Qatar is classified as a Dry land and has no natural open bodies of fresh water. Nevertheless, a number of ponds have been engineered to act as reservoirs to store treated wastewater. Over times, these ponds have evolved to become natural habitats for wildlife species, including several migratory birds. Originally situated outside the margins of the rapidly expanding city of Doha, the Abu Nakhla reservoir is now on the edge of the city and is considered as a threat due to water seepage and possible overflow. On the other hand, the recently published Qatar Master Plan for spatial development of the city includes the zone of Abu Nakhla reservoir in its newly designated Green Belt that is expected to contain urban growth and contribute to a new green network for the city. Recognized as a unique wildlife habitat in Qatar, the pond ecosystem has developed spontaneously over thirty years to create a rich diversity of birds, fish and other insects and mammals. Today, this landscape is threatened with disappearance and is being gradually drained by the Public Works Authority.

This project presents research and design scenarios that argue for the importance of this unique landscape that can contribute to biodiversity, green networks, leisure and education landscapes and carbon capture in Qatar. It builds on a research thesis and design studios conducted in the Masters Course in Sustainable Urban and Landscape Design at Qatar University and ongoing community outreach with authorities and NGOs such as Friends of the Environment. The work also studies regional case studies such as the Al Wathba Wetlands in Abu Dhabi that also originated as a wastewater pond and is now classified as a Ramsar Wetland Site. With the founding of an interest group, Friends of Abu Nakhla, the students and faculty are advocating for the preservation of this important ecological site in Qatar and are proposing design scenarios to enhance the site and make it available not only to wildlife but also for education, botanical gardens, food producting, permaculture and leisure.

Vision To preserve Abu-Nakhla as a Utopian ecological site in Doha.

Mission To preserve the ecologic system in Abu-Nakhlah through public eye by revitalizing the area with adequate preservation tools.

Objective Help in raising awareness about the important of preserving Abu-Nakhla natural environment. Revitalizing Abu-Nakhla by designing a sustainable district through its natural elements. Create natural and sustainable attraction spots in the area.

Abu Nakhla Land-Use The lake is considered in the new design as the focal point where all the activities and buildings are located around. In addition to the land-uses shown on the adjacent diagram, the activities anticipated in this area are: - Walking/ jogging - Nature exploration - Bird watching for educational purposes - Wildlife habitat reservation - Swimming - Fishing - Water activities (kayaking) - Educational camping activities - Annual event and entertainment zone. There is a green buffer zone surrounding the lake containing the natural preservation plantation.