Introduction
The article “Gulf futuristic cities beyond the headlines: Understanding the planned cities megatrend” by Mohammad Al-Saidia and Esmat Zaidan is quite interesting and scientific. The article analyzes in considerable detail the cities of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, which are known for their impressive architecture, modernity, and affluence (Al-Saidi & Zaidan, 2020). However, the article’s structure is unclear, and its purpose in the abstract is not correctly mentioned: to describe or research the topic.
Article’s Weaknesses
In this way, the article lacks an analytical analysis of arguments and evidence when comparing cities. For example, the arguments about city development are not adequately rationalized in the descriptive part. From this author’s point of view, “The eco-cities (Musheireb, Masdar and Education City) are maybe the most publicized ones in the academic literature or the media” (Al-Saidi & Zaidan, 2020, p.118). It is unclear why these cities are eco and the most publicized ones in the academic literature. The evidence for this remark is not provided; hence, the argument is unclear.
The article’s concluding section is also excellent, providing detailed information on the topic and the research. However, it would be effective to add to the conclusion topics that warrant more detailed focus in further research. For example, “What will be the next development strategy after achieving digitalization of the city?” or “What economic potential do the presented smart cities provide?” (Al-Saidi & Zaidan, 2020). The article does not answer these questions; they are good topics for further analysis.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the provided article is interesting and in-depth. However, it has some flaws in its evidence and structure. Scholars must refine the evidence in light of the arguments to improve the article. Adding references for further research, considering the contribution of planned cities to the future, will be no less relevant.
Reference
Al-Saidi, M., & Zaidan, E. (2020). Gulf futuristic cities beyond the headlines: Understanding the planned cities megatrend. Energy Reports, 6, 114–121.