Proscape Takes Center Stage in Developing Expo Valley Nature Reserve at Expo City Dubai
In a significant development that underscores the growing emphasis on sustainability in urban planning, Expo City Dubai has appointed Proscape, a prominent landscape contracting firm, to bring to life the Expo Valley nature reserve. This initiative is indicative of Expo City’s vision for sustainable living and the increasing demand for green spaces within urban environments.
The implementation of the Expo Valley nature reserve is a landmark milestone in the broader development of Expo City, which seeks to blend environmental consciousness with the well-being of its residents. The nature reserve is poised to become a defining feature of the landscape, offering a biodiverse environment that includes a lake, a wadi, and a plethora of flora designed in consultation with wildlife specialists. This careful planning aims to support a wide variety of plant and animal life, thereby enriching the ecological footprint of the city.
Spanning a generous 10 hectares, the Expo Valley nature reserve is designed to incorporate approximately 1,200 trees, with a notable two-thirds of these being legacy specimens preserved from the Expo 2020 Dubai event. The diversity of flora being cultivated at the on-site nursery includes native and adaptive species such as acacia and ghaf trees, chosen for their resilience in the harsh climatic conditions of the United Arab Emirates. This careful selection reflects a commitment not merely to aesthetics but also to ecological stewardship, ensuring the survival and thriving of these plants.
Ahmed Al Khatib, the Chief Development and Delivery Officer of Expo City Dubai, spoke passionately about the project, stating, “The Expo Valley nature reserve – a key milestone in the development of our master plan – exemplifies our dedication to creating a resilient and biodiverse landscape that reflects Expo City’s enduring environmental vision.” He further emphasized the importance of the nature reserve as a recreational and social hub that will enhance the quality of life for residents, indicating a holistic approach to urban living that integrates natural elements into daily life.
Collaboratively, Proscape brings extensive experience in urban ecological development to this partnership. Naser M Ahmed, Group CEO of Proscape, expressed his enthusiasm, noting, “We are honoured to work with Expo City Dubai on such a meaningful and future-focused initiative.” His confidence in the project’s potential stems from Proscape’s commitment to ensuring excellence at every stage, emphasizing that their work will invite residents to engage more deeply with the natural environment around them.
The scope of Proscape’s engagement encompasses an array of specialized tasks including precise land grading, the construction of the lake, advanced irrigation systems, and the establishment of robust infrastructure, all set to commence in July 2025, with the anticipated completion date in the first half of 2026.
Expo Valley is not merely a nature reserve but is also designed to be a gated community where homes harmoniously integrate with the natural landscape. This residential area is anticipated to receive its first occupants by late 2026. Integral to the overarching Expo City Dubai master plan, Expo Valley is guided by the principles of a “15-minute city” that prioritizes sustainability and accessibility, promoting a lifestyle where all essential amenities are within close reach.
Notably, Expo City is pioneering in the realm of sustainability, being the first urban center in the Middle East and North Africa region to achieve pre-certification in WELL Community. It is aiming for a Gold certification, in addition to pursuing BREEAM Infrastructure Certification at the Excellent level. Both of these certifications represent global standards that highlight a firm commitment to environmental performance and the health of communities.
In tandem with these ambitions, Expo City has also been pre-certified with the Platinum rating—the highest accolade—under the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Cities and Communities standard. This certification underscores commitments to inclusivity, economic development, and proactive environmental preservation.
The cooperation between Expo City Dubai and Proscape is poised to mark a pivotal moment in the ongoing development of Dubai, reinforcing the city’s strategic position as a key node in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and a fundamental participant in the city’s Economic Agenda (D33). Through initiatives like the Expo Valley nature reserve, Dubai continues to mold a future that marries urban living with ecological integrity, setting a standard for cities both in the region and around the globe.
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