Dubai’s commitment to celebrating Arab excellence took centre stage as His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, officially announced the winner of the 2025 Great Arab Minds Award in Architecture and Design.The prestigious honour has been awarded to Dr Suad Amiry of Palestine, a globally respected architect and the founder of the Riwaq Centre for Architectural Conservation, recognising her decades-long dedication to preserving Arab architectural heritage.A Lifetime Dedicated to Preserving Palestinian HeritageSharing the announcement on social media, Sheikh Mohammed congratulated Dr Amiry for her pioneering work, praising her role in safeguarding Palestine’s historic buildings and urban identity through restoration, reuse and community-led conservation.Dr Amiry has led one of the largest architectural documentation projects in Palestine, creating a comprehensive registry of over 50,000 historic buildings. Her work has directly contributed to the revival of 50 historic centres, breathing new life into towns and villages rich in cultural memory.Architecture That Empowers CommunitiesBeyond preservation, Dr Amiry’s initiatives have focused on people. Her projects have:Created employment opportunities for local craftsmenProvided specialised training in traditional building materialsActively involved communities in restoring and protecting their villagesHer research is internationally recognised for its detailed documentation of traditional Palestinian homes, including stonework, flooring, decorative elements and architectural layouts that reflect the depth and richness of the region’s built environment.Sheikh Mohammed’s Message of CongratulationsSheikh Mohammed extended his heartfelt congratulations to Dr Amiry, describing the recognition as well deserved after years of tireless dedication. He also offered a message of hope and prayer for Palestine, expressing his wish that its historic villages and buildings continue to stand as living symbols of Arab memory and identity.Celebrating Arab Minds That Shape the FutureThe Great Arab Minds Awards honour outstanding Arab thinkers, innovators and leaders whose work has left a lasting mark on culture, knowledge and society. Dr Suad Amiry’s achievement stands as a powerful reminder that architecture is not just about buildings—it’s about identity, resilience and history.Her recognition places her among the region’s most influential cultural figures, spotlighting Arab excellence on a global stage.
