In a momentous return to the global stage of architectural excellence, Egypt has been awarded the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture 2025 for the Revitalization of Historic Esna, a project that has transformed the cultural and architectural fabric of the ancient Upper Egyptian town.
After more than two decades since its last win — the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in 2004 — Egypt’s recognition in the 16th cycle of the award marks a historic milestone in sustainable urban development and heritage preservation.
The award ceremony took place in the capital city of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, where Dr. Manal Awad, Egypt’s Minister of Local Development, and Engineer Abdel Muttalib Emara, Governor of Luxor, accepted the award on behalf of the Egyptian delegation. The event was attended by Prince Rahim Aga Khan, senior representatives from the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), members of the master jury, international dignitaries, and leading voices in architecture and culture from across the globe.
Egypt’s Commitment to Sustainable Heritage
“This win is not only a celebration of architectural excellence but a profound acknowledgment of Egypt’s sustained efforts in protecting and revitalizing its urban heritage,” Dr. Awad stated. “It places Egypt once again on the global map of sustainable architecture and cultural preservation.”
She emphasized that the award is a tribute to the collective efforts of national and international partners, including local government, civil society, and global donors, in delivering a project that redefines how heritage can serve as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable development.
Esna: From Forgotten Town to Cultural Beacon
Located just south of Luxor, Esna is a city known for its ancient temple and vibrant architectural legacy. For years, it remained largely neglected — until a transformative initiative, led by the Taqween Integrated Community Development, began breathing new life into its historic core.
The award-winning project demonstrates how architectural restoration can serve as an engine for economic revitalization. Through meticulous restoration of historic buildings, empowerment of local artisans, and tourism-focused urban planning, the initiative successfully merged cultural preservation with socio-economic development.
Key members of the design and implementation team — including Project Director Karim Ibrahim, Design Lead Nevine Akl, and Tourism and Economic Expert Shireen Zaghow — were present at the ceremony, representing the homegrown expertise that powered this decade-long initiative.
Global Collaboration, Local Impact
The Esna revitalization project stands as a model for public-private collaboration. Supported by a network of international donors — including the U.S. Government, The Netherlands, and Spain’s Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) — the project was implemented in close cooperation with Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Luxor Governorate, and local stakeholders.
“This project has proven that cultural heritage can be a real driver of inclusive development — not a burden, but an opportunity,” said Dr. Awad. “We hope to see this model replicated in other historic towns across Egypt.”
About the Aga Khan Award for Architecture
Established in 1977, the Aga Khan Award for Architecture is one of the most distinguished honors in the field, recognizing projects that not only demonstrate architectural excellence but also improve quality of life and sustainability. Each cycle, a master jury selects winning projects from across the Muslim world and beyond, focusing on innovation, social impact, and environmental stewardship.
This year’s cycle recognized seven groundbreaking projects from across the globe. Egypt’s win underscores the country’s renewed leadership in architectural innovation and heritage-led development.
Esna With Renewed Identity
Dr. Awad expressed her appreciation for the Aga Khan Development Network and its unwavering commitment to cultural and architectural advancement. She also reaffirmed Egypt’s interest in expanding cooperation with the foundation to launch future initiatives in other governorates.
As Esna basks in its renewed identity, Egypt’s win is not just a celebration of a town’s rebirth — it is a resounding affirmation that architecture, when rooted in history and driven by people, can be a transformative force for generations to come.
