A behavioural analysis of outdoor thermal comfort in a hot, arid climate: a culture and gender equality perspective

Abstract

This study investigated how gender influences subjective comfort perceptions and behavioural adaptations, to establish the limits of the thermal sensation scale for males and females in the hot, arid climate of Al Ain, in the UAE. It is the first of its kind in the Gulf Cooperation Countries. Two locations on a university campus, reflecting cultural traditions, were compared. Data collected through interviews, observations, and measurements showed that males and females have different thermal comfort ranges (22.1–33.4°C PET for males, 21.2–32.7°C for females). Factors like perceived control over exposure to discomfort influenced thermal sensation. The study suggests urban planning should consider gender equality to improve outdoor thermal comfort and encourage the use of open spaces, indicating socio-economic influences on thermal adaptation in the region.