< Previous138 JUNE 2024 | POWER 150 | Patrik Schumacher Principal, Zaha Hadid Architects Norman Foster Founder and Executive Chairman, Foster + Partners 1 2 At the top of the list stands Patrik Schumacher, the Principal of the renowned Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA). Leading the fi rm following Zaha Hadid’s passing in March 2016, Schumacher is widely recognised as one of the most prominent thought leaders within the fi elds of architecture, urbanism, and design. His research interest focuses on designing and simulating real and virtual environments with the goal of increasing their power to engender and facilitate productive communicative interactions. As Principal of ZHA, Schumacher has overseen numerous large-scale projects across the globe, demonstrating his exceptional leadership and design acumen. Noteworthy projects under his direction include the new Beijing Daxing International Airport, a marvel of modern engineering and design, and the Leeza SOHO tower in Beijing, which features a breathtaking atrium that twists through the building’s core. Among his most A regular face in our power list is Norman Foster, the Founder and Executive Chairman of Foster + Partners. The fi rm has been particularly active in the Middle East over the past year, securing several projects last year including the contract to become the primary architect on the proposed two-kilometre-high tower in Riyadh. Foster + Partners’ Middle Eastern portfolio is extensive and impressive, encompassing a variety of signifi cant projects that highlight their versatility and design excellence. Notable projects include the ICD Brookfi eld Place Tower, a prominent addition to Dubai’s skyline, the South Sabah Al-Ahmad masterplan, which demonstrates sustainable urban planning, and the cutting-edge Kuwait International Airport Terminal 2, designed to enhance passenger experience with state-of-the-art facilities. The fi rm has also designed headquarters for major institutions such as the National Bank of Kuwait and the banking company Samba in Saudi Arabia, recent and prominent projects in the Middle East is the BEEAH Headquarters in Sharjah, UAE, which embodies cutting-edge sustainable design principles. Working alongside Zaha Hadid, Schumacher co-authored the iconic designs of many of the fi rm’s most celebrated projects. These include the MAXXI Museum in Rome, which won the Stirling Prize for architecture, the Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul, a major cultural and commercial hub, the London 2012 Olympic Aquatics Centre, which became an architectural highlight of the games, and the One Thousand Museum residential tower in Miami, renowned for its distinctive exoskeleton structure. In the Middle East, ZHA’s portfolio is equally impressive, featuring landmarks that blend innovative design with cultural signifi cance. Notable projects include the Sheikh Zayed Bridge in Abu Dhabi, The Opus by Omniyat in Dubai, the Aljada Central Hub in Sharjah, , and the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre in Riyadh. showcasing their ability to create functional and aesthetically pleasing corporate spaces. Other remarkable projects by Foster + Partners in the region include the Zayed National Museum, which aims to celebrate the cultural heritage of the UAE, the innovative Jeddah Metro system, the House of Wisdom in Sharjah, a contemporary library and cultural center, and the vast Jabal Omar development in Saudi Arabia, a mixed-use project that integrates hospitality, residential, and commercial spaces. Most recently, Foster + Partners secured the design contract for Saudi Arabia’s new Abha airport where it will transform the passenger journey by incorporating fresh air, greenery, and natural lighting into the terminal design. Further showcasing their global reach, Foster + Partners designed Apple BKC, Apple’s fi rst fl agship store in India, achieving LEED Platinum certifi cation, underscoring their dedication to sustainability and innovation in architecture.JUNE 2024 139 | POWER 150 | Shams Naga, the visionary Founder and Principal of Naga Architects, is featured in Construction Week Middle East’s Power 150 2024 list. 2023 marked another remarkable year for Naga Architects, solidifying its position as a top-tier architectural fi rm. Building on the successes of previous years, Naga Architects expanded its footprint signifi cantly in Saudi Arabia (KSA). The fi rm undertook prestigious projects for Red Sea Global, National Housing Company, Retal, and many others. The Project Management Offi ce (PMO) division secured multiple projects in Mecca and Hail, showcasing its expertise and reliability. Naga’s infrastructure and master planning team was actively engaged in designing and planning mega projects in KSA, covering over 50 million m2. With several projects transitioning from design