Assessing Neighborhood Satisfaction and Social Capital in a Multi-Cultural Setting of an Abu Dhabi Neighborhood

Anfal Al-Ali, Praveen Maghelal and Khaled Alawadi
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Anfal Al-Ali: Graduate Student, Sustainable Critical Infrastructure Program, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, UAE
Praveen Maghelal: Sustainable Critical Infrastructure Program, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, UAE
Khaled Alawadi: Sustainable Critical Infrastructure Program, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, UAE

Sustainability, 2020, vol. 12, issue 8, 1-16

Abstract: Behavioral research studies propose that urban open spaces contribute to enhance sociability in urban areas. The urban areas in the city of Abu Dhabi are less appealing to attract vibrant activity and social life. This study investigates the role of the built environment in the enhancement of neighborhood satisfaction and social capital in a residential neighborhood of Abu Dhabi. A total of 145 residents were surveyed for their perception, attitude, and behavior. Regression analyses to predict the role of the built environment of the open space, as well as the ethnicity of respondents, on measures of neighborhood satisfaction and social capital were performed. Spatial data and audit tools were used to assess the lack of suitable built-environment in the study area. Results indicate that improvements to the built environment can improve both the social capital and neighborhood satisfaction of the urban residents of Abu Dhabi. Implications of this study include recommendations to enhance the experience of urban spaces in arid regions like Abu Dhabi. Recommendations include adding landscape elements, providing a comfortable walking environment, adding attractive locations and destinations, and a clean and safe environment with attractive buildings or homes.

Keywords: social capital; neighborhood satisfaction; built environment; open space; Abu Dhabi (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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