Ajman University Partners with Al Zorah Development for Hands-On Villa Design Project

The College of Architecture, Art and Design at Ajman University is pleased to announce the successful completion of a unique academic collaboration with Al Zorah Development (Private) Company, offering first-year Architecture students real-world design experience.

As part of their Design I course, students were challenged to design a contemporary villa within the Al Zorah masterplan in Ajman. Al Zorah Development provided the actual project site and design brief, giving students a realistic context to apply their skills and creativity.

Despite the site’s varied topography, students responded with innovative solutions—turning natural level changes into dynamic architectural features that connect closely with the surrounding landscape. Their work combined both traditional physical models and modern digital tools, helping them clearly visualize and present their design ideas.

The final project presentations were held on campus and reviewed by a respected panel of external jurors, who offered valuable feedback. The jury included:

• Sandra Woodall (FRIBA, FRSA, AoU)

• Husam Kiswani (ALDARAH Architects & Interior Designers)

• Tawfiq Abuhantash (American University of Ras Al Khaimah)

• Hani Al-Qassem (ARKI Group)

• Rahif Afiouni (AYS Holdings & Investments)

This collaborative project was led by Mrs. Nashwa Shqiwarah and Ms. Noor Al Yafei, under the academic supervision of Dr. Jihad Awad, Head of the Department of Architecture.

The initiative reflects Ajman University’s strong focus on experiential learning and industry engagement, helping students gain practical skills and prepare for the future of architecture and design.