Ajman is one of the seven emirates that form the UAE. It is located north of Abu Dhabi and Dubai on the Gulf coast. The 10,000 square meter (2.47 acre) site for the Nora Mosque and Civic Center is located in the center of the capital city of Ajman which has a population of about 200,000 persons. The project intentionally seeks to avoid competing with nearby buildings including the high-rise residential buildings located to the north of the site. Using shell-like platforms and roofs to create a unique roofscape and partially landscaped sloped surface, the building offers shaded spaces and a view of the sea from the highest level. The complex accommodates a mosque for 2500 people, several halls for various social and educational activities, accompanying recreational and service spaces, and a semi enclosed car park area. An internal shaded street shaded with the overhanging plates, forms the main north-south access spine that connects two neighboring roads. The design takes into account the prevailing winds forming a “cool canyon atmosphere” within the inner spaces. The architect takes into account not only the functions of the complex, but also the climate and the urban setting.
*by Philip Jodidio, Global and Local / New Projects / EAA-Emre Arolat Architecture, Rizzoli Electa, 2020.
Project Gallery
