Qatar Introduces 'Blue Roads' in Doha to Tackle Urban Heat

Qatar Tests ‘Blue Roads’ in Doha to Combat Urban Heat

In a bold move to adapt to rising global temperatures, Qatar has launched a pilot project testing "blue roads" in the heart of Doha. Led by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), the initiative involves applying a special heat-reflective coating to road surfaces designed to significantly reduce ground-level heat. The trial took place on Abdullah Bin Jassim Street, where traditional black asphalt was replaced with a blue-tinted material engineered to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat.

Initial results from the project indicate that surface temperatures can be reduced by as much as $20\degree C$ compared to conventional asphalt. This temperature drop is not just a technological feat, but also a potential game-changer in the fight against the urban heat island effect, a common issue in dense cities where concrete and asphalt trap heat, raising local temperatures.

Beyond cooling, the reflective surface may also enhance road durability, helping infrastructure last longer under extreme conditions. Qatar’s “blue roads” are among the first large-scale implementations of this kind in the region, setting a precedent for other cities in hot, arid climates seeking practical, infrastructure-based solutions to climate change. The project aligns with Qatar’s broader sustainability goals, reflecting the country's proactive approach to climate resilience through innovative urban planning.