Integrating transit-oriented development and cultural heritage : An urban regeneration vision for the Qatar National Museum neighbourhood
Abstract
Qatar is undergoing a rapid transformation of its built environment, driven by major transit investments aligned with the Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030). The Doha Metro represents a central pillar of this transformation, intended to reduce automobile dependency, enhance accessibility, and support sustainable urban development through transit-oriented development (TOD). A persistent challenge, however, lies in integrating metro stations into their surrounding urban fabric while reconciling compact, mixed-use development with cultural heritage preservation. This study examines the National Museum of Qatar (NMQ) neighbourhood as a TOD case study, adopting a mixed-methods research design grounded in an interdisciplinary urban design perspective that conceptualises the built environment as a dynamic socio-spatial system. The methodology combines quantitative user surveys (n = 80), qualitative semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with planning and transport professionals (n = 40), and visual–spatial analysis using geographic information system (GIS) mapping, historical cartography, site observations, and photographic documentation. Analysis is structured around six TOD dimensions — urban density, land-use diversity, urban design, proximity to transport, destination accessibility, and demand management — to identify spatial patterns, diagnose implementation challenges, and explore regeneration opportunities. Findings reveal significant spatial and functional mismatches between transit infrastructure and adjacent land uses, limited pedestrian connectivity, and underutilised public spaces. Based on these insights, the study proposes a context-sensitive TOD urban regeneration framework aimed at enhancing multimodal connectivity, environmental sustainability, local economic vitality, heritage preservation, and community engagement. The proposed framework offers a transferable model for advancing culturally responsive and sustainable urbanism in Qatar and comparable Middle Eastern contexts. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.
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Author's Biography
Raffaello Furlan, MArch, PhD, is an Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Architecture and Urban Planning at Qatar University. He has held academic positions in Australia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and serves as a principal investigator for research projects funded by the Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF) and Qatar University, focusing on urban sociology, urban regeneration, sustainable urbanism, and vernacular architecture. With nearly two decades of professional experience across Italy, Australia, the UAE, and Qatar, Raffaello has managed design, construction, and supervision of residential and commercial developments, in addition to publishing extensively in peer-reviewed journals and books.
Brian R. Sinclair, PhD, DrHC, FRAIC, AIA (Intl), is Professor of Architecture and Environmental Design, and former Dean, in the University of Calgary’s School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape (SAPL). Brian is President of sinclairstudio inc., a multidisciplinary design/research corporation engaged in an array of global projects. He holds postgraduate degrees in architecture and psychology. Professional memberships include American Institute of Architects, Union of Mongolian Architects, Society of Nepalese Architects, Council for Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, and Fellowship in the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada. Scholarship includes professional practice, design methods, open building, agile architecture, strategic planning, integrated design, environmental psychology, international development, systems and sustainability, and the collision of science and spirit.
Reem Awwaad holds a PhD in Urban Planning from Qatar University. She also holds a Bachelor of Architecture (with honours) and a master’s in urban planning and design from Qatar University. Reem has worked as a Research Assistant for three years under the Qatar University Collaborative Grant. Additionally, she brings five years of professional experience as Transportation Planner with Seero Engineering Consulting, specialising in traffic impact studies and transport modelling for new urban developments in Qatar.
