Dezeen School Shows: a sustainable community centre designed for academic exchange, research and innovation is among the projects by students at United Arab Emirates University.
Also featured is a climate-responsive workspace that tackles the UAE’s extreme weather conditions and a contemporary visitor centre, which celebrates the relationship between culture, architecture and the landscape.
United Arab Emirates University
Institution: United Arab Emirates University
Course: Architectural Engineering
Tutors: Nasma Hannawi, Omar Al khatib, Young Ki Kim, Mohamed Mahgoub, Ariel Gomez, Maatouk Khoukhi, Omar Alkatib, Young Ki Kim, Martin Scoppa, Mahmoud Hagag, Ahmed Noor Muhammad, Lindita Band, Nasma Hannawi, Sahera Bleibleh, Ahmad Hassan, Khaled Galal and Madhar Haddad
School statement:
“The Architectural Engineering programme at the United Arab Emirates University is an ABET-accredited programme that integrates architecture, engineering and environmental design to address the complex challenges shaping the built environment today.
“Rooted in the UAE’s environmental, cultural and urban context, the programme encourages students to develop innovative design solutions that balance creativity, technical performance and societal impact.
“Through interdisciplinary learning and research-informed studios, students investigate how architecture can respond to climate conditions, resource constraints, technological change and evolving community needs.
“The projects presented here were developed within the Arch 590 Capstone Engineering Design Project and Arch 450 Integrated Building Design Studio courses. They explore a wide range of contemporary issues, from environmental adaptation and wellbeing to emerging technologies and sustainable development, while demonstrating rigorous design thinking and technical integration.
“All projects were supervised by Architectural Engineering faculty members, as indicated in the individual project captions.
“The programme’s impact is reflected in its graduates, many of whom occupy influential positions across the UAE within government agencies, municipalities, leading consultancies, development organisations and academia.
“Together, these projects showcase the creativity, technical capability and leadership potential of a new generation of architectural engineers contributing to the advancement of a more responsible and resilient built environment.”
Living Earthen Heritage at the Land-Sea Interface by Fatima Alyouha, Reem Alkhalifi, Maha Al Ali and Jawaher Bani Abdulkarim
“Athar (أﺛﺮ) is a coastal cultural institute in Dubai that reinterprets Emirati heritage as a living, evolving experience rather than a static display.
“The project brings together the traditions of sea, desert and oasis through interconnected spaces that extend from land into water.
“Visitors are guided through a sequence of immersive spaces, from shaded courtyards and craft workshops to marine-edge and underwater environments, allowing direct engagement with traditional practices such as pearl diving, agriculture and craftsmanship.
“The architectural language is defined by a parametric shading system inspired by traditional Emirati patterns, particularly palm-frond weaving and mashrabiya geometries.
“These patterns are reinterpreted as a performative skin that filters light, reduces solar heat gain and creates dynamic spatial experiences.
“The architecture integrates passive cooling, marine-responsive systems and renewable energy strategies, creating a resilient and sustainable landmark that preserves cultural identity while connecting past and future.”
Students: Fatima Alyouha, Reem Alkhalifi, Maha Al Ali and Jawaher Bani Abdulkarim
Course: ARCH590 Capstone Engineering Design Project
Tutors: Nasma Hannawi and Omar Al khatib
Emails: 202100209[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202106298[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202107243[at]uaeu.ac.ae and 202112698[at]uaeu.ac.ae
Sustainable Shading Facade: Enhancing an Existing Office Building by Rawdha Alriyami, Salema Aljneibi, Leqa Almansoori and Anwar Al Ahbabi
“This project retrofits an existing office tower in Abu Dhabi through a modular shading façade inspired by the traditional mashrabiya.
“The climate-responsive system combines kinetic shading panels, integrated greenery and photovoltaic surfaces to reduce solar heat gain while improving daylight, comfort and energy performance.
“Triangular prefabricated modules create an adaptive second skin that responds to environmental conditions and supports renewable energy generation.
“Designed as a lightweight retrofit solution, the facade minimises structural intervention and construction waste while reimagining the building envelope as an active environmental system supporting the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 vision.”
