Simple Design Changes Drive 65% Increase in Child Play, Says Family Minister
Sana bint Mohammed Suhail unveils findings from Abu Dhabi's family-friendly city initiative, demonstrating how thoughtful urban design transforms public spaces into thriving community hubs.
Speaking at the Liveability and Investment Exhibition (LIVEX 2026), Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, Minister of Family, emphasised that a truly family-friendly city extends far beyond its architectural landmarks. Rather, its success is measured by how effectively it serves the daily needs and wellbeing of families across all ages and abilities.
The Minister outlined findings from a comprehensive assessment programme that commenced in 2023, examining how families and children interact with public spaces across approximately 23 locations throughout Abu Dhabi. This collaborative initiative sought to identify design improvements that would genuinely enhance community life.
Results from a pilot residential community demonstrated the remarkable impact of purposeful design interventions. Implementation of simple design modifications yielded a 65 percent increase in play activity amongst children, whilst simultaneously reducing screen time by roughly 42 percent. Most notably, the younger age group showed a threefold increase in their use of the improved spaces—a testament to how environmental design directly influences user behaviour and community engagement.
A Framework for Inclusive Cities
Recognition of society’s evolving needs prompted the development of Abu Dhabi’s comprehensive Family-Friendly City Framework, created through coordinated cross-sector efforts. This strategic approach comprises five overarching goals, 15 distinct strategies and 63 targeted actions, encompassing housing, mobility, healthcare, education and governance.
The framework prioritises four demographic groups: People of Determination; children from birth through eight years and pregnant women; families and caregivers; and senior citizens. Minister Suhail stressed that designing with these communities in mind from the planning stage—rather than applying accommodations retrospectively—creates genuinely inclusive urban environments.
She emphasised that the UAE has long prioritised the family unit, yet recent societal developments have elevated this commitment further. People of Determination form an integral part of this vision, requiring coordinated governmental support across multiple entities and sectors to address their particular needs alongside those of children, families and ageing populations.
The transformative approach recognises that community needs are not static. Children develop, parents age, and family roles evolve throughout life’s journey. Cities, therefore, must possess the flexibility to adapt to these transitions, ensuring their design remains relevant across generations.
True accessibility, Minister Suhail concluded, represents not a supplementary amenity but a foundational principle—one that, when embedded thoughtfully into urban design, benefits all residents and creates cities where everyone can truly flourish.
Source: WAM