Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is part of one of the world’s most renowned healthcare systems, known for its advanced medical services and patient-first philosophy. With a commitment to delivering world-class care in a safe and accessible environment, the clinic required engineering solutions that matched its global reputation.

Design Confidence was appointed to provide expert engineering and advisory services, with a focus on fire and life safety, accessibility, and operational resilience. Given the complexity of hospital environments—especially areas like operating rooms, intensive care units, and high-occupancy wards—the firm developed comprehensive fire safety strategies that included fire and smoke modelling, emergency evacuation planning, and system integration to meet NFPA, EN, and local code requirements.

A key area of focus was ensuring that evacuation plans accounted for both ambulatory and non-ambulatory patients. Design Confidence worked to design inclusive evacuation strategies, tailored for the movement of people with limited mobility or under critical care, while also guiding the integration of robust fire suppression systems and fault-tolerant alarm infrastructure suited to the medical context.

In parallel, the team delivered accessibility consultancy aligned with ADA and international standards. This included access audits, wayfinding analysis, and design recommendations that ensure smooth navigation for individuals with physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments. From patient room access to entrance design and internal circulation, every element was evaluated to foster a dignified and inclusive experience.

By embedding these elements into the broader design and operational planning of the Cleveland Clinic, Design Confidence contributed to a safer, more resilient healthcare environment, one that supports both medical excellence and the wellbeing of all user