Masdar – The City of the Future?

Masdar was created by the Emir of Abu Dhabi, who commissioned the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Boston to research renewable energy sources. As a result, the concept of a self-sustaining, zero-CO2 city powered entirely by renewable energy emerged. To test this idea in practice, an area approximately 17 km southeast of Abu Dhabi (near Abu Dhabi International Airport) was selected. The project began in 2006, with an estimated cost of $22 billion and an expected completion date of 2016. However, due to the economic crisis, the final completion date was pushed to 2040.

In Arabic, “Masdar” means “source” and refers to the technological innovations to be implemented in the city. Masdar draws energy from a 10-megawatt photovoltaic plant, one of the largest in the Middle East. Additionally, buildings in the city are equipped with photovoltaic installations. Instead of standard switches, light sensors are used, significantly reducing energy consumption.

To save energy, Masdar was built using passive design techniques, which include:

– positioning windows to minimize direct sunlight exposure,
– insulating buildings and using reflective construction materials,
– implementing natural ventilation in buildings.

Masdar was constructed 7.5 meters above ground level to improve airflow. Interestingly, at the city’s center stands a 45-meter wind tower that captures wind, cools it, and directs it to the street level. Special sensors at the top, enable efficient positioning of shutters to direct airflow. This is a simple solution, known for centuries in desert regions.

The city’s northeast orientation also reduces sunlight exposure. Buildings are placed close together, limiting light penetration, which is crucial as summer temperatures can reach up to 50°C. These solutions lower the city’s temperature by 5-10 degrees compared to nearby Abu Dhabi. The close proximity of buildings does not compromise residents’ privacy, as walls taper downward. Extended roofs protect facades from heating, and balconies are designed to maximize shade.

Buildings are equipped with daylighting systems to illuminate interiors. Skylights embedded in walkways provide light to the underground areas. Waste is sorted at homes and collected directly through chutes to an underground landfill. Water is partially sourced from the air via a water tower that collects water vapor. Masdar is a pedestrian-only city, with no cars allowed. Transportation will be realised underground, using autonomous electric taxis running on special magnetic tracks.

Masdar is also testing the use of geothermal waters for thermal cooling and providing hot water for buildings. The aim is to recycle 80% of the water used, with plans for multiple reuses. Special underground water recovery systems are designed for irrigating crops.

Masdar serves as a testing ground for numerous research projects focused on sustainable development. The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology develops renewable energy solutions here. At the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, new AI technologies are being developed. The Siemens building in the complex, features eco-friendly solutions, reducing water consumption by nearly 50% and electricity use by 46%. Solar collectors on its roof cover 75% of the hot water demand. Another noteworthy building is the Innovation Incubator, characterized by slanted walls that reduce sunlight exposure inside by 30%, thus minimizing cooling costs.

Masdar looks very modern yet retains a unique character by applying Arabic architecture. Its target area is 6 km², with a planned population of 50,000 residents and 40,000 employees from outside the city. Currently, it’s halfway completed and is home to only 15,000 people, primarily associated with the companies and institutions operating there. Full infrastructure, such as schools, kindergartens, and cultural-entertainment facilities, hasn’t been developed yet. What is its future? It’s hard to say, as uncertainty around the success of this investment currently poses a significant obstacle to its settlement.