Building the Middle East: Top 10 Architects Revealed

In this special edition of Arabian Business, we present some of the leading figures who are making a difference in the design and architecture scene in the region and beyond.
We also explore the growth and evolution of the architecture industry in the Middle East, the factors driving its development, and the unique challenges and opportunities it faces.

Architectural Renaissance in the Middle East

The Middle East has a long history of architectural excellence, evident in ancient structures like the Pyramids of Egypt, the Petra archaeological site in Jordan, and the Islamic architectural masterpieces such as the Taj Mahal in India. In recent years, the region has experienced an architectural renaissance driven by rapid urbanisation, economic growth, and ambitious development projects. Countries like the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have emerged as global hubs for innovative and ground-breaking architecture.

Factors driving development

Economic boom: The oil-rich economies of the Middle East have fuelled significant economic growth, providing ample financial resources for ambitious architectural ventures. These nations have embraced modernisation and are keen to showcase their wealth and progress through impressive infrastructure and iconic buildings.

Urbanisation and population growth: The region’s population is increasingly shifting from rural to urban areas, leading to a surge in demand for residential, commercial, and public infrastructure projects. Architects are challenged to design sustainable and efficient spaces to accommodate the growing population.

Tourism and iconic landmarks: Several Middle Eastern countries have strategically invested in tourism by creating iconic landmarks and architectural marvels, which act as powerful symbols of their identity and attract visitors from around the world.

Architectural marvels of the Middle East

Burj Khalifa: Standing tall at 828 metres, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai is the tallest building globally, an engineering feat that has garnered international acclaim and transformed the city’s skyline.

The Museum of Islamic Art: Designed by I.M. Pei, this architectural gem in Doha showcases a stunning blend of traditional Islamic motifs and modern design principles, becoming a cultural landmark in the region.

King Abdullah Financial District: This ambitious project in Riyadh is an urban financial centre with avant-garde architectural designs that reflect the nation’s aspiration to become a global financial hub.

Opportunities for the future

Green building initiatives: Emphasising sustainable design and green building practices can help address environmental challenges and reduce the ecological footprint of new developments.

Integration of technology: Adopting building information modelling (BIM) and other advanced technologies can improve design efficiency, collaboration, and project management in the architecture industry.

Preserving heritage: While embracing modernity, the region must also preserve its rich architectural heritage by renovating historic structures and incorporating traditional elements in new designs.

Top 10 Architects	Top 10 Architects
Norman Foster	Pedram Rad
Brian Johnson	Kerem Cengiz
Matthew Squires	Muhammad Al Salmy
Shaun Killa	Paul Bishop
Dr. Shams Eldien Naga	Prodipto Ghosh

Name: Norman Foster
Designation: Founder and executive chairman
Company: Foster + Partners
Country: UK

Foster + Partners has been making significant strides in the Middle East, where the firm have undertaken an array of remarkable projects and under the leadership of Foster, has achieved notable contract wins and actively engaged in several prominent ventures across the region.

In November 2022, Foster + Partners made headlines with the successful bid to design the prestigious ‘Palm Flower,’ a luxury residential project in Dubai. The exclusive development, nestled on the trunk of the Palm Jumeirah, demonstrates the firm’s commitment in creating distinctive spaces underpinned by luxury living.

A commitment to sustainability

Backed by a commitment to sustainability and contextual design principles, the unveiling of the Coral Bloom Island concept for Red Sea Global (formerly known as The Red Sea Development Company) in 2021 was a nature-inspired design set to be implemented across 11 luxurious resorts. Moreover, the firm’s noteworthy contributions to several developments includes the Jabal Omar development in KSA, the ICD Brookfield Place Tower, the South Sabah Al-Ahmad masterplan, the Jeddah Metro, Kuwait International Airport Terminal 2, the National Bank of Kuwait headquarters, the Samba headquarters in KSA, the Zayed National Museum, and the House of Wisdom (HOW) in Sharjah.

Additionally, Foster + Partners has been actively involved in crafting a provisional concept design for a Skyports Infrastructure vertiport terminal adjacent to DXB airport, a concept that garnered enthusiastic endorsement from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, demonstrating the firm’s ability to envision futuristic solutions that align with the region’s vision for the future of transportation.

