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Ras Al Khaimah, one of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates, is taking a significant step towards a sustainable future. On November 11, 2023, Ras Al Khaimah Municipality hosted a launch event at the stunning Movenpick Resort on Al Marjan Island to unveil their plans for the first sustainable community in the emirate – the Awafi Sustainable District. This groundbreaking project, designed in alignment with the Rafah sustainable community guidelines, is set to redefine urban living in Ras Al Khaimah.
The Birth of Awafi: Rafah’s Sustainable Vision
The Sustainable District of Awafi in Ras Al Khaimah represents a remarkable initiative guided by the Rafah sustainable community guidelines. The Public Services Department and the Environment Protection and Development Authority collaboratively developed these guidelines. They aim to create vibrant communities filled with responsible residents who prioritize sustainability in their daily lives.
Rafah Guidelines: A Blueprint for Sustainable Living
The Rafah guidelines provide a blueprint for sustainable living, emphasizing fundamental principles that include:
- Outdoor Living: Promoting increased utilization of outdoor spaces.
- Healthy Mobility: Encouraging environmentally friendly modes of transportation.
- Efficient Resource Usage: Lowering energy and water consumption.
- Waste Reduction: Minimizing waste production.
A Visionary’s Words: H.E. Munther Mohammed bin Shekar
At the launch event, H.E. Munther Mohammed bin Shekar, the Director General of Ras Al Khaimah Municipality, shared his vision for the Awafi Sustainable District:
“The Awafi Sustainable District reflects the emirate’s vision to develop and cultivate communities designed to ensure higher standards of living for the current and coming generations, while pursuing broader sustainability goals. The district was designed to emanate the kind of modernity, peace, and warmth people would look for when deciding where to live a happy and healthy life with their families.”
These words encapsulate the essence of this ambitious project – a commitment to creating a modern, peaceful, and welcoming community where residents can enjoy a fulfilling and sustainable life.
The Awafi Sustainable District: A Closer Look
Let’s delve deeper into the specifics of the Awafi Sustainable District:
Residential Plots and Green Spaces
The Awafi Sustainability District boasts 190 private residential plots, offering residents a sense of privacy and ownership. The jewel in its crown is the expansive 13,000 square meters of meticulously designed gardens and open spaces, providing a lush green oasis in the heart of urban living.
Commercial Services
In addition to its residential offerings, the district provides a commercial hub spanning 28,000 square meters. This strategic location ensures easy access to critical highways and proximity to essential facilities and attractions, including the airport, shopping centres, restaurants, and pristine beaches.
Sustainable Living Facilities
The core of the Awafi Sustainable District’s appeal lies in its commitment to a sustainable, healthy, and comfortable lifestyle for its residents. Here are some planned facilities:
1. Community Park
An exclusive community park will feature a play area, swimming pool, and fitness corner, offering a place for families to gather, socialize, and stay active.
2. Retail Shops
Residents will have convenient access to retail shops, ensuring that daily necessities and shopping desires are met within the community.
3. Places of Worship
Mosques will be built within the district, providing residents with a serene place for spiritual reflection and community connection.
4. Community Farm and Children’s Nursery
A community farm and children’s nursery will cater to the needs of families, fostering a sense of community and connection to nature.
5. Eco-Friendly Transportation
Dedicated footpaths and cycleways with storage facilities will encourage eco-friendly modes of transportation, reducing residents’ carbon footprint.
6. Public Spaces and Amenities
The district will feature landscaped public areas, sikkas (alleyways), LED street-lit roads, shade structures, jogging tracks, parking for people of determination, and EV charging points, promoting a holistic and sustainable urban experience.
7. Waste Management
Communal waste collection points and recycling hubs will be strategically placed throughout the district, ensuring responsible waste management practices.
Conclusion
The Awafi Sustainable District in Ras Al Khaimah represents a bold leap towards a sustainable and vibrant future. With its commitment to eco-friendly living, carefully planned amenities, and a vision for a thriving community, this project embodies the values of modernity, peace, and warmth. As Ras Al Khaimah Municipality continues its efforts to create a sustainable haven, the Awafi Sustainable District promises a brighter tomorrow for residents and future generations. Stay tuned for more updates as this remarkable project unfolds.