to construction, Naga’s construction supervision team commenced operations, growing its team of experts to meet the increasing demand. The year saw Naga KSA bolster its workforce with over 75 new professionals, refl ecting its dynamic growth and commitment to excellence. Naga continued its success in the UAE with private and public clients, including Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, Omniyat, and others. The fi rm revived its design and build vertical, Naga Signature, in response to the signifi cant uptick in the residential property market, underscoring its adaptability and market acumen. While consolidating its presence in the GCC and Egypt, Naga Architects also ventured into new markets such as Iraq, Tunisia, and Libya, focusing business development eff orts across North and South Africa. This strategic expansion aims to leverage new opportunities and diversify the fi rm’s project portfolio. To support its growing portfolio and ambitious global expansion plans, Naga Architects enhanced its senior management team, welcoming a Chief Operating Offi cer, a Hospitality Service Line Leader, and a CEO of Naga Signature. These additions will drive further success through strategic collaborations in the region. On the corporate social responsibility front, Naga continued to extend its support to various healthcare providers in Egypt, assisting families in need and reinforcing its commitment to community welfare. With a growing portfolio and a dedicated team, Naga Architects is positioned to achieve new heights in the architectural world, driven by innovation, excellence, and a steadfast commitment to its clients and communities. Shams Naga Founder and Principal, Naga Architects 3140 JUNE 2024 | POWER 150 | Pedram Rad, Managing Director for U+A, has also been recently appointed as Regional Director of Architecture Line for Egis Archline in the Middle East and South Asia (MESA). Under his leadership, the company has strategically positioned itself for substantial growth and innovation, fostering collaborations with specialist fi rms like 10D, WW+P, and Omrania to enhance service off erings and market presence in the region. Egis Archline has made signifi cant strides under Rad’s guidance in the past year. The company has not only expanded its architectural services but also focused on elevating energy effi ciency and sustainable city initiatives. This dual focus aims to bolster the company’s role in promoting sustainability in urban development projects across the MESA region. U+A has delivered several high-profi le projects that highlight its commitment to integrating advanced architectural and engineering solutions. These include the Red Sea Global Four Seasons, a high-end hospitality project that exemplifi es luxury and sustainability. The MISK CLT Building is another landmark project, showcasing a fully sustainable offi ce building designed with cutting-edge eco- friendly technologies. The Aldar Nikki Beach Residence stands as a testament to U+A’s ability to deliver luxurious residential spaces that meet the highest standards of modern living. Additionally, U+A has been instrumental in the development of various projects within the NEOM initiative, such as the Slope Residence and Trojena Observatory Tower, which are pivotal in redefi ning urban living in Saudi Arabia. U+A’s CSR initiatives refl ect the company’s values of innovation and community engagement. The fi rm focuses on educational outreach, professional development, and diversity. By partnering with local schools and universities, U+A off ers workshops, internships, and mentorship programs to nurture the next generation of architects and designers. On the sustainability front, U+A integrates eco-friendly principles into all projects, aiming for LEED certifi cation to demonstrate their commitment to green building standards. The company’s eff orts in low-carbon, low-impact construction underscore its dedication to a sustainable future. Pedram Rad Regional Director, Architecture Line, Middle East and South Asia, Egis and Managing Director, U+A 4JUNE 2024 141 | POWER 150 | With over 20 years of global industry experience, Tim Martin has witnessed and contributed to signifi cant transformations within the fi eld of architecture and design. As Managing Director at Gensler Middle East, his leadership refl ects the evolving landscape of sustainability, technology, and client expectations. One of Martin’s greatest achievements has been the growth of Gensler’s portfolio over the past fi ve years. Under his leadership, the team has tripled, and the fi rm’s physical footprint in the Middle East has expanded signifi cantly. This growth includes the expansion of the Saudi Arabia offi ce, aligning with Saudi’s Vision 2030 Saudisation program. Moreover, Martin’s passion lies in large-scale projects and master planning. These