Reshaping transit-oriented development to enhance sociocultural harmonization in the context of Qatar

Abstract

The widespread adoption of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) often presents a one-size-fits-all approach that utilizes Western planning concepts, which questions its compatibility for diverse sociocultural and climatic contexts. While Peter Calthorpe formally introduced the TOD model in the early 1990s, many of its core principles have long existed in what is known as the "Traditional City Model." Though, the relationship between these two approaches has not been investigated. This study examines the adaptability of TOD principles in Doha, the capital city of Qatar, a rapidly urbanized city suffering from significant challenges, such as heavy car dependence, limited pedestrian access, and lack of public transportation and land use integration. In addition to the "last mile" issue, it is showing difficulties for residents to reach their final destinations from transit hubs. The paper utilized both qualitative and quantitative methods including: (I) comparative analysis of traditional city and TOD model elements, (II) neighborhood perceptions and travel preferences survey, and (II) spatial analysis of TOD potential. Data were gathered from the Qatar Ministry of Transport (MOT), the Qatar Ministry of Municipality (MME), and Qatar Rail. Finaly, this paper proposed an area specific TOD policy that suits the Qatari context and consider the climatic resilience.