodora Gum
   High High High High to parks. Leaves can be used to
make lemon tea.
10 m
20 m
Lofty Fig, False Good street and park tree;

Ficus altissima Banyan, Council    Medium Medium High High providing dense shade in a
Tree climate where shade is critical.
30 m
20 m
Good street and park tree;
providing dense shade in a
Ficus Indian Banyan climate where shade is critical.
benghalensis Tree
   Medium Medium High High
Should be located where its
extensive root system would not
cause problems.
30 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
7m
Ficus carica Fig    Medium Medium Medium High Important tree for oases.
12 m
8m

*
Wadi cordata
Ficus cordata
Salicifolia
   High Medium Medium High providing dense shade in a
climate where shade is critical.
9m
12 m

Ficus
microcarpa
Malayan Banyan   Medium Medium High Medium providing dense shade in a
15 m
12 m
Ficus providing dense shade in a
microcarpa Weeping Fig   Medium Medium High Medium climate where shade is critical.
‘Benjamina’ Can be pruned to more formal
shapes.
15 m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
15 m

Ficus religiosa Bodhi   Medium Medium High Medium providing dense shade in a
20 m
15 m
Needs shelter from wind and

Ficus salicifolia Willow Leaf Fig   Medium Medium High Medium best if sheltered from summer
afternoon sun.
20 m
7m
Hibiscus Well suited to coastal areas,

Tricolour Sea
tiliaceus
Hibiscus
  Medium High High High especially where there is salt
‘Variegrata’ laden air.
5m
7m
Well suited to coastal areas,

Hibiscus Beach, Sea or
tiliaceus Linden Hibiscus
  Medium High High High especially where there is salt
laden air.
8m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
12 m
Best used as a curiosity in

Kigelia africana Sausage Tree    Medium Medium High High
public parks and gardens.
10 m
12 m
*
Leucaena Best used as a curiosity in
leucocephala
White Tamarind    High Medium High High
8m
10 m
Mangifera Best used as a curiosity in

indica
Mango Tree    Medium Medium High Medium
8m
12 m
Manilkara Best used as a curiosity in

zapota
Sapodilla    High High High Medium
10 m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
10 m
Good small shade tree, ideal for

Melia azadarach Persian Lilac    High Medium High Medium
sikkas and small parks.
8m
15 m
Very good urban park tree,
with highly scented flowers.
Millingtonia Indian Cork Tree,
hortensis Tree Jasmine
   Medium Medium High Medium Produces suckers, so not
suitable for streets or where a
neat appearance is required.
10 m
15 m
Horseradish, Good source of edible seed

Moringa oleifera Drumstick,   High Low Low High pods. Suitable for community
Benoil tree gardens and oases.
10 m
15 m
Best limited to oases where the

Morus alba White Mulberry    Medium Low High Medium fruit can be harvested and not
stain pavements.
12 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
8m
Best suited for inland areas
away from humidity. Best used
Olea europaea Olive   Medium Low High High in community oriented parks,
where fruits (olives) can be
harvested.
6m
6m
Parkinsonia Jerusalem Wide usage, often spoiled by

aculeata Thorn
 Thorns   High High High High
poor pruning and overwatering.
7m
12 m
Yellow
Peltophorum Poinciana, Excellent urban tree, particularly
pterocarpum Yellow Flame
   High High High High
in coastal areas.
Tree
10 m
10 m
*
Pithecellobium Madras Thorn,
dulce Manila Tamarind
 Thorns   High Medium High Medium Hardy tree for urban streets.
13 m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
5m
Widely used in coastal areas.
Can tolerate full sun or partial
Singapore or Sap shade. Tolerant of salt laden
Plumeria obtusa
White Frangipani
 Allergy
  Medium Medium Medium Medium
winds. Has an extensive root
system so needs to be located
with consideration.
6m
5m
Widely used in coastal areas.
Frangipani or Can tolerate full sun or partial
Plumeria rubra Temple Tree, Sap shade. Tolerant of salt laden
‘Acutifolia’ West Indian
 Allergy
  Medium Medium Medium Medium
winds. Has an extensive root
Jasmine system so needs to be located
with consideration.
6m
8m
Very good urban tree for streets,
Pongamia plazas, souks and parks. Best in
pinnata
Pongam Tree   Medium Medium High High
coastal regions. Produces pink,
fragrant flowers in spring.
Significant to the UAE cultural

5m
history. Has application on
highways and in urban parks
*
Prosopis and streets. The Ghaf can
cineraria
Ghaf Tree  Thorns   High High High High
access water at great depths,
and will grow in size according
to the amount of water it
receives.

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
8m Has application on highways

and in urban parks and streets.
This tree can access water at
Prosopis Honey great depths, and will grow in
glandulosa Mesquite
 Thorns   High High High High
size according to the amount
of water it receives. Produces
yellow flowers from June to
6m September.
8m
Guava is commonly found in
*
oases, but can be useful as an
Psidium guajava Tropical Guava   Medium Low High Medium
urban small tree. Not suitable
for salt laden air.
6m
8m
Guava is commonly found in

oases, but can be useful as an
Psidium littorale Cattley Guava   Medium Low High Medium
urban small tree. Not suitable
for salt laden air.
6m
4m
Punica Good fruit tree for oases or

granatum
Pomegranate   Low Low High High
small parks.
4m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
6m
Hardy plant for highway

*
Salvadora
persica
Arak    High High High High landscape. Best if allowed to
grow without cutting.
9m
20 m
Wide spreading canopy. Best

Samanea saman Rain Tree   Medium Medium High High
suited to large open spaces.
30 m
2m
Small spreading tree. Best

Sophora
tomentosa
Kowhai   High Medium High High suited to sikkas, small parks or
local streets.
3m
15 m
In its native habitat Spathodea
grows to a very large tree, but
this does not happen in the
Spathodea African Tulip
campanulata Tree
  Medium Medium High Medium UAE. The few specimens in Abu
Dhabi are medium sized trees
enjoying shelter and shade from
afternoon summer sun.
10 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
A3
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
20 m
Hardy but slow growing species,

Pink Trumpet suitable for Abu Dhabi. Grows
Tabebuia rosea
Tree
  High High High Low
best in wind-sheltered location
in parks or urban plazas.
10 m
12 m
Tamarindus Hardy, well shaped and textured

indica
Tamarind    Medium Medium High High
tree.
12 m
5m
Hardy and colourful small tree
*
Tecomella Rohida, Desert native to the Hajar Mountains.
undulata or Marwar Tree
Best suited to scenic highways,
linear parks and desert parks.
5m
20 m
Terminalia Arjuna, White Very good shade tree for urban

arjuna Marudah
   High Medium High Low
streets and parks.
15 m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
15 m
Very good umbrella shaped

Terminalia shade tree for coastal areas
catappa
Indian Almond   High High High Low
including marinas and
waterfront parks.
15 m
10 m
Thespesia Portia Tree, Very good shade tree for coastal

populnea Indian Tulip Tree
   Medium High High High
areas and inland.
8m
8m
An oasis species producing

Common
edible fruit. Also can be used as
Ziziphus jujuba Jujube, Chinese    High High High High
an urban park, street or plaza
Date
tree.
7m
15 m Symbolic of Abu Dhabi, found

in oases, along wadis, in
parks, along highways, school
*
Zizyphus grounds, urban parks and
spina-christi
Sidr Tree  Thorns   High Medium High High
streets. It can survive with little
irrigation or it can benefit from
a higher level of irrigation and
15 m be a much larger tree.

