Dubai-based Dewan Architects & Engineers has been awarded two consultancy contracts by the Iraqi Municipalities & Public Works Ministry to design and masterplan urban regeneration projects in the cities of Najaf and Karbala.

Dewan will be responsible for masterplanning the projects in the old town areas of Karbala and Najaf, both of which received heavy damage during the invasion of Iraq in 2003.

The scope of Dewan’s work will involve documenting the existing condition of the cities, carrying out studies and surveys, and preparing a comprehensive masterplan.

“Our overall aim for both cities is to revitalise, regenerate and adapt the urban fabric of the old towns to contemporary demands, while highlighting their historical and religious identity,” said Mohamed al-Assam, chairman and managing director, Dewan.