The BEEAH headquarters was just the beginning. Now Hadid's desert-inspired architecture guides an entire city rooted in sustainability and innovation.
A desert-born sustainable city takes shape near Sharjah
The masterplan designed by Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) for the sustainable city in the desert surrounding BEEAH’s headquarters in the United Arab Emirates is expanding. Khalid Bin Sultan City will rise east of Sharjah’s airport, next to the iconic building shaped by Hadid’s unmistakable style.
The design language evokes desert dunes while embedding the core principles of green architecture.
Sustainability, smart tech, culture, and people
The sustainable city’s masterplan continues BEEAH’s founding vision for its headquarters, guided by four core pillars:
- sustainability
- smart technology
- culture
- human-centered design
Around these values, seven residential districts will be developed. Each neighborhood will be organized around a central public space designed to foster community well-being and social interaction.
At the heart of the urban design is a 2-kilometer linear park with fluid, organic shapes weaving through the city. This green spine connects all districts, echoing the curved silhouettes of the surrounding architecture and offering natural vistas throughout this desert-based city.
More than a green lung, the park will serve as a biodiversity hub and social connector, integrating water features to help counteract the city’s high desert temperatures.
The project outlines a car-free urban layout. According to ZHA, vehicles will be limited to the city’s outer edges, creating a low-emission, human-friendly environment at the core.
Inside, pedestrian and cycling paths will ensure safe, accessible, and healthy mobility for residents. These shaded paths, integrated with green zones and water elements, will reduce ground-level heat and improve thermal comfort throughout the desert climate.
A desert city built for people
Special attention has been given to public areas and urban functions. Next to BEEAH’s headquarters, on the northern edge of the city, a new cultural center will give rise to a design and business district expected to become a creative hub for Sharjah. Cultural and entrepreneurial incubators will support innovation and circular design models.
At the center of the park, landmark buildings will include a contemporary mosque, a sports center, and a commercial complex anchoring the city’s southern end.
Despite its desert setting, Khalid Bin Sultan City reflects a people-first approach to sustainable urbanism, where well-being, nature, and city life coexist.
