Welcome dinner, The Secret Garden, Marsa Malaz Kempinski, Pearl-Qatar.
A Grand Convergence of Global Architectural Minds in Qatar
November 22-23, 2024 I Doha, Qatar
The 2024 AIA Middle East Year-End Conference in Doha was a remarkable gathering of architects, thought leaders, and innovators from across the globe to explore Qatar’s architectural transformation under the theme, Qatar: Morphogenesis of a Pearl. Through engaging keynotes, thought-provoking panels, and immersive site visits, participants examined the country’s journey from a pearl-diving hub to a global architectural pioneer. Highlights included a visit to Al Thumama Stadium, a curated City Day Tour, and a grand Gala Dinner and Design Awards Ceremony. This exceptional gathering, meticulously organised by Megha Arjun and the AIA Middle East team, celebrated architectural heritage, sustainability, and innovation, paving the way for future collaborations and dialogue.
The conference commenced with a Welcome Dinner, generously sponsored by Jotun Qatar, at The Secret Garden, Marsa Malaz Kempinski, Pearl-Qatar. AIA ME leadership, esteemed speakers, and partners gathered to kick off the event in an intimate setting, fostering camaraderie and collaboration.
Conference Day 1
Conference Day 1 opened with remarks by Stefanie Altman-Winans, Deputy Chief of Mission for the U.S. Embassy Doha. The keynote by Li Chung Pei of Pei Architects, captivated the audience, while presentations by Hu Qian, Curtis Clay, James Richärd and a panel discussion featuring experts like Dr. Hameda Al Janahi of Qatar University, Nur Ala Abdelzayed Valdeolmillos of Qatar Foundation, Fatima Mohamed Fawzy M.A. Hassan of Msheireb Properties, Stephanie Kinnick of AIA Middle East, and Carla Abou Arraj of KEO, delved into Qatar’s architectural narrative. Attendees were treated to a guided tour of Al Thumama Stadium, a local gem designed by Ibrahim Jaidah, celebrating Qatari heritage.
Conference Day 2 started with the site visit of the New US Embassy in Doha. It later continued with technical sessions led by global stalwarts like Jim Heverin of Zaha Hadid Architects, Tarek Farid of Perkins Eastman, and Ibrahim Mohamed Jaidah of AEB. A key highlight of the day was the panel discussion, “Craftsmanship in the Digital Age: What’s Changed, What Hasn’t,” moderated by Salman Al-Sulaiti of Qatar Armed Forces. Esteemed panelists, including Leo Li of Pei Architects, Ryan Waltke of AIA ME and Gensler, Hassan Al-Sulaiti of Hamad International Airport, and AbdulRahman Hamad Al-Mana from the Ministry of Municipality – Urban Planning Department, explored the evolving relationship between technology and craftsmanship in architecture. A visit to the iconic National Museum of Qatar, designed by Jean Nouvel, further immersed attendees in the region’s rich history and architectural mastery.
US Embassy in Doha
National Museum of Qatar
Following the main conference, attendees were treated to a specially curated City Day Tour on Sunday, November 24. This immersive experience began with a visit to Msheireb Downtown for a guided tour of its museums, highlighting Qatar's innovative approach to urban regeneration. The journey continued to the Katara Cultural Village, showcasing Qatar’s artistic and cultural heritage, followed by brunch at The Pearl, offering a glimpse of the nation’s luxurious modern lifestyle. Other highlights included visits to the Qatar National Library and the iconic Education City Mosque. The tour concluded with an artistic exploration of the Doha Fire Station, leaving participants with a profound appreciation of Qatar’s architectural diversity and cultural richness.
The conference culminated in a grand Gala Dinner and AIA Middle East Design Awards Ceremony, hosted at Sanad Doha with the support of Msheireb Properties. Tim Winstanley, AIA Middle East President 2024, gave closing remarks celebrating the event’s success, expressing gratitude to partners, speakers, and participants who made the conference a milestone for architectural dialogue and inspiration.
Gala
The 2024 Year-End Conference not only showcased Qatar as a beacon of architectural innovation but also fostered collaboration, dialogue, and a shared vision for the future.
As the curtain falls on this year’s conference, we extend our gratitude to all the speakers, participants, partners, and organizing committees who made this event a resounding success. We look forward to continuing the journey of architectural excellence in the years to come.
Stephanie Kinnick, AIA
AIA Middle East Past President and Chapter Representative, AIA International