Student: Rawdha Alriyami, Salema Aljneibi, Leqa Almansoori and Anwar Al Ahbabi
Course: ARCH590 Capstone Engineering Design Project
Tutors: Young Ki Kim, Mohamed Mahgoub and Ariel Gomez
Emails: 202106038[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202105732[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202100981[at]uaeu.ac.ae and 202104448[at]uaeu.ac.ae
Alsanad Centre – Al Ain City by Maha Alblooshi, Fatima Alameri, Aisha Alyammahi and Rahma Alkarbi
“A reinterpretation of Emirati cultural heritage inspires the Alsanad Centre in Al Ain City and represents identity, community connection and sustainability.
“Designed as a contemporary civic and tourism destination, the project combines traditional architectural values with innovative sustainable strategies to create an inclusive and environmentally responsive public environment.
“Its geometric architectural masses, central courtyard and contemporary mashrabiya facade system provide spatial flexibility, natural shading and visual connectivity, while solar energy systems, passive cooling and greywater recycling enhance environmental performance and user comfort.
“The design aims to celebrate the relationship between culture, architecture and landscape.
“Through shaded outdoor spaces, native planting and community-focused public areas, the project demonstrates how heritage-inspired architecture can shape resilient and future-ready spaces that reflect the UAE’s commitment to sustainability, cultural preservation and social interaction.”
Students: Maha Alblooshi, Fatima Alameri, Aisha Alyammahi and Rahma Alkarbi
Course: ARCH590 Capstone Engineering Design Project
Tutors: Mohamed Mahgoub, Maatouk Khoukhi and Omar Alkatib
Emails: 201916271[at]uaeu.ac.ae, [email protected], 202113316[at]uaeu.ac.ae and [email protected]
A Solar-Powered Electric Vehicle Charging Station with an Integrated Community Center in Abu Dhabi by Sara Al Shehhi, Salama Al Neyadi, Rayan Al Hammadi and Hajar Hamed
“Darb Station is a solar-powered electric vehicle charging hub in Abu Dhabi that reimagines infrastructure as a social and cultural destination.
“Responding to the growing demand for sustainable mobility, the project integrates EV charging with cafes, lounges and prayer spaces, transforming waiting time into a shared experience.
“The circular form was inspired by the traditional Sarood and promotes accessibility and interaction, while a parametric mashrabiya facade creates a shaded microclimate.
“Kinetic photovoltaic canopies track the sun to maximise energy generation, embedding sustainability within a human-centred vision for future urban infrastructure.”
Students: Sara Al Shehhi, Salama Al Neyadi, Rayan Al Hammadi and Hajar Hamed
Course: ARCH 590 Capstone Engineering Design Project
Tutors: Young Ki Kim, Martin Scoppa and Ariel Gomez
Emails: 202110172[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202104844[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202101099[at]uaeu.ac.ae and 700040291[at]uaeu.ac.ae
UAE’s Space Research Centre: Al-Falak Space and Training Hub by Noura Alkaabi, Alia Aljaberi, Sheikha Alazeezi and Amna Alshamsi
“The Al Falak Space Hub is a futuristic research and educational destination in Al Ain, designed to support the UAE’s growing ambitions in space science and exploration.
“Inspired by the meaning of the Arabic word ‘Falak’ – the cosmos and the orbital movement of celestial bodies — the project transforms planetary motion into fluid architectural forms and immersive spatial experiences.
“The hub integrates astronaut training facilities, advanced laboratories, mission-control operations and public outreach spaces within a flexible and intelligent architectural framework.
“Passive environmental strategies, renewable-energy systems and shaded landscaped areas respond to Al Ain’s desert climate while improving environmental performance and long-term adaptability.
“Curved geometries, technologically integrated interiors and civic public spaces reinforce the project’s role as a landmark for innovation, scientific advancement and the future of space exploration in the UAE.”
Students: Noura Alkaabi, Alia Aljaberi, Sheikha Alazeezi and Amna Alshamsi
Course: ARCH 590 Capstone Engineering Design Project
Tutors: Mahmoud Hagag and Ariel Gomez
Emails: 202102054[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202107472[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202101358[at]uaeu.ac.ae and 202102657[at]uaeu.ac.ae
Ru’ya Intelligent Facade for An O Ice Tower by Aisha Alhosani, Asma Alseraidy, Hind Alkamali and Mariah Alhammadi
“Set in Abu Dhabi, this office tower proposes a climate-responsive workplace shaped by environmental performance and human experience.
“The design features a double-skin facade that reduces solar gain while regulating daylight and airflow in response to the UAE’s extreme climate.
