Seeking Economic Diversification via Regeneration of Qatari Villages

This thesis aims to explore the possibilities of economic diversification in the state of Qatar through the regeneration of built heritage in order to promote tourism and create a center for culture and local heritage, thereby enhancing the sense of identity both socially and physically. This is in light of one of the key aims of the Qatar National Vision 2030, which is to diversify Qatar’s economy and minimize its reliance on hydrocarbon industries. If these ambitious goals are to be achieved, there is a necessity to develop a clear cultural identity, demonstrated through architecture and urban planning. Economic diversification needs to be created via the services and products of Qatari society and globally; this is only possible by exploiting current resources such as the historic or built environment remains in areas outside mega cities or metropolitan cities. This study is an exploratory one based on qualitative methods. The locals who used to live in the villages were approached with questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were conducted with the individuals as required, depending on their literacy levels. This research examines the means by which to revive those villages and improve the current economic level. In addition, several recommendations are made for the villages to socially and economically revive these heritage areas.