RIBA selects 15 finalists for debut Middle East Award

THE Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has revealed the 15 finalists for the inaugural Middle East Award, showcasing the most transformative and socially impactful new architecture across the Gulf (GCC).

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From the first purpose-built women’s-only mosque in the Muslim world to an ambitious transformation of a former Saudi airport into the world's largest city park, the shortlist reflects how the region is reimagining its future.

Projects range from the conservation of one of the UAE's most biodiverse nature reserves to an experience centre built using indigenous Najdi design, showcasing architecture where innovation, sustainability and cultural identity are at the forefront.

The winner of the award will be announced during Dubai Design Week on November 5, followed by a dedicated event on November 7.

The shortlist spans four countries - UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain - and brings together both regional and international architects from across the GCC, as well as the UK, USA, Germany, Singapore, and Japan. It showcases a diverse range of projects, from civic landmarks transforming city life, to innovative responses to climate change and biodiversity loss, adaptive reuse of historic buildings and bold new cultural destinations.

Together, these projects demonstrate how architecture is being used to solve real-world challenges and create more sustainable and inclusive spaces for their communities, said a statement.

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