The Spatial Logic of Doha Using Space Syntax to Enhance Safety in Designing for Vehicular and Pedestrian Networks at the Macro- and Micro-scale of the Urban Environment

Abstract

Recently, researchers at Qatar University in consultation with an industry partner constructed a space syntax model based on a 2013 Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) plan of Metropolitan Doha. The model encompasses nearly 23,000 streets stretching from Mesaieed in the south to Umm Al Abariq in the north and from the Arabian Gulf in the east to the future F-Ring Road/Lusail-Salwa Truck Route in the west. Refinement continues as researchers verify details and update the model to reflect more recent changes in the Doha street network over the last five years (2014-2018). However, at this stage, the space syntax model already represents a realistic snapshot of urban function in Metropolitan Doha before researchers embed other socio-economic data such as land uses and population densities. This includes the strategic importance of Salwa Road and the D-Ring Road, the use of an orthogonal grid in the Industrial Area layout to enhance accessibility at the macro-scale, and the exclusive nature of The Pearl in the street network of the metropolis.

Keyword: Space syntax, Road safety, Urban development