FRESH POINTE

FRESH POINTE
Latifa Al Marri

Fresh Pointe
by
Latifa Al Marri
A thesis book for the Final Architectural Project submitted to the
Department of Architecture, School of Architecture, Art, and Design,
American University in Dubai In partial fulfillment of the requirements
for the Degree of Bachelor of Architecture.
Fall 2022
Copyright 2022, Latifa AlMarri

School of Architecture, Art, and Design, American University in Dubai
Student’s Full Name: Latifa Ghanim Al Marri
Thesis Book Title: Fresh Pointe
Thesis Abstract (Single paragraph, 250-500 words):
Student Signature: ________________________________
Date __________________
I would like to dedicate this book to my parents for supporting me throughout my academic career. I would
like to thank my sister for always being there. I would like to thank Zabiba for always pushing me to try my hardest,
and lastly, I would like to thank ME for always believing in ME.
8 ball <3
I would like to thank Professor Annarita Cornaro, who guided me through the process of this work, encourged
me to explore and widen my knowledge on research and design.
Advisor / Professor Name:
Advisor / Professor Signature: _______________________
Date __________________
DEDICATIONS

In recent years, due to Covid19 and military conflicts, the world has faced unforeseeable market conditions.
Where global trade plummeted, and prices of goods significantly increased. According to the United States
Department of Agriculture, the overall consumer price index of food prices is 10.1% higher than in May 2021.
Leading to growing concern about food security; nations are either incapable of producing enough food
to feed their people or are vulnerable because of global external factors that affect the food supply. As a
result, any economic or environmental risk at this point can jeopardize the availability and affordability of
food. Like the UAE, despite recent efforts to convert 7,237 square kilometers of desert into farmable land,
agriculture accounts for only 3% of the UAE’s GDP. Since the 1900s, the UAE but more specifically Dubai
gained its reputation as a trading hub; immigrants would choose Dubai as their home due to its affordability
and strategic location along the trade route. Farmlands at the time were mainly palm trees since they could
survive with little to no water. They would visit Dubai creek, where Indian and Persian merchants sold fruits
close to the trading ships for easier accessibility. In doing so, the community unintentionally created dynamic
markets for commerce and chatter between different backgrounds. Today, Dubai has welcomed over
200 nationalities, and the population is forever growing. The creek is still present, and the people are still here,
however the interaction between consumer and seller has diluted into big chain supermarket-dominance.
Once a vital aspect of a Dubaian lifestyle, a marketplace where people gather, strengthen social ties, and
commerce has been wiped to nonexistence. This research aims to explore the UAE’s response to food security,
analyze the significance of marketplaces and their symbolic importance in societies, and examine the
connection between rural-urban linkage. In times of modernity and globalization, it will assess the need for
a market space for cultural preservation and food security.
Keywords: Food Security, UAE, Dubai, Fruits and Vegetables, Farmers Market, Marketplace, Consumer,
rural-urban linkage, Community.
ABSTRACT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1

CHAPTER 1
FOOD SECURITY

FOOD SECURITY
1
2
1.1 Challenges During the Pandemic
COVID-19 has severely disturbed people’s lives, an
unprecedented challenge with immediate public and
economic health consequences. It fundamentally altered
global relationships. People started to learn social
distancing, wear face masks while walking and shopping,
and smile with their eyes more. The pandemic
elevated the possibility of a global food crisis in a short
period. To control the spread of Covid, Governments
have imposed lockdowns that have forced many businesses
to close, restricted travel, closed borders to trade
in food products, and imposed curfews that have disrupted
economic activity (Swinnen and McDermott 8).
Furthermore, public health responses to COVID-19 have
had severe economic implications. According to The
World Bank, the world economy will contract by more
than 5%, the most significant drop since World War II,
demonstrating that localized hunger and instability can
lead to global problems. This economic crisis resulted in
increased unemployment and significant disruption of
food systems and supply chains; labor, transportation,
and trade ceased. Furthermore, the pandemic is altering
our relationship with food in ways that go beyond
the kitchen. People became concerned about the food
supply and relied more on the emergency food system.
The pandemic exposed many of the world’s challenges,
particularly food fragilities in low-income labor
systems such as those for fresh fruits and vegetables.
Supply chains have broken down due to the virus’s spread
and many policy restrictions, causing consumer prices to
rise. Producer prices, on the other hand, are falling, increasing
food insecurity for urban and rural populations.

COVID-19 has also jeopardized long-term and
hard-won nutrition progress. Diets have gotten
less healthy as lifestyles, food supply chains
have been disrupted, and nutrition programs
for the poor and vulnerable have been impeded.
According to one study, more nutritious
and costly products such as fruits, vegetables,
and dairy products will face a global shortage.
Specialists confirmed those claims after
inspecting Ethiopia’s fresh produce and dairy
supply chains. Consumption of healthy diet
ingredients has decreased, with the poorest
suffering most with food security. Food security
is a complex topic with many layers. That will
be explored further in the following chapter.
1.2 What is Food Security?
Throughout history, different civilizations have struggled
to ensure everyone had access to sufficient food (Mc-
Donald 1). The United Nations Committee defines food
security as the physical, social, and economic access to
fresh and nourishing food that fits the dietary needs and
preferences of individuals so that they can live an active
and healthy life (“FOOD SECURITY.”). The events of the
early 21st century demonstrate that providing enough
food for everyone remains a pressing challenge at the
nexus of nature, culture, and technology. In the years to
come, factors such as climate change, expanding populations,
inflation in food prices, armed conflicts, and environmental
difficulties will continue to substantially impact
the stability and security of food supplies (McDonald 5).
3
4

