Architecture UB

The first Department of Architecture Engineering in Iraq is the pioneer that shapes our built environment and impacts the urban life!

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

#GraduationProjectsDiscussions

Today, Monday, June 1, 2026, the graduation project discussions for our students from the 62nd cohort officially commenced. The students presented diverse projects that reflected their academic and design efforts, demonstrating a distinguished level of performance in presenting and discussing their ideas before the examination committees.

We wish our dear students continued success and the best of luck in their upcoming discussions.

#Department_Media_Team

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

#GraduationProjectsDiscussions

Today, Monday, June 1, 2026, the graduation project discussions for our students from the 62nd cohort officially commenced. The students presented diverse projects that reflected their academic and design efforts, demonstrating a distinguished level of performance in presenting and discussing their ideas before the examination committees.

We wish our dear students continued success and the best of luck in their upcoming discussions.

#Department_Media_Team

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

#FutureArchitects
#Architecture_Graduation_Projects
#Baghdad_University

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

The University of Baghdad / College of Engineering / Department of Architecture announced that Lec. Amal Fadhil, in collaboration with Prof. Dr. Hoda A. S. Al-Alwan, her PhD supervisor, has published a research paper titled:

“Visual Storytelling and Place-Based Learning: A Generative Approach to Architectural Cultural Awareness.”

The paper was published in the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, issued by the international publisher Taylor & Francis, and indexed in Scopus (Q1).

The research investigates the role of sketch-based visual storytelling in enhancing cultural awareness among architecture students. The study analyzed visual storyboards produced by students before and after visiting a heritage site in order to understand how they interact with place.

The findings indicate that combining spatial experience with visual storytelling helps students better understand architectural features and spatial organization in heritage sites, strengthens their emotional connection to place, and encourages meaningful engagement with the cultural values embedded in historic environments. The study also highlights that integrating field experience with creative activities such as drawing can transform heritage sites into active learning environments that foster cultural awareness in architectural education.

Link:https://t.co/Ue6Q0ob8L5

#Department_Media_Team

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

The University of Baghdad / College of Engineering / Department of Architecture witnessed the public defense of the PhD student Marwa Abdul Sattar Abdul Jabbar for her dissertation entitled:

“The Intellectual Data of Biomimetic Architecture and Its Impact on the Intelligent System of Building Facades.”

This took place on Thursday, 5/3/2025, at Professor Mohammed Makiya Hall, under the supervision of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rand Hazem Agha.

The dissertation aimed to highlight the employment of biomimetic architectural behavior in the movement of intelligent facade envelopes to improve the environmental performance of buildings, by building a theoretical framework for the concepts of biomimetic architecture and intelligence in facade envelopes, leading to the design of a smart envelope model inspired by the living joint using artificial intelligence techniques, and applying it to the Baghdad Mall building.

The research included designing a movable envelope using SolidWorks, with analyzing the climatic performance of the building before and after applying the envelope using Rhino, Grasshopper, and Ladybug Tools programs, by measuring the climatic factors represented by temperature and solar radiation intensity during four months representing the two solstices and the two equinoxes.

The results showed a noticeable decrease in the temperature entering the interior spaces and a reduction in solar radiation intensity, where the highest difference in June reached about 24°C, and in September 21°C, while the difference reached 6°C in December and 5°C in March.

The discussion committee consisted of:
•Prof. Dr. Kazim Fares Dhamad – Chairman
•Prof. Dr. Alan Faridun Ali – Member
•Prof. Dr. Amer Shaker Khudair – Member
•Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ghada Mohammed Ismail – Member
•Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dirgham Muzhir Al-Obaidi – Member
•Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rand Hazem Mahmoud – Supervisor

At the end of the discussion, the committee decided to grant the researcher the PhD degree in Philosophy of Architecture.

#PhD_Dissertation
#Department_Media_Team

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

#Scientific_Visit

The Department of Architecture Engineering – University of Baghdad organized a field scientific visit on Wednesday, 11/2/2026, to the Equestrian Club site for fourth-year students, under the supervision of the instructors of the Exterior Spaces Design course:
Dr. Nasreen Razzaq Ibrahim, Dr. Ilham Ali Bayouwi, Dr. Hala Shamsi Mohammed, Dr. Anfal Moayad Maayouf, Asst. Lec. Shahad Alaa Saud, Asst. Lec. Zainab Saleh Abbas, Asst. Lec. Sharq Jaafar Hadi, Eng. Sahar Mohammed Abdul Baqi, and Eng. Zahraa Hassan Kadhim.

The visit aimed to provide students with the opportunity to directly observe the key characteristics of open spaces in the city of Baghdad and to identify the main factors that enhance the creative aspect of designers. It also sought to deepen their understanding of the functional and organizational aspects governing the design of such spaces surrounding buildings and major projects.

