ABSTRACT
The tremendous wealth generated by the oil industry in the Arab States in the second half of the twentieth century had a striking impact upon the lives of those in the Gulf nations. The technology and industry of the modern West permeated through the culture. Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha have been transformed by an urbanisation of unparalleled proportions characterised by vertiginous steel, glass and concrete that clamorously proclaims their prosperity and progressiveness. However, simultaneously, architecture has also been perceived as a vehicle for exploring methods of integrating modern technologies with the old traditions of building that reflect the lifestyles and mores of the ancient culture. Inspiration has been sought from ancient decorative motifs or symbolic historic buildings and reimagined to meet present conditions. These efforts towards a renewed cultural identity have often been directed towards the building of educational institutions, a trend of which Qatar University is a paramount example. Founded in 1973, the university is a wholecloth campus designed by architect Kamal El Kafrawi (1931-1993). Its design sought to embody an Islamic presence, whilst catering for the technological and administrative needs of the contemporary university.1