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
PALMS SHAPE USER NOTES
NAME NAME
15 m
Bismarckia Needs shelter and west sun

nobilis
Bismark Palm    Medium Medium High High
protection.
6m
9m
Hardy specimen palm. Suitable
*
for parks and opens spaces,
Brahea armata Blue Palm    High Medium High High
parking areas and informal
streets.
4m
5m
Medium size palm. Produces
edible orange dates in summer,
which may cause disturbance
Butia capitata Jelly Palm    High High High High
if falling on paved areas, better
planted at 3m distance from
paths and streets.
3m
15 m
Tall slender palm, suitable for

Carpentaria Carpentaria
acuminata Palm
   High Medium High High small spaces, can be used in
groups to frame gateways.
5m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
2.5 m
Small bushy palm. Producing

Chamaerops Mediterranean suckers when mature, best
humilis Fan Palm
   High High High High
used as a large shrub in parks or
desert locations.
1.5 m
3m
Coccothrinax Small palm. Better used as a

argentata
Silver Palm    High Medium High High
large shrub.
2m
15 m
Large palm producing fragrant
flowers and coconut fruits.
Suitable for any location,
Cocos nucifera Coconut Palm    High High High High including waterfronts but better
located where fruits can be
harvested without causing
nuisance.
6m
6m
Medium size palm, often with

Hyphaene Gingerbread
thebaica Palm
   High High High High multiple trunk. Suitable for
parks, plazas and streetscapes.
3m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
5m
Good species for scenic routes,
*
Nannorrhops Leaf urban plazas and parks where
ritchiana
Zerbet  Spikes
 High Medium High High
limited irrigation water is
available.
3m
18 m
Important in the cultural context
and for urban shade. Requires
higher water consumption than
Phoenix Leaf
dactylifera
Date Palm  Spikes
  High High High High many palm species but only at
active growth periods. Needs
little water in cooler months
and during fruit ripening.
12 m
10 m
Good feature plant but needs

Phoenix Senegal Date Leaf to be located away from public
reclinata Palm
 Spikes
  High High High High
access. Leaf spikes are
a serious hazard.
6m
6m
Good feature plant but needs

Phoenix Pigmy Date Leaf to be located away from public
roebelinii Palm
 Spikes
access. Leaf spikes are
a serious hazard.
3m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
25 m
Not suitable for this region

except where sheltered from
Roystonea regia Royal Palm   Medium Medium High High
wind and from afternoon
summer sun.
8m
10 m
Hardy small palm. Suitable

Thrinax morrisii Thatch Palm    High High High High for all environments including
waterfronts.
6m
15 m
Hardy palm. Suitable for most
Leaf and urban conditions including
Washingtonia California Fan
filifera Palm
 Stem   High High High Medium waterfront, although salt laden
Spikes winds do cause some leaf burn
in summer.
7m
25 m
Hardy palm. Suitable for most
Leaf and urban conditions including
Washingtonia Mexican Fan
robusta Palm
 Stem   High High High Medium waterfront, although salt laden
Spikes winds do cause some leaf burn
in summer.
7m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
1.3 m
Hardy, small, shrub-like palm.

Zamia Cardboard
furfuracea Palm
   Medium High High High Suitable for all environments
including waterfronts.
2m
1m
Hardy, small, shrub-like palm.

Florida
Zamia pumila
Arrowroot
   Medium High High High Suitable for all environments
including waterfronts.
1.8 m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
SHRUBS SHAPE USER NOTES
NAME NAME
3m
Suitable for use in desert parks

*
Acacia
ehrenbergiana
Samal  Thorns  High High High High and any location requiring low
irrigation status.
4m
3m
Acacia Weeping form of Acacia,

floribunda
Weeping Acacia    High High High High
suitable for all conditions.
3m
1.5 m
Deciduous shrub with showy

Adenium Sap
obesum
Desert Rose  Allergy
  High Medium High High flower. Best used where it is not
in direct contact with people.
1m
1.5 m
Adenium Deciduous shrub with showy

Sap
obesum Snowbell  Allergy
  High Medium High High flower. Best used where it is not
‘Grumbly White’ in direct contact with people.
1m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
1m
Occurs widely throughout the
UAE. Does not require irrigation
*
after establishment but has
Aerva javanica Al Ara    High Medium High High
maintenance needs (subtle
trimming) and is yet to be
tested in urban environments.
1m
0.15 m
Very good species for low water

*
Anastatica
hierochuntica
Kaf Marriam   High High High High demand landscapes, meeting
sustainable targets with ease.
0.2 m
0.5m

*
Artemisia
sieberi
Besser   High High High High demand landscapes, meeting
0.5 m
1.5 m
*
Arthrocnemum Waterfront species, as yet not
macrostachyum
Hamadh   High High High High
produced by nursery industry.
2.5 m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
1m

Atriplex Four-wing
canescens Saltbush
  High High High High demand landscapes, meeting
1m
1.5 m

Waxy Saltbush,
Atriplex glauca
Grey Saltbush
1m
2m

Atriplex halimus Sea Orach   High High High High demand landscapes, meeting
2.5 m
2m

Atriplex Giant or Old Man
nummularia Saltbush
2.5 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
1m

Baccharis Trailing Desert
Hybrid ‘Starn’ Broom
   High High High High demand landscapes, meeting
1.5 m
1.5 m

*
Baccharis
sarothroides
Desert Broom    High High High High demand landscapes, meeting
1.5 m
2m
Bird of Paradise, Very common species,

Caesalpinia
gilliesi
Paradise    High Medium High High widely used. Not suitable for
Poinciana waterfront.
1m
3m
Red bird of Very common species,

Caesalpinia
pulcherrima
paradise, Pride    High Medium High High widely used. Not suitable for
of Barbados waterfront.
2m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
1m
Very useful shrub for xeric

Calliandra Baja Fairy landscapes. Requires low
californica Duster
maintenance and provides year
round colour.
1m
1m
Very useful shrub for xeric

Calliandra landscapes. Requires low
eriophylla
Fairy Duster    High High High High
maintenance and provides year
round colour.
1m
2.5 m Good species for low irrigation

water availability. It should
be noted that all species need
some water to survive. When
*
Calligonum
comosum
Abal   High Medium High High new landscapes are installed
there is a need for low irrigation
application in order to increase
or sustain a higher vegetation
2.5 m density than in natural context.
1m
Cassia Evergreen shrub. Suitable for

artemisioides
Silver Cassia    High Medium High High
most situations.
1m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
2m
Large semi-evergreen shrub.

