Towards Cooler Streets: Analyzing Urban Heat Stress to Foster Walkable Communities in Dubai

Urban heat stress poses significant challenges to the creation of walkable communities in rapidly urbanizing cities like Dubai. This study investigates the dynamics of urban heat stress and its impact on pedestrian comfort, with the aim of informing strategies to foster cooler streets and enhance walkability in Dubai. Through a combination of spatial analysis and microclimate measurements, the study aims to examine the link between air temperature and surface material thermal behavior by employing a thermal imaging camera to measure the thermal properties of physical objects in streets of Al-Karama neighborhood in Dubai, UAE. Additionally, a wide angle lens camera is used for calculating the Sky View Factor (SVF), which is then used to determine the urban thermal comfort using Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET) index. The study employs urban heat stress data to identify locations with extreme air temperatures that discourage pedestrian activity, as well as areas where heat mitigation methods are most required to increase walkability. The findings emphasize the relevance of green spaces, urban design interventions, and urban solutions for lowering heat stress and promoting walkability. Understanding and treating urban heat stress allows policymakers and designers to develop more livable and sustainable communities in Dubai that encourage walking and active transportation.