Artificial intelligence in landscape architecture: Perceptions, applications, and challenges in the UAE
Abdul RAUF, Mahra ALDARMAKI, Aysha ALHUMAIDI, Fathima PARVEEN, Noura ALBLOOSHI, Shama ANBRINE
Abstract. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly advancing across various disciplines, yet its application in landscape architecture and environmental planning remains limited. This gap is particularly critical in regions such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where hyper-arid conditions, high temperatures, and dependence on energy-intensive desalinated water make sustainable landscape management both urgent and challenging. Studies have shown the advantages of using AI to conserve water and improve climate responsive design and maintenance practices. Despite these benefits, there is limited understanding about the awareness, perceptions, and readiness of landscape professionals and future practitioners to adopt AI. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the current state of AI integration in landscape design and management within the UAE. A online survey tool was used to assess the familiarity with AI, its benefits, and the barriers to its implementation. Findings show that while there is considerable awareness about the use of AI and its potential benefits exist, its practical implementation remains limited. Water conservation and climate-responsive design were found among the preferred uses for AI application, particularly through AI-enabled irrigation systems, predictive analytics, and plant selection models. On the other hand, lack of technical expertise, limited availability of user-friendly AI tools and high implementation costs were highlighted as key barriers. Recommendations include the need for training, workshops, and case studies to build capacity in using AI solutions.
Keywords
Artificial Intelligence (AI), Landscape Design, Sustainable Landscape Management, Arid Regions, UAE
Published online 6/20/2026, 7 pages
Copyright © 2026 by the author(s)
Published under license by Materials Research Forum LLC., Millersville PA, USA
Citation: Abdul RAUF, Mahra ALDARMAKI, Aysha ALHUMAIDI, Fathima PARVEEN, Noura ALBLOOSHI, Shama ANBRINE, Artificial intelligence in landscape architecture: Perceptions, applications, and challenges in the UAE, Materials Research Proceedings, Vol. 67, pp 782-788, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21741/9781644904176-108
The article was published as article 108 of the book Climate Action and Sustainability
Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. Any further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI.
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