Under the direction of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Municipality has initiated the world’s first AI-powered park design challenge, inviting global talent to completely reimagine Al Safa 2 Park using artificial intelligence. The initiative aims to merge advanced technology with community-focused urban design to innovate the future of public spaces in the city.
Quick Facts
- Initiative: World’s first AI-powered park design challenge.
- Location: Al Safa 2 Park, Dubai.
- Prize Pool: Total of AED 200,000.
AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement
The challenge explores how a suite of AI tools can inform the entire design process—from site analysis and concept generation to scenario testing and visualization—while ensuring final decisions are made by human designers. The goal is to produce practical, visionary concepts for Al Safa 2 Park that prioritize sustainability, accessibility, and social interaction.
His Excellency Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, commented, “The launch of the world’s first AI-powered park design challenge reflects Dubai’s ambition to lead the future of urban innovation by combining advanced technologies with human-centred design.”
He clarified the role of technology in the competition, stating, “Artificial intelligence is not replacing human creativity in this challenge. It is being used as a tool to expand possibilities, deepen understanding and support better design decisions. Through this initiative, we aim to attract bold ideas from designers, researchers, students, startups and technology innovators.”
Designing for Human Experience
The competition is open to a wide range of participants, including urban planning professionals, architects, students, researchers, startups, and AI specialists. Entrants must show how they integrated AI tools for tasks like spatial planning, microclimate optimization, and data-informed decision-making.
Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality, highlighted the project’s focus. “Al Safa 2 Park provides an opportunity to test how AI can support the design of more responsive, comfortable and sustainable public spaces. Our focus is on developing a park that is accessible, engaging and meaningful for all ages and abilities, while reflecting the needs of the community and Dubai’s identity as a city of innovation.”
AED 200,000 for Innovative Urban Design
Submissions will be judged on the strength of their AI-integrated approach, spatial intelligence, feasibility, inclusivity, and the clarity of the design narrative.
A total prize pool of AED 200,000 is available, with the first-place winner receiving AED 100,000, second place AED 65,000, and third place AED 35,000. A judging panel of government leaders and international experts in design and AI will evaluate the submissions. Following the shortlisting process, the community will be invited to participate in selecting the winning designs, reinforcing the municipality’s commitment to participatory design.
Creatives and specialists can apply for the challenge until August 15, 2026, through the official competition website.
About Dubai Municipality
Dubai Municipality is the government body responsible for urban planning, municipal services, and maintaining the architectural heritage of the Emirate of Dubai. It oversees a wide range of sectors including public health, safety, environmental protection, and the development of public parks and recreational facilities.
Source: Dubai Media Office
