The Role of Green Infrastructure in Enhancing Microclimate Conditions: A Case Study of a Low-Rise Neighborhood in Abu Dhabi

Urban heat islands are characterized by the increased temperature in urban areas compared with rural surroundings due to human-made interventions that replace natural lands buildings and roads. This study focuses on assessment utilization of using local nature-based solutions such as trees, sensitive landscaping types design strategies enhance microclimate neighborhood streets public realm desert areas, taking Abu Dhabi a case study. The research utilizes design-based approach propose layouts street trees low-rise residential areas. In this study, two methods namely an on-site measurement citizen science, numerical simulation model ENVI-met software used. Site-measurements included tree physical characteristics height, crown width (crown spread/diameter), trunk use technology (photography Fulcrum mobile application, Nikon Forestry pro Laser Rangefinder) air around trees. four scenarios: 1—“no-vegetation”, 2—“grass-only”, 3—“existing conditions” 4—“proposed landscape design”. Grass three used proposed scenarios including Ghaf, Poinciana, Temple tree. addition, standard 6 8 m spacing between each is applied determine effect varying vegetation densities outdoor temperature. combined results science allowed identification particular species show substantial cooling effects. Poinciana which decreased up 0.9 °C when spaced every six meters pathways open unshaded amongst alleys, improving overall thermal conditions neighborhoods hot-arid landscapes.