Abstract

Folk architecture, having evolved over centuries, provides region-specific solutions tailored to local climates, materials, and cultural values, inherently supporting sustainable development. This study explores the integration of these traditional architectural strategies into the design of contemporary low-energy buildings in the hot climatic zones of the Arab world. It specifically examines three case studies, Masdar City (UAE), Qatar University (Qatar), and a residential complex in Oman, focusing on passive cooling techniques, local material use, spatial planning, and their synergy with modern sustainable technologies. The research adopts a qualitative comparative analysis to identify how traditional design elements such as courtyards, wind towers, and thermal mass can effectively reduce reliance on mechanical systems. Findings reveal that the hybrid integration of vernacular strategies with renewable energy systems, energy-efficient lighting, and smart water management significantly enhances thermal comfort and environmental performance. The study contributes to the discourse on sustainable architecture by demonstrating that historical knowledge systems, when strategically adapted, offer viable pathways for climate-resilient, culturally grounded, and energy-efficient building design.