During the field tour, students became familiar with the appropriate furniture used in outdoor spaces, which strengthened their practical understanding of the theoretical material studied in class.

This visit comes within the framework of promoting a culture of learning through observation and field experience, and encouraging students to connect academic knowledge with practical reality.

#Department_Media_Team

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

PhD Dissertation Defense

The College of Engineering at the University of Baghdad held the public defense of the PhD dissertation submitted by Ms. Dalia Raad Zaidan from the Department of Architectural Engineering, entitled “Ephemerality and Permanence in Public Urban Spaces,” on Monday, January 26, 2026, at Mohammed Makkiya Hall, under the supervision of Asst. Prof. Dr. Abdul-Hussein Al-Askari.

The dissertation aimed to develop a comprehensive theoretical framework for the ephemerality–permanence model in public urban spaces at both the design and planning levels, through the adoption of contemporary strategies that contribute to enhancing spatial sustainability and guiding the transformation from resilience to sustainability and ultimately to prosperity. In addition, the study addressed scenarios of transformation between ephemerality and permanence, as well as the material and non-material causes of deterioration in public urban spaces.

The dissertation defense committee consisted of:
Prof. Dr. Ghada Mousa Rzouqi (Chair),
Prof. Dr. Shaimaa Hamid Hussein,
Prof. Dr. Kazem Fares Dhamad,
Asst. Prof. Dr. Fawzia Arhaim Hussein,
Asst. Prof. Dr. Sali Fakhri Khalaf,
with Asst. Prof. Dr. Abdul-Hussein Al-Askari serving as Supervisor.

Following the scientific discussion, evaluation of the dissertation, and the candidate’s defense, the researcher was awarded the PhD degree in Architectural Engineering.

#PhD_Dissertation
#Department_Media_Team

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

#قسم_هندسة_العمارة – جامعة_بغداد
#الدراسات_العليا

يرحب قسم هندسة العمارة في كلية الهندسة / جامعة بغداد بطلبة الدراسات العليا (الماجستير والدكتوراه) بمناسبة مباشرتهم في الفصل الدراسي الثاني للعام 2025–2026، وذلك اعتبارًا من يوم الأحد الموافق 19/1/2026، وفق التقويم الجامعي المعتمد.

ويتمنى القسم لطلبتنا الأعزاء دوام التوفيق والنجاح في مسيرتهم العلمية والبحثية، وأن يكون هذا الفصل الدراسي محطة جديدة للعطاء العلمي والتميز الأكاديمي، وتحقيق المزيد من الإنجازات خدمةً للجامعة والمجتمع.

مع أطيب التمنيات بعام دراسي موفق ومثمر للجميع.
#فريق_أعلام_القسم

#Department_of_Architecture – University_of_Baghdad
#Postgraduate_Studies

The Department of Architecture at the College of Engineering / University of Baghdad extends its warm welcome to postgraduate students (Master’s and PhD) on the occasion of the start of the second semester of the academic year 2025–2026, effective from Sunday, 19/1/2026, in accordance with the approved academic calendar.

The Department wishes our dear students continued success and excellence in their academic and research journey, and hopes that this semester will be a new milestone for scientific achievement and academic distinction, contributing to the service of the University and the community.

With our best wishes for a successful and productive academic year for all.

#Department_Media_Team

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

#A_Generation_Shaping_The_Future and drawing the contours of tomorrow,
#Move_Forward_With_Confidence

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

Quick Highlights & Impact Statements

#AlumniSpotlight – Marwan Abdulilah Rassam
A distinguished University of Baghdad graduate with 20+ years of impact across:

Healthcare & hospital design

Restaurant and hospitality architecture

Entrepreneurship and brand development

AI-driven creative technologies

Art, interior design, and spatial identity

Founder of Hilance – Dubai and Artika (Smart Art, Human Touch), Marwan bridges technology, architecture, and human emotion to shape meaningful experiences.

A true example of Iraqi innovation and global ambition.

#AlumniSpotlight
#Department_Media_Team

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

#Scientific_Visit

The Department of Architecture at the University of Baghdad organized a field visit to the construction site of the Rixos Baghdad Resort for fifth-year students, Section (A), under the supervision of the section instructors.
During the visit, students were introduced to the project’s construction stages and on-site safety standards, in addition to gaining an understanding of the architect’s role in site management and the coordination mechanisms among the design, execution, and consultancy teams.

They also reviewed preliminary and detailed drawings as well as samples of construction materials, which enhanced their practical skills and helped them connect theoretical knowledge with real-world application.

This visit aligns with the department’s efforts to support experiential learning and strengthen students’ professional competencies.

#Department_Media_Team

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

Look at #Yousif_Hani 🇮🇶 — our talented graduate whose project “Eternal Lands: Reshaping the UNESCO Recognized Marshlands in Iraq” is shortlisted for the #d3Awards by @d3Dubai!

