Sumaya walking arround in mosuqe by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
Getting to know Sumaya Al Dabbagh
An amalgamation of authenticity, modernity, and sustainability are the main standards of Sumaya Al Dabbagh's architectural masterpiece. Her designs embrace the essence of cultural heritage while integrating contemporary functionality and sustainable practices.
Sumaya walking arround in mosuqe by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
In founding Dabbagh Architects in 2008, she merged the sustainability of identity and environment in terms of passing our identity to future generations through her designs that reflect the current era while employing locally manufactured, eco- friendly and sustainable materials.
Gargash Mosque Front Side by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
Sumaya is passionate about driving the value of superior integrated designs in the region, and she was a key member of the team that founded the RIBA Gulf chapter in 2009, which aims to build high-quality design and engineering practices globally and regionally.
Dabbagh's portfolio spans commercial, residential, educational, and cultural projects. Her designs that communicate the contextual story of the place, such as the Mleiha Archaeological Center and the recently finished Gargash Mosque, have received multiple awards.
Sumayya is particularly proud of the Gargash Mosque in Dubai, which she adopted locally sourced and environmentally friendly materials in its contraction.
Gargash mosque side walls by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
The Gargash Mosque is distinguished by its unique deign that combines authentic and modern elements. Various geometric shapes and Quranic verses adorn the mosque, giving it a spiritual aura.
The walls are also decorated with triangles creating a beautiful play of light in the courtyard and prayer halls.
Calligraphic verses from the Quran on Mosque by Dubai Culture by Dubai CultureDubai Culture & Arts Authority
By incorporating the beauty of Arabic calligraphy and a minimalist approach to design, the mosque’s walls were transformed into a work of art. She meticulously selected verses that complemented each unique area of the mosque.
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