In June 2020, AMAALA, KSA’s giga project, selected Foster + Partners to design an airport inspired by an optical illusion of a desert mirage which reflects their prowess in creating visionary architectural solutions that integrate with the natural surroundings. The firm has also made an impact with the design of Apple BKC, Apple’s flagship store in India, which achieved LEED Platinum certification and reflects their commitment to sustainable design practices.

Name: Brian Johnson
Designation: Principal and managing partner
Company: Godwin Austen Johnson (GAJ)
Country: UAE

Backed by a track record spanning over 30 years in the industry. Johnson is the driving force behind GAJ, a renowned architecture and design firm based in the UAE. His leadership skills have propelled the firm to play a significant role in the development of the UAE’s infrastructure.

Their involvement in several notable projects, including the Dubai Creek Golf Clubhouse and several prominent education initiatives in the region, highlights their expertise and commitment to excellence. Moreover, Johnson’s visionary approach and deep understanding of the local context have played a pivotal role in positioning GAJ as a leading player in the architectural landscape of the Middle East.

Backed by forward-thinking designs

Under Johnson’s guidance, GAJ has made a mark in key markets encompassing the UAE, Oman, and KSA with their forward-thinking architectural designs. The team, comprising experts from diverse disciplines, has achieved success, completing several significant projects in recent years. Johnson attributes GAJ’s accomplishments to the exceptional talent and dedication of the individuals within the company.

Notably, GAJ’s portfolio includes remarkable projects such as The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton, located near the new Warner Bros. Theme Park on Yas Island. Additionally, the firm intricately linked the design and delivery of the DoubleTree by Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Residences to the WB hotel.

Nurturing talent within the industry

In their continuous efforts to contribute to the architectural industry, GAJ has taken proactive steps by introducing an internship programme which offers aspiring architects and designers a unique opportunity to hone their skills under the guidance of experienced professionals at GAJ. The firm’s diverse team, comprising experts from various disciplines, has consistently delivered outstanding results on several significant projects in recent years. GAJ’s portfolio includes The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton on Yas Island.

Name: Matthew Squires
Designation: CEO
Company: SSH
Country: UAE

Under the guidance of Squires, SSH, the UAE-based architectural firm, has strategically positioned itself to navigate the MENA region’s market recovery. The firm has observed a significant upswing in activity within the consulting sector across their selected markets.

To align more effectively with clients’ development objectives and enhance resilience, SSH has embarked on a restructuring process. By adopting a more agile and robust delivery model, the firm can swiftly adapt to evolving industry demands, solidifying its reputation as a reliable and innovative player in the architectural arena.

Diversifying its portfolio

KSA and the UAE are the key drivers behind this growth, and there are promising signs of improvement in Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain. SSH has also expanded its business into Egypt, aligning with the company’s strategic direction to strengthen the SSH brand and extend operations throughout the MEA region.

Having achieved a net revenue backlog that surpasses the average intake of the previous three years by an impressive 60 percent, the firm is in a favourable position for its upcoming three-year business plan which anticipates a 55 percent growth in headcount in 2023, signifying the company’s robust performance and optimistic outlook for the future.

Fostering professional excellence

SSH operates internally with strict adherence to legal and ethical guidelines, ensuring integrity and accountability in all its activities. The firm cultivates a challenging and rewarding environment for its employees, placing strong emphasis on fostering professional excellence, prioritizing health and safety measures, and promoting environmental awareness.

These core values reflect the firm’s commitment to nurturing a supportive and sustainable workplace that encourages growth and ensures the well-being of its team members. SSH’s approach to delivering exceptional value and meeting the dynamic demands of the ever-changing architectural industry has solidified its position as a leading player in the MEA region.

Name: Shaun Killa
Designation: Design partner
Company: Killa Design
Country: UAE

With an extensive portfolio spanning over 25 years, Killa’s philosophy revolves around crafting innovative, low-carbon sustainable edifices that challenge architectural paradigms, resulting in iconic projects like the Dubai Opera House, the Almas Tower, and the Bahrain World Trade Centre, a pioneering integration of wind turbines on a large-scale building.

