The Socio-Environmental Metamorphoses: U.A.E. as a Case Study

Abstract

This paper explores the relationship between the tangible objects reflecting the use of the space and the cultural aspects expressing the identity of the place. The importance of the public spaces in the communication of identity might be seen as one aspect of the area of research into the meaning of the urban space and its relationship to the physical form of housing in the U.A.E. It is assumed that the physical form of the urban space mediates and structures gender relations. This will be illuminated by elements of the urban development and particularly of the urban activities, and an explanation of its relationship to changing ideologies and architectural norms. Typically, the urban and public places symbolize accepted notions of the appropriate function of the gathering spaces and preferred public relations, such notions are in themselves profoundly important in structuring gender relations. The city of today differs from its past in several respects: size and scale, street layout, land use patterns, architectural style and type of housing. Traditional urban form and building which would have provided information about regional and national identity have been largely replaced by forms characterizing the international and universal buildings and spaces. These changes have altered the city’s form and have given rise to questions about the impact of these changes on the image of the city in terms of size and cultural values.