These worries influence the food market, the
post-harvest processing of food, the costs of
food, and the safety of food, all of which lead to
creative approaches and potential answers to
the global change problem. Since population expansion
is the primary factor driving the demand
for food in the UAE, there is a greater emphasis on
the nation’s agricultural production to achieve
higher productivity levels. Estimates suggest that
the population of the UAE will reach 11.5 million
by the year 2025, while at the same time, annual
increases in the amount of food consumed
are anticipated to average 12% (Guéraiche). A
significant concern is that the sources of freshwater
available in the United Arab Emirates are
insufficient. Groundwater accounts for most
(70%) of the country’s overall water resources,
which are not renewable. The transformation of
the wasteland into a verdant paradise depends
on this resource’s availability (Shahin et al.).
In addition, it is projected that the green
sector of the country pulls more than 2
billion cubic meters of water out of the
ground each year. The remaining 64
percent is put toward cultivating various
crops, while more than 32 percent is used
to irrigate the forestry and landscaping
industries. From the purchasing power
perspective, the UAE is today a food-secure
nation. Despite this, efforts should
be made to strengthen and preserve
the nation’s current level of food security.
The United Arab Emirates is presently
ranked 23rd out of 113 countries in terms
of food security, according to the Global
Food Security Index 2022. However,
the National Food Security Strategy 2051
aims to make the UAE “the best Global
Food Security Index in the world” by 2051.
Although the domestic agriculture and food
production system is responsible for producing
10%-15% of the nation’s food and agricultural
raw material requirements, at least
85% of these requirements are met through
imported goods. Because of its location,
the United Arab Emirates is in a naturally
unfavorable region for agriculture (Dake).
This is because the summer temperatures
are very high and intense, there is a significant
scarcity of fresh water, and there is a
limited amount of arable land. The United
Arab Emirates’ domestic agriculture faces
additional challenges, one of which is a
shortage of the administrative and technical
skills necessary for the contemporary
production of agricultural goods (Dake). For
this reason, quick and prompt action is essential
to save the UAE’s future food security.
5
6

1.3 How is the UAE responding to
Food Security?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has opened its doors
to more than eight million people from over 200
distinct ethnic groups in recent years due to the massive
development of its infrastructure and economic activity. In
addition to looking for better jobs and ways to improve
their standard of living, many people have
also had the intention of settling down permanently.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is experiencing rapid
population expansion, which has caused the
government to look for alternatives to imports to meet
the growing need for food. The United Arab Emirates
will improve its agricultural success if it places more
emphasis on its local farms and investigates suitable
new farming practices (Al Qaydi). The UAE is one of the
countries most affected by the global food shortage.
In 2018, the UAE government introduced its National
Food Safety Approach to ensure that all citizens can
access sufficient food supplies. The population of the
UAE recently increased from a few hundred thousand
in the 1970s to more than nine million in 2022. The
UAE’s open market policy and geographical location
are to blame for the sudden increase in population;
this enabled several multinational corporations to establish
new branches in the UAE. Eventually, the UAE
became a hub for international passengers and merchants
looking to take advantage of the country’s
opportunities. This put additional strain on the UAE’s
low domestic food supply and enhanced the UAE’s
annual food import bill to more than 41 billion AED.
Because of population growth, the government was
required to look for alternative food sources. In the
UAE, the top three food procurement contributors are:
1. Purchase food from international markets.
2. Lease farmland in other countries, such as Egypt,
Vietnam, and Pakistan, and import food to UAE markets.
3. Focus on food produced locally.
7
8

Figure 1: The growth of UAE green tech
The UAE’s agricultural policy outlines the nation’s persistence
to grow crops despite severe weather conditions,
shortages of water, and a limited supply of farmland.
The authority, particularly the Emirate of Abu Dhabi,
handles 85% of the UAE’s soil and proceeds to provide
free cropland to its citizens. As a component of the federal
decision to encourage the agriculture sector, the
government will continue to aid farmers by paying 50%
of the expenses of farming supplements such as fertilizers,
pesticides, and seeds in good condition. Furthermore, artificially
cooled greenhouses have also been utilized successfully
in some agricultural regions of the UAE. Furthermore,
the government has established platforms for local
farmers to deliver their crops to these locations so they
can be marketed at the highest price possible through
government-owned distribution facilities (Al Qaydi 156).
9
Figure 2: UAE greenhouses grow crops without soil
10
Policymakers have emphasized out-ofthe-box
techniques such as aquaponics,
aeroponics, hydroponics, shipping
container farms, and last but not least
greenhouse farms. This shift led to hydroponic
farms’ growth from 50 in 2009 to
over 1,000 today (Research and Markets).
Lately, the idea of “arability” is expanding
due to the emergence of cost-effective
solutions like sand technology. This innovation
and its affiliated solutions, with their ability
to retain water for extended periods and
simultaneously allow free air passage, have
enabled high yields in desert farming. The
Breathable Sand has unique water retention
properties, combined with air permeability,
which can massively empower the sustainability
and ease of landscaping, in residential
and commercial projects within the UAE.
It has proven to reduce irrigation requirements
by nearly 80 percent compared to
conventional agriculture and enables high
agricultural creation across various crops.
To study such methods, it’s essential to understand
the history of agricultural land
in the UAE and what initiatives are considered
to better the production and farming
of produce in the most sustainable way.

1.4 Farming in the UAE
Among the most popular misconceptions is that the
UAE is mainly arid and will never be regarded as a
great place to farm (Oluwafemi). While this is partially
correct, one thing that has distinguished the
UAE in many sectors is its eagerness to be innovative.
The Al Ain Oases have existed since the Early
Bronze Age. Settlements like Hili attest to the presence
of a prominent Early Bronze Age culture in
Al Ain. The Al Ain oases-maintained settlement
in the second millennium BC and are now a vital
part of the city’s geography. Each Oasis began
as a single farm or a group of trees, possibly watered
by a deep well, and grew in importance
as technological innovations associated with the
invention of the falaj irrigation system enabled
increased agriculture, a larger settlement, and
surpluses that were then traded against other
goods. A falaj is a qanat or water channel adopted
especially in the UAE and Oman (Collins).
It is an ancient irrigation system that has been
an integral part of the Oases. According to
Stevens, In the 1900s, dates, figs, mangoes,
mulberries, and pomegranates grew in the
oases of Al Jimi, Qattarah, Hili, Al Ain, and
Mu’taradh. It was estimated that the Oasis
supported at least 60,000 date palms in
addition to the fruits and vegetables native
to the area, such as grapes, melons, limes,
figs, pomegranates, and a few mangoes,
as well as wheat, barley, and large numbers
of alfalfa sprouts. Today’s oases are heavily
irrigated date palm gardens bordered by
bustling urban metropolitan neighborhoods
(AL AIN 5). The oases are unique archaeological
and ecological environments that
can be exploited for natural resources in
an otherwise arid, hostile environment—the
largest Oasis in Al Ain is 136 hectares in size.
Farmers are responsible for around 147,000
varieties of date palms, fruit trees, and field
crops such as banana, tangerine, mango,
and fig trees. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan,
who began his political career in Al
Ain, was essential in ensuring the safety of
the oases. Sheikh Zayed is well-known for
prioritizing the preservation of the Oasis and
the green character of Al Ain, and his directions
were followed to the letter. Sheikh
Tahnoon’s Oases Laws, released in 2004, and
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s Oases Laws,
issued in 2005, contributed to the oases’
continued protection following his death.
The oases allowed for human habitation
and expansion, enabling the emergence
of a new culture with complex forms of
cultural expression, such as architecture,
agriculture and engineering, trade, and
the arts. Today, the Municipality built massive
gateways at the Oasis’s entrances
made of concrete and palm trunks. The
walkways are available to pedestrians and
limited vehicular traffic, providing visitors
with a tranquil and shaded ambiance in
contrast to the hectic character of the city
center that surrounds the Oasis (AL AIN 6).
11 12
Figure 3: Alain Oases

