Today, more than 4.4 billion people, over half the world’s population, live in urban areas, a figure expected to climb to 70% by 2050, according to the World Bank. Cities will be home to a majority of humanity, and where we live plays a significant role in shaping our overall health and well-being. While genetics and individual choices matter, it is the environments in which we live, work, and play that exert the greatest influence on our health. This presents a unique challenge as well as an extraordinary opportunity for urban planners, policymakers, and developers.

Cities are designed, which means they can also be redesigned to better meet the needs of their inhabitants. The question is: how can we create urban spaces that foster physical, mental, and social well-being for all? The answer lies in thoughtful, community-driven design and innovative practices that integrate wellness and sustainability into the urban fabric.

Designing for wellness

Building healthier communities begins with prioritising spaces that enhance the quality of life. This involves rethinking urban design to promote connection, activity, and tranquillity. For example, walkable neighbourhoods with accessible green spaces encourage physical activity and help reduce stress in residents. Creating meandering paths through the greenery provides havens for pause and relaxation amidst the urban bustle. Quiet zones, sensory gardens, and rooftop wellness areas create spaces for introspection and mental rejuvenation.

There is an epidemic of loneliness sweeping across the world, particularly affecting young people and other vulnerable groups. While social distancing was a necessity to protect public health during the pandemic, we should now take urgent steps to bring people together in shared activities and offer more opportunities for residents to gather and connect.

In cities across the world, from Gothenburg and Berlin to Salem and London, “chatty benches” are being set up to encourage small talk. If you sit on one of the benches, it means you’re open to having a conversation with a stranger. Parks, shared community spaces, and playgrounds foster human connection, addressing urban loneliness and helping to improve mental health.

Integrating retail, hospitality, commercial and residential components within a community not only makes life more convenient and richer for residents but also promotes economic vibrancy and job creation in the area. Restaurants and venues attract both locals and people from outside the community, serving to catalyse investment in surrounding businesses and even help to boost property values. 

What’s more, strong social connections help promote overall well-being. Neighbourhoods and local businesses flourish on the back of these networks. Mixed-use communities that weave residential, commercial, and recreational spaces into one seamless urban fabric help make life more vibrant and rewarding.

Smart solutions

In today’s real estate market, wellness is no longer a luxury, it’s a fundamental expectation.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai has approved the Dubai Walk Master Plan, a visionary initiative aimed at transforming Dubai into a pedestrian-friendly city. Dubai Walk promotes active lifestyles, exercise opportunities for all, and makes walking central to daily lives. This vision will position Dubai as one of the world’s healthiest and most sustainable cities.

Developers like Deyaar are already aligning with this vision, integrating wellness and sustainability into projects such as Park Five, a new community under development inDubai Production City, designed to set new standards in urban living, increasing pedestrian and soft mobility within the community.

Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled homes and energy-efficient systems enhance convenience while reducing environmental impact. Sustainable construction, renewable energy initiatives, and waste recycling programs help support a greener future. Community apps and online platforms foster interaction through fitness challenges, local events, and shared resources.

Park Five exemplifies this vision by seamlessly combining wellness-centric living with affordability. Features like yoga lawns, infinity-edge pools, and rooftop Zen gardens encourage an active and balanced lifestyle, while energy-efficient systems and lush greenery promote environmental harmony. Thoughtfully designed pathways, reminiscent of traditional Arabian sikkas, connect residents to wellness and recreational spaces, from co-working areas to shaded outdoor cinemas.

Challenges and Opportunities

Creating wellness-focused urban spaces comes with its own set of challenges. Balancing affordability with high-quality infrastructure is a critical concern, especially in rapidly growing cities. Additionally, urban design must evolve to accommodate shifting demographics and lifestyles, such as remote work and increased demand for wellness amenities. Collaboration between governments, NGOs, and private developers will be essential in addressing these complexities and ensuring that wellness remains accessible to all.

As the world becomes increasingly urbanized, we must rethink how cities are designed. Developers, policymakers, and residents alike have a role to play in creating environments where people thrive. By prioritising wellness and sustainability, we can redefine urban living and build cities that are not just habitable, but truly life-enhancing.

Projects like Park Five by Deyaar are leading the way, demonstrating that it is possible to balance innovation, well-being, and accessibility. While creating a vision for a better future, it also provides a blueprint for making it a reality. Together, we can design communities and build cities that prioritise health, happiness, and sustainability, ensuring that urban living becomes synonymous with a higher quality of life for all.

An exclusive look at how Jashanmal redefines luxury décor for Ramadan, blending tradition with timeless elegance.

Creating a refined and inviting atmosphere in your home is an art that combines sophistication with thoughtful design. Whether hosting a grand dinner or an intimate family gathering, curating an ambiance of elegance can transform each meal into a celebration of tradition and style with grandeur.

