Abu Dhabi Launches “Sahl” Initiative to Revolutionise Accessibility Across Public Spaces

Editorial Team

Last updated 24-03-2025

3 min

Abu Dhabi launched the "Sahl Accessibility Assessment System" to enhance inclusivity in public spaces.

Pilot testing on Yas Island targets improvements and solutions for accessibility over the next year.

The assessment becomes mandatory for new construction, with existing buildings facing evaluations.

Accessibility classifications feature levels: Qualified, Adaptable, Inclusive, and Exemplary.

Feedback from people of determination is crucial for shaping future improvements in the city.

Abu Dhabi has unveiled a promising new initiative known as the "Sahl Accessibility Assessment System" aimed at ensuring the Emirate's public spaces and buildings are welcoming and inclusive for everyone, particularly individuals with disabilities (sometimes locally known as people of determination), elderly residents, and anyone with temporary impairments.

Launched by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), this thoughtful scheme is part of Abu Dhabi's broader goal to build a more connected, inclusive community, right in line with the UAE’s "Year of Community" goals. Developed in close collaboration between government divisions and various private-sector partners, "Sahl" provides a clear and structured method of assessing how well public areas and facilities meet accessibility requirements.

To kick things off, Yas Island was selected to pilot the project. Over the next year, the authorities will test-drive their new assessment framework, spotting areas that need improvement and finding solutions to iron out the kinks. Once this 12-month trial wraps up, the Sahl system will become compulsory for all new construction projects. Existing buildings aren’t getting off scot-free either: they'll be assessed and given accessibility certifications to encourage them to step up and make adjustments as needed.

Under the new guidelines programmes fall into three classifications, measured across four rating levels: Qualified, Adaptable, Inclusive, and Exemplary. Officials intend to openly monitor progress from design concepts right the way through to actual operations, with checks every five years to ensure standards stay on point.

To make sure the system works practically and meets real-world needs, the Department of Community Development (DCD) recently ran a thorough user experience study around Yas Island. People of determination and senior citizens visited public transport hubs, places of worship, shopping centres, hotels and entertainment venues, giving valuable insight into how accessible these spaces really are. Their honest feedback is essential to shape future improvements and elevate Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a genuinely inclusive city.

Clearly, Abu Dhabi’s authorities are putting their money where their mouth is, showing determination to boost the day-to-day quality of life for the city's residents and visitors. With solid, committed efforts like this, everyone—from wheelchair users enjoying an afternoon at Yas Marina Circuit to senior citizens having a leisurely stroll in the mall—can feel more independant and truly at home in the Emirate.

And who knows, perhaps future assessments might make my own trips to Yas Island for a bite of shawarma and some sunshine even better—and smoother—than they already are. Arageek readers, let’s wait and watch how these plans unfold.

🚀 Got exciting news to share?

If you're a startup founder, VC, or PR agency with big updates—funding rounds, product launches 📢, or company milestones 🎉 — AraGeek English wants to hear from you!