areas require innovative thinking and strategic vision to address unique challenges, from envisioning futuristic smart cities to developing sustainable infrastructure solutions. Master planning appeals to his holistic approach, focusing on comprehensive development strategies and long-term visioning, transforming regions and shaping urban development. Approaching challenges with a foundation in collaboration, communication, and problem- solving, Martin ensures successful project completion. By involving clients and partners in the decision-making process and fostering open communication, his team aligns project visions with client expectations, creating a sense of ownership and partnership. Gensler’s multidisciplinary teams draw on diverse experiences and perspectives, enhancing the fi rm’s ability to overcome obstacles. Martin has seen the defi nition of sustainability evolve from focusing on environmental conservation and resource effi ciency to encompassing a holistic approach that prioritises human health and well-being. Gensler’s commitment to sustainability is exemplifi ed by their leadership in reporting carbon footprints and the Gensler Cities Climate Challenge, aiming for net zero by 2030. Gensler creates a positive impact in communities through innovative designs that redefi ne urban experiences, inclusivity, and personal well-being. Current projects span diverse sectors, including entertainment destinations in Saudi Arabia and immersive hospitality environments in the UAE. Collaborating with major global brands, Gensler designs spaces that refl ect brand identity, foster creativity, and provide exceptional experiences. Looking to the future, Martin aspires to continue building on Gensler’s reputation by expanding the fi rm’s footprint in the MENA region and diversifying services to address emerging trends. Tim Martin Managing Director, Gensler Middle East 5142 JUNE 2024 | POWER 150 | Kerem Cengiz, the Managing Director for MENA at LWK + PARTNERS, has been pivotal in steering the fi rm towards sustainable and innovation-driven design excellence. Under his leadership, the company has integrated green building principles across numerous projects, refl ecting a steadfast commitment to environmental responsibility. In the last 12 months, LWK + PARTNERS has garnered signifi cant acclaim for its innovative and sustainable designs. High-profi le developments in the DIFC and Dubai Opera District are underway, showcasing the fi rm’s architectural prowess. A notable achievement includes the completion of a ground-breaking project with Daimler Mercedes-Benz in Dubai Design District, which the practice conceptualised. Additionally, the fi rm is leading pioneering agri and eco-tourism initiatives in Saudi Arabia, highlighting its commitment to contextual contemporary design and community engagement and development. Key projects include DIFC Living, a fl agship luxury residential development in Dubai’s fi nancial hub, and the successful launch of Abu Dhabi Maritime’s ‘Community Activation Programme.’ The fi rm’s robust pipeline in Saudi Arabia involves collaborations on NEOM, Boutique Group and other PIF development initiatives, refl ecting a strong focus on innovation, sustainability and technology. These projects have signifi cantly contributed to the fi rm’s doubling of annual revenue over the past year and the strategic repositioning of the practice’s future initiative. LWK + PARTNERS champions corporate social responsibility through various initiatives, such as career fairs and collaborations with top MENA universities. Their EmpowerLink programme, which supports diversity and inclusion, includes mentorship networks and events like EmpowerTea. Cengiz’s appointment to the RIBA Cultural, Knowledge & Outreach Committee further underscores the fi rm’s commitment to knowledge in creating contextually relevant, sustainable, quality- driven, liveable communities, places, and developments. These eff orts set a benchmark in the industry, demonstrating the profound impact of integrative and socially responsible design. Kerem Cengiz Managing Director - MENA, LWK + Partners 6JUNE 2024 143 | POWER 150 | With 19 years of architectural experience, Ignacio Gómez has led Aedas Middle East to new heights, cementing its status as a premier design fi rm in the region. A believer in storytelling through architecture, Gómez has overseen projects that blend narratives with landscapes, creating impactful and inspiring designs. Under Gómez’s leadership, Aedas Middle East has secured numerous high-profi le projects, including The Red Palace by Boutique Group in Riyadh and Gidori in NEOM. The fi rm has also achieved pre-launch success with projects like D3 Residential and Offi ces in Dubai and Rixos Financial Centre Road Dubai Residences. Aedas has become a centre of design excellence, actively engaging in