Citation :

Nour M. Shdaifat, Hikmat H. Ali, "Thermal Comfort Assessment of Refugee Shelters in Desert Camp Environments: Field-Based Analysis and Implications for Enhancing Resilience in Azraq and Zaatari Camps, Jordan," International Journal of Civil Engineering, vol. 13, no. 8, pp. 1-23, 2026. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V13I8P101

Abstract

This research aims to present important insights into shelter occupants' preferences by reporting and developing equations that provide relationships regarding the thermal comfort parameters of refugees in Jordan by evaluating their current perceptions of indoor shelter environments. To achieve the research objectives, a descriptive-analytical approach is used to evaluate thermal comfort conditions within Zaatari and Azraq camps in Jordan, based on ASHRAE Standard 55. The sample consists of 336 participants, and the data includes physical indicators of the indoor environment, such as temperature and relative humidity, in addition to personal variables and self-assessments of thermal comfort. The results indicate that the thermal performance of the temporary shelters in the two camps fails to provide acceptable thermal comfort conditions according to ASHRAE 55 (Adaptive Comfort Model) standards in both seasons, albeit to varying degrees. The results indicate that the thermal insulation values (clo) of the clothing exceed the ASHRAE reference values in both seasons. The results of the linear and quadratic regression analysis show that the relationship between expected thermal comfort and the thermal insulation value of clothing is not a simple linear one, but rather a non-linear one, reflecting complex adaptive behavior among residents of shelters. Based on the findings, the research recommends improving the thermal envelope of dwellings in addition to incorporating passive solutions, such as shading and improved ventilation levels, into design strategies.

Keywords

Desert camp environments, Design performance, Thermal comfort, Refugees, Shelters.

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