EMAAR supports First International Architectural Conservation Conference

The event, which is being organised by Dubai Municipality, will be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre (Hall No. 7 & 8) from March 14-16, 2004.

Leading specialists, academics, trade professionals and agencies involved in the field of conserving architectural heritage will meet at the three day conference, supported by UNESCO and Arab Urban Development Institute, to discuss the latest in urban and architectural conservation policies and their impact on achieving harmonious urban developments.

Commenting upon EMAAR's role, Issam Galadari, Executive, Projects, EMAAR Properties, said: "As the region's largest property developer, EMAAR recognises its responsibility to preserve the architectural heritage of the UAE. It forms part of our commitment to add value to the quality of life enjoyed by our customers. Towards this end, we have successfully integrated classic Islamic architectural elements into our diverse projects, which are contemporary in nature and offer modern lifestyles."

According to Galadari, , EMAAR has used the look of the past to shape the future. Emirates Hills development, where people can buy land and build homes adjacent to the world class Montgomerie Golf Course, is a good example of this. "Emirates Hills is a brilliant showcase of EMAAR's commitment to keep local heritage traditions alive. Oriental and local architectural guidelines form an integral part of the owner's design control regulations, and are evident in the use of traditional design elements like wind traps, internal courtyards, arcades and classical motifs," he added.

"Dubai is a prime example of the growing trend towards architectural conservation, with a majority of the city's new high rises incorporating both modern and traditional design elements. With the massive boom in Dubai's real estate sector and the spate of new developments dotting the city's skyline, it would be constructive to have uniform policies for urban and architectural conservation which can be implemented by property developers across the region," continued Galadari.

The conference will focus on architectural conservation policies, historical buildings and zones, the protection of urban and architectural heritage in historical sectors and the future of architectural heritage.

An exhibition featuring the urban development in contemporary cities will also be taking place on the sidelines of the conference. Specialist companies dealing with information systems and computer applications in conservation, documentation and linking the information related to architectural conservation projects will be present. In addition, exhibits from leading artists and photographers involved with documenting heritage will also be showcased.

"This conference will provide us with an ideal platform to exchange ideas and gain valuable insights into how property developers worldwide can collectively achieve a harmonious urban development that combines both authenticity and synchronism," concluded Galadari.