Gaza professionals turn tents into offices as war destroys brick-and-mortar workplaces

Since the war that began in October 2023, Gaza’s built environment has been devastated, forcing professionals to relocate to tents. Mohammed al-Khalidi, a prosthetics and orthotics expert, runs his clinic from a modest tent after his three previous facilities were bombed. Civil engineer Omar al-Tawashi, accountant Mahmoud Shaheen and teacher Palestine Hussein also work from tents, describing challenges such as heat, noise and limited privacy.

Rental prices have surged, sometimes tenfold, leaving few alternatives. Yet the need for services remains high, with 5,000-6,000 amputations recorded and schools destroyed, prompting makeshift education in cramped shelters. Traders like Khalil al-Tahrawi have set up tiny market stalls, paying high daily rents to protect their goods. The adaptation underscores both the resilience of Gaza’s workforce and the ongoing humanitarian crisis.