“A vertically integrated greenhouse is embedded within the tower, introducing greenery and shaded terraces that support both passive cooling and occupant wellbeing.
“Workspaces are organised around these planted zones, allowing for filtered light, natural ventilation and moments of pause within the high-rise environment.
“The project explores how architecture and agriculture can be combined to create a more sustainable, productive and human-centred model for office design.”
Students: Aisha Alhosani, Asma Alseraidy, Hind Alkamali and Mariah Alhammadi
Course: ARCH 590 Capstone Architectural Engineering Design Project
Tutors: Mahmoud Hagag and Ahmed Noor Muhammad
Emails: 202101336[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202102095[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202033108[at]uaeu.ac.ae and 201802115[at]uaeu.ac.ae
Thara Jewellery Museum in Al Ain by Salma Alawneh, Leen Ahmed, Hessa Alshehhi and Fatema Alshehhi
“Thara, a Jewellery Museum in Al Ain, reinterprets Emirati heritage through a contemporary architectural language shaped by parametric design and local materials.
“The project celebrates traditional jewellery as a cultural narrative, translating its patterns into a dynamic folded roof that provides shade, enhances airflow and integrates photovoltaic technology.
“Constructed using 3D-printed sand-based walls, the building reconnects with the region’s material identity while reducing environmental impact.
“Internally, exhibition, learning and social spaces create an immersive cultural experience.
“At both human and urban scales, Thara acts as a sustainable landmark that preserves heritage, supports community engagement and enriches Al Ain’s cultural landscape.”
Students: Salma Alawneh, Leen Ahmed, Hessa Alshehhi and Fatema Alshehhi
Course: ARCH 590 Capstone Architectural Engineering Design Project
Tutors: Lindita Bande, Ariel Gomez and Omar Alkhatib
Emails: 700040489[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 700041189[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202116552[at]uaeu.ac.ae and 202105725[at]uaeu.ac.ae
Nuhud (Renaissance): Rebuilding Syria with a Circular Reconstruction Model by Ahmed Alawadhi, Ahmad Alchikh, Osama Alnasmeh, Ahmed Almadhaani and Abdulla Taher
“Syria, after 14 years of war, faces massive urban destruction, with over 130,000 buildings damaged and millions displaced. Nuhud deals with the problem of rebuilding safe housing while managing hazardous concrete rubble in Jobar, Damascus.
“The project proposes a circular system that screens, cleans, crushes and certifies war debris into Recycled Concrete Aggregate for modular precast housing, supported by on-site recycling and structural verification.
“Through Syrian family-oriented layouts, courtyards and renewable energy, Nuhud delivers a scalable neighbourhood model that reduces waste, transport, cost and material extraction while transforming rubble into resilient, sustainable community recovery.”
Students: Ahmed Alawadhi, Ahmad Alchikh, Osama Alnasmeh, Ahmed Almadhaani and Abdulla Taher
Course: ARCH 590 Capstone Architectural Engineering Design Project
Tutors: Nasma Hannawi and Omar Al Khatib
Emails: 202102441[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 700040884[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 700040338[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202006729[at]uaeu.ac.ae and 202003644[at]uaeu.ac.ae
Oasis Reimagined: A Self-Sufficient Youth Hub in Abu Dhabi by Saoud AlHammadi, Hazza AlZaabi, Ahmad alkaabi and Saleh Almehrzi
“Oasis Reimagined is a self-sufficient youth hub in Abu Dhabi that reinterprets traditional oasis urbanism through a contemporary, climate-responsive design approach.
“Inspired by the UAE’s historic Burjeel wind towers and shaded courtyard typologies, the project organises modular volumes around a central public realm that promotes natural ventilation, social interaction and outdoor comfort in the hot-arid climate.
“The centre integrates passive and active sustainability strategies, including cool roofs, solar panels, greywater recycling, shaded landscapes and high-performance building systems to reduce environmental impact while enhancing user wellbeing.
“Flexible learning, cultural and recreational spaces are designed to evolve with changing community needs, supporting youth engagement and inclusivity.
“Blending heritage with innovation, the project envisions a future-oriented civic landmark aligned with Abu Dhabi’s sustainable urban development goals.”
