Historic districts in a global context: a comparative analysis of Dubai and Sharjah through the historic urban landscape framework

The discovery of oil in the late 1950s marked a turning point for the United Arab Emirates, as it transformed into a global metropolis, breaking regional and international records in urban development and infrastructure expansion. This globalization has led to the steady decline of historic districts, prompting urban regeneration as a strategic tool to reverse their neglect and secure UNESCO designation. This research examines the urban regeneration initiatives undertaken in Al Fahidi; Dubai and Heart of Sharjah; Sharjah, exploring their convergences and divergences through the lens of the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) framework to assess pathways toward UNESCO inscription. Employing a comparative analytical case study methodology, the research integrates qualitative data derived from the secondary sources, including peer-reviewed literature, governmental reports, UNESCO dossier, and archival maps and photographs. The methodological approach further incorporates a theoretical inquiry into urban regeneration, the need for sustainable urban regeneration and the HUL framework, forming the basis for a nuanced comparative evaluation. The application of the HUL framework to Al Fahidi and Heart of Sharjah reveals limited consistency, with both cases effectively addressing mapping resources, integrating urban development, prioritizing action and establishing local partnerships. However, a lack of consensus or community preference and vulnerability assessments indicates gaps in the comprehensive implementation of the HUL. Based on this, the study identifies three recommendations that can help Dubai and Sharjah achieve sustainable urban regeneration and strengthen their stance for UNESCO designation. The findings will contribute to the ongoing heritage discourse in the Gulf region by advancing the application of the HUL approach and simultaneously offering HUL-oriented recommendations for incorporating the community’s preferred urban governance.