projects across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and North Africa. Gómez spearheaded several notable projects. Trojena Ski Village in NEOM, KSA, combines luxury and adventure in a groundbreaking ski resort. Gidori in NEOM, KSA, is a state-of-the-art mixed-use development integrating residential, commercial, and leisure spaces. The Red Palace in Riyadh, KSA, is a historic restoration project that blends modern architectural techniques with traditional elements. Rixos Residences in Dubai, UAE, off ers unparalleled luxury living with world- class amenities. D3 Residential and Offi ces in Dubai, UAE, captures the creative spirit of the UAE, integrating with D3’s vibrant atmosphere. As of 2023, Aedas Middle East’s backlog is robust, featuring numerous transportation projects, signifi cant hospitality ventures, and large-scale masterplans for redeveloping historical cities in Saudi Arabia. This promising backlog refl ects the fi rm’s active engagement and continued regional growth. Aedas Middle East has actively engaged in CSR initiatives, fostering local talent through university collaborations and supporting students. The fi rm also supports local communities’ educational and skill development programmes, nurturing the next generation of architects. Additionally, Aedas encourages and facilitates volunteering opportunities for its team members, demonstrating its commitment to community engagement and development. Ignacio Gómez Global Design Principal, Aedas Middle East 7144 JUNE 2024 | POWER 150 | Shaun Killa Design Partner, Killa Design 8 Shaun Killa, a design leader at Killa Design, is an award-winning architect known for his sustainable and boundary- pushing designs. With over 25 years of experience, Killa prioritises creating beautiful and sustainable buildings. He believes in innovation and uses it to design low-carbon structures that redefi ne the very essence of architecture. This approach has resulted in iconic projects in the Middle East like the Almas Tower, Dubai Opera House, and the Bahrain World Trade Centre, which famously incorporated wind turbines on a large scale. Next on the list is Matthew Squires, CEO of SSH, who has led the company through a remarkable year of growth and strategic success. SSH achieved over $80 million in net revenue intake in 2023, marking a signifi cant fi nancial milestone for the fi rm. In line with this growth, SSH also expanded its team substantially by adding 250 new employees, which brought the total number of staff members to just under 900. This growth has enabled the company to deliver complex projects while remaining agile. Signifi cant projects completed under Squires’ An undeniably recognisable face in the industry is Joe Tabet, Founder and Managing Director of JT+Partners. Renowned as a brand specialising in architecture, master planning, and integrated design practices, Tabet has helped the fi rm create its signature style over the years. With offi ces in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Beirut, JT+Partners undertakes projects globally, spanning from Greece to Seychelles and Morocco to India. As a leader, Tabet emphasises the importance of his team’s contributions to their collective success, fostering a down-to- Killa Design, founded in Dubai in 2015, boasts an impressive portfolio. They’ve designed the critically acclaimed Museum of the Future, the luxurious Address Beach Resort, and the world’s fi rst 3D-printed offi ce building, the Offi ce of the Future. Currently, Killa is busy with exciting projects like the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel and the Sheybarah Resort in Saudi Arabia. Beyond design, Killa is a thought-leader, inspiring others at conferences worldwide. He champions sustainable buildings and masterplans, believing they can improve cities, lives, and the environment by reducing emissions. leadership include the Waterfront Development Project in Kuwait, Creek Beach District in Dubai, and the New Maternity Hospital in Kuwait, totalling over $3 billion. SSH has also reinforced its presence in Saudi Arabia, aligning with Vision 2030. CSR initiatives include revamped staff development processes, strong university partnerships, and a commitment to sustainability through virtual meetings and hybrid work models. Health, safety, wellness, diversity, and inclusion are also core to SSH’s values, ensuring a responsible and progressive corporate culture. earth and collaborative culture. JT+Partners excels in delivering award- winning projects across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond, including hospitality, residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. The fi rm is also committed to sustainable and socially responsible design, integrating international standards with local expertise. Tabet’s positive outlook for the future, coupled with his