Doha, June 07 (QNA) - The Qatar Society of Engineers (QSE) has affirmed that Decision No. (108) of 2026, issued by HE Minister of Municipality Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiyah, on updating the planning and architectural regulations for residential villas and mansions, represents a significant move toward advancing the residential urban environment in the State of Qatar, offering more flexible solutions that meet the needs of Qatari families and keep up with modern lifestyles.

The new updates, which include increased height limits for residential villas, the introduction of mezzanine floors, the development of ancillary structures and outdoor reception areas, the reduction of certain setback requirements, and the allowance of regulated expansions within residential plots, will help maximize the optimal use of residential land, QSE said in a statement on Sunday.

The statement added that these updates will grant citizens wider choices when they design their residences, thereby striking a balance between privacy, comfort, and functional efficiency of buildings.

The society further emphasized that it backs all initiatives that help develop the construction and residential sector in the State of Qatar, affirming that it is grateful for the Ministry's constant efforts to update the regulatory requirements, which ultimately cope with urban evolution and society's needs.

Chairperson of the Board of Directors of QSE, Eng. Amna Mohammed Al Naama, said the aforementioned modifications demonstrate an advanced vision when it comes to urban planning that is receptive to the actual needs of the Qatari family.

These modifications, Al Naama added, would help promote quality of life and family stability through providing greater flexibility in designing residences and developing them in the future, thereby obviating the need for either complex or costly construction solutions.

She noted that permitting the upgradation of a mezzanine floor, ancillary structures and reception areas, along with the creation of an independent internal suite for a family member, as well as updates related to building heights and setbacks, will open the way for engineers and consulting offices to showcase more creative and efficient designs.

This, Eng. Al Naama noted, will keep abreast of the urban evolution the nation is witnessing and boost functional and investment value in alignment with the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030. (QNA)