Researchers: Trad. architecture reflects UAE, Morocco identity

The Aesthetics of Emirati and Moroccan Heritage Architecture

These insights emerged during a panel discussion titled "The Aesthetics of Emirati and Moroccan Heritage Architecture," organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) as part of Sharjah’s Guest of Honour programme at the 30th Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair. The session featured Emirati researcher Hamad bin Sarai and Moroccan researcher Dr. Zhour Karam, with writer Sheikha Al Mutairi moderating.

Detailed essential features of traditional Emirati architecture

Sarai detailed essential features of traditional Emirati architecture, emphasising that its true beauty emerges through understanding historical, present, and future contexts. He highlighted the deep-rooted relationship between architectural styles and maritime heritage, illustrating how cultural identity and environmental conditions have shaped design elements.

He further described the architectural adaptations across desert, mountainous, and coastal regions, emphasising solutions that meet local climatic conditions and daily needs. Traditional ventilation techniques such as flat roofs suitable for areas with low rainfall, Barajeel (wind towers) for natural cooling, and privacy-oriented window designs were discussed extensively.

Sarai also explored the diverse materials employed in Emirati architecture, including indigenous gypsum, palm fronds, East African mangrove wood, stone, coral, clay, and bamboo. Architectural embellishments like intricate details on doors, arches, and ceilings, along with aesthetic features such as sunscreens and pointed arches exemplified by historical sites like Al Bidya Mosque, were highlighted. He noted the distinctive absence of minarets in early Emirati religious architecture.

Presented traditional Moroccan architecture as profoundly harmonising form and essence, evident in contemporary structures

Dr. Zhour Karam presented traditional Moroccan architecture as profoundly harmonising form and essence, evident in contemporary structures that embody Moroccan identity and cultural continuity. She drew significant parallels between Moroccan and Emirati architectural traditions, particularly their shared Islamic design roots, characterised by geometric patterns and symbolic motifs rather than representations of living beings.

Dr. Karam stressed how both architectural traditions evolved directly in response to local climates and social practices. She underscored the unique Moroccan zellige (decorative tiles) as a symbol of intricate craftsmanship and national identity, noting how its cultural expression faced suppression under French colonial rule due to its powerful symbolic value.

Concluding her presentation, Dr. Karam observed that modern architectural landmarks, such as the UAE’s Burj Khalifa and Morocco’s Mohammed VI Tower, represent the adaptive evolution of traditional design into the future, encapsulating the aspirations and vision of both nations.