Doha, Qatar: Al-Mujadilah Center & Mosque for Women, located in Qatar Foundation’s Education City, has been named the winner of the Middle East Awards 2025 by The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
Announced during Dubai Design Week 2025, this milestone marks the first time RIBA’s international awards program has extended to the Middle East – a recognition of the region’s architectural evolution and global relevance. The awards highlight 15 projects that integrate design excellence with sustainability, heritage, and community impact.
“At Al-Mujadilah, our vision has always been to create a space where women can pursue their religious and intellectual growth in an environment designed for their needs,” said Dr. Sohaira Siddiqui, Executive Director of Al-Mujadilah.
“Our goal was to build a place that is both sanctuary and platform where women find peace, strengthen their voices, and grow in knowledge and faith. Every detail, from the architecture to the programs, was shaped with intention and authenticity, and to see this vision recognized with the RIBA award is deeply meaningful. I congratulate every member of our team and the women of our community whose presence makes Al-Mujadilah truly alive.”
Founded by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, and designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, Al-Mujadilah is the first purpose-built mosque and center for women in the region. Al-Mujadilah serves as a space for worship, dialogue, and reflection for women. The center houses classrooms, a curated library, a café, and gardens designed to foster connection and community.
“The projects recognized in the RIBA Middle East Awards show architecture’s growing influence in shaping how people live, learn, and come together across the region,” Chris Williamson, RIBA President, said. “They celebrate progress, not only in design and technology, but in how buildings can create opportunity, inclusivity, and lasting cultural value.”
Characterized by an undulating travertine roof punctuated by over 5,000 conical light wells, the architecture captures natural light to create a serene, contemplative atmosphere. The reimagined 39-meter kinetic minaret, which ascends and descends daily, embodies a modern interpretation of the call to prayer combining faith, technology, and artistry.
“It is a distinct honor to receive the RIBA award following our earlier recognition at the 2025 Innovation by Design Award,” said Maha Al-Khalifa, Director of Strategic Operations and Engagement at Al-Mujadilah. “Al-Mujadilah represents an architectural dialogue between tradition and modernity. This recognition affirms our commitment to architecture that not only serves its purpose, but also inspires connection, reflection, and devotion.”