He has gained recognition for his distinctive approach to architecture and with the creation of environmentally conscious and cutting-edge projects, places a strong emphasis on sustainability that continuously pushes the boundaries of conventional design.

Notable projects

Established in 2015 in Dubai, Killa Design, under the guidance of visionary architect Killa, has been actively involved in several notable projects that have garnered critical acclaim in the architectural world. These include the awe-inspiring designs for the Museum of the Future, the Address Beach Resort, W Hotel Namaste, Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club, Marsa Al Arab, Sheybarah Island, Aykon Twin Towers, and the ground-breaking Office of the Future, the world’s first occupied 3D-printed building.

Presently, Killa Design is immersed in the construction of exciting projects such as the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel in Dubai, the Sheybarah Resort for the Red Sea Development in KSA, as well as the Palm Residence and the Cavalli Residential Towers.

Killa’s portfolio epitomises a seamless amalgamation of avant-garde design and a profound consciousness for environmental stewardship. By seamlessly integrating sustainable principles into his projects, he establishes an elevated standard for the industry, demonstrating the transformative potential of environmentally conscious structures that elevate the urban landscape.

The integration of sustainability

Killa also serves as a keynote speaker at global conferences where he inspires architects and developers to challenge the status quo and embrace sustainable practices. His focus lies in the significance of sustainable buildings and masterplans, aiming to enhance the urban habitat, improve the lives of its inhabitants, and aggressively reduce carbon emissions from the built environment. His influential presence on the global stage drives positive change in the architectural industry, advocating for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

Name: Dr. Shams Eldien Naga
Designation: Founder and principal
Company: Naga Architects
Country: UAE

Established in 2000, NAGA Architects stand as illustrious pioneers in the domains of architecture, planning, and design. Their visionary endeavours have redefined urban landscapes and sculpted skylines, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary architectural fabric. In 2022-23, NAGA Architects expanded their prowess by handpicking a large team of architects and engineers to consolidate their expertise in master planning and infrastructure.

Other achievements include the majestic Palm Jebel Ali villas, as well as Aria by OMNIYAT and the ethereal Saadiyat Lagoons Villas which juxtapose design and harmony. In Dubai Maritime City, a towering residential tower graces the skyline, while the Thukher Social Club earned a finalist spot at the prestigious World Architecture Festival. During 2022-2023, NAGA Architects made architectural history with a record-breaking garden home villa sale on Palm Jumeirah, commanding an astounding $18.2 million.

Key projects in KSA

NAGA Architects have carved a remarkable presence in KSA and in collaborating with private developers, they have completed planning and design of over 1.5 million m2 of residential developments. In partnership with the Ministry of Housing, they were instrumental in the planning of a 55 million m2 of residential projects in KSA, including Al Fursan and Al Khuzam. They have also made a mark with the majestic Khobar Commercial Plaza, the enchanting Strip Mall, and the prestigious five-star King Fahd Road Hotel.

Sustainability’s importance

NAGA Architects, as part of their central CSR endeavours, actively engages in initiatives to foster positive change, including their collaboration with the Kuwaiti government to train architecture students. They have also been supporting hospitals in Egypt by donating medical equipment. Additionally, NAGA Architects aims to partner with an NGO to empower needy families in Egypt with livelihood opportunities.

AI in architecture

AI’s influence on architecture is palpable, and NAGA Architects envisions its potential for even greater impact. By inputting distinctive criteria and parameters, AI becomes an inexhaustible source of imaginative design alternatives that transcend traditional approaches and can open doors to a future of ground-breaking advancements.

Name: Pedram Rad
Designation: Co-founder and managing director
Company: U+A
Country: UAE

A RIBA Chartered Architect with a master’s degree in architecture, as the co-founder of U+A since 2006, Rad has set goals and visions for the company to become one of the world’s finest design studios. Backed by over 25 years of architectural design experience in hotel & hospitality, residential high-rise, and commercial mixed-use developments, he provides expertise in initiating project briefing and development strategy, space planning, and project strategic management from inception to completion across a diverse array of projects.