Cassia
bicapsularis
Winter Cassia    High Medium High High Suitable for most situations
with plenty of space.
2.5 m
2m

Cassia Texas Flowering
corymbosa Senna
   High Medium High High Suitable for most situations
2.5 m
2m

Cassia
didymobotrya
Popcorn Cassia    High Medium High High Suitable for most situations
2.5 m
1m
Evergreen sprawling shrub.

Clerodendrum
inerme
Wild Jasmine    High Medium High High Suitable for parks and open
space.
2m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
6m
Excellent coastal tree with

Coccoloba large round leaves and edible
uvifera
Seagrape   High High High High
fruit, very tolerant of salt laden
winds. Will also grow inland.
4m
1m
Aromatic shrub. Good for desert

Deverra
triradiata
Shammar    High High High High landscape and areas where low
irrigation is required.
1.5 m
0.6 m
Good shrub for desert landscape

*
Dipterygium
glaucum
Dipterygium  Medium Medium High High and areas where low irrigation
is required.
1m
2.5 m
Hardy locally occurring species
in Hajja Mountains. Needs
*
Dodonaea little water and frequent light
viscosa
Shahus   High High High High
trimming to produce a good
sustainable hedge. Not suitable
for Abu Dhabi.
1.5 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
4m
Semi herbaceous large shrub

Dombeya Dombeya with attractive pink ball flowers.
wallichii wallichii
   Medium Medium Medium Medium
Needs to be in semi shade and
shelter.
5m
3m
Semi herbaceous large shrub

Dombeya x with attractive pink ball flowers.
seminole
Pink Cloud    Medium Medium Medium Medium
Needs to be in semi shade and
shelter.
4m
0.15 m
Hardy species for coastal parks

Gazania uniflora Treasure Flower    Medium Medium High High
and roadsides.
0.3 m
3m
Best used inland. Untested
as a landscape plant and will
Haloxylon need special skills to properly
ammodendron
Bunge   High Medium High High
maintain, however well
worth developing for highway
landscape use.
4m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
1.5 m
Best used inland. Untested
as a landscape plant and will
*
Haloxylon need special skills to properly
salicornium
Rimth    High Medium High High
maintain, however well
worth developing for highway
landscape use.
1.5 m
1.5 m
Very useful shrub for desert

Hammada
elegans
Bunge   High Medium High High landscapes and areas requiring
low irrigation and maintenance.
1.5 m
0.5 m
Can grow well in all areas
including primary dune/
*
Heliotropium foreshore locations, some
curassavicum
Khashafa    High Medium High High
salt tolerance. Untested as a
landscape plant and will need
special skills to grow properly.
1.2 m
0.5 m
Very useful shrub for desert

*
Heliotropium
kotschyi
Ramram    High High High High landscapes and areas requiring
low irrigation and maintenance.
1m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
0.3 m
Brightly coloured shrub with

Hyssopus
officinalis
Hissop    High Medium High High fragrant flowers. Good for bees
and honey production.
0.5 m
0.5 m
Small grey-leaved shrub with

Lavandula
dentata
French Lavender   Medium Low High High fragrant flowers. Not suitable
for coastal situations.
0.5 m
0.5 m
Small grey-leaved shrub with

English
Lavandula vera
Lavender
  Medium Low High High fragrant flowers. Not suitable
for coastal situations.
0.5 m
3m
Henna is commonly grown
in oases and along mountain
wadis. It is culturally significant
Lawsonia Henna Plant,
inermis Mignonette Tree
  Medium Low High Medium so should also be associated
with heritage sites and
community gardens. Not
suitable for coastal situations.
2m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
3m
Very hardy shrub. Best used as
*
Leptadenia Fire Plant, a wind break along highways
pyrotechnica Merekh
  High High High High
where there is little or no
irrigation.
3m
0.7 m
Leucophyllum Very good hedge plant for most

Thunder Cloud
candidum
Texas Sage
   High High High High areas. Low water demand and
‘Thunder Cloud’ easy to maintain.
0.9 m
1m
Very good hedge plant for most

Leucophyllum Texas Ranger,
frutescens Texas Sage
   High High High High areas. Low water demand and
easy to maintain.
1m
1m
Leucophyllum Very good hedge plant for most

frutescens Texas Sage    High High High High areas. Low water demand and
‘Green Cloud’ easy to maintain.
1m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
2.5 m
Hardy plant. Could be an
*
excellent hedge plant but
Lycium shawii Desert Thorn  Thorns  High Medium High High
untested. Thorns restrict it’s use
to hedge planting.
2.5 m
2.5 m
Widely used in public gardens

Malvaviscus
arboreus
Turk’s Cap    Low Low High Low providing colour for most of
year.
2.5 m
2.5 m
Orange Jasmine,
Satin Wood, Quite hardy plant but does
Murraya exotica
Honey Bush,
  High Medium High High
better with a bit of shade.
Chinese Box
1.5 m
3m
Murraya Orange Jasmine, Quite hardy plant but does

paniculata Chalcas
  High Medium High High
better with a bit of shade.
2m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
0.2 m
Quite hardy spreading shrub,

Myoporum
parvifolium
Myoporum    Medium Medium High Medium but does better with a bit of
shade.
1.8 m
3m
Small shrub. Well suited to

Myrtus
communis
True Myrtle   Low Low High Medium urban plazas and parks. Not
suitable for coastal situations.
3m
1.5 m
Sand binding characteristics
and self-propagation by stem
*
Panicum
turgidum
Thaman   High Low High High rooting, make it a useful shrub
for naturalising on large areas
with little available irrigation.
1.5 m
6m
Plumeria Frangipani Tree, Sap Can tolerate full sun or partial

acutifolia Temple Tree
 Allergy
  Medium Medium High Low
shade.
4m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
6m
Sap Can tolerate full sun or partial

Plumeria rubra Frangipani  Allergy
  Medium Medium High Low
shade.
5m
0.9 m
A good plant for under tree

Pseuderanthemum
Purple False locations in parks or urban
atropurpureum
Eranthemum
   Low Low Medium Medium
plazas. Must have shade and
shelter.
0.3 m
0.9 m
A good plant for under tree

Pseuderanthemum Yellow-Vein locations in parks or urban
reticulatum Eranthemum
   Low Low Medium Medium
plazas. Must have shade and
shelter.
0.3 m
4m
Very hardy large shrub, suitable

