Architects, designers, academics and industry leaders gathered at SADA to explore how artificial intelligence and sustainability are reshaping the built environment.
Doha Design District, powered by Msheireb Properties, brought together leading voices from architecture, design, academia and industry for a one-day forum exploring the future of urban design.
Titled Regenerate Cities: Design for What Comes Next, the forum was held at SADA, the headquarters of Doha Design District. Presented by Msheireb Properties and Doha Design District, with AIA International as conference partner, the event examined how sustainability and artificial intelligence are influencing contemporary architectural practice.
AI and the Changing Practice of Architecture
Discussions explored how artificial intelligence can support more informed design decisions, accelerate analysis and help architects evaluate multiple design scenarios. Speakers also emphasised that human judgement, creativity and professional accountability must remain central to the design process.
The sessions highlighted AI’s growing role in data-informed planning, performance modelling, design exploration and workflow optimisation. Participants also considered the importance of transparency, responsible adoption and professional oversight as new technologies become more integrated into architectural work.
Following opening remarks by Dana Kazic, Director of Doha Design District, the programme featured international and local perspectives from Liya Maryam of AIA International, Fanos Panayides of John McAslan + Partners, Max De Castro of UNStudio, Mario Saab of Cundall, and Dr Esmat Zaidan of Hamad Bin Khalifa University.
Sustainability at the Heart of Urban Development
Sustainability was another central theme of the forum, with discussions examining how low-carbon design, efficient resource use, climate-responsive architecture and long-term resilience can help reduce environmental impact.
Rather than viewing sustainability as a separate consideration, participants explored how it can be integrated into the design process, from energy and material efficiency to the social value and adaptability of places.
The conversations also considered how regenerative thinking can support practical responses to climate change while helping cities become more resilient and responsive to the needs of their communities.
Industry Leaders Discuss the Future of Cities
A panel moderated by Salman Al Sulaiti brought together Eng. Ibrahim M. Al-Jaidah, Group CEO and Chief Architect at Arab Engineering Bureau; Dr. Moza Ghorab, Deputy Project Director and Senior Architect; Dana AlNaama, Senior Architect, Oil & Gas Sector; and Jabor Al-Dosari, Project Engineer at Qatar Museums.
The discussion examined the relationship between architecture, technology and sustainability, alongside the evolving needs of cities and the communities they serve.
Panellists explored how AI-enabled insights and sustainable design principles can complement one another, helping project teams assess performance, anticipate future requirements and develop adaptable, people-centred environments.
Connecting Ideas, Disciplines and Perspectives
Throughout the day, the forum provided a platform for exchanging ideas and connecting professionals across architecture, technology, sustainability, research and urban development.
Featuring keynote presentations, expert sessions, panel discussions and networking opportunities, Regenerate Cities encouraged participants to consider how cities can be designed to adapt to change, endure over time and create lasting value for future generations.
The event reinforced the importance of balancing technological innovation with environmental responsibility, local context and long-term community needs.
Supporting the Next Generation of Designers
The conference formed part of Doha Design District’s wider programme to raise awareness of emerging forces shaping contemporary design and everyday life.
In line with its mission and vision, the initiative aims to equip a new generation of designers and practitioners with the knowledge and tools to incorporate sustainability, responsible innovation and new technologies into their creative processes.
By bringing together diverse expertise and perspectives, the forum highlighted the role of collaboration in shaping more resilient, inclusive and future-ready cities.
