On April 25th, 2023, CITIES hosted Yaman Garg, a CITIES postgraduate research fellow, who delved into the ground truth validation of the microclimate model of the NYUAD campus. Garg’s presentation provided insights into the methodologies and findings of this research project, highlighting its significance in understanding and mitigating the unique challenges posed by arid climates in urban environments. By examining real-world data and comparing it with the model’s predictions, the seminar shed light on the accuracy and applicability of the microclimate model, offering valuable implications for sustainable design, energy efficiency, and urban planning in arid cities like Abu Dhabi.