RIBA strengthens Gulf presence and partnerships

As part of its work to promote architectural excellence and grow its global membership, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has been taking steps to strengthen its presence and strategic partnerships in the Gulf. 

This work coincides with the 15th anniversary of the RIBA Gulf Chapter, a dedicated local member group, which celebrated this milestone at Dubai Design Week with a range of events including a panel discussion on women in leadership and an exhibition of student work.  

In addition to activity at Dubai Design Week, RIBA also led a delegation of 29 Chartered Practices and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) provider representatives to Cityscape Global 2024, collaborating with the UK’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT) on a programme of knowledge sharing and networking opportunities. Prior to the trip, a bespoke supplement of RIBAJ was published and circulated, featuring stories on outstanding new buildings, important voices and emerging ideas from across the region.

Much of this work builds on the established strategic partnership with KSA’s Architecture and Design Commission (ADC), formed last year. The partnership continues to grow from strength to strength, with the latest joint initiative – announced at Cityscape Global – focussing on a shared programme of CPD to support and encourage KSA practitioners.  

Find out more about RIBA’s Gulf activity here: https://www.architecture.com/gulf/riba-and-the-gulf-region  

RIBA Chief Executive, Dr Valerie Vaughan-Dick, MBE FRCGP (Hon) said: 

“With such major growth and transformation in architecture, we know that the Gulf region presents significant opportunities for us, as a growing membership organisation, and our members practicing worldwide.

Our purpose is to make the future a better place: to promote excellence in the built environment and the high-quality development of places and spaces for communities across the globe.

In addition to strategic partnerships, our activity in the Gulf encompasses local events for architects and designers – including our Future Leaders Gulf conference – design competitions, Part 3 qualifications and, of course, awards, celebrating the very best new architecture.

I look forward to growing our network of local members, building on our partnerships and playing a critical role in the development of the built environment across the Gulf.”

RIBA Gulf Chapter Chair, Andy Shaw, said:

“RIBA architects working in the Gulf are all part of the RIBA Gulf Chapter family. We are proud to create, foster and celebrate architectural excellence in one of the most dynamic regions in the world. Our mission is to create meaningful dialogue and collaboration that shapes the future of design and the built environment.

Our works demonstrate the unique role architects play in driving sustainable innovation within the physical and cultural context of the Gulf. I look forward to continuing to champion these efforts, fostering opportunities for growth, and promoting a vision where design excellence enhances communities and elevates the lives of all citizens across the region.”

Notes :

1. The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body that serves its members and society in order to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment. Follow @RIBA on X/Twitter for regular updates.

Read more about  RIBA and the Gulf region.