Showcased at #DubaiDesignWeek on Nov 4 — celebrating creativity, heritage & innovation. 🌿✨
#Design #Architecture #Iraq

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

As part of the University of Baghdad’s efforts to strengthen academic collaboration among Iraqi universities and to exchange experiences and insights among professors and students of architecture departments, the Department of Architecture at the College of Engineering – University of Baghdad organized the First Iraqi Forum for Architecture Departments, with the participation of 27 architecture departments from various Iraqi universities, held on Tuesday and Wednesday, October 21–22, 2025.

The forum was held under the patronage of the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and the Presidency of the University of Baghdad, under the direct supervision of Prof. Dr. Ghassan Hamid Abdul-Majid, Dean of the College of Engineering, and with the support of Asst. Prof. Dr. Osama Abdul-Munem Al-Tamimi, Head of the Department of Architecture.

The forum’s activities included a variety of scientific and cultural events, most notably the honoring of distinguished Iraqi architects, the screening of a documentary film highlighting the participating institutions, a lecture by architect Manhal Al-Habbobi, and a discussion session with Dr. Ghada Mousa Razouqi, in addition to a special presentation titled “The Story of the Forum”, which outlined its concept, goals, and preparatory journey. The event also featured a commemorative exhibition dedicated to the late Dr. Saher Al-Qaisi, along with an exhibition of outstanding student and graduate projects from the participating architecture departments.

The forum also witnessed open dialogues among department heads, faculty members, students, and graduates, addressing the main challenges facing Iraqi architecture and opportunities for its future development. During these sessions, a proposal was made to designate an “Iraqi Architecture Day” as an annual event to celebrate national architectural identity and honor creative achievements in both academia and professional practice.

The forum was sponsored by Manhal Al-Habbobi Office, the National Office for EarthTech, and Dr. Saher Al-Qaisi’s Office, in collaboration with ALF Company, with active participation from the faculty and students of the Department of Architecture – University of Baghdad. It was organized under the supervision of the Founding Committee of the Forum, chaired by Prof. Dr. Ghassan Hamid Abdul-Majid, and included Prof. Dr. Saad Fawzi Tu’ma, Asst. Prof. Dr. Abdul-Hussein Al-Askari, Dr. Ammar Saleh Ashour, and Lecturer Ali Basim Abdul-Kareem.

This forum represents a significant milestone in unifying academic efforts among Iraq’s architecture departments and in enhancing the spirit of collaboration and joint work toward advancing the architectural educational and research environment in Iraq.

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

As part of the University of Baghdad’s efforts to strengthen academic collaboration among Iraqi universities and promote the exchange of experiences and ideas between professors and students of architecture departments, the Department of Architecture at the College of Engineering – University of Baghdad organized the First Iraqi Forum for Architecture Departments, with the participation of 27 architecture departments from various Iraqi universities, held on Tuesday and Wednesday, October 21–22, 2025.

The forum was held under the patronage of the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and the Presidency of the University of Baghdad, with direct supervision from Prof. Dr. Ghassan Hamid Abdul-Majid, Dean of the College of Engineering, and support from Asst. Prof. Dr. Osama Abdul-Munem Al-Tamimi, Head of the Department of Architecture.

The forum’s activities included a variety of scientific and cultural events, most notably the recognition of distinguished Iraqi architects, the screening of a documentary film featuring the participating institutions, a lecture by architect Manhal Al-Habbobi, and a dialogue session with Dr. Ghada Mousa Razouqi. Another key feature was the “Story of the Forum” presentation, which reviewed its concept, objectives, and preparatory journey. The event also included a commemorative exhibition honoring the late Dr. Saher Al-Qaisi, as well as an exhibition of outstanding student and graduate projects from the participating architecture departments.

The forum also featured open discussions among department heads, faculty members, students, and graduates, addressing the main challenges facing Iraqi architecture and opportunities for its future development. During the sessions, participants proposed establishing an “Iraqi Architecture Day” as an annual occasion to celebrate national architectural identity and honor creativity in both academic and professional fields.

The event was sponsored by Manhal Al-Habbobi Office, the National Office for EarthTech, and Dr. Saher Al-Qaisi’s Office, in collaboration with ALF Company, and was actively supported by faculty members and students of the Department of Architecture – University of Baghdad. It was organized under the supervision of the Founding Committee of the Forum, chaired by Prof. Dr. Ghassan Hamid Abdul-Majid, and included Prof. Dr. Saad Fawzi Tu’ma, Asst. Prof. Dr. Abdul-Hussein Al-Askari, Dr. Ammar Saleh Ashour, and Lecturer Ali Basim Abdul-Kareem.

This forum represents a significant milestone in unifying academic efforts among Iraq’s architecture departments and in strengthening the spirit of collaboration and joint action toward developing the architectural educational and research environment.

