The increase of population in Egypt and most Arab countries has considerably increased the need for housing, public buildings, and urban services. On the other hand several problems appear, such as: upgrading, renewal, development of deteriorated areas, creation of new towns and settlements as well as problems of restoration, preservation, conservation, and enhancement of the built heritage. These problems led to a tremendous increase in the national investment in building and construction and consequently the need for professionals in this field. The preparation of engineers specialized in architecture and environmental design is necessary for the pursuit and success of the national building and construction policy.
To cope with the needs of the Egyptian and Arab societies as well as the regional and international market demands, the College of Engineering and Technology at the Arab Academy for Science & Technology & Maritime Transport, decided in 1997 to establish a department of Architectural Engineering and Environmental Design (AEED).