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Amirа S.R. Ahmad,Young urban planning professional
M.Sc. in Engineering (Architectural Engineering)
ISOCARP Member, Membership number: 1113
Part one: written work. Part two: Projects.
written work
1) Amirа S.R. Ahmad. Evolution and development of the national strategy for new towns construction in Egypt,
(example Borg El-Arab) (РАЗВИТИЕ НАЦИОНАЛЬНОЙ СТРАТЕГИИ СОЗДАНИЯ НОВЫХ ГОРОДОВ В ЕГИПТЕ (НА
ПРИМЕРЕ Г. БОРГ-ЭЛЬ-АРАБА))// VAK scientific journal of the Voronezh State University of Architecture and Civil
Engineering (Russian version)- Issue № 3 (39) 2015: Voronezh. Russia.
The aims of the paper: The research is discussing the reasons behind building new towns in Egypt, also analyzing their
development and achievements. Borg El-Arab new town development was analyzed as an example of Egyptian new
towns.
Deliverables : The research uncovered important facts about Egyptian new towns, (Borg El- Arab as an example). These
facts show economic achievements and success in attracting population and investments. The research also suggests
recommendations for helping Egyptian new towns further achieve the goals of their construction.
Solutions / Conclusions: Based on the analysis a conclusion was made that: Egyptian new towns have the ability to
accomplish the goals of post war socio-economic development. The achievement of Egyptian new towns goals took
more time than was planned, because of the exaggeration in estimating growth rates of new towns. Borg El-Arab new
town has the potential to become self sufficient town. It is important to put in practice the recommended strategies and
policies which help Borg El-Arab new town achieve high rates of development and town growth.
Выводы. Создание новых городов в Египте является способом достижения послевоенных целей социально-
экономического развития. С помощью этой стратегии планируется перераспределить население по всей площади
Египта, обеспечить подходящим жильем людей, проживающих в ветхом жилье по всему Египту, предоставить
возможность трудоустройства, защитить сельскохозяйственные угодья Египта, спасти архитектурное наследие и
памятники в исторических городах (таких как Каир и Александрия) от разрушения или злоупотреблений при
строительстве жилья, улучшить экологическую ситуацию. Борг-эль-Араб является городом с высокой плотностью
населения, со смешанным землепользованием, с четкими границами; он может быть приведён в качестве
примера модели "компактного города". Компактность предполагает плотность антропогенной среды и
интенсификацию деятельности, эффективное планирование землепользования, разнообразные и смешанные
виды землепользования. На данном этапе процесс роста и развития города Борг-эль-Араба достаточно успешен в
достижении многих целей (с точки зрения организации городской территории, деятельности и количества
населения), несмотря на то, что эти достижения заняли больше времени, чем планировалось, что связано с
преувеличением ожиданий темпов роста города. Для дальнейшего развития новых городов, по мнению автора,
необходимо следующее: создание филиалов министерств и государственных органов в новых городах для−
местного населения; организация строительства дорог и транспортного сообщения между городами и− местами
разработки и хранения сырья, рынками и заводами для усиления экономической базы городов и, таким образом,
повышения уровня жизни и привлекательности проживания для населения; выдача специальных резолюций для
регламентации периода строительства и занятия− земель по функциональным видам деятельности или - в
крайнем случае - возвращения земель в собственность города. Это связано с тем, что новые города (в том числе
Борг-эль-Араб) характеризуются высоким спросом на земельные участки и земли для промышленного и

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бытового назначения в связи с низкими ценами, однако в большинстве случаев приобретение земель не
сопровождается размещением на них каких-либо производств или зданий. Если не контролировать этот процесс,
то такая практика начнет препятствовать развитию и приведет к спекуляциям ценами на землю и недвижимость,
что, в свою очередь, нарушит текущее состояние рынка жилья и может стать причиной появления трущоб.
Данные рекомендации приведут к увеличению роли новых городов как альтернативы существующим городам с
их острой нехваткой жилья, с перегруженной инфраструктурой, с ограниченными возможностями
трудоустройства, а также помогут обеспечить высокие темпы развития новых городов Египта.