Figure 4: Hydroponic
farming in the UAE
As of recent times, farmers in the UAE have been
urged to transition to organic agriculture, with 75
farms already transitioning. The Abu Dhabi Agriculture
and Food Safety Authority’s research stations
too are investigating the effectiveness of
various intelligent farming methods, such as vertical
farms, which generate up to ten times the harvests
of conventional farming, and sprinkler irrigation
methods, which enhance efficiency (Tolley).
Vertical farming, a highly efficient method of agriculture,
is gaining popularity in the UAE to address
the needs of the expanding population. It involves
growing plants in multi-layered structures in totally
regulated settings, allowing for year-round crop
production (Sankar). In partnership with Crop One
Holdings, As of June 2022 Emirates Airlines presented
the world’s largest vertical farm in Dubai. The
330,000-square-foot facility, which costs $40,000, is
used to cultivate kale, spinach, and mixed greens.
Bustanica can produce over 2 million pounds
of organic, high-quality greens annually (Hall).
Additionally, it employs artificial intelligence to
grow food without soil. And to decrease the
risk of contamination, by restrictions on human
contact with plants. A closed-loop irrigation
system sprays the plants at the site. Each
plant is irrigated with mineral-rich water, which
evaporates and is then collected and reused
to feed the entire vegetation. This system also
utilizes hydroponic farming, which requires 95%
less water than conventional growing techniques
(Hall). To optimize various farming techniques
is to integrate them within the urban
fabric. It is making something that is perceived
as strictly rural accessible within minutes.
13
14
Figure 5: Alain Oases

CHAPTER 2
RURAL-URBAN
LINKAGE
15 16

RURAL-URBAN LINKAGE
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2.1 Creating bonds between rural
and urban fabric
Rural-urban linkages is simply bridging the gap between
the farm and the consumer. The farm or certain aspects
of harvest within footsteps of a consumer’s home. Rural-
urban linkage is defines by streams of goods, people,
information, finance, waste, information, and social relations
across space that connect rural and urban areas
(Oecd). Urbanization significantly impacts rural areas,
with food demand being one of the most important as
demand for other natural resources such as water and
wood. In many parts of the world, production is increasing
in response to urban requests, particularly for perishable
and high-value products like fruit, vegetables, and dairy.
According to the Food Authority Organization, fruit production
in the United Arab Emirates amounted to 361,471
tons, and vegetable production stood at 233,009 tons
in 2020. With the government prioritizing the production
of fruits and vegetables, production is showing growth.
Farmers’ markets have also seen a rebirth in recent
years, which is a response to the demand for increased
freshness, decreased pricing, and a direct interaction
with the producer, as well as a response to a certain nostalgic
yearning on the part of consumers. Their spending
in nearby businesses results in an increase in the amount
of money collected in taxes, making their contribution
to the economy of the surrounding area extremely valuable.
The proliferation of farmer’s markets as a retail option
is another factor that helps to the long-term viability
of towns. Growers in the area are supported, and unnecessary
food transportation is eliminated; as a result, fewer
emissions are generated. Fruit that is going to be sold directly
by the producer does not need to be chemically
treated to increase its shelf life, which is beneficial to the
health of the general population as a whole. Farmers’
markets result in the creation of new jobs and enterprises,
the expansion and diversification of local agriculture,
and an increase in the financial success of regional
farms (Tomlinson and Planas). There are many ways of
decreasing the gap between rural and urban living. The
question of how people individually are coping with food
security. Because of the harsh desert climate, UAE native
plants must be more challenging than most (Oluwafemi).

However, a small group of dedicated individuals
brings the “grow your own” food revolution to the
community. One of the primary motivators for growing
your food is tasty. The fresh, succulent rewards of eating
right off the vine have magical qualities. Everyone
believes that food tastes better when it is fresher, but
growing your food gives you control over the variety of
products available. People are gradually beginning
to grow their food. The community recognizes the satisfaction
of growing your fruits and vegetables and living
a healthier, more organic lifestyle. The community
grows vegetables that are difficult to come by. Another
reason people grow their food is for convenience
(Akerman). Some grow their food on their rooftop balcony,
others in their backyard, and others use fabric
grow bags in addition to traditional in-ground beds.
Growing food, harvesting it, and then turning some
of it into pickles or pesto takes dedication and time,
which many people lack. As a result, they rely on markets
to obtain their fruits and vegetables (Akerman).
Figure 6: Hattem Mattar runs an urban smallholding in Dubai.
Greater than personal effort the government’s chain supermarkets
or local fruit and vegetable markets are the most common
places to buy fruit and vegetables. Supermarkets work with suppliers
to offer their customers a variety of different fruit and vegetable
since a supermarket is a middleman. However, the middleman
is optional with fresh local markets because suppliers or
farmers directly sell to consumers in wholesale or individual pieces.
Unfortunately, at its large size and population, Dubai has only
two local fresh markets, the largest in Al Aweer and the other at
the Diera waterfront. Dubai is densely populated, with supermarkets
at every corner. This is an issue because there is a significant
markup on non-organic goods that are imported. To cater to
Dubai’s widespread communities, they are smaller-scale seasonal
local markets that are less known and offer a smaller variety of
fresh produce. Manbat Market at Dubai’s Circle Mall is one example.
Encourages communities to eat healthy homegrown harvest
and intends to connect local farmers with consumers throughout
the UAE. Through its farmer’s markets, Manbat supports various
initiatives to improve food sustainability and security while providing
residents with access to the best farm-to-table produce.
Figure 7: Manbat Market
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20

