TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE URBAN CONSERVATION STRATEGY: THE CASE OF HISTORIC DISTRICTS IN DOHA, QATAR

Abstract

Historic districts of Doha, the capital of Qatar, have been deteriorating due to the city’s recent uncontrolled rapid urban growth. Consequently, heritage value inherit in their urban fabric is under threat. Recent conservation attempts have helped revive several districts; nevertheless, many other still continue to deteriorate. This thesis develops a set of principles for sustainable urban conservation projects in Qatar’s historic districts. The principles are derived from the study of the relevant literature and critical analysis of a sample of urban conservation projects. They can be classified in six main aspects: conservation, project governance, environmental sustainability, social sustainability, type of use, and building and open spaces rehabilitation. The principles are then applied to propose an urban conservation project design for Fareej Al-Najada, a historic district of Doha. The proposal aims to revive Al-Najada as a commercial and cultural destination by conserving its heritage value. Finally, recommendations are made for Qatar to develop a national urban conservation strategy.