Dumat Al Jandal is an oasis town with a rich cultural heritage along historic trade routes. Following a winning competition entry, AS+P was commissioned to develop the conceptual master plan for the lakeside area, including an integrated open-space and mobility concept building on the site’s recreational use.

The open-space concept is shaped by the area’s key strengths: the lake as a life-giving element, traditions of date cultivation, emerging olive agriculture, and the site’s distinctive geology and topography. These elements are woven into a cohesive landscape concept guided by three principles: improving water quality, creating identity-forming spaces rooted in local culture, and encouraging active, healthy lifestyles.

A site-specific approach addresses the challenging topography, ensuring safe lake access while preserving steep slopes and geological features. As the lake and oasis are designated as an Important Bird Area, habitat protection is central. Integrated wetlands and a protected nature reserve enhance biodiversity and support ecotourism.

The concept proposes a sequence of open-space zones with varying intensity, from arid landscape parks and wetlands to olive groves, beaches, promenades, and active recreation areas, all connected by climate-responsive walking and cycling paths. Improving lake water quality is a core challenge, addressed through a customized constructed wetland system integrated into the landscape. Community involvement and circular-economy principles underpin the project’s long-term sustainability.