Evaluation of Universal Design Compliance: With Emphasis on the Main Entrance of Selected Mosques in Kuwaiti Governorates

Abstract

Accessibility characteristics that enable everyone to successfully use public facilities and settings are critical for establishing a sustainable and strong community. Unfortunately, studies show that in reality, numerous public facilities, services, and physical infrastructure in many places are still inaccessible in various ways to people with disabilities. As a result, many countries, including Kuwait, have enacted laws intended to integrate people with disabilities into the mainstream of social, political, and economic life (PADA, n.d.). This study evaluates the main entrances of six main mosques, one in each of the six governorates in Kuwait, to gauge the level of compliance with Universal Design principles.Research objectives: The chief objective of this study is to provide decision-makers in Kuwait with a set of recommendations for complying with Universal Design principles. The main entrances to all mosques in Kuwait should be accessible for all their users, without discriminating against those with physical disabilities, so that more people can participate in their community’s daily social activities. This paper will also provide the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs with a body of knowledge about the condition of mosque designs, and main entrances in particular, that could assist designers and decision makers to improve mosque accessibility. The study promotes increased access within public buildings in general and mosques in particular.