2) Amirа S.R. Ahmad. New towns in western Europe and Egypt, experiences and lessons // News of the Kazan State
University of Architecture and Engineering.- Kazan: electronic scientific edition (ESE), № (2) 32 2015.
The aims of the paper: This paper presents a general overview on the subject of the new towns movement in countries
of Western Europe and Egypt. The main aim of research is to investigate possible practices and strategies to solve the
Egyptian new towns problems and promote their future success
Deliverables : The study discussed and conducted a Comparative analysis of new towns programs in France with the
case study Cergy-Pontoise, Tres Cantosm, Spain and Borg El Arab , Egyptian case study. Lessons and
recommendations are presented for the improvement of the current Egyptian new towns planning program.
Solutions / Conclusions: Western European countries and Egypt share the aim of solving megalopolises’ problems by
planning new towns. New towns offer better urban environments compared to existing cities. These new towns also
achieved the goal of decentralization and deconcentration of urban development and economic activities.
Conclusion By analyzing and comparing case studies, research came to the conclusion that: Western European countries
and Egypt share the aim of solving megalopolises’ problems by planning new towns. New towns offer better urban
environments compared to existing cities. These new towns also achieved the goal of decentralization and
deconcentration of urban development and economic activities. Targets and goals set at the beginning of the project
should take into consideration the current situation and needs to avoid unrealistic expectations (as in the Spanish case).
They should be subjected to evaluation and change in accordance with regional, local and national circumstances (as in
the French new town case). For instance, in France’s program, the population target changed in accordance with the
different national circumstances (large urban growth then birth rate decline). In Egypt’s case, the population target
changed too when experience proved that the former expected target was exaggerated. New towns can succeed in
providing employment not only on the local scale, but also on the regional scale. These case studies succeed in providing
housing and land for economic activities. Borg El Arab achieved in its urban planning some principles of sustainability,
such as walkable neighborhoods and green areas. Tres Cantos is a people-oriented town. Encouraging active society is a
sustainable practice that can be learned from Tres Cantos. As for Cergy-Pontoise, it succeeded to be a sustainable new
town. A remarkable practice from the French experience is to set an employment goal. When goals were set, tools can
be found to achieve them. The Egyptian new towns program still depends on traditional policies and urban planning to
attract residents. This is through low prices of housing and land and thus, low standards, Also attracting investment and
producing employment opportunities through industrial activity. These are not the only ways to build livable and
attractive towns. The study found that the identity and image of the new town can be shaped by architecture and
sustainable urban planning as in Cergy-Pontoise (France). Other ways as attracting people and investments include
through organizing events and festivals (as in the case of sports events in Tres Cantos, Spain), which will also provide
employment opportunities in services and commercial sectors as a result improving living standards in the new town. If
new town were meant to attract residents of big cities, then new towns should be given priority in development and
infrastructure and amenities provision (like in the case of the French experience). Another lesson from the French new
towns program: new towns planning should be part of a regional plan and not only a national plan. Proximity of the new
town to a big city is an advantage, as in Cergy-Pontoise, Paris and Tres Cantos, Spain. This is a good lesson that can be
used in Borg El Arab. Public transportation on a regular basis with affordable prices is one of the elementary needs for
residents. A lesson can be learned from the Cergy-Pontoise, France case. Architecture and urban planning are very
important tools for creating livable new towns.

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3) Amirа S.R. Ahmad. The history and rebirth of an industrial city: the case of Izhevsk, Russia // «Cities Save the World:
Let’s Reinvent Planning» Proceedings of the 51st ISOCARP Congress - 2015. 17 - 23 October 2015 :Rotterdam. The
Netherlands.
The aims of the paper: The research is exploring Izhevsk, the plant city, from living for hundreds of years as a military
closed city, where people’s regional and national identities were ignored, to the introduction of contemporary Izhevsk as
a cultural and creative hub.
