Leading developer Msheireb Properties and Qatar Foundation have collaborated with Harvard University to undertake a multi-year research study to establish a holistic framework documenting, analyzing and deciphering the principles of urban sustainability of selected case study cities in the Gulf region.

 

The book "Gulf Sustainable Urbanism Encyclopedia" was launched at a virtual event hosted by Msheireb Properties and held simultaneously at Msheireb Museums.

 

This will be followed by on-line panel discussions on October 14 and 21 to discuss topics related to "the historic environment, culture, and economy of the Gulf region," "the development of urbanism, and public health of the Gulf region," "the traditional neighborhoods and architecture of the Gulf region," and a special session titled "The study of the past informs future sustainable urbanism in the Gulf."

 

Acting CEO Ali Al Kuwari said: "We are proud to launch this important book that provides a comprehensive and in-depth study on sustainable urbanism in the Gulf region and its impact on other aspects of life. Sustainability, which is a core value of Msheireb Properties, has a huge impact on our present and future."

 

This value is clearly reflected in our flagship project, Msheireb Downtown Doha, which is an exemplary model of modern sustainable cities. We thank Harvard University for the great effort to conduct this study, which is the main reference for Qatar and the whole Gulf region."

 

Al Kuwari said The Gulf Sustainable Urbanism book holds the potential to be transformed into useful guidance for making holistic, sustainable decisions for the future urbanism of the Gulf region.

 

It results from more than nine years of research; it started in 2011, with the first phase completed in 2020. The study covers three periods: past, present, and the future. 

 

Harvard University has completed the first phase, "The Past," and released the first part of the book, which covered eight countries and ten cities bordering the GCC coastal zone including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Iran, and Iraq apart from Qatar.