The Spatial Practice of Migrant Communities in Doha, Qatar: The Case of Najada Zone

Abstract

This research study aims at tracing the human-behavior relationship between current migrant-residents and the built fabric of Najada zone in Doha. It provides a useful insight into the urban reality of migrant communities in a selected neighborhood and suggests that foreseen plans for urban adaptation and revitalization should be considered in alignment with the ever-changing demographics of a city facing fast urban growth. Through various methodological tools embedded into human-behavior studies that support the analysis of spatial practice of communities such as (i) systematic observation, (ii) contemplating settings and (iii) walking tour assessment, the interaction of Najada’s users and the surrounding built environment is traced. The purpose of the research study is to provide the basic foundation of analytical data for urban design schemes that encourages preservation and conservation of neglected old neighborhoods, at national and regional scale.