KUWAITI MOSQUE ARCHITECTURE ASSOCIATION

I had the privilege of accepting an invitation to attend the inaugural meeting of the “Kuwaiti Mosque Architecture Association.” The meeting was organized by Dr. Adel Abdul Kareem Al-Mu’min, the Dean of the Faculty of Architecture at Kuwait University. We have always been staunch supporters of cultural, educational, and social activities that contribute to the progress of society through our father’s endowment. It is an opportunity we cannot pass up, especially when it involves a society dedicated to the architecture of mosques. Last year, we participated in the 3rd International Conference on Mosque Architecture, which was held in collaboration with the Abdullatif Al-Fozan Mosque Architecture Award. The conference, held under the slogan “The Mosque is a Transcultural Building,” focused on mosque architecture and its impact on the surrounding environment. Our participation in the conference was motivated by our late father’s vision and commitment to mosque architecture, which held great significance in his life. After his passing, the Committee of Guardians was determined to continue this journey. We had a desire for Kuwait to have a similar award that celebrated its rich mosque heritage. During discussions with Dr. Mohammed Al-Ajmi and Dr. Omar Khattab, this hope transformed into reality with the establishment of an association connected to the College of Architecture. This association welcomed anyone interested in mosque architecture, heritage preservation, and the study of Islamic designs and inscriptions. We greatly appreciate the invitation extended to us by the Kuwaiti Mosque Architecture Association this year and acknowledge the dedication of its officials and supporters. The association places significant emphasis on the construction, renovation, and overall care of mosques, making them the central focus of their efforts. They actively support the art of mosque architecture in Kuwait by showcasing exceptional design experiences, providing consultations, and conducting studies related to mosque architecture. It is important to highlight the association’s main objectives: establishing a reliable scientific and engineering resource for mosque architecture in Kuwait, documenting outstanding and innovative experiences in mosque architecture through collaboration with relevant stakeholders, contributing to the study and enhancement of heritage mosques, creating a comprehensive guide for mosque construction and maintenance that covers all engineering and architectural aspects, organizing diverse activities, and participating in both domestic and international forums to accomplish their goals. Additionally, the association takes the initiative to develop innovative and advanced mosque designs. By collaborating with institutions and non-profit associations, we have the opportunity to change the perception of Kuwait as a country abundant with mosques, not only within the nation but also on a global scale. Consequently, our aspiration is for the “Kuwaiti Mosque Architecture Association” to establish an international mosque architecture award, generously sponsored and funded by the late Abdullah Abdullatif Al-Othman, bearing his name. Through this initiative, we aim to foster fruitful cooperation in advancing and supporting all scientific and architectural endeavors related to mosques while highlighting the splendor of Islamic architecture in our Kuwaiti mosques from a scientific and engineering standpoint. This endeavor will be supervised and enriched by a collective of researchers and specialists. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Mohammed Al-Ajmi, the visionary behind this idea and project, as well as to all those who have contributed and continue to contribute to this remarkable undertaking, along with our esteemed Kuwait University.

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