Ajman University Students Shine in Prestigious Turab Prize, Making Top 35 GCC Shortlist

Ajman University’s College of Architecture, Art, and Design (CAAD) is celebrating a remarkable achievement as two student groups, supervised by the esteemed Dr. Muna Salameh, have been shortlisted in the Top 35 GCC works for the highly competitive Turab Prize.

Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism in collaboration with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), the Turab Prize is a central feature of the 14th World Congress on Earthen Architecture (Terra 2026). The competition, themed “Earthen Futures In The Gulf,” challenged university students across the GCC to envision innovative, sustainable designs that celebrate earthen architecture and cultural landscapes.

Under Dr. Salameh’s expert mentorship, seven Ajman University students successfully navigated a rigorous selection process, securing spots on the prestigious shortlist with two visionary projects.

Group 01: The "Iltiqa Pavilion"

The first shortlisted team, comprising students Fathima Zia and Aysha Nimrah, presented the “Iltiqa Pavilion.”

Inspired by the historical caravanserai—traditional roadside inns where travelers rested and traded—the Iltiqa Pavilion reimagines this communal concept for the modern era. The design utilizes earthen materials to create a sustainable, climate-responsive structure that fosters community gathering, cultural exchange, and environmental harmony. The project beautifully blends heritage with contemporary sustainable design principles.

Group 02: The "Samar Project"

The second shortlisted team, consisting of Sirajam Muneera, Ayesha Ziyad, Zeena Basim, Glerica Irish Clado, and Ayesha, impressed the judges with the “Samar Project.”

The project explores the deep connection between earthen architecture and cultural landscapes. By focusing on sustainable building techniques and the integration of history and community storytelling, the Samar Project highlights the enduring relevance of earth as a building material in the Gulf region, offering a climate-resilient and culturally rich alternative to modern construction methods.

The Power of Faculty Mentorship

The students' success is a direct reflection of the exceptional leadership and mentorship of Dr. Muna Salameh. A dedicated advocate for sustainable and culturally resonant architecture, Dr. Salameh has consistently guided her students to push the boundaries of design thinking.

Her recent recognition as a Sustainability Champion 2025 by the Global Ambassadors of Sustainability (GAoS) underscores her tireless commitment to environmental stewardship and academic excellence. Dr. Salameh’s active involvement in industry dialogues—including her recent participation in the Emirates Green Building Council’s 14th Annual Congress under the theme "Mission to 1.5°C: Be Bold on Buildings"—ensures that her students are learning at the very forefront of the global green building movement.

Championing Sustainable Architecture

The Turab Prize shortlisting is a testament to Ajman University’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Earthen architecture is inherently sustainable, utilizing local, low-carbon materials to create energy-efficient and thermally comfortable environments. By encouraging students to explore these traditional yet innovative building methods, Ajman University is preparing a new generation of architects who are equipped to design resilient, climate-conscious, and culturally authentic urban spaces.

Looking Ahead

Ajman University extends its immense pride and congratulations to Fathima Zia, Aysha Nimrah, Sirajam Muneera, Ayesha Ziyad, Zeena Basim, Glerica Irish Clado, and Ayesha, as well as to Dr. Muna Salameh for her outstanding mentorship.

As the world looks toward the Terra 2026 World Congress, these students stand as shining examples of how academic innovation and a deep respect for environmental heritage can combine to shape a more sustainable future for the Gulf region and beyond.