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

As part of the University of Baghdad’s efforts to strengthen academic collaboration among Iraqi universities and promote the exchange of experiences and ideas between professors and students of architecture departments, the Department of Architecture at the College of Engineering – University of Baghdad organized the First Iraqi Forum for Architecture Departments, with the participation of 27 architecture departments from various Iraqi universities, held on Tuesday and Wednesday, October 21–22, 2025.

The forum was held under the patronage of the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and the Presidency of the University of Baghdad, with direct supervision from Prof. Dr. Ghassan Hamid Abdul-Majid, Dean of the College of Engineering, and support from Asst. Prof. Dr. Osama Abdul-Munem Al-Tamimi, Head of the Department of Architecture.

The forum’s activities included a variety of scientific and cultural events, most notably the recognition of distinguished Iraqi architects, the screening of a documentary film featuring the participating institutions, a lecture by architect Manhal Al-Habbobi, and a dialogue session with Dr. Ghada Mousa Razouqi. Another key feature was the “Story of the Forum” presentation, which reviewed its concept, objectives, and preparatory journey. The event also included a commemorative exhibition honoring the late Dr. Saher Al-Qaisi, as well as an exhibition of outstanding student and graduate projects from the participating architecture departments.

The forum also featured open discussions among department heads, faculty members, students, and graduates, addressing the main challenges facing Iraqi architecture and opportunities for its future development. During the sessions, participants proposed establishing an “Iraqi Architecture Day” as an annual occasion to celebrate national architectural identity and honor creativity in both academic and professional fields.

The event was sponsored by Manhal Al-Habbobi Office, the National Office for EarthTech, and Dr. Saher Al-Qaisi’s Office, in collaboration with ALF Company, and was actively supported by faculty members and students of the Department of Architecture – University of Baghdad. It was organized under the supervision of the Founding Committee of the Forum, chaired by Prof. Dr. Ghassan Hamid Abdul-Majid, and included Prof. Dr. Saad Fawzi Tu’ma, Asst. Prof. Dr. Abdul-Hussein Al-Askari, Dr. Ammar Saleh Ashour, and Lecturer Ali Basim Abdul-Kareem.

This forum represents a significant milestone in unifying academic efforts among Iraq’s architecture departments and in strengthening the spirit of collaboration and joint action toward developing the architectural educational and research environment.

[Architecture UB @Architecture_Ub]

#AlumniSpotlight
#Wael_S_Salman
#From_Baghdad_to_Houston_A_Legacy_of_Design_and_Leadership

Today, we are celebrating Wael S. Salman, a distinguished graduate of the Department of Architecture, University of Baghdad, whose career journey reflects more than two decades of architectural excellence spanning Iraq, Jordan, and the United States.

Academic Path

https://t.co/nR9Gbc0zsG. in Architectural Engineering – University of Baghdad, Iraq

https://t.co/Z3OF83dl6p. in Architectural Engineering – University of Baghdad, Iraq

Professional Journey

Wael has built a truly international career:
Assistant Professor – University of Baghdad (2001–2006), mentoring young architects and contributing to Iraq’s heritage through UNESCO-linked projects.
Architectural Designer – Petros Khammo Bureau (2000–2005), designing schools, banks, hotels, and residential projects in Iraq.
Architectural Designer – Swaback Partners PLLC, Scottsdale, Arizona (2006–2008), delivering custom residences and mixed-use developments.
Architectural Designer – CLC Associates, Arizona (2008–2009), contributing to retail and mixed-use complexes.
Senior Architect & Project Manager – Al-Bait Al-Amer Co., Amman, Jordan (2009–2019), leading major housing, hospitality, and commercial projects.
Project Manager/Designer – INsite Architecture Inc, Houston, Texas (2019–2020), managing multi-family and hospitality projects from schematic design to construction administration.
Project Architect – W Partnership, Houston (2021–2023), delivering large multi-family housing complexes.
Senior Professional Designer – HOK, Houston (2023–Present), where he works on high-profile projects such as Abilene Christian University’s Baseball Stadium Expansion and the Oklahoma County Justice Center.

Key Achievements
Delivered projects across diverse sectors: multi-family, mixed-use, educational, hospitality, and justice architecture.
Skilled in BIM, design development, and construction documentation for projects ranging from residential estates to multi-level complexes.
Actively contributed to the successful UNESCO nomination of Babylon (Babel) as a World Heritage Site.
Collaborated with international organizations, including JICA, for post-war rehabilitation studies in Iraq.

Legacy and Inspiration
Wael’s career demonstrates how the foundation built at the University of Baghdad empowers our alumni to thrive globally—bridging cultures, advancing design innovation, and shaping the built environment with creativity and resilience.

#University_of_Baghdad
#DepartmentMediaTeam
University of Baghdad