Further decreasing the gap between farmers and consumers
is the digital markets. Many farms nowadays
have online platforms to offer consumers freshly harvested
fruit and vegetables. This method of trade became
extremely popular during the pandemic. With
the restrictions and policies of covid19, farmers had
challenges with their unbought supply of goods. Therefore,
farmers collaborated with online platforms to sell
their harvested goods to survive and make a profit.
A great example is Kibsons. An online and physical
platform focused on delivering fresh groceries
from the farm to the kitchen. In doing so, they
are bridging the gap between suppliers and consumers.
Established around 30 years ago, Kibsons
contributes significantly to the UAE’s fresh market.
More than 150 thousand kilos of fresh fruits
and vegetables are distributed daily (Kibsons).
Another perk of buying online is being environmentally
conscious and sustainable. Every year, 1 million tons
of excellent food is wasted in the UAE alone, often
due to the ugly problem. Ugly fruits that are perfectly
fine to eat are rejected from chain supermarkets because
the fruit is too big or too small, has an irregular
shape, or has slight discoloration. HeroGo is an online
platform that rescues rejected fruits and vegetables
and sells them at an affordable price to consumers
(Herogo). The consumer is not only helping the environment
but is saving a lot on grocery expenses. “At
HeroGo, we embrace this food, and we rescue it. We
make it affordable and then deliver it right to your
doorstep in only one click, saving you time and making
your grocery bill cheaper.” (Herogo). When these
fruits are rejected, it is wasted not only food but also
the energy, water, and resources used to grow them.
Figure 8: Kibsons
Figure 9: HeroGo - Ugly Fruit
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22

25 24
A concept that would be successful,
is renting land for farming. Currently
unavailable in the Emirates unlike different
parts of the world, in India, for
example, renting agricultural land is
very popular. In recent years, however,
a small number of organic farms slowly
opened their doors to consumers to
come and pick their fruit, greens, and
vegetables. Reinforcing the essence
of farmers market and their unique
experience in a social context. A marketplace
falls under the interaction of
two entities. A consumer and seller. It
can be online, physically between a
consumer and seller within the constraints
of a building, or even out in the
field between consumer and harvest.

2.2 What does a Market represent?
A marketplace is a setting where individuals gather daily to trade and purchase
fruits, livestock, and other goods. Markets are everyday events that are
part of the cityscape and a necessary part of daily life for most civilizations.
A market combines all the elements required to excite one’s senses: a plethora
of colors from the fresh products sold by farmers. Therefore, the market is
made of three different layers that, put together, create a unity: the physical
dimension defined by the space in which the main activities are held, the
social size produced by the multitude of people participating in the activities,
and the economic dimension, found in the entire idea of consumption
inside the market (Smith). A marketplace may be referred to as a Souk in Arabic,
Bazaar in Persian, and a Mercado in Spanish. Historically, marketplaces
grew near fortified buildings, such as castles and churches, not only to benefit
from their security but also because large-scale dwellings produced consistent
demand for products. Markets appeared to operate for the benefit of
all, attracting crowds and generating regular earnings, making them appealing
to bureaucrats and rulers, who utilized their ability to generate taxes to
fund the town’s army. Which later introduced set laws and regulations, which
made marketplaces on specific days and locations (Tomlinson and Planas).
Markets are intricate social and commercial areas
that frequently conflict with current public space uses;
they are cultural relics engrained inside the heart of
metropolitan cities such as Dubai. Markets are thriving
establishments instead of static architectural heritage,
but they serve crucial social purposes in the communities
in which they are located. They are spaces
where individuals communicate, places that induce
the senses and most importantly the memory (Smith).
They encourage people to communicate with one
another. Markets tend to have the same social values
as designed public spaces, such as piazzas, but they
also respond to the city’s food demand and create a
community of people formed by the buyers and sellers.
Figure 10: Fruit Market
Figure 11: Jemaa El Fnaa

The Trajan’s Market building is the oldest market structure,
commissioned between 107 and 110 A.D. by Emperor Trajan.
This ancient structure from the Roman Empire housed
shops and offices. Some claim that it is the oldest shopping
mall in the world. Trajan’s Market’s administrators oversaw
the offices located on the upper floor. The market allowed
vendors from throughout the country to offer their products.
Approximately 150 tabernae (stalls) were dispersed
throughout the complex. The architect erected a massive
semicircular front that was flanked by columns. The venue
might have been used for performances, speeches, and
educational functions. The market roof was designed to
generate light and space; it was a vaulted concrete arch
that sat on piers, allowing sunshine to enter the shops while
protecting customers from the elements (Becker).
Figure 12: Trajan’s Market
The Piazza del Campo, which is situated at the intersection
of three hills and is widely regarded as one of
the most important public squares in all of Europe, is
home to one of the world’s oldest open-air markets. It
is well known that this Piazza serves as the “heart” of
Siena, the city that was constructed entirely around
it. In the beginning, Piazza del Campo was utilized for
holding the country’s market as well as animal fairs;
however, when the Government of the Nine took power,
they changed its purpose to that of public space.
Ordered for construction by the Council of Nine, which
served as the ruling body at the time. It was intended
to convey both their power and their aggressiveness.
The layout of the square’s pavement is broken up into
nine different portions. Each area is named after one
of The Nine aristocratic families that ruled Siena during
the city’s prime in the Middle Ages. The plaza, which
serves as the physical center of the city, has been the
site of several important civic and cultural events over
the years, such as annual bullfights, fairs, and the Palio
horse race. This well-known equine competition takes
place once a year. The most notable buildings on the
plaza are the city’s principal market and a municipal
museum designed in the Gothic style (previously, the
Town Hall). The extraordinary open area in the shape
of a semicircle has recently been added to the list of
UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The current architectural
design of the Piazza del Campo is the consequence of
constant structural adjustments that have been related
to legislation passed over the years that have modified
areas, facades, and monuments over time (Julia).
Figure 13: Piazza del Campo
29
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Figure 14: Piazza del Campo - Palio Horse Race

A similar public space that was used as a marketplace
is Jemaa el-Fna. Jemaa el-Fna, located in the center of
the Medina and at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, has
served as the most important market area in all of Marrakech
ever since it was first established in the 11th century.
Public executions were held on this square around the
year 1050 A.D., it is known as Jemaa el-Fna, which translates
to “assembly of the dead.” The market presently serves as
a connecting point between the ancient and new sections
of Marrakech and is a hub for commercial and social
activities as well as a venue for cultural expression in the
neighborhood. Jemaa el-Fna, much like the city itself, has
gone through phases of decline and revitalization during
its long history. The square served as a major transportation
hub for a significant portion of the 20th century; however,
it has been off-limits to automobile traffic ever since the
year 2000. The public square is used not only as a market,
but also as an open-air stage for a variety of musical, religious,
and theatrical performances. As a result, it is a lively
source of entertainment for both the residents of the neighborhood
and the tourists that come to the area (Danesie).
Farmers’ markets are thought to have initially developed
in Egypt about 5000 years ago. The annual
flooding of the Nile River was an essential factor in the
development of ancient Egyptian civilization. Egyptians
were able to establish an empire on the back of
immense agricultural prosperity due to the reliability
of the river and the richness of the surrounding region.
The Egyptians were the ones who came up with the
idea of using basins to collect water for irrigation. Because
of their expertise in agriculture, they were able
to cultivate food crops that were essential to their nourishment,
such as wheat and barley, as well as crops
that were used in industry, such as flax and papyrus.
They have a wealth of knowledge in the field of gardening.
In addition to field planting, the floodplains
were used for cultivating gardens, orchards, and other
forms of horticulture. This type of agriculture was
frequently practiced further out from the floodplain
of the Nile, which required a great amount more labor.
Growers had little choice but to manually transport
water from a well or the Nile to their gardens.
Farmers and craftspeople brought their goods into
the cities to sell them. The vast majority of items were
gained through various forms of bartering rather than
through monetary transactions, and it was believed
that the goods’ values were determined by weights.
Figure 15: Jemaa El Fnaa 31
32
Figure 16: Ancient Egypt Farming
Figure 17: Crop Field - Egypt