Deliverables : By analyzing different projects and proposals for urban regeneration, conservation and creation of a new
identity for the city of Izhevsk, the research came to the result of identifying and formulating the main tools proposed by
an active society to reinvent their city.
Solutions / Conclusions: Studying the model of Izhevsk as a postindustrial city led to identifying a set of ideas, which can
contribute to reinventing other postindustrial cities around the world. This model proves that once closed industrial
cities, which were developed and controlled by traditional centralized policies, can be recreated and reinvented by the
efforts and thoughts of their active societies.
1. Research theory and hypothesis
Through the study, deductive reasoning was applied. Initially, the research theory was presented that the city of Izhevsk
requires a new identity and brand to support its revitalization and rebirth process. Moreover, the hypothesis of research
was cited that the plant city identity of Izhevsk has declined. In consequence, the urban, economic and socio-cultural
features of the city are degrading. Then, facts and details about Izhevsk were demonstrated. Thereafter, this data was
analyzed using SWOT matrix, which led to the conclusion that rebranding Izhevsk shall be the catalyst for urban, socio-
cultural and economic upgrading. Finally, recommendations were brought about to formulate an action plan to achieve
the goal of subediting a new identity and brand for Izhevsk.
2. Methodology
The case study of Izhevsk has been viewed by the research through various windows. It was assumed that data and
information collected from diverse sources lead to tackling the research issue from different points of view, which in
consequence, would help in constructing a holistic original view.
The aim of the research was to investigate particular keywords, which are generally the plant-city model with focus on
the specific case of Izhevsk. Due to the fact that initial research issues were comprehensive, a wide range of data were
gathered about historical background, current situation and community efforts to reinvent a new identity and branding
of Izhevsk. The literature was selectively gathered for their academic value, practical nature and the close relation of the
authors to plant cities as a whole and Izhevsk as a concrete case study, which insures that their works are originally built
on deep, theoretical and empirical understanding.
The collected material is inherently qualitative. The major data congregation methods are; conducting focus groups,
interviews and making observations together with reviewing those within the framework of other research projects,
along with engaging in several action researches to assist in upgrading and developing Izhevsk city and agglomeration.
The combination of methods used to explore information is built on their correlation, starting with a literature analysis
method of socio-cultural, economic and historical factors. This method provides the research with essential facts and
data necessary for establishing the SWOT matrix. Furthermore the inspection of illustrative and visual materials (plans,
maps, photos, etc.) advocates the hypothesis and results of research.
4) Amirа S.R. Ahmad. Approaches of handling Architectural and urban Heritage of Soviet era in Russia. Scientific
Herald of the Voronezh State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering journal- Issue № 2 (26) 2015: Voronezh.
Russia.
The aims of the paper: The study Inspects the history of soviet architectural heritage in Russia, and reveals innovative
styles and solutions created by Master architects of this era. The study presents the remarkable characteristics and
spatial organization potentials in Soviet urban planning heritage.
Deliverables : Using Comparative analysis of historical conflicts in dealing with heritage, the research uncovered the
real incentives behind forces calling for Soviet heritage demolition. Then study explains reasons, why demolition is not
the right solution.
Solutions / Conclusions : The research suggests number of approaches for dealing with Soviet Russian Architectural and
urban planning heritage. ––The conservation and restoration of Soviet architecture and urban planning heritage have

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not only cultural and moral aspects but also economic and social gains and it enhances international image and identity
of Russian cities. –– Restoration, upgrading and reuse or reconstruction approaches are more effective and profitable
than demolition.
Introduction: Heritage is a living witness on how our ancestors lived, which mistakes did they commit and which areas of
creativity they mastered. Studying, experiencing and living architectural and urban heritage develop our awareness of
what design tradition and planning decision should we keep and what should we never repeat. The city is the center of
human culture, is a genetic map in it written history, present and future, living together, affecting and forming each
other. The Past will form our future perspectives either by refusing history and contradicting with it or by keeping and
living with it. Human architectural and urban heritage is A global concern, preserving it, restoring or even more
modifying it to adapt to contemporary needs. The period of 1930s –– 1980s represents the prosperity and superiority of
Soviet nation in several fields. Soviet Architectural and urban heritage of Russia is a great product of this period. In
present time this heritage is subject to many forces. In our hands the crucial decision; whether to preserve or demolish
significant part of a great nation’s identity.
