The Middle East region is increasingly focusing on sustainability and environment protection with the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia leading the way as they work towards their Net Zero goals and sustainability visions. As more than 80% of region is composed of deserts with less than 25 centimeters of rainfall a year, desert architecture has become a key driver for developing built environments that contribute to the sustainability and carbon emission targets, seamlessly blend into the surroundings, and adapt to harsh climate conditions. From utilizing advanced technologies to implementing sustainable practices and hyperlocal strategies that align with the natural ecosystems, desert architecture initiatives reflect a broader movement towards building climate-smart cities and self-sufficient communities.

Despite the progress, desert architecture in the MENA region faces several challenges. The harsh climate, characterized by extreme temperatures and limited water resources, poses significant difficulties for sustainable construction. Additionally, there are often limited archival resources on traditional building techniques, making it difficult to draw on historical knowledge and practices. These challenges necessitate innovative solutions and adaptations to ensure the resilience and sustainability of architectural projects in desert environments.

In line with these developments, the Desert Architecture MENA Forum is hosted to provide a platform to share knowledge on sustainable building designs and construction practices that address key challenges. The forum brings together renown architectural experts, designers, researchers, and practitioners to discuss cutting-edge architectural and scientific approaches for developing self-sufficient and climate-resilient communities.

WHY ATTEND?

  • Exposure to Innovative Ideas: The conferences provide a platform to explore new concepts, materials, and techniques tailored to building in hot, dry climates.

  • Specialized Knowledge: Participants will gain insights into the best practices and latest research on designing for desert climates, including passive cooling techniques and sustainable building materials.

  • Networking Opportunities: Desert architecture conference gathers a diverse group of professionals, including architects, engineers, researchers, and policymakers.

  • Focus on Sustainability: The conference emphasis on sustainability, exploring how architecture can contribute to environmental stewardship and resilience in desert environments.

  • Case Studies and Real-World Examples: Learning from case studies and real-world examples of successful desert architecture projects that can provide practical insights and actionable strategies for future projects