Are you planning to start your architectural journey in Abu Dhabi? Capital of UAE, Abu Dhabi is renowned for its stunning skyline and groundbreaking architectural marvels. Behind these iconic structures are some of the most prestigious architecture firms in Abu Dhabi, blending innovation with tradition.
If you are an aspiring architect or a professional seeking inspiration, knowing about the leading firms in Abu Dhabi can provide valuable insights into the region’s architectural excellence and opportunities for collaboration. Explore the top firms driving Abu Dhabi’s architectural evolution.
Top 10 Architecture Firms in Abu Dhabi
Explore the list of architectural firms in Abu Dhabi that are redefining the city and the world with their innovative designs. These top firms specialise in creating iconic structures, blending modernity with cultural heritage.
1. Gensler
Location: Abu Dhabi Trade Centre Building, Abu Dhabi
Founders: Arthur Gensler, James Follett, Drue Gensler
Gensler, a globally renowned design and architecture firm, has established a strong presence in Abu Dhabi architecture through impactful projects such as the Abu Dhabi Financial Centre on Al Maryah Island. Known for its innovative approach, Gensler integrates sustainability, strategic planning, and cutting-edge design to Location the evolving needs of urban development. Their expertise spans commercial, residential, and mixed-use projects, emphasising creativity and functionality to shape the city's architectural landscape.
Notable projects
- YOFC's Headquarters, Wuhan, China
- Willis Tower Repositioning, Chicago, USA
- Viettel Headquarters, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Patreon Office, San Francisco, United States
2. SOM (Skidmore, Owings & Merrill)
Location: The Maze Tower, Suite 901 Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
Founders: Louis Skidmore, Nathaniel A. Owings
Recognized as one of the top architecture firms in Abu Dhabi, SOM is globally celebrated for its innovative and sustainable designs. Their Abu Dhabi projects, including the Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, highlight their commitment to creating functional and culturally sensitive structures. SOM integrates cutting-edge technology and local heritage to craft designs that resonate with the city's unique identity and desert climate
Notable projects
- Manhattan House, 1951, New York
- Denver Union Station, 2014, Denver
- One World Trade Center, 2013, New York
- Burj Khalifa, 2009, Dubai
3. Dewan Architects & Engineers
Location: PO Box 2967, Villa B21, Marina Village, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Founder: Mohamed Al Assam
A prominent name in the Middle East's architectural landscape, Dewan Architects & Engineers is known for shaping iconic urban environments. With a rich portfolio spanning residential, commercial, and institutional projects, they have significantly contributed to Abu Dhabi’s architectural evolution. Their designs seamlessly merge modernity with the region's cultural essence.
Notable Projects
- Nur-Sultan Grand Mosque in Kazakhstan
- United Square, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Dragon Tower, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Layan Verde, Phuket, Thailand
4. Foster + Partners
Location: Office 103A Building 6, Dubai Design District, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Founder: Norman Foster
As leading architectural consultants in Abu Dhabi, Foster + Partners focuses on sustainable green architecture, blending eco-friendly solutions with cutting-edge design. They have developed numerous landmark projects in the region, setting benchmarks in environmental planning and energy-efficient structures
Notable Projects
- London City Hall, 2002
- HSBC Hong Kong, 1986
- The Bow, 2012, Calgary, Canada
- The Millennium Bridge, London
5. HKS Architects
Location: Al Jafiliya, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Founders: Harwood K. Smith, Kate Robertson Smith
HKS Architects is a favoured choice among students seeking architecture firms in Abu Dhabi for internship opportunities. Their expertise lies in creating human-centred designs for healthcare, hospitality, and commercial spaces. They maintain a strong focus on mentoring budding architects, fostering creativity, and advancing sustainable design practices.
