"A well-written survey of contemporary architectural projects in the Arab world. The book represents a valuable, sincere, and much-needed effort to address a gap in the literature as it relates to the built environment in the Middle East. In addition to presenting a select set of projects, the author provides an insightful and concise critique setting them within the larger context of the region."--Yasser Elsheshtawy, United Arab Emirates University
"An important document that catalogues and illustrates the last decade of architectural projects and buildings in countries of the Middle East and Arabian Gulf region."--Salma Samar Damluji, author of The Architecture of Yemen
"A lucid and jargon-free investigation of 110 projects, from small houses to the world's tallest building, erected or envisioned during the last decade in the region between the Mediterranean and the Gulf. A masterful view by an experienced observer of architecture as commodity in the contemporary Arab world."--Sheila S. Blair and Jonathan M. Bloom, Boston College
At the end of the first Gulf War, the Middle East entered a new era of architectural and urban development defined by increased levels of globalization and private sector investment. In the decade that followed, the region was home to a wealth of architectural projects that challenged conventional thinking about architecture and the Middle East itself.
The outside world typically views the region as dominated by violence. The international media's coverage of the Middle East often emphasizes political instability and brewing problems. Frequently overlooked is the economic and political stability that prevailed in many countries in the region during the past few decades and the possibilities for growth and development. The occasional rocking of the boat brought about by surges in political or religious extremism, military adventurism, decreases in oil prices, or acts of terrorism did not undermine that overall stability. The passion with which building projects have been carried out in the Middle East is one reflection of a faith and belief in the potentialities of this growing part of the world.
Mohammad al-Asad provides an in-depth examination of more than one hundred projects, from homes and schools to hotels and religious centers, with a stop at the world's tallest building along the way. Contemporary Architecture and Urbanism in the Middle East examines the economic, political, and cultural context in which the projects were conceived and built. The book's photographs bring attention to previously unaddressed aspects of modern Arabic architecture, highlighting local talent emerging throughout the region.
