Experts have been invited to submit papers for the 3rd International Architectural Conservation Conference and Exhibition which is scheduled to take place in Dubai from December 17 to 19.

The third edition of the conference will be held under the theme ‘Architectural Conservation: Present and Future’, and will gather international experts in the field of conservation-restoration to exchange expertise and new strategies for conserving historical zones and buildings,  protecting heritage sites and developing the urban landscape in a sustainable manner.

The announcement was made at a press conference which was addressed by Hussain Nasser Lootah, director general, Dubai Municipality; Rashad Mohammed Bukhash, director of Architectural Heritage Department, Dubai Municipality; and Qaboos Khalid, project director, Turret Media.

Running alongside the conference will be an exhibition and the UAE Building Heritage Week - a new initiative featuring activities and competitions to honour heritage sites and buildings, and traditional architecture across the UAE.

Lootah said: “In light of rapid urbanisation and within the shadow of modernity, architectural heritage requires rapid intervention from the international community to not only save and protect it, but also realise its cultural significance and instill its value in future generations.”

“The purpose behind the conference is to serve the professional conservation community involved in scientific research, education and training, architectural design, construction and field projects by providing them a platform to unify their energies for the cause,” Lootah added.

In addition, municipalities of the GCC countries, professional associations such as those for architects and engineers and national archaeological museums have also been invited to submit their research papers and presentations for the conference.

Bukhash announced the formation of organising and scientific committees to oversee the conduct of the programme and undertake the task of publishing research and work papers to be presented at the event. 

Commenting on the themes of the conference, Bukhash said that the conference will cover discussions on policies, strategies and decision making in historic environments through concepts and advanced technologies, economics of conservation and sustainable environment, cultural development and awareness management of cultural heritage in historic areas, and project implementation and practical aspects of urban conservation.

“We need to identify the notion of dynamic change in cultural heritage conservation concept and how this change is managed in our current day practices and attitudes. The present day concept of cultural heritage conservation addresses the development of contemporary society, its values and its requirements.  This broad understanding in today's society has led us to include and accept approaches that were previously rejected, as long as these approaches contribute to maintaining the cultural significance,” Bukhash said.

Dubai Municipality also announced that Turret Media, a multi award winning company behind some of the most successful live events worldwide, will coordinate the overall preparations for the conference, exhibition and UAE Building Heritage Week.

Qaboos Khalid, project director, Turret Media, said: “Our national architectural heritage can only be protected and sustained with the cooperation of all residents in the UAE. The activities being planned in the ambit of UAE Building Heritage Week will play a vital role in promoting the essential elements of our heritage, culture and national identity in citizens and residents.” – TradeArabia News Service