Overview

Through depth modules, participants will explore how Sahel aligns with Abu Dhabi Vision and supports the creation of accessible master-planned communities. The course introduces Sahel’s three core tiers-Buildings, Public Realm, and Communities-and explains how they integrate to form a unified system that prioritizes people and inclusivity.

Learners will gain a detailed understanding of the rating levels, credit types, and certification lifecycle, as well as the roles of various stakeholders involved in the process. Practical case simulations and real-life examples from Abu Dhabi will demonstrate how Sahel standards can be implemented effectively to enhance community livability and sustainability.

By the end of the program, participants will be equipped to apply Sahel principles in planning, design, and assessment processes, ensuring that accessibility and inclusion become integral components of every community development project.

Course Deliverables

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

Explain the strategic purpose and vision of the Sahel Community Rating System and its alignment with Abu Dhabi Vision and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
work, including its three tiers-Buildings, Public Realm, and Communities-and their interconnections.
Interpret and apply Sahel rating levels, credit types, and certification procedures to community-scale development projects.
Define the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders involved in the certification process, including Sahel Qualified Professionals, developers, consultants, and assessors.
Analyze and apply the 11 community rating categories to real-world planning scenarios, ensuring accessibility, inclusivity, and sustainability.
Prepare compliant documentation and evidence aligned with DMT requirements for community certification.
Integrate Sahel principles into master planning and design strategies to enhance accessibility and livability outcomes.
Evaluate real case simulations and propose design improvements to achieve higher Sahel rating levels.
work by successfully completing the final assessment and earning official certification.

Course Content

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Strategic Foundations of Sahel

work for accessibility and inclusivity. This module introduces the purpose, vision, and strategic alignment of Sahel with Abu Dhabi Vision and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Learners explore how accessibility enhances community safety, sustainability, and social value, establishing the foundation for inclusive development practices across the emirate.

Sahel Framework and Universal Design Principles

Discover how the Sahel System is structured and how its three tiers-Buildings, Public Realm, and Communities-work together to create accessible environments. This module explains the origins of Sahel, its “People First” philosophy, and the universal design principles that ensure equity and usability for all users.

Participants will understand the core values driving Sahel’s approach to design and its impact on creating inclusive and livable cities.

Rating Levels, Credit Types, and Certification Process

Learn how Sahel measures and certifies accessibility excellence. This module provides a detailed explanation of the four rating levels (Accessible, Adaptable, Inclusive, Exemplar), credit categories, and the TAMM submission process.

work with confidence.

Stakeholder Roles and Collaboration Model

Understand the key players behind every successful Sahel project. This module outlines the responsibilities of stakeholders, including Sahel Qualified Professionals (SQPs), developers, consultants, and assessors. Learners will explore how to establish effective communication channels, coordinate documentation, and ensure accountability at each project stage. Through real-world examples, the module reinforces the importance of teamwork in achieving certification goals.

Community Rating Categories and Structure

Delve into the 11 community rating categories that form the foundation of Sahel’s Community Rating System. Each category-from Inclusive Integrated Design to Use-Specific Special Provisions-is explained in detail, with examples of how it enhances inclusivity, safety, and comfort in community-scale developments. Learners will understand how to interpret these categories and apply them cohesively to design connected, human-centered neighborhoods.

Mandatory Requirements and Evidence Standards

Compliance is at the heart of Sahel certification. This module equips learners with the tools to prepare high-quality, audit-ready documentation. Participants will review all mandatory community credits, explore evidence submission standards (plans, GIS data, photos, and reports), and identify frequent compliance challenges. The session concludes with a practical self-audit checklist to support consistent quality assurance and readiness for official review.

Integration Strategies and Planning Best Practices

Learn how to design smarter, more inclusive communities by integrating multiple Sahel credits efficiently. This module showcases best practices from Abu Dhabi projects and demonstrates how planners can create multi-functional design elements that satisfy several credits simultaneously. Learners will discover how to align transportation, public realm, and building features to maximize both accessibility impact and resource efficiency.

Certification Lifecycle for Communities

Follow a structured, step-by-step roadmap for achieving community certification under the Sahel System. This module covers the entire lifecycle-from registration and applicability checks to pre-certification for phased developments, assessor review, and final approval. Learners will gain insights into documentation flow, coordination with reviewers, and strategies for maintaining certification through continuous improvement.

Applying the Sahel Community Framework to Real Scenarios

Apply your knowledge to realistic, hands-on community scenarios. This module presents two simulated case studies: developing a new sustainable neighborhood and upgrading an existing district. Learners will evaluate design options, identify potential accessibility challenges, and propose strategies to achieve higher certification levels. These simulations strengthen applied learning and build confidence in real-world implementation.