Been to Dubai lately? It's a city where top-down placemaking serves its political masters
- Written by Julian Bolleter, Deputy Director, Australian Urban Design Research Centre, University of Western Australia

Dubai became known for its gargantuan architectural gymnastics and mega shopping malls earlier this century. Today it is increasingly being recognised for its manufactured urban precincts, and large-scale events and festivals. Behind this shift has been an approach to urban development that prioritises the...