Today's Edition
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
Earthen heritage conservation, preserving cultural landscapes, and driving research will be in focus for Al Ain as the host city of the 14th Terra World Congress in April 2026.
Experts, researchers, and cultural stakeholders are coming to the UAE's historic Garden City for discussions and knowledge exchange focused on earthen architecture.
The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) recently announced the selection of Al Ain City as the venue for the congress, marking a landmark moment for the UAE, as it will be the first Arab country to host the global event.
Organised by the International Scientific Committee on Earthen Architectural Heritage (ICOMOS-ISCEAH), the 14th Terra World Congress on Earthen Architectural Heritage will be held from April 13 to 16, 2026."
The congress aims to drive research and innovation while also preserving and promoting earthen architecture styles and conservation efforts," said Angela Jabbour of Memac Ogilvy, the PR agency that represents DCT Abu Dhabi culture.
The congress essentially covers archaeological sites, cultural landscapes, new and modern architectural designs, as well as traditional earthen construction techniques, Jabbour told Aletihad.
Themed 'Managing Change in Earthen Cultural Landscapes', the event will focus on several important sub-themes, including the passing down of knowledge and skills, sharing approaches to conservation and management, exploring new techniques and technologies, addressing threats to earthen structures, and ensuring their long-term protection.
Earthen architecture covers archaeological sites, cultural landscapes - both in new and traditional forms - as well as ancient and contemporary construction techniques. The event serves as a platform to stimulate research, encourage innovation, and foster the preservation and celebration of heritage.
The Terra World Congress in Al Ain will be a vital occasion for experts and cultural stakeholders to share and exchange valuable insights, ensuring that this ancient heritage continues to thrive for future generations.
