From the historic streets of Egypt to the vibrant regions of Algeria and Palestine, a new generation of Arab architects are making waves in the fields of architecture and urban planning. These pioneering professionals are not only challenging the status quo but also introducing new ways of designing and shaping the spaces and buildings around us. May Al-Ibrashy, a conservation architect from Egypt, has dedicated her career to preserving the architectural and cultural heritage of her country, especially in historic Cairo. With close to 30 years of field experience, she undertakes projects to safeguard Egypt’s rich heritage, working closely with local communities to ensure their integral involvement in preservation efforts. Al-Ibrashy coordinates “Athar Lina”, an initiative run by Megawra-BEC (an architectural office specializing in conservation and heritage management) in partnership with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. She is also an adjunct lecturer of architecture at both the American University in Cairo (AUC) and Cairo University. Egypt’s Magda Mostafa, an architect and professor at the American University in Cairo, is redefining the field of design through her innovative and socially-conscious approach. Mostafa leads a design studio focused on autism…
Trailblazing Arab Women Redefining Architecture and Urban Planning
June 11, 2024
By Belal Nawar
Senior Journalist
