Nestled between Haifa’s historic German Colony and the bustling Wadi Nisnas neighborhood, the Carmel Center is a historic landmark and a thriving hub for cultural, educational, and civil society initiatives. The building’s rich history reflects the diverse narratives of the region. Originally used as the British Consulate during the Ottoman era, it later served as the headquarters of the Iraqi Oil Company. Over time, this iconic structure fell into disrepair until it was revitalized by the Mossawa Center in partnership with the Committee for Educational Guidance for Arab Students (CEGAS).

Recognizing its potential as a cultural and community resource, the Mossawa Center spearheaded an ambitious renovation project to restore the Carmel Center and transform it into a vibrant home for civil society. This effort involved both preserving the building's historical character and modernizing it to meet contemporary needs. The result is a dynamic space that blends heritage with innovation, reflecting the Mossawa Center’s commitment to empowering the Palestinian Arab community in Israel.

The Carmel Center is now a beacon for collaboration, housing several organizations and initiatives that champion human rights, education, cultural heritage, and social justice. It serves as the headquarters of the Mossawa Center and hosts a variety of programs and organizations, including Humanity Crew, the Ashraf Fawakhry Gallery, the Salman Natour and Bolus Farah Library, the “Joon” educational program, and the “Kav Mashve” high-tech training program for Palestinian Arab youth.

The Mossawa Center’s renovation efforts also extended to sustainability. Solar panels were installed on the roof, reducing the building’s carbon footprint and demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship. This initiative was funded by generous contributions from local donors, reflecting the community's dedication to creating a space that embodies both cultural enrichment and ecological responsibility.

In addition to being a home for organizations, the Carmel Center serves as a community hub. Its outdoor space regularly hosts cultural events, providing a platform for local artists to perform and share their work. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Carmel Center stepped up as a safe haven for vulnerable populations, hosting a vaccination campaign in partnership with other organizations for 1,200 people without status in Israel, including refugees and foreign workers.

Looking to the future, the Mossawa Center continues to invest in the Carmel Center’s growth and impact. Plans are underway to renovate and expand its indoor and outdoor spaces to accommodate larger events and modernize its facilities, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all. These developments aim to preserve the Center’s historic charm while strengthening its role as a cornerstone of cultural and civil society in Haifa.

For more information or to support the Carmel Center’s ongoing renovations and programs, please contact international@mossawa.org.