Society placed a significant emphasis
on fruit farming as agricultural
technology advanced
throughout its history. Growing
fruit, as opposed to cereal grains
and legumes, calls for more labor-intensive
and intricate agricultural
practices. These techniques
included irrigating the roots, cloning
the plants, propagating the
seeds, and training the plants. Although,
the earliest fruits that the
Egyptians grew were native to
the area, such as the palm date
and sorghum, after they were exposed
to new cultural influences,
they eventually began producing
a wider variety of fruits. This
occurred when they began to
cultivate a wider variety of plants
(Ancient Egyptian agriculture).
Figure 18: Old image of Covent Garden
Marketplaces were either out in the open
or covered. The marketplace evolved,
early in the 18th century in England openair
markets had become a regular feature
in English towns, but their presence
was threatened by inefficiency and filth:
the nation’s reliance on such a disorganized
and filthy environment for food distribution
was risky, inviting difficulties and
even unrest in times of shortage. This encouraged
the invention of the physical
construction of a marketplace, a covered
market, which proved to be extraordinarily
functional and aesthetically pleasing to
the urban landscape (Schmidt). Marketplaces
served more than a mere place for
commerce they were to dilute differences
and share cultures. The Cairo, Egypt market
halls of the nineteenth century were
constructed so that social elites could purchase
hygienic food in a safe environment.
The Attaba market hall was advantageously located
between two urban grids and two urban socialites,
bordering Cairo’s old Islamic city and the Haussmannian
neighborhoods of Khedive Cairo from
the nineteenth century. Two distinct cultures meet
in the marketplace (Hamza). In Stockholm, the first
market hall was established in 1875, the goal was
to supply consumers with safe food in a well-organized
setting that would inspire social interaction
and propel Stockholm into the modern era (Lee).
Certainly, in Europe and many other parts
of the world, the significance of the market
started to diminish towards the middle of the
sixteenth century, when permanent establishments
began offering customers more continuous
trade hours. Additionally, the creation
of a merchant class led to the import and
export of a great diversity of goods from further
away, which contributed to decreasing
reliance on local produce. This was a direct
outcome of the increased trade that the merchant
class enabled. As a retail concept, markets
overcame not only the emergence of the
permanent store, but also the growth of the
supermarket, the shopping mall, and hypermarket,
as well as, more recently, the online
revolution. each innovation dealt a huge blow
to the old market. This was because smaller
merchants were frequently unable to compete
or reap the same benefits of scale as their
larger counterparts (Tomlinson and Planas).
Like many cities, to prosper and become
a global player is to have a strong trade
presence. In the case of Dubai, it started
from a small city along the creek to
a city with a big presence in the trade.
Figure 19: Attaba Market now - Egypt
33
34

2.3 Designing Contemporary Market
Places
When it comes to market architecture,
modern markets require designs that are
both functional and capable of integrating
markets as key components of the
public, into locations with a vast and diverse
assortment of firms. The land uses
that comprise an urban ecosystem all
have one thing in common: their primary
purpose is to provide for the most fundamental
human needs, such as allowing
community members to interact with one
another, providing a place for gatherings
where information can be shared, complying
with regulations governing health,
safety, and hygiene, and accommodating
the need for environmentally responsible
food waste management systems. In
addition to interacting with high-density
urban life and fostering a thriving commercial
and residential environment, markets
must adapt to an important trend
that combines food vending machines
and dining restaurants in the same site.
Adding a supermarket as a complementary
business model to the current commercial
services has become one of the most
popular ways to revitalize the traditional
market model. It is well-established that
this fundamental commercial mix provides
considerable benefits for businesses and
boosts sales not only within the building but
also at the stores in its immediate vicinity.
In addition, new market concepts include
an increasing number of restaurants in
their commercial corridors, inspired by the
gourmets of the enormous shopping malls
that have mushroomed over the past few
decades. However, this “new” typology is
reinterpreted and redefined to convince
the client of the freshness and quality of
the goods. Some markets allow the option
to prepare and try the food sold on-site.
The concept of the market as a sociocultural hub where
various food-related and non-food-related activities can
be conducted, such as community centers, training facilities,
and exhibition halls, all of which enhance and improve
the market’s relationship with the neighborhood,
has also spread rapidly in recent years. It is also important
to notice how markets located in tourist areas have
been able to serve this function and even become an
additional attraction for visitors to the city. The markets
covered in this research, such as the Markthal Rotterdam,
are clear examples of public markets that attract
tourists not only because of the things they sell, but also
because of their status as recognizable landmarks in
the city where they are located (Tomlinson and Planas).
The layout of a public market is largely determined
by its performance. Designing a
solid commercial mix or layout is one of
the most crucial aspects of market planning.
This requires determining the quantity,
size, and type of stores, as well as their
approximate location within the structure.
Finding a decent location is the next step
after agreeing on a solid layout. It is crucial
to choose a decent location in the
city. It is vital to consider factors like as
proximity to public spaces and population
density. Once the optimal location has
been selected, the operation plan must
be developed. The architectural arrangement
of a building can be determined by
determining how consumers and commodities
will enter and exit. Due to this, it
is essential that the primary entrances are
situated in front of the most vital outdoor
areas and that truck accesses are convenient
and easy. Moreover, natural light
is essential in marketplaces. Additionally,
a marketplace should have an architectural
style that is appealing, inviting, and
compatible with its surroundings. Finally,
you should consider how the exterior and
interior of the market complement each
other and how the market seems to locals.
Due to this, many markets include
large windows or transparent surfaces
so they can display the variety of products
they provide (Tomlinson and Planas).
35
Figure 20: Ergon Agora Contemporary
Market
36
Figure 21: Ergon Agora Contemporary Market - Greece

