The Gulf cities are evolving at an accelerated pace: instead of relatable hubs, dispersed and car-dependent layouts have emerged. This disrupts the everyday interactions that once formed naturally on our streets.
From a broader perspective, it is clear that the global metropolis is returning to a human scale: shorter distances, shade to protect against the heat, and interwoven functions within single neighbourhoods.
This will lead to social resilience.
Our CEO, Nicholas Bonaventure, highlighted in a conversation on The Perspectives Series Podcast that Bahrain’s future depends on creating frameworks which generate recognisable urban centres with interconnected functions: so that schools, shops, workplaces, and recreation are located within a seven-minute walk.
That’s where urban life emerges.
The conversation returned to the idea of Bahrain’s earliest settlements. These once had a centre and a natural “walkability”, whereas today they are beset with cars and dispersed functions.
Cities lose their social purpose when everyday life stops intersecting on the streets. Planning frameworks should enforce the creation of recognisable, walkable centres, where school, work, commerce, and recreation are within a few minutes’ reach.
In the Gulf climate, the most crucial elements are shade, public space, and the integration of civic functions, which together foster a sense of community. Success is achieved by creating spaces which place people at the centre.
Looking ahead, cities that return to a human scale and recognise the value of face-to-face interaction will both thrive and have a competitive advantage.