holistic approach to architecture and design, positions JT+ Partners as a leader in the global architectural landscape. Matthew Squires CEO, SSH Joe Tabet Founder and MD, JT+Partners 10 9JUNE 2024 145 | POWER 150 | Brian Johnson Principal & Managing Partner, Godwin Austen Johnson 11 Brian Johnson serves as the Principal and Managing Partner at Godwin Austen Johnson (GAJ), a premier architecture and design fi rm headquartered in the UAE. With over 30 years of industry experience, Johnson has distinguished himself as a notable leader, earning recognition on this year’s Power 150 list for his outstanding leadership and the GAJ team’s prowess. Under Johnson’s direction, GAJ has been instrumental in shaping the UAE’s infrastructure landscape. The fi rm has contributed to numerous prominent projects, including the Dubai Creek Golf Clubhouse and several Sumaya Dabbagh, a distinguished Saudi architect who received her education in the UK, founded Dabbagh Architects in 2008. Her practice is renowned for its sensitivity to themes of memory, identity, and belonging, and has become a leading force in the architectural landscape. Dabbagh’s work is exemplifi ed by award-winning projects such as the Mleiha Archaeological Centre and the Gargash Mosque, both of which showcase her unique approach to integrating cultural and historical context into modern architecture. These works Leading Dewan Architects & Engineers as its CEO is Ammar Alassam. Joining Dewan in 2001, he has played a pivotal role in formulating and executing the strategic blueprint for Dewan’s expansion into a leading regional architecture and engineering (A&E) fi rm across multiple disciplines and markets. In 2007, Alassam spearheaded the team that secured a crucial investment from Ithmar Capital, a prominent regional private equity fi rm. This investment facilitated Dewan’s successful expansion within the region and entry into new markets. signifi cant educational initiatives across the region. Their primary markets span the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, where their innovative designs have left a lasting impression. Furthermore, Johnson attributes GAJ’s success to the exceptional talent and commitment of its team members, who have delivered several noteworthy projects in recent years. Examples include The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton, adjacent to the new Warner Bros. Theme Park on Yas Island, and the DoubleTree by Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Residences, intricately connected to the WB hotel. have garnered global recognition for their innovative approach in the UAE. Currently, the Al Ain Museum under construction adds to her portfolio of contextual designs. As an architect, Dabbagh advocates for socially and environmentally sustainable architecture rooted in regional heritage. Her recent installation, “Earth To Earth,” featured at the Sharjah Architecture Triennial, highlights this philosophy. A passionate advocate for women in architecture, Dabbagh is also a role model, breaking stereotypes, and inspiring the next generation of architects. As CEO and Board Member, Alassam remains actively engaged in cultivating new business prospects, fostering strategic partnerships, and diversifying into new sectors and regions. Over the past seven years, Dewan has established offi ces in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and the Philippines. Recognising the growing importance of sustainability, Alassam has championed a corporate culture focused on designing environmentally conscious buildings. Dewan has achieved LEED and ESTIDAMA certifi cations for many of its projects, refl ecting its commitment to sustainable design. Sumaya Dabbagh Founder, Dabbagh Architects Ammar Alassam CEO, Dewan Architects & Engineers 13 12146 JUNE 2024 | POWER 150 | Paul Bishop Founder, Bishop Design Talal Shair Chairman & CEO, Dar Al-Handasah 14 15 Paul Bishop, the Founder of Bishop Design, reappears on this year’s list, reaffi rming his infl uential presence in the architectural and design industry. Over the past year, Bishop has made signifi cant strides, further establishing himself as one of the most recognised interior designers in the UAE. With nearly three decades of experience, Bishop has transformed his homegrown boutique studio into an internationally award-winning enterprise. Since establishing Bishop Design in 2004, Bishop and his team have built a diverse portfolio spanning hospitality, commercial, retail, and residential sectors. Even after twenty years, the fi rm continues to evolve, creating experiences that resonate deeply with residents and visitors alike. Their focus on innovation not only enhances individual experiences but also shapes the cultural landscape of the region. A pivotal moment for Bishop was founding his third company, Custard, in collaboration Talal