Sustainability-driven projects inspired by native Ghaf Woods

August 4th , 2025 : Dubai, UAE: Architecture students from Canadian University Dubai (CUD) have unveiled a series of innovative, sustainability-focused design projects developed in response to the unique environmental and climatic conditions of Dubai. Set within Ghaf Woods, a forest-integrated community that is redefining urban living in the city, each project features a low-rise, multi-use recreation centre that embodies ecological harmony and climate-responsive innovation. The standout designs included a canopy rooted in biomimicry and sustainability, a recharge facility that converts environmental extremes into performance assets, and a pavilion that is embedded harmoniously into the natural landscape.

CUD’s Dean of the School of Architecture and Interior Design, Mr. Massimo Imparato, with students who have created sustainability-focused design projects linked to the unique environmental and climatic conditions of Dubai

Anchored in the university’s core pillars of sustainability and innovation, the CUD architecture students were placed in the heart of the living laboratory of Ghaf Woods to nurture their creative mindset and to promote sustainability literacy. Under the mentorship of faculty lead Christine Yogiaman, the designers explored adaptive architecture focused on passive strategies, such as shading, natural ventilation, and thermal mass, to minimise energy consumption in Dubai’s hot climate. The students combined creative exploration with practical environmental strategies, producing designs that not only minimise ecological impact but also enhance the user experience through harmony with the natural world.

Supporting the transition towards sustainable innovation and growth in the region, CUD has  launched an MSc in Design Innovation for Circular Economy, focusing on restorative and regenerative design

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Summit to explore visionary approaches in regenerative and circular design

July 02,2025: Dubai, UAE: Canadian University Dubai (CUD) has been officially selected to host the prestigious 2026 Cumulus Conference, one of the world’s most influential gatherings of art, design, and media education. Spearheaded by the University’s School of Architecture and Interior Design, the five-day global summit will take place in November 2026 under the theme: ‘Design(ed) Visions of Tomorrow | The Future of Human Condition’.

Massimo Imparato, Dean of the School of Architecture and Interior Design

Held in the context of climate disruption, social uncertainty, and rapid technological advancement, the 2026 Cumulus Dubai Conference will bring together international designers, educators, and researchers to reimagine the role of design in shaping regenerative, inclusive, and ethically driven futures. The summit will explore how design can serve as a catalyst for rethinking human life and living systems across physical, social, cultural, and ecological dimensions.

Cumulus Association General Assembly 2025

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September 26,2024 : Dubai, UAE: Emirati brothers and Canadian University Dubai (CUD) graduates, Ali Sharif Al Marzooqi and Omar Sharif Al Marzooqi, both started their careers as junior executives in human resources. With a passion for the industry and growing professional expertise, they also recognized the importance of earning a formal qualification in the field.

Taking different routes to join the same degree program, Ali and Omar returned to education as mature students, enrolling in CUD’s Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resource Management in the same year. As mid-career graduates they are now at the top of their profession in strategic roles with leading UAE organizations.

Continue reading From Canadian University Dubai students to key industry leaders: Emirati brothers excel in strategic HR roles →