Students: Saoud AlHammadi, Hazza AlZaabi, Ahmad alkaabi and Saleh Almehrzi
Course: ARCH 590 Capstone Engineering Design Project
Tutors: Sahera Bleibleh and Ahmad Hassan
Emails: 201912143[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202013614[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202000385[at]uaeu.ac.ae and 202010380[at]uaeu.ac.ae
The Restaurant of the Future by Saud Salim Alnaqbi, Ahmed Khalifa Almahrooqi, Saeed Salah Almakhzoumi and Muhammed Nasser Alhajeri
“The Restaurant of the Future is a sustainable hospitality and eco-cultural project proposed for Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi.
“Inspired by the concept of ‘Nahj’ – a pathway toward sustainable living rooted in Sheikh Zayed’s environmental vision – the project reimagines the restaurant as an interactive space that combines dining, food production and environmental education.
“The design integrates restaurant spaces with greenhouses, aquaponic farming systems and cultural learning areas to promote awareness of sustainable food systems and community wellbeing.
“Responding to Abu Dhabi’s hot-humid coastal climate, the project incorporates passive cooling, natural ventilation, solar energy generation, greywater recycling and high-performance building systems to reduce environmental impact.
“Drawing from the fluid forms of desert dunes, the project envisions a future-oriented destination aligned with the UAE Vision 2030 and Food Security 2051 strategies.”
Students: Saud Salim Alnaqbi, Ahmed Khalifa Almahrooqi, Saeed salah Almakhzoumi and Muhammed Nasser Alhajeri
Course: ARCH590 Capstone Engineering Design Project
Tutors: Sahera Bleibleh and Omar Al Khatib
Emails: 202001773[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 201901675[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 201916788[at]uaeu.ac.ae and 201918314[at]uaeu.ac.ae
Emirates Biotech Headquarters Abu Dhabi by Reema Almarzooqi, Saada Almansoori and Khadeja Alhadhrami
“The Emirates Biotech Headquarters is a first-prize-winning student competition project located in the Kezad Free Zone, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
“The proposed Polylactic Acid Plant site is strategically located within KEZAD, approximately 15 km from Khalifa Port, following Kizad Development Control Regulations.
“The project presents an innovative vision for a sustainable and future-oriented biotech workplace, integrating modular prefabrication construction technology to enhance flexibility, efficiency and rapid construction.
“The design incorporates a high-performance building envelope, passive environmental strategies, smart resource management systems and greywater recycling technologies to reduce environmental impact and improve operational performance.
“Recycled and locally sourced materials further strengthen the project’s sustainability goals.
“Out of 17 shortlisted projects submitted by different universities, this proposal was awarded first prize and the students were informed that their design concept is expected to be implemented soon.”
Students: Reema Almarzooqi, Saada Almansoori and Khadeja Alhadhrami
Course: ARCH430 Integrated Build Design Studio
Tutors: Mahmoud Haggag and Ahmed Noor
Emails: 700041032[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 202113716[at]uaeu.ac.ae and 202101430[at]uaeu.ac.ae
Izdihar Innovation Centre – Dubai Academic City by Lamis Khader, Zayna Shaqra and Tasnim Tarek
“Izdihar is a proposed sustainable Student Innovation Centre situated within Dubai International Academic City, envisioned as a unifying academic hub for collaboration, research and creative exchange.
“Inspired by the UAE’s pearl-diving heritage – a symbol of exploration, resilience and discovery – the project translates these values into an organic architectural form that reflects the nation’s continuous pursuit of knowledge and innovation.
“Responding to the fragmented nature of the campus, the centre introduces a shared platform where students from diverse institutions can exhibit work, develop ideas and engage in interdisciplinary innovation.
“Designed to achieve a Golden Sa’fa rating under the Dubai Green Building System, the project integrates adaptive environmental strategies, advanced envelope systems and renewable energy technologies tailored to the UAE climate.
“Key features include PTFE facade systems, electrochromic glazing, vacuum-insulated glass, and a Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) dome with integrated tracking and greywater cleaning systems to improve environmental performance and occupant comfort.
“Izdihar positions sustainability, flexibility and knowledge exchange at the core of a future-oriented model for academic architecture in the UAE.”
Students: Lamis Khader, Zayna Shaqra and Tasnim Tarek
Course: ARCH 590 Capstone Architectural Engineering Design Project
Tutors: Khaled Galal and Madhar Haddad
Emails: 700040226[at]uaeu.ac.ae, 700040422[at]uaeu.ac.ae and 700040593[at]uaeu.ac.ae
Partnership content
This school show is a partnership between Dezeen and United Arab Emirates University. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.
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