*
Salvadora
persica
Toothbrush Tree    High High Low Low to most situations. Requires
little maintenance.
6m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
1m
Scaevola Hardy waterfront species. Best

frutescens
Beach Naupaka   High High High Medium
suited to Abu Dhabi.
1m
0.6 m
*
Small hardy shrub. Commonly
Senna italica Senna    Medium Medium High Medium
found along wadis beds.
1m
5m
Tamarix Hardy big shrub or small tree.

parviflora
Salt Cedar    High High High High
Suitable for most situations.
6m
2m
Hardy species with wide

Tecoma smithii Orange Bells    Medium Medium High High application. Needs little water in
winter months.
1.5 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
5m

Yellow Trumpet
Tecoma stans
Bush
   Medium Medium High High application. Needs little water in
winter months.
3m
1.5 m

Tecomaria Cape
capensis Honeysuckle
   Medium Low Medium High application. Needs little water in
winter months.
1m
2m
Erect open shrub or small tree.

Thevetia Mexican Very hardy and particularly
peruviana Oleander
suitable for small parks, sikkas
etc.
1m
6m
*
Vitex agnus- Chastetree, Useful hedge plant and wind
castus Vitex
   Medium High High High
break.
6m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
GROUNDCOVER BOTANIC COMMON
SHAPE USER NOTES
AND GRASSES NAME NAME
0.5 m
Very useful ground cover plant
for parks or streetscapes as
Acacia redolens Prostate Acacia    High High High High it requires little maintenance.
Spines can be a problem if used
near pathways.
2m
0.3 m
Needs partial shade to avoid

Alternanthera
flavescens
Yellow Joyweed    Medium Medium High High burning in extreme summer
conditions.
0.6 m
0.3 m
Needs partial shade to avoid

Alternanthera
versicolor
Rose Bush    Medium Medium High High burning in extreme summer
conditions.
0.3 m
4m
Strong, spreading bamboo.

Arundo donax Giant Reed
*    Low Medium High High Suitable as a screen and for
growing near water locations.
1.5 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
0.3 m
Very useful ground cover plant
for parks or streetscapes.
Atriplex Australian
semibaccata Saltbush
   High High High High Tolerant of different
environments and requires little
maintenance.
1.8 m
12 m
Vigorous, tropical bamboo,

Bambusa Common useful as windscreen for more
vulgaris Bamboo
delicate plants. Suitable for open
spaces.
12 m
0.5 m A particularly beautiful

perennial flower but one
that has not been grown in
urban context. Flowers in the
*
Boerhavia
elegans
Hamra   High Low High High winter months then virtually
disappears so it has limited
value in urban landscapes. The
species would require specialist
0.8 m maintenance skills.
1m Locally occurring species,

survives where roots have
access to moisture (most on
*
Capparis Jebel Hafeet). Suitable as a
spinosa
Caper Plant    High High High High
ground cover and has attractive
flowers. Needs competent
maintenance re trimming and
2m minimum irrigation.

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
0.3 m
Carex Attractive grass. Needs to be

hachijoensis
Japanese Sedge   High Low Low Medium
used sparingly.
0.4 m
0.6 m
Good grass for inland locations.
*
Blue Buffalo Needs little maintenance and
Cenchrus ciliaris
Grass
  High Low High High
irrigation. Does not tolerate
shade and can be invasive.
0.8 m
0.1 m
Useful spreading groundcover

that require little irrigation.
*
Citrullus
colocynthis
Desert Gourd   High Low High High Produces melon-type fruits
with a bitter pulp. Seed can be
used in biofuel production.
3m
1m
Widely used as a hedge species.
Hardy but too often trimmed
Clerodendrum Seaside Glory-
inerme Bower
   High High High High too hard and dies back leaving
exposed woody branches and
no leaf.
2m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
2.5 m
Tall grass. Suitable as a

Cortaderia
selloana
Pampas Grass    High Medium High High specimen plant in most parks.
Requires space.
1.5 m
0.6 m
Limited use given it has not
been developed as a landscape
*
Crotalaria
aegyptaica
Nzah   High Medium High High plant. Needs similar level of
sensitive maintenance as
Haloxylon and Aerva javanica.
1m
0.6 m
Good grass for all locations.

*
Cyperus
conglomeratus
Tamachek    High Medium High High Needs little maintenance and
irrigation.
0.6 m
0.6 m
Reed bed plant. Used in

Cyperus
laevigatus
Hasal    Low Low Medium High association with fresh-water,
waterfeatures etc.
1.5 m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
0.5 m
Dietes Wild Iris, Fairy Limited use in private urban

grandiflora Iris
plazas.
0.5 m
0.15 m
Hardy species for coastal parks

Gazania hybrids Treasure Flower    Medium Medium High High
and roadsides.
0.3 m
0.2 m
*
Indigofera Appropriate for Al Ain. Not
intricata
Baysha    High Low High High
suitable for humid locations.
0.6 m
0.6 m
Grows in shallow water.

Suitable for saline or brackish
Juncus rigidus Sea Rush ≈  High High High High
water, such as salt marshes,
coastal sand dunes.
0.6 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
1.2 m
Grows in shallow water. Good

Juncus as a reed bed filtration species.
socotranus
Buchenau ≈  Low Low High High
Not suitable for saline or even
slightly brackish water.
1.2 m
1m
Muhlenbergia Texas Muhly Clumping grass. Suitable for

capillaris Grass
more informal locations.
1m
0.3 m
Ophiopogon Good small grass. Useful for

japonicus
Tufty Grass    High Medium Medium Medium
open spaces or streetscapes.
0.4 m
0.05 m
Good amenity grass. Very

Paspalum Seashore salt tolerant. Useful for parks
vaginatum Paspalum
or where good grass cover is
required.
indefinite m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
0.5 m
Widespread hardy grass species.
*
Pennisetum Very suitable for highway
divisum
Bristle Grass    High Medium High High
landscapes and desert parks.
Excellent for dune stabilizing.
0.5 m
0.9 m
Crimson or
*
Pennisetum Widespread use in urban areas.
setaceum
African Fountain    High Medium High High
Often overwatered.
Grass
0.6 m
0.9 m
Pennisetum
Purple or Red Widespread use in urban areas.
setaceum
Fountain Grass
   High Medium High High
Often overwatered.
rubrum
0.6 m
0.6 m
Feathertop,
Pennisetum Widespread use in urban areas.
villosum
White Fountain    High Medium High High
Often overwatered.
Grass
0.6 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
3m
*
Phragmites
australis
Common Reed ≈   Low High High Medium Salt tolerant reed.
2m
0.1 m
Portulaca
grandiflora
Moss Rose   Medium Low Medium Medium Widely used summer annual.
0.15 m
0.3 m
Needs a shaded and sheltered

