The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has introduced the Sahel Rating System, an initiative designed to improve accessibility throughout Abu Dhabi. This program is developed in collaboration with various government and private organizations to ensure inclusivity across the city’s built environment.

The Sahel initiative reflects DMT’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and sustainable community, aiming to enhance the quality of life in alignment with the UAE’s Year of Community. The term “Sahel,” meaning ease in Arabic, signifies the goal of making the environment welcoming for all individuals, including senior citizens, pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and those facing temporary or situational accessibility challenges.

His Excellency Dr. Saif Sultan Al Nasri, Acting Undersecretary at DMT, emphasized the importance of the Sahel Rating System in promoting navigability within the emirate. He stated, “The Sahel Rating System is a pivotal part of our efforts to enhance navigability and create a more inclusive emirate. By introducing this system, we are reinforcing our commitment to guarantee that every individual, regardless of their abilities, can engage with the spaces around them with ease.”

After a successful pilot phase lasting one year, the Sahel Rating System will be mandatory for new developments. There are plans to extend its application retroactively to existing buildings and spaces. The rating system categorizes assessments into three areas: Sahel Community Rating for communities and master-planned developments, Sahel Public Realm Rating for public spaces, and Sahel Building Rating for all types of buildings, including commercial and government structures. Each category will be rated on four levels: Accessible, Adaptable, Inclusive, and Exemplar, establishing clear standards for barrier-free movement.

The implementation process will cover the design, construction, and operational stages. Compliance will be verified during the design phase through DMT’s procedures. In the construction phase, an audit will ensure adherence to designs, with reports submitted for review. Finally, the operational phase will include a review of the functionality of the built assets every five years, leading to updated certifications based on these evaluations.