Muscat – The Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning (MHUP) has opened applications for the 2026 Arab Ministers of Housing and Reconstruction Council Award for Architects, inviting professionals, academic institutions and researchers to showcase projects that promote sustainable urban development.

Held under the theme ‘The Role of Sustainable Architecture in Enhancing the Quality of Life in Arab Cities’, the award has a total prize fund of RO45,000 and aims to encourage architectural innovation, strengthen sustainability and improve living standards across the Arab world.

Organised under the slogan ‘For Sustainable Architecture and Prosperous Cities: Building Them Together’, the competition is open to architects, consulting firms, government and private institutions, civil society organisations, universities, research centres and final-year architecture students through approved graduation projects.

Cash prizes of RO20,000, RO15,000 and RO10,000 will be awarded to the top three winners, while participants placed fourth to tenth will receive certificates of appreciation.

The award recognises architectural projects that integrate environmental, social and economic sustainability through innovative design. Eligible projects should demonstrate improvements in energy and water efficiency, promote the use of environmentally friendly materials and contribute to enhancing residents’ quality of life.

MHUP said projects that preserve Arab and Islamic architectural identity while addressing contemporary urban needs will receive particular consideration. Entries are also expected to incorporate climate-responsive solutions, including natural ventilation and daylighting, while enhancing public spaces and social cohesion.

Projects submitted under the professional category must already have been implemented, while architecture students may participate through their approved graduation projects. Research papers and scientific publications related to sustainability and quality of life are also eligible.

Applicants are required to submit a nomination dossier containing project details, architectural drawings, photographs and supporting documents demonstrating how the submission meets the award criteria.

The deadline for submissions is July 26, 2026.