Re-adaptation and reinforcement of the Traditional spaces for socio-physical continuity and introduction of technology for economic vitality in the historic place of Dubai

Abstract

Narrow pathways, densely built forms, and compact spaces are the eminent features of the
traditional settlement of the Gulf region. However, due to the unprecedented urbanization,
ecologically sustainable and human-scale development is being faded. On the contrary, the adverse
effect is visible in the traditionally developed commercial settlement such as the Gold souk area and
traditional trading markets area of Al Ras district, Deira Dubai. After the 1960’s master plan, this
historically developed district lost the essence of the traditional interactive car-free space,
disconnected from the rest of the city. The tourists find difficulty in way-finding within the traditional
space. The aim of the paper is to examine the affected spaces of the historic district of Deira Dubai to
find a solution to readapt the social interaction spaces for socio-economical prosperity. In addition,
the paper will shed light on the advantages of technology to reinforce economical prospect and attract
more tourists as well as the residents. In the methodology, literature review on placemaking in a
historic place, the transformation map, and the statics are used to analyze the traditional spaces for
social interaction and economical extension