The Al-Mujadilah Centre and Mosque for Women at Qatar Foundation (QF) has been honoured with Fast Company’s 2025 Innovation by Design Award in the Architectural Design category.

Al-Mujadilah, in the QF’s Education City, was founded by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation and designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro.

According to an official statement from the QF, the recognition highlights Al-Mujadilah's community-centred architecture which provides a welcoming space to support Muslim women as they deepen their faith and live with purpose in the modern world.

“This award is especially meaningful for the Al-Mujadilah team as it affirms our efforts over the past months to support Muslim women’s personal, religious, and communal development,” said Al-Mujadilah executive director Dr Sohaira Siddiqui. “To be recognised by Fast Company is a testament to our commitment to this vision and to the vital role Muslim women continue to play in fostering dialogue and driving societal progression.”

The establishment of Al-Mujadilah was inspired by the role of the mosque as the axis of society as a vibrant community hub, with classrooms, a library, gathering spaces, a café, and gardens that foster connection, learning, and reflection for women.

The centre hosts various activities in Arabic and English that explore topics like Islamic history and law as well as religious, mental and social well-being.

At its heart, Al-Mujadilah's 9,400sq ft iconic Musallah (prayer hall) can accommodate 750 worshippers.

During Ramadan, the Musallah’s capacity is extended to accommodate 1,300 people.

The Musullah connects to the centre’s striking Qiblah wall in the direction of Makkah.

Its intentional asymmetrical curvature carves out Al-Mujadilah's Mihrab (a niche indicating the direction of prayer) and Minbar (the Imam's pulpit for sermons).

The roof illuminates the interior with over 5,000 light wells, which filter sunlight into a diffuse glow and extends beyond the building to shade outdoor areas.

Other features include a large indoor open-air ablution space with volcanic stone finishes, and a reimagined minaret with speaker clusters that ascend and descend a 39m steel-mesh tower for the daily calls to prayer.

“The architecture of Al-Mujadilah reflects our story – a space that encourages innovation while staying deeply grounded in the values of our Islamic faith and heritage,” said Al-Mujadilah communications director Fatima al-Dosari. “Designed as a dedicated space for Muslim women to connect with their faith and one another, this recognition by Fast Company strengthens our ability to inspire, engage and support women across diverse communities.”