The Terra World Congress is a well-known worldwide meeting whose themes relate to the study and conservation of earthen architectural, archaeological and cultural landscape heritage, as well as contemporary earthen architecture. It is organised under the aegis of ICOMOS – ISCEAH, the International Scientific Committee on Earthen Architectural Heritage.
The Terra 2026 World Congress in Al Ain is the 14th edition which will be organised by Department of Culture and Tourism- Abu Dhabi with the main theme “Managing Change in Earthen Cultural Landscapes”. This is the first time it will be hosted in the Arab region and is expected to draw 700 – 1000 participants with an estimated 120 – 150 presentations.
The four-day program will feature talks, posters, digital material, side-events and activities, that showcase the most recent findings and best practices in the study and conservation of earthen heritage. Sessions covering technical knowledge, management issues, methodology, research advancements, case studies, and best practice guidelines will be covered in the programme.
Submit AbstractInspired by the recovered collapsed earthen walls at the Iron Age site of Hili 2 in Al Ain which presented finger impressions from the masons over 3000 years ago. The logo aims to create a modern symbol that celebrates the timeless and enduring tradition of earthen architecture and highlights its tangible and intangible attributes. This aligns with the mission of the Terra World Congress to preserve, promote and celebrate earthen architecture and earthen architectural heritage.
The Key dates for the congress are:
25th January 2025: Abstract submission Portal will be opened.
13th April 2025: Deadline for Abstract submission.
1st June 2025: Abstract acceptance (full paper submissions will start)
30th November 2025: Deadline for Full papers submission.
14th TERRA Congress from 13 to 16 April 2026.
Please note we have adjusted the submission, review, and notification timeline to allow ample time for travel planning.
We look forward to reviewing your submissions.