CHAPTER 3
PRODUCTION OR
CONSUMPTION
37 38

PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION
41
40
3.1 Connecting trading hubs
Dubai, the second-biggest city in the seven emirates, is located
strategically between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Dubai
is 1500 square miles in size and accounts for 5% of the UAE.
It is a semi-desert city with one of the most stunning natural
ports in the region. The Creek and the Arabian Sea were the
primary sources of earnings for the locals, who were heavily
invested in fishing and pearl harvesting. Port cities are not
simply cities that happened to be on the shoreline; more
importantly, they are economic centers that are essentially
maritime based (Al Sayegh). Historically ports were of great
importance to the local economy. For many decades,
Dubai served as a port of call for ships sailing between
Southwest Asia, China, and East Africa. It also served as the
starting point for the magnificent caravans heading west.
Excavation discoveries in the area attest to Dubai’s
historical relevance as a crucial geographical trading
center. Dubai has always been the “city of merchants”
since the early twentieth century. Its prime position
at the Gulf’s mouth, blended with its merchant
community’s prescience, has contributed substantially
to its emergence as a flourishing commercial hub. As an
outcome of these investments, Dubai has become the
main gateway into the Arabian Gulf today (Al Sayegh).

3.2 Souks as Identity
Decades back, Dubai Creek was the city’s first settlement
location. Today, Dubai’s oldest surviving and authentic
buildings and markets can be discovered in three
well-preserved districts: Al Fahidi, Bur Dubai, and Deira,
all situated adjacent to Dubai Creek. A classical Arabian
market, or souk, is a multi-sensory journey. The gold souk
is one of Dubai’s very thriving markets. Deira’s shops provide
a wide selection of gold jewelry designs, from traditional
to contemporary and everything in between. The
Dubai Spice Souq, just steps away from the gold souk, is
home to thousands of spice stalls. The spices come in every
flavor, taste, smell, and texture saffron from Iran, Turmeric
from India, and cinnamon from Indonesia. Lastly,
The Dubai souks are considered Dubai’s identity; they
have existed since Dubai’s development and continue to
serve a functional and valuable purpose; however, they
are now primarily tourist attractions (Boussaa). Traditionally,
these souks would’ve been a local’s first option when
shopping. However now as community locals are straying
away from what was once part of their identity. There are
many dynamics and alternatives in the food market today.
Figure 22: Spice Souk in Dubai
Figure 23: Souk Al Kabeer in Dubai
41
42

CHAPTER 4
PRODUCTION AND
COMMERCE
45 44

PRODUCTION AND COMMERCE
45
46
4.1 Fresh Market typologies in the
UAE
Local Fruit Markets
Historically in Dubai merchants would use unclaimed land
near the creek to sell fruits and vegetables arriving from
Iran, Pakistan, and India and elsewhere. The market was removed
and replaced by vernacular buildings. With recent
efforts to encourage local fresh produce markets at reasonable
prices. Al Aweer Fruits and Vegetable Market opened
in 2004 to meet the city’s growing demand for diverse fresh
foods and high-quality produce. It has a total area of 6,110
hectares. A fully air-conditioned indoor section was recently
added at the cost of 370 million AED. The new market is
more convenient for traders because they can trade in a
controlled environment until the wee hours of the morning.
The market is the UAE’s largest open market for vegetables
and fruits. The Al Aweer Fruit and Vegetable Market is divided
into two sections. The first section caters to regular customers,
while the second caters to wholesalers and suppliers.
Each of the wholesale market’s seven blocks has 248 outlets.
The indoor market is divided into four blocks and has
150 outlets for vegetables, meat, and fish. The market has
a large clientele; many of Dubai’s top chefs source their
produce from the Al Aweer market. They offer exotic ingredients
like truffles, durian, and other fruits worldwide.
Furthermore, one of the many reasons to shop at the
local market is the discounts and purchasing in bulk
saves money. Because it is located on the city’s outskirts,
the commute to the city center is long and expensive,
especially with current gasoline prices. Therefore,
it brings people to shop at supermarkets that are heavily
spread across at the cost of the consumer. Supermarkets
are constantly increasing the prices of goods.

Chain Supermarkets
Supermarket chains influence all aspects of a person’s life.
Almost every household shop at a supermarket, and even
those who do not are heavily influenced by the significant
and dynamic shift in food distribution. The development of
the supermarket caused a shift in habits around the consumption
of food as well as its purchase. Convenience and
less engaging, more formal human ties have replaced fresh
products and situations that created a close-knit social fabric.
This has resulted in a less cohesive social fabric. Because
consumer nostalgia for the immediacy of the market did
not dissipate, eventually some supermarkets began disguising
themselves as markets by altering the way fruit was exhibited
and even dressed their personnel in historical attire.
Even supermarkets began to imitate traditional markets
by incorporating miniature fish and meat vendors and
bakeries (Tomlinson and Planas). The supermarket concept
is gaining popularity in the Middle East because it
allows consumers to shop for a wide range of goods in
one place (Seth). The number of supermarkets in the UAE
and other GCC countries constantly increases. According
to a recent survey, the average person will spend 2% of
his or her life inside a supermarket. The stores themselves
represent and drive significant changes in social trends,
such as the unstoppable rise of self-service and new,
worldwide food availability. However, with the food supply
process, packaging, delivery, and handling, the price
of goods is higher than those found in local fruit markets.
Outdoor Markets
Some markets function regularly and are referred to as
permanent markets, whereas others only operate during
holidays or more pleasant weather and are referred to
as seasonal markets. An example in the UAE is The Ripe
Market. Ripe was founded in 2011 with the unusual goal
of providing seasonal, organic, and local fresh produce
to residents of the area. Ripe held markets where local
traders gathered to sell their handmade goods and locally
grown food as part of the concept during the cooler
months before the pandemic, and Ripe also sells fresh
produce from the country’s farmers. The outdoor and indoor
markets have become extremely popular among
families due to the variety of available stalls and activities.
47
48

