Dubai, UAE — Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), a leading force in global architecture and design, has been honored as the Sustainable Architecture Firm of the Year at the Sustainability Innovation Awards 2025. This accolade underscores SOM's significant contributions towards fostering environmentally conscious design frameworks throughout the Middle East.
The recognition was formally presented at a gala ceremony held at the prestigious Al Habtoor Palace in Dubai, where a total of 29 award recipients were acknowledged for their exemplary efforts in advancing sustainability within the built environment. SOM’s receipt of this award reflects its commitment to transforming architecture into a catalyst for positive environmental impact, particularly in regions characterized by distinctive ecological challenges.
Central to SOM’s acclaim is the ambitious Sultan Haitham City project located in Muscat, Oman. Spanning a vast 1,500 hectares, this progressive urban development is designed to accommodate a population of approximately 100,000 residents. It represents a crucial component of Oman Vision 2040, a strategic blueprint aimed at diversifying the nation’s economy while enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.
A Model for Sustainable Urbanism
Sultan Haitham City establishes a new benchmark for sustainable urbanism by incorporating a variety of housing options, expansive public spaces totaling over 2.9 million square meters, and innovative smart urban mobility systems. A key feature of this development is its reimagined wadi—a natural watercourse that has been transformed into a 7.5-kilometer-long green park, fostering ecological resilience and promoting biodiversity within urban settings.
SOM’s design philosophy emphasizes the integration of renewable energy sources, water reuse strategies, and ecological measures that directly address the climatic challenges prevalent in the region. The development seeks to create inclusive neighborhoods that prioritize pedestrian accessibility and connectivity to nature. The firm’s vision for this project articulates a forward-thinking approach to urban development, aiming to balance growth with environmental stewardship.
Recognition and Respect
The Sustainability Innovation Awards are organized by BNC Publishing and are regarded as a critical platform for recognizing innovative practices and accountability across the realms of design, construction, and environmental sustainability. SOM’s achievement in this competitive field demonstrates its leadership in not only architectural excellence but also in championing practices that ensure a greener future for urban locales.
During the awards ceremony, SOM’s Dubai studio was also highlighted for its unique approach to sustainability. The studio’s commitment to utilizing locally sourced materials, including date palm wood, exemplifies a deep respect for regional culture and ecology. Incorporating local resources not only supports the indigenous economy but also minimizes the environmental footprint associated with transportation.
Building for the Future
In addressing the pressing need for sustainable infrastructure, SOM aims to create resilient urban spaces that serve diverse communities while confronting the effects of climate change. Its strategic master planning encompasses a variety of residential types to accommodate different socioeconomic levels and lifestyles, reflecting a comprehensive understanding of community dynamics.
The architectural firm’s overarching mission is to build a future where urban spaces do not simply exist in harmony with nature, but also enhance the quality of life for all residents. This vision resonates with the growing emphasis on sustainable practices across various sectors of society, reflecting an increasing awareness of the roles that both design and architecture play in addressing global environmental crises.
As SOM continues to forge pathways in sustainable architecture, the recognition from the Sustainability Innovation Awards serves as both an affirmation of its tireless work and a motivator to push the boundaries of environmentally responsible design even further.
Visual credits belong to ATCHAIN, courtesy of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill.
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