Established back in 1971 in Baghdad, the firm is now based in Abu Dhabi (growing from a two-man firm in 1984) and has offices in Dubai, Najaf, Doha, Riyadh and Manila. Its staff in the GGC region number 220 with 140 architects based locally. In February, Dewan Architects won first prize in a design competition to develop the area surrounding the Holy Shrines in Kadhimiya, Iraq.

The firm was one of 10 international and local companies shortlisted to renew and enhance the function of Al-Khadimiya as a key district of Greater Baghdad. In January it was appointed the contract to design and supervise the construction of a 28-floor commercial tower in Al-Khobar, the first step in its ambition to increase its presence in Saudi Arabia.

Closer to home the firm has been responsible for a number of iconic projects including the 85,000 square metre, 500-room Yas Hotel, which forms one of the main architectural features of the Yas Marina development and accompanying Formula 1 circuit. It was also responsible for the design of the Green Community in Dubai and the Media One Tower at Dubai Media City.

Over the past few years, the firm has entered associations with global firms such as Perkins + Will and Nikken Sekkei.
 
 

READERS' COMMENTS