Tree men in a
Rhoeo discolor
boat
  Medium Low Medium High location. Not suitable for
waterfronts.
0.4 m
0.3 m
Oyster Plant, Needs a shaded and sheltered

Rhoeo
spathacea
Moses-in-the-    Medium Low Medium High location. Not suitable for
Cradle waterfronts.
0.3 m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
0.15 m
Needs afternoon shade and
Wild Petunia, shelter. Can be invasive by seed
Ruellia
caroliniensis
East Tennessee    Medium Low Medium High distribution. Useful ground
Pinkroot cover for urban park, street and
plaza uses.
0.1 m
3m
Saccharum Oasis species with limited uses

officinarum
Sugarcane   Low Low Medium Medium
in community gardens.
2m
1.8 m
Needs to grow next to fresh

Ravenna or
*
Saccharum water or receive higher
ravennae
Sugarcane   Low Low Medium Medium
irrigation rate during growing
Plume Grass
season.
1.2 m
0.15 m
Scaevola Suitable for parks and open

aemula
Fairy Fan Flower    High Medium High Medium
spaces.
1.5 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
0.5 m
Perennial suitable for urban

Senecio street, plaza or park use as
cineraria
Dusty Miller    High Medium High High
a low water demand ground
cover.
0.5 m
0.05 m
The best hardy ground cover
requiring very low water and
maintenance.
Sesuvium
portulacastrum
Sea Purslane    High High High High S. portulacastrum grows flat on
the ground whereas
S. verrucosum is approx. 150 to
200mm high.
1.2 m
0.05 m
Sesuvium
Red Sea Rusty red version of S.
portulacastrum
Purslane
   High High High High
portulacastrum.
‘Red Form’
1.2 m
0.7 m
Taller growing and frequently
*
Sesuvium overwatered. Grows best on a
verrucosum
Rohama   High High High High
low water regime. Should not
be taller than 120mm.
1.2 m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
0.2 m
Purple Heart syn Good ground cover for under

Setcreasea
purpurea
Tradescantia    Medium Medium Medium High shade of trees or palms. Burns
purpurea if unshaded.
1.0 m
0.5 m
Hardy small shrub for desert
*
Tephrosia areas and low water demand
apollinea
Dhafra    High Low High High
urban landscapes. Untried as
an urban plant.
0.5 m
0.5 m
Good ground cover needing
*
Tribulus little irrigation. Suitable for open
arabicus ‘Hosni’
Zahar    High Low High High
spaces or streetscapes in inland
locations.
1m
Tolerant of most conditions,
but grows bigger if protected
Vitex
rotundifolia
Beach Vitex    Medium Medium High High from wind and salt sprays.
Suitable for open spaces and
streetscapes.
1.8 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
0.6 m
Roots from the leaf nodes
and spread widely. Useful to
Wedelia Creeping Daisy,
trilobata Yellow Dots
   Medium Medium High High cover large areas, otherwise
due to its vigour it has limited
applications.
1.8 m
0.05 m
Good amenity grass. Tolerant of

Korean shade or sun. Useful for parks
Zoysia japonica
Lawngrass
or where good grass cover is
required.
indefinite m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SUCCULENTS BOTANIC COMMON
SHAPE USER NOTES
AND PERENNIALS NAME NAME
1m
Agave is a hardy genus,
however, plants have been burnt
Agave
Leaf during periods of extreme heat.
americana Century Plant  Spines
They present a problem for
angustifolia
maintenance due to the sharp
leaf tips.
1.5 m
2m
Agave
americana Century Plant  Spines
  High Medium High High
‘Green’
leaf tips.
3m
1m
Swan’s Neck, Leaf during periods of extreme heat.
Agave attenuata
Fox Tails
 Spines
leaf tips.
2m
1.5 m
Agave ‘Blue Blue Agave, Leaf during periods of extreme heat.
Agave’ Tequila Agave
 Spines
leaf tips.
2m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
0.6 m
Mescal Ceniza, Leaf during periods of extreme heat.
Agave colorata
Century Plant
 Spines
leaf tips.
0.5 m
1m
Agave deserti Desert Agave  Spines
leaf tips.
1m
2m
Has been known to burn in

Aloe Leaf
arborescens
Krantz Aloe  Spines
  High Medium High High full summer sun. Does best in
partial shade from Date Palms.
2m
0.5 m

Leaf
Aloe striata Coral Aloe  Spines
0.5 m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
0.6 m

*
Leaf
Aloe vera Aloe Vera  Spine
0.6 m
2.5 m
Widely grown but should be

used sparingly to allow for
Canna indica Indian Shot    Low Medium Medium Medium
greater use of lower water
demand species.
0.5 m
3m
Important oases species.

Papaya or Paw May be grown in Community
Carica papaya
Paw
   Medium Low High Medium
Gardens, but otherwise of
limited use.
2m
0.15 m
Widely spreading succulent
plant. Good for covering large
Carpobrotus areas of ground in parks or
edulis
Fig Marigold    High Medium High High
streetscapes. Needs little
maintenance. Produces edible,
fig-like brown fruit.
indefinite

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
3m
Erect eye-catching plant.

Cordyline
australis
Cabbace Palm   High Low High High Suitable for parks and urban
spaces.
1m
2m
Can be widely used as a low

Crassula
argentea
Jade Plant    High High High High water requirement ground cover
plant.
1m
0.5 m
High water demand to grow

Cyperus properly, therefore limited
alternifolius
Umbrella Plant   Low Medium Medium Medium
application. Needs shelter and
partial shade.
0.5 m
0.5 m
High water demand to grow

Cyperus Umbrella Sedge, properly, therefore limited
involucratus Dwarf Papyrus
  Low Medium Medium Medium
application. Needs shelter and
partial shade.
0.5 m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
0.1 m
Echeveria Useful groundcover plant for

elegans
Hen and Chicks    High Medium High High
streetscapes or open spaces.
0.5 m
0.6 m
Rounded cactus. Good for

Echinocactus Golden Barrel
grusonii Cactus
 Spines   High Medium High High desert type open spaces, or
streetscapes.
0.8 m
1.2 m
Good eye-catching plant. Good

Euphorbia
tirucalli
Sticks on Fire    High Medium High High for open spaces or streetscapes.
Requires little maintenance.
0.9 m
1m
Bears strongly scented white

Fulcraea
gigantea
Malagache Aloe    High Medium High High flowers in summer. Suitable for
2.5 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
1m
Eye-catching variegated leaves.

Fulcraea
Bears strongly scented white
gigantea Malagache Aloe    High Medium High High
flowers in summer. Suitable for
‘Mediopicta’
2.5 m
Good ground cover plant.

