Creative Village Fujairah
A beacon for innovative Emirati hospitality on Fujairah’s coastline
The Challenge
Fujairah’s hospitality market is largely dominated by international chain resorts and short-term rentals, with limited boutique offerings rooted in local identity. The brief was to develop a masterplan concept that repositions the coastline through a culturally grounded, experience-led hospitality village.
The challenge was to define a spatial framework that integrates accommodation, public programming, and landscape into a cohesive village structure. The plan needed to balance cultural authenticity, environmental sensitivity, modular development logic, and long-term commercial viability.
As Concept and Design Lead, I directed the overall vision, spatial zoning, and program strategy, aligning thematic identity with masterplanning logic.
Image credits: Wael Mashini
Project type - Hospitality Masterplan
Location - Fujairah, UAE
Client - Tekuma Frenchman
Year - 2024
Scope - Concept Development | Masterplanning
Role - Design Lead
Designed for climate and community
A masterplan structured around courtyards, shaded circulation, and nature-led spatial planning in Fujairah.
The Result
The Creative Village masterplan organizes the site into three interrelated program clusters centered on Culture, Nature, and Wellness.
A pedestrian-oriented village spine anchors the development, connecting modular guest accommodations with shared courtyards, creative hubs, and waterfront public spaces. Built forms respond to climate and topography, using shaded walkways, courtyards, and passive cooling strategies to enhance comfort and reduce environmental impact.
Material strategies draw from local Emirati references while maintaining a contemporary architectural language. The framework allows phased growth while preserving spatial cohesion and a strong sense of place.
Thematic Zoning Framework - The masterplan is structured around three core program clusters, Culture, Nature, and Wellness, each defined by distinct spatial character and public programming.
Climate-Responsive Planning - Shaded circulation, courtyard typologies, and orientation strategies reduce heat exposure while reinforcing traditional Gulf architectural principles.
Modular Accommodation Strategy - Guest units are designed as repeatable modules that allow scalable growth without compromising village identity.
Community-Centered Public Realm - Shared courtyards, creative studios, and event spaces form a network of public anchors that encourage interaction and cultural exchange.
