DCT Abu Dhabi Reveals Key Partners For The Upcoming 14th Terra World Congress On Earthen Architecture

The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has unveiled an impressive roster of collaborators for the 14th Terra World Congress on Earthen Architecture. This event, set to take place in Al Ain from 13th to 16th April 2026, promises a rich programme under the theme "Managing Change in Earthen Cultural Landscapes." The initiative aims to spark critical discussions and drive innovation in earthen architecture.

Al Ain's selection as the host city for this prestigious event marks a significant achievement for the UAE. It is the first Arab nation to host the congress, highlighting its growing influence in earthen architecture both regionally and globally. This milestone underscores the UAE's commitment to preserving its architectural heritage.

The congress is co-organised with ICOMOS International Scientific Committee on Earthen Architectural Heritage (ICOMOS-ISCEAH). Key partners include the International Alliance for the Protection of Heritage (ALIPH Foundation), CRATerre, and the Getty Conservation Institute (GCI). Other notable collaborators are Proterra, So Hath - 100 Hands Foundation for Building Artisans, RIBA-GCC, Al Ain Municipality, and several ICOMOS committees.

Activities will be conducted by partners before, during, and after the congress. These activities revolve around themes such as "Transmitting Earthen Heritage and Architecture," "Safeguarding Earthen Cultural Landscapes," "Innovations in Earthen Architecture," and "Resilience to Vulnerabilities of Earthen Cultural Landscapes." These themes aim to foster dialogue and collaboration among experts.

The comprehensive programme includes lectures, workshops, panel discussions, exhibitions, design competitions, site tours, and an award ceremony. These events are designed to encourage knowledge exchange and innovation in sustainable conservation practices. The programme has been developed with leading institutions in heritage conservation, architecture, and sustainability.

DCT Abu Dhabi's efforts through this congress highlight their dedication to promoting earthen heritage as a crucial aspect of the nation's architectural identity. By encouraging sustainable practices and fostering innovation, they aim to ensure that future generations can appreciate and benefit from the UAE’s built legacy.

The involvement of local universities like Abu Dhabi University, United Arab Emirates University, and Zayed University further strengthens this initiative. Their participation ensures that academic perspectives contribute to discussions on preserving cultural landscapes.

The 14th Terra World Congress serves as a platform for DCT Abu Dhabi to reaffirm its commitment to cultural heritage preservation. By bringing together global experts and fostering dialogue on earthen architecture's challenges and innovations, it aims to safeguard these cultural treasures for future generations.

With inputs from WAM