Backed by a wealth of experience

Rad’s extensive experience in real estate development helps enable its developers and clients to establish their objectives in parallel with architecture. Rad has worked on multiple projects in the MENA region including Floating Homes, Emaar Dubai Hills, Maritime City, Dubai Towers, Emirates Towers Expansion, Aldar Yas Plaza, Four Seasons Hotel, Creek Harbour Towers, and more. Having spent overt two decades in Dubai has provided him with an understanding of developers/clients as well as the vast knowledge of the region’s culture which has resulted in several project accolades in the UAE, KSA, and other countries within the MENA region.

Recent key successes in the UAE and across the GCC

In the year 2022, U+A, under Rad’s guidance, achieved remarkable growth across all architectural fronts, exemplifying their prowess in the industry. Notably, their strategic partnership with Egis, a leading global engineering firm with an impressive 1.5 billion Euros ($1.66 billion) turnover, emerged as a shining highlight amid a myriad of accomplishments. This strategic alliance bolstered U+A’s capabilities, empowering them to tackle ambitious and innovative projects with renewed vigour.

Throughout the year, U+A left an indelible mark in the architectural landscape of the UAE and KSA, deftly designing and delivering an extensive portfolio of projects, encompassing more than 2 million m2 of awe-inspiring spaces. Among these remarkable developments were iconic ventures such as Arabian Ranches 3, Emaar Creek Edge, Midtown, Six Senses, and more, each a testament to U+A’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.

U+A’s architectural milestones

As their achievements reached new heights, so did their team, welcoming over 50 talented experts, elevating their total manpower to 198 architects and specialists, showcasing a remarkable 45 percent growth from the previous year. The geographic footprint of U+A expanded with U+A Saudi, where they undertook significant projects and experienced considerable growth in both scale and influence, all in harmonious partnership with Egis.

As U+A’s acumen in urban planning and master planning advanced, shaping sustainable and cohesive communities, the firm’s growth extended far beyond physical structures as they expanded their expertise in diverse architectural realms.

Their proficiency in landscape design flourished through exceptional hospitality resort and urban public realm projects. Stepping into the future, their focus on research, development, and innovation positioned them at the forefront of cutting-edge architectural practices.

Additionally, their prowess in CGI and visualisation breathed life into conceptual visions, captivating clients, and stakeholders alike. This impressive trajectory also manifested in their financial success, with revenue exceeding $35 million, with projections set to surpass $50 million this year.

The strategic collaboration with Egis proved transformative, allowing U+A to operate the Egis Middle East Archline, strategically extending their architectural prowess to encompass Egypt and India. As U+A continues to surge forward, their passion for architectural excellence and dedication to creating transformative spaces heralds an exciting future, poised to leave an enduring impact on the architectural and engineering landscape of the Middle East and beyond.

Latest projects in KSA

U+A had begun to establish their projects in KSA in 2010, designing high-rise residential development for several private developers. The firm is part of several mega projects since 2019 with PIF namely the Four Seasons Hotel, Six Senses Resort, Misk Offices, Trojena Residence, Sindalah Village and Yacht Club, and more.

They have witnessed rapid growth in KSA after joining Egis, which resulted in the addition of the inclusion of other clients such as Neom, Al Ula, Roshn and others. U+A have more than 500 architects and engineers with Egis, and the firm are strongly pursuing their expansion in line with the 2030 vision set by HRH Prince Mohammad Bin Salman.

The role of sustainability in architecture/construction

Sustainability must be a built-in structure within daily life, says Rad. Being a design-centric practice, sustainability always plays a crucial role in all design aspects which improve and respect nature, local materials, the environment, and many more. The most powerful impact is to address global warming and create a habitable living space while respecting nature.

