Dr. Muna Salameh Wins Prestigious Excellence and Creative Engineering Award (ECEA)

Ajman University is proud to announce that Dr. Muna Salameh has been honored with the Excellence and Creative Engineering Award (ECEA) in the Research category, organized by the UAE Society of Engineers. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding contributions to the field of engineering and sustainable design. Dr. Muna’s groundbreaking research, titled “From Heritage to Sustainability: The Future of the Past in the Hot Arid Climate of the UAE,” was selected as one of the winning projects in the 3rd edition of ECEA.

The award ceremony took place on Wednesday, 5th February, at the Mohamed Bin Rashid Library in Dubai, in the esteemed presence of Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Eng. Abdullah Yousef Al Ali, President of the UAE Society of Engineers, and a distinguished gathering of experts, academics, and industry leaders. Dr. Muna proudly accepted her trophy during this high-profile event, marking a significant milestone in her career and highlighting Ajman University’s commitment to advancing sustainable architecture.

About the Winning Research:

In “From Heritage to Sustainability: The Future of the Past in the Hot Arid Climate of the UAE,” Dr. Muna Salameh, in collaboration with Dr. Basim Touqan from The British University in Dubai, explores how traditional heritage architecture can inspire modern sustainable urban development. The research underscores the role of historic structures in achieving energy efficiency, climate resilience, and socio-economic sustainability in contemporary cities.

Using a qualitative methodology supported by ENVI-met software for microclimate simulation, the study demonstrated that rehabilitated heritage districts in Ajman not only improve outdoor thermal comfort but also strengthen cultural identity and boost local economies. The research highlighted that traditional architectural practices, when integrated with modern sustainability principles, can significantly reduce energy consumption and contribute to the mitigation of climate change in hot arid climates.

Dr. Muna Salameh: A Leader in Sustainable Architecture

Dr. Muna’s dedication to sustainability is evident in both her research and professional affiliations. As an Ambassador for Global Sustainability (GAoS) and a member of the World Society of Sustainable Energy Technologies (WSSET), she consistently promotes the integration of heritage conservation with modern sustainable development goals. Her research emphasizes that traditional architectural wisdom holds valuable lessons for future energy-efficient urban planning.

Key Highlights of the Research:

• Heritage as a Sustainable Solution: Demonstrates how conserving vernacular architecture can contribute to sustainable urban development by improving microclimates and reducing energy usage.
• Environmental Benefits: Shows that rehabilitated heritage districts offer better thermal comfort and reduced urban heat compared to modern developments.
• Cultural and Economic Impact: Emphasizes the role of heritage in fostering cultural pride and economic revitalization through tourism and community engagement.
• Innovative Methodologies: Utilizes advanced tools like ENVI-met software for microclimate analysis, bridging traditional architectural practices with modern technological innovations.

Impact and Recognition:

This award not only acknowledges Dr. Muna’s contributions to sustainable architecture but also underscores Ajman University’s leadership in cutting-edge research. Dr. Muna’s integration of heritage conservation with sustainability principles serves as a model for architects, urban planners, and policymakers aiming to design cities that are both resilient to climate change and rooted in cultural identity.

Reflecting on her achievement, Dr. Muna stated, “Winning this award is a testament to the importance of bridging our rich architectural heritage with modern sustainable practices. I am honored to contribute to a future where our cities are not only energy-efficient but also culturally vibrant and resilient to climate challenges.”

Ajman University congratulates Dr. Muna Salameh on this remarkable achievement. Her dedication to academic excellence and sustainable innovation continues to inspire students, faculty, and professionals in the field of architecture. We look forward to her continued contributions that will shape the future of sustainable urban environments both in the UAE and globally.