by urb unveils plans for new dubai ecotourism landmark
Reinforcing its position as one of the main tourist destinations in the world, dubai is ready to transform its desert landscape to house an ecological giant agrotourism Monument. Proposed by architecture studio URB, Agri Hub will be entirely powered by renewable energy, weaving retail, educational and leisure facilities into a meandering metallic form that blends in with its natural context.
The project is driven by the emirate’s broader initiative to position itself as a global benchmark for rural ecotourism. By promoting a green economy and fostering the sustainability of local communities, heritage and cultural landscapes, Agri Hub will improve the lives of farmers while enriching the environment and local culture.
Agri Hub meanders through the Dubai desert | all images by urb
promote a green economy for the rural community
Inviting tourists to an educational and recreational experience in the heart of the desert, URB’s Agri Hub will feature a nature and heritage conservation center, ecotourism and restorative wellness facilities, as well as an agricultural technology institute that will create an ecosystem of collaborative research and innovation. In total, more than 10,000 new jobs will be created in various sectors, promoting a green economy for local rural residents and improving their quality of life.
In its design and typology, the monumental structure topped by a delicate geometric design gives the visitor the feeling of being immersed in nature, both inside and out. As you meander through Dubai’s lush landscape of palm trees and farmland, the design team it continues to integrate natural elements within the interior as well.
intertwining retail, commercial, educational, wellness and leisure facilities
The Agri Hub will serve as a model for the decarbonised rural destination of the future, starting with offsetting its embodied carbon emissions from construction and operation. Other environmental features will include its 100% renewable energy and water recycling systems, biosaline agriculture, eco-friendly transit systems, and on-site zero waste management.
Baharash Bagherian, CEO of URB, points out: ‘Agri Hub will provide spaces for local farmers to sell their produce directly from their farms, while offering a new eco-friendly shopping, dining and edutainment experience for visitors. Beyond becoming a new tourism experience in Dubai’s countryside and nature, the project will also promote greater health, well-being and prosperity for local rural dwellers.”
the largest agro-tourism project in the world will create more than 10,000 jobs
URB will offset embodied carbon emissions from construction to operation
