A new study has revealed that noise pollution in the luxurious Gulf city of Dubai is a major concern for Generation Z, as many of them see it as a major factor that disturbs their well-being.
Specifically, the study was conducted by Buro Happold’s Urban C:Labs in collaboration with Heriot-Watt University in Dubai. It will be presented at the Inter-Noise 2024 conference in Nantes, France Khaleej Times.
The study was led by Pooja Ganatra, who is a senior sustainability consultant, noise expert and lecturer at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, along with Gregory Maltsev and Kathy Wong, who are consultants based in Dubai and Hong Kong.
As the study demographic is highly aware of mental health dilemmas as well as the environmental aspects that influence them, the research was deemed particularly important.
For the research, university students took part in noise mapping exercises and surveys to assess their sleep quality and mental health. In addition, they also provided important details about how urban noise pollution affects their daily lives.
“The findings revealed that nearly 70% of Dubai’s Gen Z population identified noise pollution as a major factor affecting their well-being, with 37% rating it as a top concern. “Our study highlighted frequent symptoms among participants, such as anxiety, fatigue and difficulty concentrating, indicating a strong link between noise exposure and mental health problems,” said Ganatra.
He also pointed out that the correlation between noise and air pollution in urban environments, particularly in the rapidly developing environment of Dubai, has been highlighted by research.
“The data showed that the majority of students considered noise pollution to be the most influential environmental factor, with a combined 88% identifying both noise and air pollution as critical issues affecting their well-being. This dual threat highlights the need for comprehensive urban planning strategies that address both noise and air quality to mitigate their combined effects on public health,” he added.
Gen Z, often overlooked in urban studies, are now at the forefront of experiencing the consequences of rapid urbanization, according to the researchers.
“With the continuous development of the area, noise has become an unavoidable aspect of everyday life. This research sheds light on how noise exposure may be contributing to the mental health challenges facing young people today,” said Ganatra.
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