Officials during a press conference.
Doha, Qatar: The Qatar Society of Engineers has launched the inaugural Qatar Architecture Award 2026, establishing a national platform to promote architectural excellence and innovation, empower local talent and advance sustainable solutions tailored to the needs of Qatari families.
The inaugural edition focuses on the design of a residential villa that meets the modern requirements of the Qatari family, taking into account the State’s latest building regulations and seeking innovative, practical designs that can be realistically implemented.
The announcement was made at a press conference, where the Society said the competition is open to two main categories. The first is for individual architects, engineers and designers who are Qatari nationals or residents of Qatar, while the second is reserved for officially licensed and accredited Qatari architectural consulting firms.
Chairperson of the Qatar Society of Engineers Eng. Amna Mohammed Al Naama said the launch reflects the Society’s commitment, together with its partners, to supporting initiatives that contribute to Qatar’s urban and development landscape. She said the initiative builds on national efforts to enhance the quality and sustainability of the built environment and support the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030.
She said the award seeks to generate innovative and practical architectural and engineering solutions that can be implemented on the ground, while taking into account modern building requirements and striking a balance between Qatar’s architectural identity, sustainability standards and economic efficiency.
The designs must also remain within the QR1.2m ceiling of the government housing loan, she added. The award offers total prize money of QR180,000, to be distributed among the winners. Outstanding entries will also be published and showcased during Qatari Engineers Day on January 25, with the possibility of developing selected designs in cooperation with relevant authorities.
Al Naama called on engineering professionals, national firms and designers to take part in the competition and contribute their ideas and expertise to enriching Qatar’s architectural landscape.
Eng. Mubarak Mahboob Al Nuaimi, Director of Licensing and Training Affairs at the Real Estate Regulatory Authority - Aqarat, said the launch reflects growing interest in developing Qatar’s architectural and urban landscape and fostering a culture of creativity and innovation in the sector.
He described the Qatar Architecture Award as a platform that celebrates architectural and engineering excellence, highlights talent and expertise, and encourages designs and urban solutions that combine authenticity, innovation and sustainability.