4.2 Production farms in UAE
The UAE’s reliance on imported fruits and vegetables is
prevalent even before the union and food security has
been a concern for centuries. The UAE is fortunate enough
to be able to fund such imports. To prosper, relying on imports
is not secure in the long run. The finances spent on
imports can be invested within the country’s agriculture industry.
The late Sheikh Zayed was a visionary who believed
in the potential of agriculture in the country. He founded
Alain Farms in 1981 and is one of the most prominent farms
in the UAE. Al Ain Farms was the first dairy company established
in the UAE. After 40 impressive years, they are now the
country’s largest incorporated business, operating multiple
farms, the most popular of which is a dairy farm, a fresh
juice business (though the fruits are not locally grown but
are imported), fresh chickens, and camel milk production.
The farms in the UAE almost dominantly harvest greens like
Badia Farms, it is launching a farming revolution in the UAE
with it being the GCC’s first indoor vertical farm. Increasing
recognition for procuring the best greens to Dubai’s most
prestigious restaurants, food vendors, and cooks (Badia).
Their mission is to bridge the gap between the farm and
the chef’s kitchen. They grow delicious, nutritious produce
on their farm near Downtown Dubai without using natural
light, land, or pesticides. They are energy-efficient and sustainable
while using this method, using up to 80% less water.
Dubai’s humid and harsh desert climate is challenging, but
Badia farms demonstrated that anything is possible. They
are the first company in Dubai to provide gourmet greens
to restaurants on the same day of harvesting (Badia).
The Emirates Bio farm in Alain is another excellent example
of farming in the UAE. However, unlike the other farms it is
successful in many different types of produce. The UAE’s
largest organic farm (Emirates Bio Farm). They use sustainable
farming methods to ensure that everything from fruits
and vegetables to eggs is organically certified. Furthermore,
they take pride in delivering the freshest greens to
customers within 24 hours of harvest. The farm’s goal is to
protect the environment by preserving fertile soil in the middle
of the desert in Al Shuwaib, Al Ain, which successfully
generates over 60 varieties of vegetables. By using sustainable
methods such as crop rotation, companion planting,
and natural pest repellents allows the farm to grow chemical-free
crops that offer a high-quality alternative to imported
produce, giving consumers a local and sustainable
option that is healthier and better for the environment.
Harvesting food using sustainable methods such as crop
rotation, companion planting, and natural pest repellents
helps us yield crops that are free of harmful chemicals. This
means the food is healthier, local, and sustainable and provides
consumers with an environmentally friendly option. The
farmers believe that increasing overall farm output is the best
way to make organic food more affordable and accessible
to the local market and to reduce the country’s reliance on
imported goods. At Emirates Bio farm, they are working on a
seed library, where they collect seeds to be reused, increasing
their independence in the region (Emirates Bio Farm).
51
52

SECTION 2

CHAPTER 5
CASE STUDIES
56

CASE STUDIES
5.1 MARKET WITH SOCIAL INTERACTION
57 58

Markthal Rotterdam

Project Description
Project Name: Markthal Rotterdam
Project Year: 2014
Total Floor Area: 96000 m2
Architects: MVRDV
Location: Rotterdam, The Netherlands
The Markthal is a sustainable combination of
food, leisure, living, and parking, a building in
which all functions are fully integrated to celebrate
and enhance their synergetic possibilities.
A secure, covered square is nestled beneath a
large arch, conceived as an entirely new take
on a typical market square and its surrounding
buildings. The €175m Markthal (in Dutch)
stands in a large square in Laurens Quarter,
Rotterdam’s pre-war centre, which was razed
by bombing in 1940 and is undergoing its own
redevelopment. The Markthal replaces a postwar
school building, which has itself been relocated
to an empty office block nearby.

Project Concept: Market
Design Developement
68 69

Project Circulation
First Floor Plan
Section
HORIZONTAL CIRCULATION
VERTICAL CIRCULATION
Typical Floor Plan
65 66

Project Program
Underground Parking and Supermarket
Market Hall on the Ground floor.
Vaulted market hall and wrapped
it in 228 apartments. 100 market
stalls and eight restaurants
69 70
External stairs link the first-floor restaurants
to the ground-floor market

Project Surroundings
Outside Market
Typology
Bicycles near Markthal Rotterdam
71 72
Interior Market
Hall
Interior Market
Hall

Project Materiality
The glass-panelled curtain
shelters the building’s interior
from the elements.
All housing must have natural
light.
Windows overlooking the
market are sealed and
triple-glazed.
Colour, and the vibrancy of the market-stall
trading, is deliberately contrasted and
offset by the building’s stone exterior -
the same grey as the pavement.

Project Structure
40 m
75 76
70 m
120 m

KATRINEHOLM MARKET HALL

Project Description
Competition:Katrineholm Market Hall
Award: Second Prize
Project Name: Katrineholm
Project Year: 2014
Area: + 2500.0 m2
Designed for a site currently occupied by an arcade and bus
stop, the hybrid proposal, known as “Torghallen,” focuses on reconnecting
two open plazas by devoting the ground floor to
the public.
JAJA Architects has won second prize in an open competition
for a combined affordable housing and market hall in the heart
of Katrineholm, Sweden.
Architects: JAJA Architects
Location:Katrineholm, Sweden
79 80

Project Structure
Project Concept: Housing - Market
Existing Arcade
Open Ground Hall - New Market Hall
Housing Units

Project Circulation
HORIZONTAL CIRCULATION
VERTICAL CIRCULATION
Ground Floor Plan
First Floor Plan
Second Floor Plan
83
Third Floor Plan

Project Program
Project Table
Ground Floor Plan
Second Floor Plan
MARKET
HOUSING UNITS
First Floor Plan
Third Floor Plan
Architecturally conceived as a spatial framework, it is open
on the ground floor and inhabited on the three upper floors.
The materiality, tectonic components and spatial intricacies
introduce human-scale spaces that are light, open and inviting.
KATRINEHOLM MARKET HALL
Zone Function Units Area Total Area
Housing Unit Type 1 4 36 m2 144 m2
Unit Type 2 14 73 m2 1,022 m2
Unite Type 3 3 117 m2 351 m2
Unit Type 4 8 68 m2 544 m2
Market Open outdoor market 1 890 m2 890 m2
Total Area: 2951 m2
PUBLIC
PRIVATE
84 85

Project Materiality
Wood to emphasize the warmth of the
place.
The importance of natural sunlight.

SYDNEY FISH MARKET
88

Project Description
Project Name: Sydney Fish Market
Project Year: Completion 2023
Area: 80.000 m2
Architects: 3XN Architects
Location: Sydney, Australia
The project seeks to set in place an exemplary
example of integrating the public realm and
contemporary market space that will become
a landmark in Sydney’s unique harbour-based
urban landscape. The Sydney Fish Market will
be relocated from its existing location in Pyrmont
to an adjacent wharf in Blackwattle Bay
in Sydney Harbour within The Bays Precinct.

