DUBAI: Riyadh’s King Salman Park has won the award for best Future Project at the inaugural edition of the Royal Institute of British Architects Middle East Awards, which celebrate the architectural ambition and diversity of the region.
The RIBA said in a statement on Wednesday: “Transforming a former airport into the world’s largest urban park, King Salman Park introduces a vital green intervention to the heart of Riyadh.
“Designed to enhance biodiversity, improve air quality, and promote active, healthy living, it reflects Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 commitment to a more sustainable and livable future.”
The impact of architecture to redefine how people live and connect was central to the winners.
Among them, the world’s first purpose-built female-only mosque — a groundbreaking landmark of equality and innovation located in Qatar.
It reimagines traditional spaces of worship as places for education, empowerment and community, marking a major cultural shift in the Gulf.
In Dubai, a new secondary school supporting an evolving curriculum shows how thoughtful, sustainable design can deliver lasting environmental impact.
Also, an Expo 2020 site has evolved into a vibrant civic plaza, hosting year-round events that celebrate community and cultural diversity.
Kerem Cengiz, the jury chair, said: “The winning projects reflect an architectural language that is deeply rooted in the Middle East’s evolving identity, one defined by stewardship of heritage, climate consciousness, and social transformation.
“Each shows how architecture can mediate between tradition and progress: preserving memory while embracing innovation.
“Collectively, they express a profound belief that design can honor culture, empower communities, and nurture a sustainable future for the Middle East.”
The award winners will be celebrated during Dubai Design Week at a dedicated public event on Nov. 7, from 7 to 9 p.m., at Atrium 6, Dubai Design District.
The full list of winners:
Adaptive Reuse: The Serai Wing, Sharjah — Bait Khalid bin Ibrahim by Anarchitect
Design for Living: Al-Wasl Plaza, Dubai — Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture
Future Project: King Salman Park, Riyadh — Gerber Architekten is leading a joint venture with two engineering partners, Buro Happold, and Setec
RIBA Member: Buhais Geology Park Interpretive Centre, Al-Madam Plan — Hopkins Architects
RIBA Member: Expo 2020 Thematic Districts, Dubai — Hopkins Architects
Social Architecture: Al-Mujadilah Center and Mosque for Women, Doha – conceived by Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro
Sustainability & Resilience: Jafar Centre, Dubai College, Dubai — Godwin Austen Johnson
Temporary Architecture: Singapore Pavilion, World Expo 2020, Dubai — WOHA
Temporary Architecture: World Food Waste Teahouse: Arabi-an, Dubai — Mitsubishi Jisho Design
