Abu Dhabi launches Sahl system to measure accessibility

Abu Dhabi: The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), in collaboration with various government entities and private sector organizations, has launched the “Sahl” Accessibility Assessment System. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility to facilities, establishments, and public spaces across Abu Dhabi, ensuring a more inclusive environment for People of Determination.

DMT is committed to working closely with participating government and private sector entities to achieve significant milestones that contribute to building an integrated and sustainable society, aligning with the UAE’s “Year of Community” objectives. Through “Sahl,” the department seeks to develop a comprehensive framework for accessible buildings and infrastructure that facilitate mobility and cater to the diverse needs of residents and visitors—especially People of Determination, senior citizens, and individuals with temporary or situational impairments, such as parents carrying children. This initiative fosters a sustainable urban environment that promotes social cohesion and seamless community integration.

The project is set to evaluate accessibility for People of Determination and senior citizens across various facilities, beginning with a pilot phase on Yas Island. This pilot will test the “Sahl Accessibility Assessment Framework,” developed by DMT as a key initiative under the “Comprehensive Access” pillar of Abu Dhabi’s Strategy for People of Determination. By conducting a comprehensive accessibility assessment of facilities and public spaces, the initiative aims to lay the groundwork for future planning and development phases of an inclusive city, ensuring that all initiatives are informed by real user experiences.

Inclusive urban development

Dr. Saif Sultan Al Nasseri, Acting Undersecretary of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, said; “The Sahl Accessibility Assessment System marks a significant step in our ongoing efforts to enhance mobility and create a more inclusive environment across the emirate. By introducing this system, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering all community members and improving their quality of life, regardless of their abilities, by enabling seamless access to surrounding spaces and public facilities.”

A mandatory system

Initially, the system will be mandatory for new projects following a successful one-year pilot phase. It will then be expanded to existing buildings and establishments, which will be assessed and certified based on three categories:

• Sahl Community Certification: Applied to residential communities and master plans.
• Sahl Public Places Certification: Covers public spaces and open areas.
• Sahl Buildings Certification: Applied to commercial, government, and public facilities.

Each category will be evaluated across four levels: Qualified, Adaptable, Inclusive, and Exemplary, ensuring clear benchmarks for barrier-free mobility.

The system will be integrated into all phases of project design, construction, and operation. DMT will monitor compliance during the design phase, verify accurate implementation during construction, and conduct operational reviews every five years, issuing certifications based on these evaluations.

Enhancing accessibility through real-world insights

The Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi (DCD) previously conducted a Customer Experience Assessment Journey with People of Determination and senior citizens across various facilities and services on Yas Island.

This assessment, a key step in evaluating the current state of accessibility, aligns with a collaborative agreement between DCD and Aldar Properties to create an integrated, inclusive living environment. The study specifically focuses on individuals with physical disabilities, autism, visual and hearing impairments, and intellectual disabilities, assessing access to Yas Island’s key services, including:

• Public transportation and mobility services
• Hospitality and accommodation
• Retail and entertainment centers
• Fitness and sports facilities
• Dining and food courts at Yas Mall
• Cinema experiences
• Religious facilities
• Aldar Properties’ customer service offices

By identifying areas for improvement, the assessment ensures better accommodation of People of Determination and senior citizens. The initiative prioritizes beneficiary feedback to analyze real-life challenges and develop targeted recommendations for enhancing accessibility and inclusion.