Kerala’s ‘Dubai-Inspired’ Urban Masterplan Draws Gulf Media Attention

Thiruvananthapuram: Highlighting growing international interest in Kerala’s developmental ambitions, Minister for Local Self- Governments and Excise, M B Rajesh, shared a Gulf News article on his official Facebook page, noting that "what Kerala envisions, even international media take note of."

The state’s pioneering initiative, marking the first formal urban policy by an Indian state, was outlined at a recent Urban Policy Conclave organised by the Department of Local Self-Government. The strategy aims to transform cities such as Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi into sustainable, world-class metropolitan hubs through large-scale infrastructure projects, transit-oriented development, and smart city technologies.

The plan has attracted significant international attention, with Dubai’s leading English daily, Gulf News, featuring it prominently. Reports highlight Kerala’s strategic intent to leverage the expertise of the vast Malayali diaspora, many of whom have played a key role in Dubai’s urban development. Visual comparisons, such as linking Kochi’s Marine Drive with Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road, underscore the aspirational benchmark for Kerala’s cities.

Officials stated that the project will rely on public- private partnerships, a model perfected in the UAE, to fund its vision. Gulf media interest is seen as recognition of both Kerala’s innovative governance and the potential for future bilateral collaboration in urban development, fostering a unique exchange of knowledge and investment between the state and the region.

The conclave emphasised that insights from Malayali professionals abroad are considered vital in shaping the state’s urban strategies, creating a symbiotic relationship grounded in shared experience in building modern, sustainable cities.