U+A’s CSR initiatives and its role in the company’s success

Considering the post covid scenario, U+A developed the CSR model for two streams, one is for the people. This CSR model helps U+A’s people to find the best balance between work and personal life. The firm offers mobility between their offices across the globe, as well as offers free of cost training as well as has created a home-like office environment. Secondly is their sustainable design and net zero approach in which U+A took the initiative to introduce sustainability into the design process, irrespective of their contractual agreement and service offering,

The role of AI in architecture

U+A acknowledges AI’s growing impact in architectural design, both as a valuable tool and a formidable competitor. Rad emphasises finding the right balance between human ingenuity and AI’s capabilities. U+A seeks to harmoniously integrate AI with designers, shaping a brighter architectural future.

Name: Kerem Cengiz
Designation: Managing director MENA
Company: LWK + Partners
Country: UAE

Steering LWK + PARTNERS, a renowned architecture and design firm, Cengiz has been instrumental in incorporating green building principles and technologies into the company’s projects.

Under his helm, the firm has successfully integrated passive design strategies, energy-efficient technologies, and materials into key environmentally friendly residential projects including the recently launched The LOOP in Hong Kong and DIFC Living & Innovation Two in Dubai, UAE. These include energy-efficient building systems, green roofs, and passive design components. Beyond sustainability, Cengiz’s expertise includes Transit-Oriented Developments (TOD), where LWK has been a strong advocate for promoting walkability, public transport, as well as reducing reliance on private vehicles.

LWK + PARTNERS’ CSR initiatives

LWK, as a firm, has demonstrated a commitment to CSR initiatives that contribute to creating a more inclusive and sustainable design and construction sector. One of the key aspects of LWK’s CSR strategy is its collaboration with local partners to share its knowledge and experience in design and planning while simultaneously tapping into the valuable expertise of the local partners.

Through this collaborative approach, LWK has successfully established partnerships with various architectural firms and developers across different regions, including KSA, the Middle East, and South Asia. These partnerships help enhance the firm’s capacity to deliver high-quality designs and constructions that align with local customs, traditions, and environmental considerations.

Additionally, this approach can contribute to the professional development and capacity-building of local architects and designers, fostering a sustainable and inclusive growth of the design and construction industry.

Fostering vibrant pedestrian-friendly spaces

LWK also steers the concept of vertical urbanism as the firm has excelled in developing sustainable and compact urban environments through high-rise buildings after recognising the challenges posed by limited land resources and urban density.

Moreover, LWK + PARTNERS has also demonstrated a keen ability to design public spaces that foster social interaction and vibrant pedestrian-friendly environments. Notable examples include their collaboration with Diriyah Company in KSA, which features a network of public spaces, pocket parks, promenades, and outdoor event areas that encourage creativity and collaboration.

Name: Muhammad Al Salmy
Designation: Managing director, partner and lead architect
Company: Hoehler + AlSalmy (H+S)
Country: Oman

In 2023, Hoehler + alSalmy (H+S), an esteemed architectural firm based in Oman, celebrated 14 years of dedicated service and operation. After a rebranding from Hoehler+Partner (H+P) in 2016, H+S, under the visionary leadership of Al Salmy, pursued a focused expansion strategy, establishing a remarkable global presence over the past year.

In 2021, a significant milestone was achieved when Al Salmy acquired full ownership of H+S, while concurrently maintaining a valuable joint venture agreement with H+P Germany. This noteworthy accomplishment propelled H+S to solidify its position as a prominent Omani firm with a well-established global reach.

Key projects by H+S

H+S distinguished itself through its involvement in several prestigious architectural projects, including the design and supervision of a boutique four-star chalet-only resort in Jabel Akhdar, showcasing their expertise in hospitality architecture. Furthermore, H+S demonstrated their prowess in institutional design with the Diplomatic Institute project at the Foreign Ministry, the Khazaen Economic City headquarters building, and the Ravine Mall at GUTech.

Preserving cultural heritage, the firm successfully contributed to the architectural and cultural significance of the Dabba Archaeological Centre. Not limited to local endeavours, H+S extended its architectural prowess internationally with the interior design of a high-end apartment project in London. And their talent in renovation and redesign came to the fore with a chalet project in Davos, Switzerland.

With an impressive portfolio that encompasses a diverse range of architectural domains, H+S firmly establishes itself as an esteemed architectural firm with a thriving global presence.