Conclusion: The Soviet era in Russia (1930s –– 1980s) represents a prosper period of architectural innovation, creativity,
and intensive active urban planning. It is an important part of Russian history and crucial component of identity. The
Soviet era in Russia produced huge architectural and city planning assets. The Soviet heritage of Russia is full of
investment potentials, esthetic values and positive characteristics. Demolition is the easiest decision yet the most
wasteful and damaging. Approaches such as restoration, upgrading, reuse… etc. are more effective. They give a chance
to invest in Russian Soviet heritage hence preserving the majority of it. In comparison with European countries the
Master Architect’s works of Soviet era in Russia does not get the suitable respectful celebration. This is not only a moral
aspect but also economic aspect in the field of touristic investment, cultural aspect, and remarkable part of Russia’s
image in the eyes of its visitors. Many famous cities around the world are rich of diverse urban contexts of several
historical period’s heritage, many Russian cities also have this potential, it is only needs to be restored, reused and
brought back to life. Part of the Soviet urban planning asset in Russia is in a stage of urban decay. Urban decay of some
parts of the city is a stage in the urban evolution process. Where in some cases urban upgrading can be the suitable
strategy in other cases redevelopment may be the ideal solution. The Decision should always be based on thorough
knowledgeable analysis and assessments of current situation, existing values and potentials and chances for investment.
5) Ahmad, Amira S.R. Informal Urban Settlements and Intervention Strategies to Approach them“ An applied study on
Amrawy Informal Settlement, Alexandria” //A thesis Presented to Graduate School ,Faculty of Engineering, Alexandria
University, In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Of Master of Science In Architecture. Alexandria
:Publishing house of Faculty of Engineering Alexandria University, Egypt, October 2010.
The aims of the thesis: The research discusses in three chapters the critical problem of informal urban settlements and
the reasons behind their emergence and growth, their characteristics and the consequences of their existence, the
intervention strategies to approach them.
Deliverables : The inspection reveals the advantages and disadvantages of each informal settlements urban upgrading
strategy. The research also analyzes several informal urban settlements upgrading programs case studies and highlights
their points of strength and weakness.
Solutions / Conclusions: Based on the analysis the study suggests recommendations and solutions for the causes of the
Informal Urban settlements, by which the emergence and growth of them in Egypt can be stopped and prevented. It
also includes general recommendations about working on urban upgrading programs to initiate and sustain adequate
successful programs which meet goals. The success of solutions depends on political will , governance and cooperation
between people and authorities.
Part of the research recommendations
Informal settlements are part of the urban fabric, ignoring their existence lead to disintegration and urban crises,
whereas, revitalizing and upgrading these human habitats adds to housing capital and catalyzes urban development.
Slums occupy more than half of the urban area in several countries. Squatter areas deform urban character. In addition,
socio-cultural behavior of their residents is neither urban nor rural. Hence, informal settlements situation demands
prompt governmental reaction, to put the goal of their upgrading as a priority for development, in order to halt urban
and socio-economic disasters, and make use of housing and economic capital invested in informal settlements by their
residents.

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The tools to approach informal areas are different upgrading programs according to the uniqueness of each case.
It is important to highlight that, a slum is a part of the city. Its inhabitants are fully aware of the significance and
importance of interrelationships between their habitat and the rest of the city.
Definition of an informal settlement, it is an urban areas characterized by, non-standard housing, infrastructure and
services, in addition to bad environmental and health conditions, and the lack of legal frame for either housing unit or
land ownership, in some cases both.
Slums emerge in various ways:
Squatting is the invasion of vacant public land, usually during night to avoid confronting police forces, then each family
defines the borderline of its territory, that is how the initial spot is formed, which spread rapidly grow into a settlement.
