Sabah Al Salem University City – Kuwait University
The Kuwait University Administration Facilities (ADFA) shows how a project can prioritize equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) while advancing sustainable and scalable design practices. Through thoughtful planning and engagement, innovative design, and sustainable features, the project establishes an accessible, inclusive, and culturally resonant academic environment, setting a benchmark in the AEC industry and for future academic or civic developments.
At the core of the design is an inclusive approach. Extensive stakeholder consultations shaped the project’s design and functionality of the buildings, ensuring it meets the community’s diverse needs. Designed to welcome all users, the campus integrates accessibility, gender-neutral restrooms and event spaces, and adaptable facilities. Cultural heritage is celebrated with architectural elements inspired by Arabic calligraphy and Islamic geometric patterns adorning building façades, while the design also embraces a global outlook through collaborative spaces. Technologically advanced and environmentally responsive, the project features solar-responsive shading systems, passive ventilation, and smart energy management, offering a replicable model for high-performance, low-impact design.
ADFA reflects the university’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation while contributing lasting value to the built environment across the region and beyond.
Project Team:
Client: Kuwait University
Contractors: China State Construction Engineering Corporation and Combined Group Contracting Co JV
Architect: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in association with Pan Arab Consulting Engineers (PACE)
Civil Engineering: Philip Habib & Associates
Facilities and Cost Consultant: Kirk Value Planners
Theater Consultant: Fisher Dachs Associates
Façade Consultant: Schuco
Fire Protection Engineering: Rolf Jensen & Associates, Inc. – New York
Fire Protection Consultant: Jensen Hughes
Construction/Lifecycle Consultant: Dg Jones
Lighting Consultant: dpa lighting consultants
Local Contractors:
MEP: CCIE (MEP) Al Ahlia Integrated
Landscaping & External Works: Zalzalah Agricultural Services
Interior Fit-Out: Advanced Group Center
Flooring/Interior Construction: Ajal International Contracting
Interior Construction & Acoustic Solutions: Arabtec General Trading
Electrical & Low Voltage Systems: Axis Solution
Concrete Construction & Waterproofing: Bahar & Bardawil
Façade: Boodai Trading Company; Yuanda Kuwait
Flooring & Carpets: Bukhamseen Int. Group; Midas International
Carpentry: Engineering Carpentry Factory
Mechanical & Conveyor Systems: AG MELCO
Locker and Storage Solutions : Fusion Scientific Contracting
Structural Steelwork: Khalid Ali Al Kharafi ; Laroj Prestige Alahlia
Metal Works & Fabrication: : Kuwait Engineering Industries; Al Sabbil National Company
Structural Engineering (Space Frame): Tamir Solutions / Polarkon
Interior Design: Sadeer General Trading & Contracting Company
Rigging: Svetlost Teatar
Stone and Masonry: Bahman Al-Omraniah Co
Signage: Baida Palace Factory
Cleaning Services: Al-Ahlea Circle Cleaning
Images courtesy of Sabah Al-Salem University City Kuwait University and China State Construction Engineering Corporation