Sheikh Mohammed declared another winner of the Great Arab Minds Award
UAE's Vice President commends Arab engineers for their global impact and achievements
Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, recently unveiled the recipient of the prestigious Great Arab Minds Award in the field of Architecture and Design for 2023. This distinguished honor was bestowed upon Lebanese Professor Lina Ghotmeh, celebrating her remarkable contributions and profound impact in the realm of architecture and design on a global scale.
In a tweet from his official account, Sheikh Mohammed conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to Professor Lina Ghotmeh, highlighting her extraordinary achievements. Ghotmeh’s architectural portfolio, comprising over 65 projects spanning the globe, showcases her ingenuity and creative prowess. Her designs, spanning museums, galleries, and towers, are characterized by a unique integration of global cultures and locally sourced materials, reflecting a deep understanding of each region’s heritage and environment.
Beyond her architectural accomplishments, Professor Ghotmeh is actively engaged in academia, sharing her expertise by teaching architecture at various esteemed international institutions. Sheikh Mohammed expressed his pride in individuals like Ghotmeh, acknowledging their significant contributions that resonate globally and uphold the legacy of the Arab civilization.
The recognition of Professor Ghotmeh with the Great Arab Minds Award underscores her groundbreaking approach that prioritizes the harmonious relationship between architecture and the natural world. Her meticulous research and selection of materials reflect a commitment not only to architectural innovation but also to environmental sustainability.
Her methodical analyses of diverse environments enable her to craft designs that not only blend seamlessly with their surroundings but also endure challenging conditions. The use of locally sourced materials speaks volumes about her dedication to honoring regional traditions while creating structures that stand as testaments to resilience and excellence.
Among her notable projects, one that stands out is a building near the industrial port of Beirut. Despite the devastating 2020 Beirut explosion, this structure, designed with innovative techniques and regional materials, endured, showcasing the resilience of Ghotmeh’s architectural vision and its profound impact in reflecting human values through design.
Professor Lina Ghotmeh’s exceptional vision and commitment to integrating nature, culture, and heritage into her architectural creations exemplify her as a trailblazer in the field. Her receipt of the Great Arab Minds Award reaffirms her status as a visionary architect whose designs not only transcend boundaries but also encapsulate the essence of sustainability, innovation, and cultural preservation on a global stage.
