In Focus n° 1: Large‑Scale Urban Regeneration: A New “Heart” for Doha

Abstract

Similar to regional pioneer Dubai, Qatar has adopted, through neoliberal policies, to create a global urban image although the Emirate also endeavours to provide a counterexample to the much discussed “Dubai‑Model”. There is now little left in Doha which is truly original or representative of the traditional architecture and townscape that once existed. One attempt is to revitalize a 35‑ha site of the historic core to find a “new architectural language” for the 21st century and to fill the gap in the architectural history of Qatar. The Msheireb‑project (designed as the “heart of Doha”) constrains a unified vision of the principles of a contemporary Arab City and redefines urban design according to traditional habits (e.g. public spaces, walkable neighborhoods) to bring people (Qatari in particular) back to the city. In this contribution the quality of this new concept of urban revitalization and its potential success shall be critically analyzed.