Shair, Chairman and CEO of Dar Al- Handasah, has played an indispensable role within Dar Group for over three decades, leaving a mark on the organisation’s trajectory. His journey commenced as a structural engineer within the company co- founded by his father, walking on a path of steady progression through various roles until his eventual elevation to the position of Chairman and CEO in 2008. Under Shair’s leadership, Dar Group has undergone a transformation, evolving into a global design and engineering powerhouse propelled by strategic acquisitions spanning diverse sectors and markets. Despite achieving international acclaim, the fi rm remains fi rmly grounded in its commitment to client-centricity, a principle deeply ingrained in its ethos since its inception. Shair’s leadership ethos emphasises fostering a culture of collaboration and responsibility across Dar Group’s extensive network of 300 offi ces and 18,000 employees. Prioritising sustainability, net zero initiatives, with hospitality veteran James Stuart. Set to launch offi cially later this year, Custard aims to push the boundaries of the hospitality industry by off ering innovative and bespoke design solutions. Moreover, Bishop spearheaded and completed several high-profi le projects over the past year, including a lucrative contract with Golden Group for a resort project in Montenegro, and a partnership to conceptualise a luxurious boutique resort in Bahrain. Bishop Design was also entrusted with the renovation of a well-known luxury- lifestyle hotel in the Bahamas and secured a contract to design a branded residential tower in Dubai. Under Bishop’s guidance, the fi rm has seen a steady increase in profi ts in 2023, with similar projections for 2024. His commitment to community engagement is evident in CSR initiatives such as a pro-bono commissary kitchen project for a local charity, providing hospitality skills to underprivileged students and addressing food waste. and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments, Shair ensures that the organisation remains a good infl uence when it comes to responsible corporate practices. Moreover, Dar Al-Handasah is revered for its comprehensive consultancy services, off ering expertise in design, planning, engineering, sustainability consulting, and digital solutions for projects worldwide. Boasting a workforce of over 9,000 professionals spread across 54 offi ces globally, the company has successfully delivered more than 4,500 projects, totalling over $540 billion in value, for over 950 clients. These endeavours have not only catalysed sustainable development, but also created community enrichment on a global scale, underscoring the company’s dedication to innovation under Shair’s visionary stewardship. As Dar Al-Handasah continues to thrive, Shair’s legacy as a transformative leader in the design and engineering industry endures, inspiring and propelling positive change worldwide.JUNE 2024 147 | POWER 150 | Jamal Salem, Principal and Middle East Region Director, has been the driving force behind the remarkable success of DLR Group Middle East. With a career spanning over 26 years, Salem’s visionary leadership has been instrumental in the company’s growth and expansion. Under Salem’s leadership, DLR Group Middle East has grown from a modest team of four to a robust group of 70 professionals. The fi rm has expanded its design sectors to include mixed-use, hospitality, higher education, in addition to interior design and master planning services, broadening its impact in the Middle East. Salem has maintained strong relationships with initial clients, achieving a 90% repeat client rate, underscoring the fi rm’s commitment to client satisfaction and trust. The fi rm has completed several high- profi le projects, solidifying its presence in the Middle Eastern architectural landscape. Notable projects include The Point in Abha, KSA, an award-winning mixed-use development, and Knowledge Economic City in Madinah, KSA, a cultural landmark and future national centre for knowledge-based industries. As part of DLR Group’s Middle East growth plan, Jamal is working on bridging the geographical gap between the UAE offi ce and the fi rm’s growing clientele in Saudi Arabia by opening an offi ce in Riyadh in the coming year. Furthermore, DLR Group’s Middle East design infl uence will extend across the Saudi market, marked by pioneering projects such as Madinah Gate, a project forecasted to connect 10 million visitors a year by 2030. This mixed-use development will create a new urban centre in Madinah and a hotel complex in the same city, including over 2000 fi ve-star hotel rooms. Salem’s strategic vision and leadership continue to propel DLR Group Middle East towards unprecedented growth and success. Jamal Salem Principal and Middle East Region Director, DLR Group Middle East 16Next >