As part of a student exchange programme between the Global College of Engineering and Technology (GCET) in Oman and the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), supported by a grant from The British Omani Society, Omani students visited the UK in April 2026 to explore urban sustainability and climate resilience. Through workshops, field visits and cultural exchange activities, participants gained valuable academic and practical insights while building connections with peers and professionals. In this blog series, the students share their experiences, reflections and key takeaways from their time in the UK.
Blog Written by Shahad Al Mamri
Participating in the bilateral exchange program between the Global College of Engineering and Technology (GCET) and the University of the West of England (UWE) was a defining milestone in my academic journey. Supported by the British Omani Society, the experience was more than a tour of the United Kingdom; it was a deep dive into urban sustainability, climate resilience, and the shared architectural visions linking Oman and the UK.
Discovering the Urban Fabric of Bristol and Bath
Our journey began in the vibrant city of Bristol. Exploring the city on foot let us immediately engage with its spatial dynamics. Walking through the bustling Bristol Shopping Quarter, the historic Bristol Old City, and the green expanses of Castle Park and College Green offered a real-time study of how cities balance commercial activity with public recreation. A later visit to Bristol Spike Island further showcased the city's unique waterside regeneration.
We also stepped back in time during a visit to the city of Bath. Observing its preserved heritage, particularly around The Holburne Museum, offered profound insights into maintaining architectural identity while adapting to modern needs—a challenge that resonates deeply with urban planning in Oman.
.jpg)
Academic Synergy at UWE
Our exchange focused on UWE Bristol. Sitting down with students in the "Shaping the City" module was incredibly rewarding. We exchanged ideas, reviewed their ongoing projects, and engaged in thorough discussions on how to design and execute projects to the highest standards in urban planning. Walking through the UWE campus, I was inspired to see how diversity of thought and cross-cultural dialogue can lead to more innovative, livable designs.
.jpg)
.jpg)
The Public Realm and London's Legacy
The transition to London brought our theoretical discussions to life on a grand scale. After taking in iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, St. James's Park, Big Ben, and the London Eye, we had the distinct honor of visiting the British Omani Society in London.
There, we attended an insightful session with Tim Heading, Landscape Architect and Associate Director at Atkins Réalis. Hearing about the firm's work in Oman and discussing the critical concept of the "public realm," the vital spaces between buildings, was a highlight. As I near the completion of my own graduation project in urban planning, this perspective on the public realm has profoundly reinforced the importance of designing spaces that actively foster community connection.
We immediately applied these lessons during our visits to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Canary Wharf. These areas are global masterclasses in urban regeneration. Seeing firsthand how careful, long-term planning, early consideration of transportation infrastructure, and a focus on "legacy" transformed East London was incredibly motivating. We concluded our London experience by walking across London Bridge and through Hyde Park, feeling the city's pulse and its integration of vast green spaces.
A Lasting Partnership
Beyond the architectural landmarks and academic discussions, this exchange was about people. The connections with UWE students, industry professionals, and the BOS team underscored the strength of UK-Oman partnerships. This journey broadened my perspective on sustainable development and left me with lasting friendships, proving that whether in Muscat or London, our generation shares a unified vision for building smarter, more resilient cities.
.jpg)