A Breath of Palestine – مُتَنَفّس

A Breath of Palestine – Mutanaffas is a visionary sustainable cultural and tourist resort located along the 1950 Armistice Line. Emerging from a long-isolated military zone, it connects the West Bank, Gaza, and the occupied interior, restoring the land’s right to breathe while affirming Palestinian dignity, unity, and the freedom to dream.
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Designer(s) : Huda Yousef Abdullah Omar

University : An-Najah National University

Tutor(s) : Dr Wasim Salama, Dr Hassan Al-Qadi, and Dr Khaled Qamhia

Project Description

Mutanaffas is more than a cultural and tourist resort—it embodies the vision of Palestine after liberation, transforming a dream into a vibrant reality. The project seeks to convert a long-isolated militarized area, once a symbol of suffering and conflict, into a sustainable space that blends culture, heritage, and nature, becoming a true platform for freedom and national identity. Strategically located on the road connecting Hebron in the West Bank to central Gaza, Mutanaffas reconnects the West Bank, Gaza, and the occupied interior, restoring national unity and demonstrating triumph over isolation and siege.

The project is not merely a resort but an immersive experience narrating the story of the Palestinian people—their struggle, resilience, and creativity throughout history. Its sustainable design harmonizes with the surrounding nature while reflecting Palestinian heritage in every detail. Visitors navigate organically flowing pathways inspired by traditional Palestinian layouts, and the architecture integrates Palestinian construction techniques with a modern approach, including mashrabiya screens, arches, and terraced layouts that follow the natural topography. Every corner and element conveys a message, educating visitors and reinforcing national identity and belonging, while seamlessly blending culture, tradition, and modernity.

Beyond its cultural and spatial experience, Mutanaffas contributes to revitalizing the national economy, with a focus on supporting Gaza’s population, creating jobs, and promoting traditional Palestinian crafts. It offers a comprehensive tourist experience that combines education, entertainment, exploration, and thoughtful architectural planning, serving as a model for cultural, social, and environmental sustainability.

In short, Mutanaffas is a platform of life, hope, and heritage—a project that transforms pain and hardship into pride and joy, laying the foundation for a unified, bright, and sustainable Palestinian future.