Urban sprawl is when saturation of overpopulated cities leads to the emergence of informal settlements in urban
periphery (usually develops and constructed by illegal real-estate investment).
Illegal occupancy of land or buildings, often starts as a temporary legal accommodation for mines or construction
workers, which is obligatory by the law, then in many cases, ends up as permanent informal settlement.
Causes of informal settlements evolution are, firstly, rural to urban migration because of imbalanced national
development strategies which focuses on urban areas rather than rural areas, or political aggressive conflicts and civil
wars. Secondly, the incapability of governments and municipalities to manage and control urban development. Thirdly,
the lack of comprehensive effective regional and urban planning. Finally, Globalization, which provides huge chances
and opportunities for qualified resilient economies and individuals, while speeding up economic changes, which force
unqualified poor citizens to get more and more indigent. In fact, the issue is not Globalization itself, it is rather, the way
national economies would deal with the challenges Globalization results in.
Informal settlements are parts of the city, which are affecting and influenced by urban dynamics, they interchange many
products and services with the city, and are both (Informal settlements and the city), in many social, economic, and
cultural relationships.
Informal areas in many cases (such as in Egypt), are a transitional place between a village and urban neighborhood.
There migrants settle relatively near employment opportunities. In several cases Informal areas help its inhabitants to
learn and get used to urban life style and provide them with social, cultural and professional experiences and skills,
which are the precursors of their future motivations and behaviors.
Forced Eviction is the most common strategy in dealing with informal areas. Slum residents are evacuated from their
homes, their economic capital and social life are destroyed, then being left without any other alternatives than returning
to occupy the same territory after a while, or to refuge to other informal areas. In fact Forces evictions does not offer
any solution to the problem. On the contrary, this policy is the main cause for the increase in numbers, areas and
populations of informal areas.
Urban upgrading of informal areas is proved to be one of the most successful methods to approach this issue. However ,
the program and tools used to deal with informal areas should aim, not only to improve urban environment, but also to
aid slum residents to establish economic capital and gain skills to get employment and earn resources to finance,
maintain and develop their houses and areas. Furthermore, the choice of the type of upgrading program, (either,
upgrading in place, slum clearance and relocation or slum clearance and on site development ), must depend on
thorough study of social, economic, environmental, urban, financial and engineering issues concerning the regarded
informal settlement, together with the needs of inhabitants.
Recommendations to constrain the emergence and growth of informal settlements in Egypt:
There is a necessity for a comprehensive strategy to work out informal settlements issues. This strategy should consider
all political, economic and social aspects of the problem. Policies must be directed to tackle the roots and causes of the
slums situation, not only to treat its symptoms, to guarantee radical solution for the problem.
It is crucial to establish and sustain an action plan, to face population growth and increasing need for housing, not only
new families but also to provide a replacement for run-down houses.
Reversal polarization policy is necessary to be applied, by investing in and developing rural areas, which will decrease
migration to urban areas and relieves housing problems in cities.

6. Projects
Project Title: Transit oriented development of Egyptian new towns:
the case study of Borg El-Arab new town
Authors: Amira Ahmad.
The aims of the project: The main idea of this project is presenting transit oriented development as
a sustainable urban planning practice to develop Egyptian new towns.
The project assumes that TOD will help achieving goals of new towns construction.
Deliverables: The preliminary studies came to confirm that, decision makers in Egypt
are convinced that the way to approach new towns problems, on regional bases, is by connecting
them to major urban centers by trains. As for internal transportation the choice is bus service.
Trains and public bus services are considered the most affordable and fastest solution
for Egyptian new towns workers and residents.
Solutions / Proposal: The project suggests modifications in the General plan for Borg El-Arab,
based on the TOD grid, which iemplies a mixed uses and incomes development on a distance not
farther than ten minutes walking of a transit station or stop.
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7. Project Title: Izhevsk school of Urbanists, New center for Izhevsk.
Authors: Amira Ahmad, Danil Shevknov, Anstacya Cedova, and others.