Project Concept: Market, Retail
92 93

Accessibility 96 97

Project Program
99

5.2 NEW TRENDS IN FARMING MARKET
102 103

K-Farm, Avoid Obvious Architects
Project Year: 2021
Area: 2000 m2
Location: HongKong
K-farm challenges urban farming under extreme conditions
and makes farming into STEM education for all people.
Because of the coastal condition along Victoria Harbour,
we have combined three types of farming to suit our specific
site and climate: Hydroponics to provide 365 farming in
all conditions, Aquaponics to study how fish and plants coexist,
Organic with various height and species to serve as inclusive
farming and maintain the community’s ecosystem.
Farmlab, Modular Vertical Urban Farms
The proposed modular structure relies on aeroponic growth systems
to provide local products. Proposal offers affordable, locally-grown
products, in food-insecure neighborhoods. Through their street presence,
the tree-structures also serve the important role of creating visibility
and awareness around the importance of greens and vegetables.
104
105

Stefano Boeri Architetti, Urban Vertical
Farm of Brightfood
The project explored a new way of urban production in metropolitan
areas by combining greenery, food production,
and visual aesthetics in a 110,000 square-meter structure.
The project comes as a response to the crises people have been
experiencing during the past previous years as a result of the spread
of urbanization, which include the reduction of production land
area and the destruction of living spaces for animals and plants.
Precht, The Farmhouse
Precht designed The Farmhouse as populations around the
world are increasingly becoming city dwellers who have lost
touch with how their food is produced, while food transportation
has an increasingly damaging effect on the environment.
The conceptual modular system would allow people to grow food
in residential tower blocks to eat or share with their local community.
106

CHAPTER 6
PROGRAM
111 108

6.1 Program Matrix
6.2 Bubble Diagram
109
110

CHAPTER 7
SITE ANALYSIS
117 112

DUBAI
Over 200 nationalities live in Dubai, making it the most
populated city of the Emirates. In comparison with the
other Emirates, Dubai has the lowest rate of farmland and
therefore farmers market compared to the other Emirates.
In compliance with Dubai’s Sustainable Master Plan. It is
Ideal to situate the project in Dubai.
THE GEOGRAPHIC
DISTRIBUTION OF
MARKETS IN DUBAI
SITE ANALYSIS
7.1 Location and Zoning
The characteristics involved that will aid in that
selection are the following:
Active relationship with the rest of the city.
(prominent location)
Pedestrian Friendly
15 min drive to atleast 3 neighborhoods.
Location suitable for G+ buildings
Easy accessibility, next to exit to highways.
Potential to integrate greenary with the surrounding
Shows diversity in urban fabric.
Near diversity in backgrounds
114
VEGETABLE AND FRUIT MARKETS
CHAIN SUPERMARKETS
SEASONAL FARMERS MARKET

ZONE SELECTION
Zone A
Zone B
Zone C
Zone D
115
116

Jumeirah Beach Strip
Burj Khalifa
Overview of Al Safa
Relationship with the city
AlQouz Residential
AlQouz Industrial Zone
117
Overview of Al Safa
Functions

ROADS
GREENARY
The area has one major park, Al Safa Park
and not much greenary around the area.
Overview of Al Safa
Typology
118
Overview of Al Safa
Roads & Greenary
Highway - Sheikh Zayed Road
Roads connecting to Highway
Minor Road - Al Wasl Road

Jumeirah Pearl
Island
Dubai World Trade
Center
Overview of Al Safa
Relationship with the city
Jumeirah Beach
Strip
Burj Khalifa
120
Overview of La Mer
Functions

ROADS
GREENARY
The area is surrounded by strips of green lush
vegetation and a park close by.
Overview of La Mer
Typology
Overview of La Mer
Roads & Greenary
Highway - Sheikh Zayed Road
Roads connecting to Highway
Minor Road

Al Meydan
Al Manara
Residential Area
Overview of Al Qouz Industrial Area
Relationship with the city
Jumeirah Strip
Mall of The
Emirates
123
Overview of Al Qouz Industrial Area
Functions
Al Barsha
Residential Area
Recreational
Area
Industrial
Area

Overview of Al Qouz Industrial Area
Typology
125
Overview of Al Qouz Industrial Area
Roads & Greenary
ROADS
GREENARY
The area has no greenary, it’s a warehouse
industrial area.
Highway - Sheikh Zayed Road
Roads connecting to Highway
Minor Road

Palm Jumeirah
Tourist
Commercial
and Residential
Area
Barsha Heights
Overview of Al Marina
Relationship with the city
The Walk- JBR
127
Overview of Al Marina
Functions
Tourist
Commercial and
Residential
Area
Commercial
and Residential
Area

ROADS
GREENARY
The area has no greenary, it’s a warehouse
industrial area.
Overview of Al Marina
Typology
Overview of Al Marina
Roads & Greenary
Highway - Sheikh Zayed Road
Roads connecting to Highway
Minor Road

La Mer is an exclusive beachfront settlement located within
one of the most prestigious neighbourhoods in Dubai, Jumeirah
1. Developed by Meraas, it will feature a contemporary mix of
dining, entertainment, hospitality options and an exclusive residential
community on the shores of the pristine La Mer Beach.
Port De La Mer is a residential area located on the extension of
La Mer. It features a rectangular marina amidst a promenade
and low-rise apartment blocks facing Pearl Jumeirah.
Criteria A B C D
Accessibility
Zone B was selected
due to the functions
and surroundings within
the zone and proximity
to multiple residential
neighborhoods.
Pedestrian Friendly
Proximity to Residential
Neighborhoods
Greenary and Parks
Final Score
4 4 2 3
Port De La Mer
131
The Evolution of The Zone

Overview of La Mer
Plot
Commercial
Residential

SECTION 3

CHAPTER 8
CONCEPTS AND
DESIGN APPROACH
137

CONCEPTS AND DESIGN APPROACH
Concept Systems
138 139
VOID DYNAMIC CLUSTER

Concept Systems
Void
AIMS
VOID
1. Creating Experiences within enclaves.
2. Sphere Farming Modules.
3. Creating smaller communities within a bigger
one.
Concept Moodboard
DYNAMIC
CLUSTER
140 141

Concept Systems
Dynamic
Concept Systems
Cluster
AIMS
1. Fluidity in form, mimicing the waves.
2. Farming vetical towers.
3. Curves creating open spaces.
AIMS
1. Cluster to provide shade and comfort.
2. Creating many open spaces
3. Farming modules connects the masses.
142 143

CHAPTER 9
BIBLIOGRAPHY
154 145

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FRESH POINTE
By Latifa Al Marri 2022