The RIBA International team supports more than 8,000 RIBA Members based outside of the UK. We have two international offices in Shanghai and Sharjah and six member chapters in the Gulf, USA, Hong Kong, China, Sri Lanka, and Singapore.
We collaborate with international institutes of architects to champion excellence in architecture globally and to promote mobility across the profession.
Through our work with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), we also help RIBA Members export their skills. We provide guidance on working overseas and entering new markets, and we attend trade shows to promote RIBA and our members.
RIBA in the Gulf region
One of RIBA's most active chapters is the RIBA Gulf Chapter, which includes Saudi Arabia. We have country representatives based in Riyadh and Jeddah, giving our UK members wanting to work in Saudi Arabia access to existing networks in the country.
On 28 November 2023, RIBA signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Architecture and Design Commission (ADC), which forms part of the Saudi Ministry of Culture. This will embed RIBA as a key partner within the design and construction sector in Saudi Arabia.
Opportunities for architects in Saudi Arabia
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a high income country. It has a large population, significant purchasing power, and a growing reputation as an important destination for many foreign brands and companies in many different sectors.
As Saudi Arabia moves towards economic diversification and a non-oil future, the country is investing billions in various mega projects, such as the high tech city Neom and a megacity for culture, sports, and entertainment in Qiddiya.
There are also development projects on the Red Sea coast, including hotels, high end residential properties, and a luxury tourist and wellbeing resort called Amaala.
These mega projects demand a full range of creative services and expertise to serve the growing hospitality, leisure, and commercial property sectors.
The creative industries sector - which includes architecture - is witnessing massive growth and transformation in the region, driven by the urgent need to construct, design, and fit out.
Tips for prospective architects interested in working in Saudi Arabia
Know your USP
Spending time finding your unique selling point (USP) so that you can make a clear statement on your website about who you are and how your work differentiates itself from that of other competitors.
Be agile
In this region, and the field of architecture generally, things can take time to happen, but when they do, they move very fast. Being flexible and agile will help you succeed in your work.
Know your strengths
Identify and highlight your strengths when you can so that you can create strategic alliances. RIBA Gulf Chapter events are the perfect opportunity to build your network.
Webinar: opportunities and challenges of doing business in Saudi Arabia
In this webinar hosted by RIBA International, attendees received an insight into building relationships, doing business, exploring opportunities dealing with challenges in the region.
Watch the video below to hear from our panel experts and architects already working in Saudi Arabia.
Webinar speakers
Diba Salam
Diba is the Founder and Principal of StudioDS, a dynamic London-based creative agency, specialising in architecture and ESG consulting.
Diba is an active voice in promoting sustainable innovation and diversity in the built environment through her current and past roles as UK Built Environment Ambassador during COP 26 for UK Green Building Council, Woman in Construction Ambassador, RIBA International Committee member, and UK Export Champion for the Department for Business & Trade.
Richard Coutts
Richard is an international thought leader in waterfront design and regeneration. As Founder and Director of Baca Architects, Richard has extensive practical experience assisting private developers, landowners, and government organisations in turning financial and socio-economic objectives into deliverable projects, policies, and solutions.
Graham Ellis
Graham works as Middle East Business Specialist for the Department for Business and Trade (DBT). He is focused on identifying and supporting UK creative companies access the large-scale projects across the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia.
Safwan Syed
Safwan is a Trade Advisor for the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), based at the British consulate in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Safwan’s focus is on supporting and advising UK creative companies in various sectors, including architecture & design, tourism, entertainment, culture, film, and sports. He helps companies compete effectively and win business in Saudi Arabia.
Architecture projects in Saudi Arabia
Nature-based solutions for the desert: The Tent
The importance of community in Middle Eastern culture and Islam is well documented in scriptures, art, and literature. Inspired by regional art and materials, the geometry focuses on creating a communal space, which sensitively provides inclusive environments for all demographics.
The reinterpretation of historic forms - from tents to earth buildings - and locally sourced materials aims to celebrate local craftsmanship and nature-based solutions in design and construction.
Geometries found in nature and Islam: The Garden Mosque
Studio DS have drawn on the rich history of geometric patterns that are contained within Islamic art and prevalent within the region. Geometries found in nature inspire our design language, where religious symbolism and nature create seamless patterns.
The main form uses multiple domes along a centralised square plan to create an elegant floral form. The Garden Mosque has significant presence through its uniquely designed arches, evoking traditional grandeur in a contemporary form.
Become part of our global community
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