The aims of the project: The project’s main goal is the revitalization and urban upgrading of Abandoned square
of Oktyabrsky district of Izhevsk, located in the community center of an Administrative/ residential area, which
is limited by Pushkin Street (West) – Nord alley (north) - Str. Communards (east) – Pszdeleni alley (south).
Deliverables : The preliminary studies spotted the need of a new live and defined center for Izhevsk.
A place for mixed uses mixed social groups. This project also ought to reflect the bottom up upgrading approach
emerging in Izhevsk.
Solutions / Proposal: The team proposal was a center for generating ideas.
At this place the community with the local government and business representatives can meet
on a neutral ground to discuss further development policies and strategies.
Открытая студия
Амфитеатр
Кафе
Экран
Сцена
Скамьи
Ограждение
Цветники
Многофункцио-
нальная
площадка
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8. New suggested constructions
New suggested constructions
Project Title: Redevelopment of VDNH territory heritage preservation
Scenario one: Heritage Preservation
Authors: Amira Ahmad, Dmitry Boiko, Chi Hsiao, and others
The aims of the project: The project focused on achieving two aims. First, finding ways to reuse
the expo site, and integrate it into the larger development plans of the Moscow metropolitan area. The future
plans of improving Moscow public spaces and quality of life were considered as the context of the site design.
The second aspect concerned reusing and preserving the Soviet heritage.
Deliverables: Analysis showed the need to structure a realistic trategy for the development
of VDNH for the long term future. In addition the case study demands to devise methods to protect
the heritage of the former State and its culture as it forms an important part of modern Russia’s history.
Solutions / Proposal: The team proposed VDNH as a global educational hub
for heritage, history, culture and literature; preservation of heritage is turned into a chance. Reconstruction of pavilions
provides a real time laboratory to test new approaches and methods on architectural design,
planning and conservation of heritage.
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9. Movement paths
Existing Building Demolition
Existing building demolition
The Moscow river connects
all the elements of the city
Phases of Development
New building and developmed
open spaces
Project Title: Technopark of Raushskaya waterfront.
Rethinking city development Barcelona experience (workshop):
Moscow Exploring specific case in Moscow – the area situated in Moscow city
center, directly opposite Zaryadie area, between Raushskaya and Sadovnicheskaya
embankments.
Authors: Toni Casamor, Ana Coello, Amira Ahmad and others.
The aims of the project:
The purpose of the project is to rethink the European standards and
approaches in the development of territories and apply successful
practices for the revitalization of this territory, to bring back urban
life and activities to the heart of Moscow.
Deliverables : The preliminary analysis of the case study showed
that the project should convey several principles, such as
(development of small business, allow to develop and invest
in local technologies, open new opportunities for youth
and young investors, improve the quality of urban
environment, redevelop the waterfront of River
Moscow to attract tourists and people).
Solutions / Proposal: The team proposal
was a Technological park in the heart
of Moscow , with mixed uses (houses,
commercial ,administrative....ect.)
and mixed incomes development.
Where the interests of the owner
(Interests of "Leader-Innovation"),
Moscow city, and national
interests of Russia meets and
become fulfilled, using
European standards and
experience.
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10. The aims of the project:
The purpose of the project was to design a two floors house for the Priest, accompanied with an office and
a room for meetings and ceremonies, and an apartment for the guard.
Deliverables : The discussinos with the client showed the need for innovative architectural style, which
sympolises russian traditional country house and stand in harmoney with the Cathedral building, and be
with in determined budget constructed.
Solutions / Proposal: The junior architect proposal was concept that provides all the functions needed, with
an inspired architectural style mix of Russian traditional architecture and le corbusier and frank lloyd wright
styles, in a contemporary composition.
Project description:
The architectural design of the Priest house.
Client:
Architectural corporation: OOO МАДИ
Izhevsk, Udmurt republic Russia.
My involvement in the project:
Junior Architect (design, digital modelling and drafting).
Храм Святой троицы в п, Новый Воткинского района
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