Heliotropium
curassavicum
Salt Heliotrope    Medium High High High Thrives in coastal / salt laeden
environments.
1m
0.3 m

Lampranthus
spectabilis
Trailing Ice Plant    High Medium High High Suitable for open spaces or
streetscapes.
1m
0.2 m

Malephora
crocea
Ice Plant    High High High High Suitable for open spaces or
streetscapes.
0.6 m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
5m
Tall cactus. Suitable for

Opuntia ficus- desert type open spaces or
indica
Indian Fig  Spines   High Medium High High
streetscapes Produces edible
fruits.
5m
0.4 m
Small cactus. Suitable for

Opuntia
microdasys
Funny Bunny  Spines   High Medium High High desert type open spaces or
streetscapes.
0.4 m
6m
Tree-like succulent, with spines

Pachypodium Madagascar along its trunk. Suitable for
lamerei Palm
 Spines   High High High High
desert type open spaces or
streetscapes.
2m
1m
Low maintenance, medium size

Pandanus plant. Suitable for open spaces
sanderi
Pandanus    High High High High
or streetscapes. Variegated
leaves when mature.
0.7 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
3m
Low maintenance, tree-like

Pandanus Veitchs Screw
veitchii Pines
   High High High High plant. Suitable for open spaces
or streetscapes.
2m
2m
Pedilanthus Upright shrub. Suitable for

tithymaloides
Devils Backbone    High Medium High High
parks.
1m
1m
Pedilanthus Smaller variegated version.

Variegated
tithymaloides
Devils Backbone
   High Medium High High Suitable for parks or urban
‘Variegatus’ spaces.
0.4 m
2.5 m
Portulacaria Tall shrub. Suitable for larger

afra
Elephant Bush    High Medium High High
parks.
1.2 m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
1.5 m
Sansevieria Hardy understorey for shade

cylindrica
Snake Plant    High Medium Medium High
trees in urban context.
0.6 m
1.2 m
Sansevieria Mother-in- Hardy understorey for shade

trifasciata Law’s Tongue
   High Medium Medium High
trees in urban context.
0.5 m
0.05 m
Good ground cover. Requires

Sesuvium
portulacastrum
Sea Purslane    High High High High very low water and
maintenance.
1.2 m
8m
Dramatically shaped plant

Sharp
for coastal locations. Best
Yucca aloifolia Spanish Bayonet  Pointed   High High High High
allowed to grow freely as a
Leaves
multistemmed specimen.
7m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
SHAPE USER NOTES
4.5 m
Sharp
Yucca brevifolio Joshua Tree  Pointed   High High High High Best suited to inland areas
Leaves
4.5 m
1.2 m
Has soft leaves so can be

Yucca used in contact with public.
desmetiana
Soft Yucca    High High High High
Useful plants for open space or
streetscapes.
1.5 m
2m
Leaves fold downward so less
Sharp hazardous than other species of
Yucca gloriosa Spanish Dagger  Pointed   High High High High Yucca. Better suited to coastal
Leaves locations in association with
shade of palms.
2m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
CLIMBERS SHAPE USER NOTES
NAME NAME
8m
Allamanda Vine best suited to sheltered,

cathartica
Golden Trumpet    Medium Medium High High
shaded environments.
4m
3.6 m
Allamanda
cathartica Lavender Vine best suited to sheltered,
‘Cherries Trumpet
   Medium Medium High High
shaded environments.
Jubilee’
3.6 m
3m
Best where shaded from

Antigonon afternoon summer sun,
leptopus
Coral Vine    High Medium Medium High
otherwise very hardy. Can be
invasive.
1.8 m
4.7 m
Very common species, widely

Bougainvillea Bougainvillea,
glabra Paper Flower
 Thorns  High Medium High High used. Needs low water regime
but is often overwatered.
3.6 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
2.7 m

hybrids Hybrids
2.7 m
12 m

*
spectabilis Paper Flower
7m
8m
Campsis Common Vigorous climber. Useful to hide

radicans Trumpet Creeper
   Medium Medium High High
unwelcome structures.
2.5 m
4.5 m
Butterly Pea, Limited use in parks and urban

Clitoria ternatea
Blue Pea Vine
   Medium Low Medium Medium
plazas.
2m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
0.6 m
Very unusual purple colour.

Ipomoea batatas Sweet Potato
‘Blackie’ Vine
   Medium High High High Useful as a feature. Will grow in
most locations except foreshore.
1.5 m
4.5 m
Mainly used to hide unwelcome

structures, walls and fences.
Ipomoea biloba Morning Glory    Medium High High High
Grows in most locations except
foreshore.
2m
4.5 m
Mainly used to hide unwelcome

Ipomoea Messina, Mile- structures, walls and fences.
palmata a-Minute Vine
   Medium High High High
Grows in most locations except
foreshore.
2m
4.5 m
Most jasmines are hardy but
do best where shaded from
Jasminum South African
angulare Jasmine
   Low Low Medium Medium afternoon summer sun and are
sheltered from wind. Grows in
coastal or inland urban areas.
2.5 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
3m
Jasminum
azoricum
Azores Jasmine    Low Low Medium Medium afternoon summer sun and are
3m
4m
*
Jasminum Spanish or Royal
grandiflorum Jasmine
4m
0.6 m
Jasminum Angelwing or
nitidum Shining Jasmine
1.2 m
3m
Needs more water than other

Jasminum jasmines. Best used as a low
sambac
Arabian Jasmine    Low Low Medium Medium
growing shrub in semi shaded
and sheltered locations.
3m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
0.7 m
Thunbergia Black-Eyed Limited use in urban plaza or

alata Susan Vine
community garden context.
0.6 m
0.6 m
Blue Glory,
Thunbergia Clock Vine, Limited use in urban plaza or
battiscombei Scrambling Sky
community garden context.
Flower
0.9 m

The following plant species are native of either Abu Dhabi or the region. They are encouraged for use throughout the Public Realm in Abu Dhabi. Most of the species are currently undergoing field trials
to determine their growing characteristics, water requirements, and other features. Currently little detail is available for them, however they are all species that have some positive characteristics or
potential for use within the Public Realm.
A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NATIVE PLANTS SHAPE USER NOTES
NAME NAME
0.3 m
Spreading
Boerhavia
repens
Hogweed, Red    High High High
spiderling
3m
3m
Ficus johannis Fig   High High
3m
0.5 m
Indigofera
arabica
  High High
1.5 m
0.7 m
Indigofera Rusty indigo/

colutea Sticky indigo
  High High
1m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
0.5 m
*
Indigofera
intricata
Baysha   High Low High High
1m
1.5m
Indigofera
oblongifolia
  High High High
1.5 m
1.2 m
Iphiona scabra
*   High High High
1.5 m
0.7 m
*
Ochradenus
arabicus
1.2 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
0.6m
*
Ochradenus
aucheri
  High High High
0.6 m
0.7m
Ochradenus
baccatus
2m
0.6m
Rhazya stricta
*   High High High
1.5 m
0.8m
*
Stipagrotis Large Busman
ciliata Grass
0.6m

COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
0.6m
*
Stipagrotis
plumosa
  HIgh HIgh HIgh
0.8 m
2m
*
Tamarix
aphylla
1.5 m
3m
Tamarix nilotica   HIgh HIgh HIgh
4m
0.6m
Taverniera
glabra
1.5 m

A3
COASTAL SUITABILITY
DROUGHT TOLERANCE
SALINITY TOLERANCE
INLAND SUITABILITY
WIND TOLERANCE
SUN TOLERANCE
CLASSIFICATION
NATIVE SPECIES
IRRIGATION
HAZARDS
BOTANIC COMMON
NAME NAME
1.2m
*
Taverniera
spartea
3m
1.2m
*
Tephrosia
apollinea
3m

A4
Irrigation
Streetscape,
Saadiyat Island
A4

Irrigation Guide PRDM Irrigation Guide Using the Guide
The Abu Dhabi Emirate is taking part in the global The PRDM Irrigation Guide provides general guidance Planting plans in the Emirate must better utilise
effort to manage water-use for landscape and on the irrigation needs of plants that may be used draught and salt tolerant materials. The Guide provide
minimise the use of non renewable resources. throughout the Abu Dhabi Emirate. Because this is a direction on achieving an attractive, functional
guide only, some of the information may not apply landscape within the constraints of our irrigation
Research has been undertaken to determine the directly to all areas of the Emirate. While the Guide resources. By strategically combining plants with
actual irrigation needs and best irrigation practice provides minimum irrigation levels that, through a lower water needs with plants of higher water needs,
for the public realm. This research has informed the combination of soil improvers, irrigation management the public realm design can still be attractive, yet
irrigation guide. and appropriate irrigation systems will be achievable, more functional and appropriate for the local climate.
these rates, which complement and are in line with A proper balance can help to achieve the desired
The condition and composition of the soil is very Estidama Requirements, will require a robust design Estidama rating.
important in both plant health and efficiency of water and maintenance programme including implementing
use. Sandy soils have little capacity to hold on to the following best practices: Each plant species listed has a recommended water
water and nutrients therefore, the water need, as per requirement indicated by water droplets. The droplets
this Irrigation Guide is greatly influenced by the use 1. Water-conserving irrigation technologies (such as show water requirements ranging from one to three.
of natural mineral and organic based soil moisture- subsurface irrigation) should be used wherever
retention additives. possible to optimize water delivery rates to Plants should be planted in hydrozones, based on
evapotranspirational demand. these water requirements, to ensure that those with
Mineral additives, such as clay or similar provide the same water requirement are clustered. One and
a permanent restructuring of soil while organic 2. Preference should be given to desert landscape two droplet plants are preferable in public realm
matter and polymers provide nutrient as well as soil design that use strategic size and placement of design. Three droplet plants typify the sub-tropical
conditioning but break down eventually and are a plant materials. plants that have been used regularly in the Emirate
more temporary solution. Using a mix of both it is but that should be used strategically in public realm
possible to increase the water and nutrients holding 3. Where appropriate and functional, turf grass design because of their higher water requirements.
capacity of the soil and establish a soil able to hold should be used to provide evapotranspirational
sufficient moisture to sustain plants with irrigation cooling in landscapes as well as providing for
events every three days during the summer and amenity needs.
every 7-10 days during winter.
4. A goal should be set to use 100% recycling
of landscape green waste to encourage water
retention, soil formation, nutrient recycling, and
inhibit soil heating.
5. Plant materials should remain naturalised to

the greatest extent possible. Combined with
conservative water use, minimalised pruning
strategies result in lower rates of green waste
production and salt deposition in landscape soil.

A4
Daily Water Requirements
IRRIGATION CATEGORY
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC AVERAGE
l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day
PALMS
HIGH 55.6 70.9 92.2 120.5 144.6 141.6 150.0 144.9 132.5 103.9 80.7 60.1 108.1
•••
MEDIUM 21.3 33.8 43.9 63.0 75.6 73.8 78.5 55.6 50.8 39.9 31.0 23.1 49.1
••
LOW N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
•
TREES
HIGH 27.4 43.4 56.4 81.0 97.1 94.8 100.8 71.4 65.3 51.2 39.8 29.6 63.1
•••
MEDIUM 21.3 33.8 43.9 63.0 75.6 73.8 78.5 55.6 50.8 39.9 31.0 23.1 49.1
••
LOW 9.5 15.0 19.5 28.0 33.6 32.8 34.9 24.7 22.6 17.7 13.8 10.2 21.8
•
SHRUBS
HIGH 5.3 8.5 11.0 15.8 18.9 18.5 19.6 13.9 12.7 10.0 7.7 5.8 12.3
•••
MEDIUM 3.4 5.4 7.0 10.1 12.1 11.8 12.6 8.9 8.1 6.4 5.0 3.7 7.8
••
LOW 1.5 2.4 3.1 4.5 5.4 5.2 5.6 4.0 3.6 2.8 2.2 1.6 3.5
•

Daily Water Requirements
IRRIGATION CATEGORY
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC AVERAGE
l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day l/day
GROUNDCOVER
HIGH 3.2 5.1 6.6 9.4 11.3 11.0 11.7 8.3 7.6 6.0 4.6 3.4 7.3
•••
MEDIUM 2.8 4.4 5.7 8.2 9.8 9.6 10.2 7.2 6.6 5.2 4.0 3.0 6.3
••
LOW 2.2 3.5 4.5 6.5 7.7 7.6 8.0 5.7 5.2 4.1 3.2 2.4 5.0
•
SUCCULENTS
AND PERENNIALS
HIGH 5.3 8.5 11.0 15.8 18.9 18.5 19.6 13.9 12.7 10.0 7.7 5.8 12.3
•••
MEDIUM 3.4 5.4 7.0 10.1 12.1 11.8 12.6 8.9 8.1 6.4 5.0 3.7 7.8
••
LOW 1.5 2.4 3.1 4.5 5.4 5.2 5.6 4.0 3.6 2.8 2.2 1.6 3.4
•
CLIMBERS
HIGH 5.3 8.5 11.0 15.8 18.9 18.5 19.6 13.9 12.7 10.0 7.7 5.8 12.3
•••
MEDIUM 3.4 5.4 7.0 10.1 12.1 11.8 12.6 8.9 8.1 6.4 5.0 3.7 7.8
••
LOW N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
•

Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC)
A5 UPC Project Reviewers

Acknowledgements
External TAC Stakeholders
Abu Dhabi Civil Defence

Abu Dhabi Municipality
Abu Dhabi Police
Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority
Al Ain Municipality
Al Dhafra Region Municipality
Environment Agency Abu Dhabi
Musanada
Other Contributors
The UPC would like to thank all other organisations,

universities and individuals who have participated in
the development of the PRDM.