Ramadan is a time for familial reunions and gatherings, embracing the warmth of shared traditions and the blessings of togetherness. This presents a perfect opportunity to curate an ambiance of refined luxury within your home, an exquisite setting that elevates the Iftar and Suhoor experience, transforming each gathering into a meaningful celebration of faith, connection, and opulence.

TIMELESS TRADITIONS WITH HINTS OF LUXURIOUS TOUCHES

Luxury décor is more than just opulence; it reflects a person’s identity, cultural heritage, and aspirations.  Luxury isn’t just about the price; it’s about the intrinsic value it carries. In many homes, exquisite décor preserves generational stories with heirloom pieces standing as timeless investments. They are built to last and remain an integral part of the household. The essence of luxury also lies in ethical craftsmanship, where the use of sustainably sourced, enduring materials with traditional craftsmanship and expertise ensures a seamless fusion of elegance, responsibility, and longevity.

To foster a welcoming atmosphere that exudes warmth, thoughtfully chosen décor elements should balance both sophistication and functionality. Whether embracing timeless classics or contemporary elegance, high-quality tableware not only enhances functionality but also offers a seamless blend of tradition, luxury, and modern sophistication.  Intricately designed porcelain or finely crafted silver cutlery serves as a statement of elegance, emphasizing the importance of quality, legacy, and cultural significance. For many families, fine crockery has been a cherished symbol of heritage, carrying stories that have been passed down through generations. Crafted with intricate detailing, these pieces exude exclusivity and craftmanship at their finest. To complement the warm tones of the season, opt for fine porcelain or intricately hand-painted dinnerware in gold or silver accents. These can be paired nicely with matching flatware with sleek finishes. Crystal glassware can provide an added splash of opulence.

A TRADITIONAL HOME MAKEOVER

Carefully chosen textiles play a crucial role in creating a warm ambiance. Opting for linens in premium fabrics like satin, velvet, or fine linen in rich colours like sapphire blue, royal purple or emerald green for an inviting atmosphere for your Iftar and Suhoor meals and add a touch of sophistication. Intricate embroidery or gold-thread detailing further enhances the aesthetic with an added layer of sophistication. The addition of elegant throws or decorative cushions on sofas also fosters a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

By carefully selecting exquisite decor, from opulent tableware to luxurious textiles and ambient lighting, one can effortlessly create an inviting ambiance of sophistication and warmth that makes every guest feel valued and welcome. As families come together, these carefully chosen details become more than mere embellishments; they serve as a reflection of the profound significance of the holy month, elevating each gathering into an experience of lasting memories, heartfelt connection, and spiritual grace.

By Mark Phoenix – CEO of Sankari

The way we think about real estate is evolving, and at the heart of this change is a renewed focus on wellness. As we become more aware of the profound impact our living environments have on our health and well-being, it’s clear that real estate must go beyond aesthetics and luxury—it must support a lifestyle of vitality and longevity. To me, true luxury is no longer defined solely by opulence but by spaces that promote health, balance, and connection.

The demand for wellness-oriented spaces is growing rapidly, and real estate developers must rise to meet it. Today’s buyers are looking for more than just high-end finishes and exclusive locations—they want environments that enhance their well-being. Integrating wellness features such as fitness centers, yoga studios, meditation areas, and holistic health services is no longer an option; it’s a necessity. These spaces don’t just add value to a property; they create communities that create physical health, mental clarity, and social engagement.

Wellness-centric design is about more than just adding amenities—it’s about creating environments that encourage movement, relaxation, and human connection. By prioritizing well-being in real estate, developers can offer residents a lifestyle that aligns with modern values and aspirations. These spaces cultivate a sense of belonging, allowing people to come together in ways that enrich their lives beyond the walls of their homes.

Beyond individual benefits, wellness-focused communities have a lasting impact on society. As more people seek out homes that support their health, the real estate industry has an opportunity to lead this cultural shift. Developments that incorporate sustainable materials, biophilic design, and eco-friendly building practices not only benefit residents but also contribute to a healthier planet.

In the ultra-luxury segment, this focus on wellness is especially meaningful. The most sought-after properties are no longer just about extravagance—they are about creating a sanctuary where people can rejuvenate both physically and mentally. True luxury lies in thoughtful, health-driven design that enhances everyday life in meaningful ways.

Designing for wellness also means partnering with visionary architects and designers who understand the importance of both form and function. In regions with challenging climates, for example, innovative solutions can help reduce environmental impact while enhancing comfort and efficiency. Securing sustainability certifications like LEED further reinforces a commitment to responsible development and aligns with the global movement toward eco-conscious living.

For me, integrating wellness into real estate is more than just a trend—it’s a deeply personal mission and a strategic imperative. The places we live should do more than just shelter us; they should actively contribute to our health and happiness. By embedding wellness into the very foundation of luxury real estate, we’re not just shaping beautiful spaces—we’re shaping better lives.