Notable Projects
- Jinjiang International Exhibition Center, Fujian Province, China
- Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness at La Cantera Resort, San Antonio, Texas, USA
- Mosaic Stadium, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Diamond Island Tower, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
6. MZ Architects
Location: Mezzanine Floor Soho Square, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Founder: Marwan Zgheib
MZ Architects is a renowned architecture firm, with offices in Abu Dhabi, Lebanon, and Qatar. Specialising in architecture and urban planning, the firm is celebrated for its innovative projects, ranging from master planning to stadiums, residential complexes, and high-rise buildings. Known for its creative vision and dedication to quality, MZ Architects has played a significant role in shaping Abu Dhabi architecture with a focus on both functionality and aesthetics.
Notable Projects
- Golden West Bay, Doha, Qatar
- First Bank, Lagos, Nigeria
- Park Inn, Jeddah, KSA
- Beirut Gate, Bashoura, Beirut, Lebanon
7. NORR Group Consultants International Ltd.
Location: Level 12, Festival Tower, Dubai Festival City, Dubai
Founder: John B. Parkin
NORR is a leading architectural consultant in Abu Dhabi, delivering exceptional designs for over 80 years. They specialise in diverse sectors, including healthcare, commercial, residential, and hospitality. NORR is known for blending innovation with sustainability, creating spaces that are both functional and visually striking, making them a trusted name in the region.
Notable Projects
- Home2 Suites, Chicago
- Maldron Chapel Street, Salford
- Fairmont Hotel, Al Khobar, Al Khobar
- Bunyan Tower, Dubai
8. Woods Bagot
Location: Cloud Spaces, Level 1 Town Square, Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Founders: Walter Bagot, E. J. Woods
A global architectural and consulting practice, is known for its expertise in designing people-centred spaces. With a strong focus on urban design and large-scale projects, the firm has contributed significantly to Abu Dhabi's development. Their portfolio reflects a commitment to creating innovative and adaptive designs that meet modern-day needs
Notable Projects
- St Mary’s Calne School Library, Wiltshire, UK
- University of Sydney Business School
- Minthis, Cyprus
- Deakin Law School Building, Melbourne
9. Perkins Eastman
Location: Marina Plaza, Level 8 Dubai Marina Dubai, UAE
Founders: Bradford Perkins, Mary-Jean Eastman
Recognised as one of the best architecture firms in Abu Dhabi, Perkins Eastman excels in creating sustainable and community-focused designs. Their work spans multiple domains, including healthcare, education, and urban planning, promoting the importance of creating spaces that inspire and support growth.
Notable Projects
- Rockwood Retirement Community
- District Wharf, Southwest Waterfront
- Antara Dehradun, India
- VIA Centro Plaza, San Antonio, Texas, USA
10. Khatib & Alami
Location: Bashar Ayyash, Vice-President Street No. 6, Al Bateen Street, CI Tower
Founders: Mounir Khatib and Dr. Zuheir Alami
Khatib & Alami is a multidisciplinary consultancy firm that offers comprehensive architectural, engineering, and planning services. With a strong presence in Abu Dhabi, the firm is known for its innovative solutions and impactful projects in sectors such as urban planning, infrastructure, and mixed-use developments.
Notable Projects
- Upgrading of Yanbu Airport, KSA
- Chama Bridge, Kurdistan Iraq
- Ed Dueim Bridge, Sudan
- New Doha International Airport, Qatar
Conclusion
Abu Dhabi is home to some of the most prestigious architecture firms, each contributing to the city's remarkable skyline and cultural landmarks. These firms offer architects opportunities to work on groundbreaking projects and advance their careers in a thriving industry.
To stay competitive in this evolving field, the BIM Professional Course for Architects by Novatr is an excellent choice. It provides hands-on training in Building Information Modeling, focusing on advanced techniques, collaboration, and real-world project workflows skills highly sought after by top firms.
For more updates on architecture trends, tools, and career tips, visit Novatr's Resource Page, your go-to platform for staying informed and inspired in the architectural world.
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