As part of its CSR initiatives, H+S has been developing an environmental awareness application to promote sustainability. Moreover, H+S actively engages Omani intern students, providing them with hands-on learning experiences and fostering a deeper understanding of their studies, in alignment with the country’s Omanisation initiatives.

Name: Paul Bishop
Designation: Owner and founder
Company: Bishop Design
Country: UAE

Bishop Design, under Bishop’s visionary leadership, has become a prominent architectural studio with humble beginnings that began from a shared warehouse in Al Quoz, Dubai. Today, Dubai remains the flagship location, with his influence extended to KSA and the US. With the launch of a new branch in Miami, Florida, Bishop Design’s commitment to growth and expansion is evident and has further steered their team expansion and increased opportunities across global markets.

Expansion and key projects by Bishop Design

Bishop Design recently expanded its team with the addition of 10 new employees and has also recognised the exceptional contributions of four individuals, with three of them being promoted to senior positions. Also, during the previous year, Bishop Design has been involved in multiple distinguished projects, including the addition of the eccentric Colombian-inspired restaurant, En Fuego, at the Atlantis the Palm to their portfolio, and the creation of Mesa at Tomorrowland’s Terra Solis.

Bishop Design, in collaboration with Advanced Tastes Holding Company, is actively contributing to the vibrant food and beverage scene in Riyadh. Their involvement includes the development of five distinct venues within the Laysen Valley Development, a project that promises to shape the city’s culinary landscape and create memorable dining experiences for residents and visitors alike.

Supporting independent craftsmen and artists

During Bishop Design’s sourcing trip in Colombia for their En Fuego project, the team was introduced to Oliver, a highly skilled craftsman. They were highly impressed by Oliver’s meticulously handcrafted Chiva buses and purchased all available pieces, enabling Oliver to retire earlier than expected. Today, Oliver’s exceptional work is proudly exhibited in Dubai, reflecting Bishop Design’s commitment to supporting independent craftsmen and artists while creating visually stunning designs.

In terms of CSR, Bishop Design actively collaborates with Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit organisation committed to constructing homes for families facing challenges in obtaining housing financing. By providing secure and safe housing, this partnership has positively impacted multiple lives. Bishop is also committed to creating opportunities for talented individuals through university scholarships and internships within his firm.

Name: Prodipto Ghosh
Designation: Director of Architecture and Planning
Company: Mirage Leisure and Development
Country: UAE

With over three decades of experience working throughout the Middle East and India, Ghosh has actively engaged in design and master planning for mixed-use, residential, office, retail, and hospitality projects.

Known for his passion for cutting-edge designs that stretch the limits of practical architecture while maintaining functionality, Ghosh specialises in the design of complex mixed-use projects which embrace multiple building typologies which has enabled him to deliver award-winning projects and developments during his successful tenure at the helm of multi-national design firms, including his most recent previous role as a senior principal director in CallisonRTKL’s (CRTKL) Dubai office. Ghosh joined Mirage in 2022 to lead the Architecture and Planning at the firm.

About Mirage

Mirage has been involved with many projects that are part of Dubai’s glittering skyline, including the Address Downtown Dubai; Al Manzil Hotel; Madinat Jumeirah, among others. Globally, some of Mirage’s projects have a presence in Oman, South Africa, KSA, Morocco, Mauritius, and more. Having conceptualised, designed, and delivered some of the most complex and high-profile projects across the globe, just some of Mirage’s projects include mixed-use destinations, civic spaces, leisure, entertainment, and islands.

Mirage’s three-stage methodology

As Mirage manages the full project life cycle, integrating all disciplines to provide clients with an all-encompassing solution and eliminating overlaps, they inculcate a three-stage methodology which enables them to add distinct value to a project at any stage of its lifecycle.

Stage one is visioning and planning during which the firm operates an open book policy on the project and appoints a suitably qualified and experienced quantity surveying firm to provide independent quantity surveying and cost control services.

Stage two is management and design during which Mirage pre-qualify, select, appoint and direct a professional team of experts towards a consistent project goal.

Stage three, supervision and delivery, is the pivotal stage where design, technical and financial plans converge in action to help steer the success of a project.