Image Credits
A6 Unless otherwise stated below all images used within
the PRDM are copyright of the UPC, Gillespies LLP
Chapter P
Page 35-36
Chapter P
Image Credits or have been sourced through Creative Commons PAGE 40-41
licences. Image 3: © Joseph Facun Image 3 © Joseph Facun
Image 4&6: © Aga Khan Award for Architecture
/ Arriyadh Development Authority Image 4&6 © Aga Khan Award for
Image 5: © OKRA Landscape Architecture Architecture / Arriyadh
Chapter U
Development Authority
Page 37
Image 1: © Taylor Cullity Lethlean with Paul Image 5 © OKRA Landscape Architecture
PAGE 25 Thompson
PAGE 48
Image 1 © Taylor Cullity Lethlean with Paul Page 38
Image 1: © Shahinmusthafa Shahin Olakara Image 1 © Aga Khan Award for
Thompson
Image 3: © Tagishsimon Architecture / Arriyadh
PAGE 26 Development Authority
Page 40
Image 1 © Shahinmusthafa Shahin Olakara Image 1: © Brian Whirledge Image 2 © ASPECT Studios
Image 2: © Mike Kiev
Image 3 © Tagishsimon Image 3 © Vetsch Partner Landscape
Page 45 Architecture
PAGE 27 Image 1: © Aga Khan Award for Architecture
/ Arriyadh Development Authority PAGE 59
Image 1 © Brian Whirledge
Image 2: © ASPECT Studios
Image 1 © Taylor Cullity Lethlean with Paul
Image 2 © Mike Kiev Image 3: © Vetsch Partner Landscape
Thompson
Architecture
Image 4: © Taylor Cullity Lethlean with Paul Image 2 © Aga Khan Award for
Thompson Architecture
Page 56 Image 3 © Solidere
Image 1: © Taylor Cullity Lethlean with Paul
Thompson
Image 2: © Aga Khan Award for Architecture
Image 3: © Solidere

Chapter D PAGE 150-151 PAGE 178-179 Chapter O
Image 1&2 © Dubai Culture & Arts Authority Image 1 © Solidere
PAGE 69 Image 3 © Thoughtbarn Image 2 © Solidere PAGE 202
Image 3 © Joseph Facun Image 4 © Studio Weave Image 3 © Taylor Cullity Lethlean with Paul Image 1 © Emirates 24/7
Thompson
Image 4&6 © Aga Khan Award for PAGE 152-153 PAGE 205
Architecture / Arriyadh PAGE 180-181
Image 1 © Wilkinson Eyre Image 4 © Vizulo
Development Authority
Image 1 © LOOK architects
Image 3 © Network Rail
Image 5 © OKRA Landscape Architecture
Image 2 © Abu Dhabi TCA
PAGE 155 Appendix
PAGE 70
Image 3 © Vincente Guallart
Image 3 © Taylor Cullity Lethlean with Paul
Image 1 © Rotana Times
Thompson PAGE 182-183
PAGE 129 PAGE 31
Image 4 © Gustafson Porter Image 1 © GI Sun, Seo
Image 1 © Taylor Cullity Lethlean and Image 1 © Noukhada Adventure Company
Wraight and Associates PAGE 156-157 Image 2 © Luís Prieto Sáenz de Tejada
PAGE 76
PAGE 142-143 Image 3 © Hargreaves Associates Image 4 © xventures
Image 1 © Ed Carpenter
Image 1 © Miguel Medina /AFP/Getty Images Image 4 © Andrew Lloyd Photography Image 5 © ecotours
Image 2 © Ivor Tetteh-Lartey Photography
PAGE 144 PAGE 165 PAGE 184-185
PAGE 79
Image 1 © West 8 Image 3 © Basin and Range Watch Image 1 © Abu Dhabi Tourism Agency
Image 1 © Turret Media Publishing
Image 2 © Taylor Cullity Lethlean PAGE 171 Image 2 © Abu Dhabi Sailing and Yacht Club
Image 3 © Roddick & Dunbar Ltd Image 2 © Arwcheek Image 4 © LOOK architects
PAGE 146-147 Image 3 © Zaiqa Image 5 © 3LHD Architects
Image 1 © David Martin Image 4 © Elegant Resorts PAGE 186-187
Image 2 © Iwan Baan PAGE 173 Image 1 © Adrià Goula
Image 3 © Mariñas AA Image 2 © Nomad in the land of Nizwa Image 2 © Rich Iwasaki
Image 4 © Wreham County Tarmac PAGE 174 Image 3 © Denton Corker Marshall
Image 1 © Vetsch Partners Image 4 © Tom Fox

PAGE 148
Image 1 © Yellofish PAGE 176-177 PAGE 189
Image 2 © Tom Fruin Image 1 © Eric Saillet Image 2 © Grontmij – Dirk Vertommen
Image 2 © Colossal Image 2 © SLA Copenhagen PAGE 193

Image 5 © Ivan Doroti Image 1-2 © Almrsal
Image 6 © Mikyoung Kim Design

Appendices Public Realm Design Manual

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A

Design Stage Street-Hierarchy 56

Design Stage Universal Standards 20 Climbers 147

Design Stage Neighbourhood- 40 A6 Image Credits 164

Design Stage Local-Hierarchy 42

Design Stage Universal Standards 44

Design Stage Boulevard-Hierarchy 54

A1 the Public Realm Design Manual.

A 4 Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices

Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices 5 A

The following tables contain all

PLANNING STAGE DESIGN STAGE OPERATION &

PS = PLANNING STAGE STANDARD

OS = OPERATION STAGE STANDARD

A 8 Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices

Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices 9 A

Planning Stage Standards

A 10 Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices 11 A

Written strategy in support of the Movement and Access plan,

Mood board outlining the character and proposed treatment

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

IDP-R2 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.

A 12 Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

NS-R3 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

SM-R3 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.

SM-R5 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.

Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices 13 A

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

A 14 Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

Fences / Walls / Screens

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices 15 A

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

Plan indicating types and proposed locations for parking

A 16 Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices 17 A

Design Stage Standards

Additional elements to be included in the report include:

A 18 Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices

Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices 19 A

A2 Movement and Access

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

IDP-R2 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.

A 20 Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

NS-R3 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.

Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices 21 A

SM-R4 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.

SM-R4 Submission requirements outlined within PRRS.

A 22 Abu Dhabi Public Realm Design Manual – Appendices

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance

Section Reviewer Ref No. Standard Estidama Submission Requirements Compliance