Recent Events
The AIA Middle East chapter has had a busy year and we continued our focus on some key themes, including Climate Action, Artificial Intelligence, and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI).
Inclusive Climate Action
In partnership with Gensler Middle East, we held a focused discussion on climate change and how it is an existential threat that affects us all, but its impact is not consistent across demographics.
The severity of its consequences varies greatly, and vulnerable communities often bear the brunt of its effects. This inequity has led to unprecedented urban migration worldwide, affecting income sources and GDP for countries.
The conversation revolved around how we can ensure that climate action is equitable and inclusive.
Risk Abating Architecture…Seismic!
On October 25th, AIA Middle East held a seminar on Earthquake Resilience in Urban Planning and Architectural Design.
Amid recent seismic events in the Middle East region, the seminar focused primarily on integrating principles within these fields to mitigate seismic risks by using effective strategies to build safer, more resilient cities in earthquake-prone regions.
As the unpredictability of the earth's movements persists, the seminar showcased practical aspects, including seismic hazard assessment, and effective response practices for post-disaster scenarios.
AIA Middle East at Downtown Design 2023
Celebrating a decade of design excellence, Downtown Design's milestone 10th edition showcased the epitome of cutting-edge design in 2023. The special edition featured the latest collections and innovative design products, encapsulating the evolution of Dubai's ever-growing economy and its profound impact on the burgeoning design industry in the region.
AIA Middle East orchestrated the captivating "Pitch Deck" program, where each exhibitor delivered an 8-minute free-flowing presentation. This was followed by a 5-minute Q&A session with esteemed 2023 guest architects: Christian Vasquez, Project Architect at NEB and a board member at AIA Middle East Chapter; Jeremy Robinson, Managing Director at Edge Architects; and Anil Anil Mangalat, Project Director and Founding Partner.
A New Design Emergency: envisioning a sustainable future thanks to artificial intelligence.
At this event held at the American University in Dubai on November 15th, Ila Colombo explored and discussed the exciting possibilities of the use of AI for design applications. She demonstrated how designers can leverage AI to create new forms of architecture, generate innovative designs, and even transform the brainstorming phases of project development by showcasing examples of generative AI projects.
Throughout history, technology has been crucial in shaping human progress. From the invention of the wheel to the printing press, technology has enabled us to achieve incredible feats that were once unimaginable. Today, we stand at the cusp of a new technological revolution where AI can augment our creative abilities and transform how we approach and build design. In the talk, they explored how AI software can be used as a new integrated tool for creative processes in design and architecture and how it can push the boundaries of what we once thought possible.
December Events
Everything Architecture
December 7th
Spark your creative fire through engaging talks and immersive discussions, at an exclusive networking event – a must-attend experience for Architects and Designers hailing from Dubai and around the world. Join this unique convergence of minds to enrich your skill set, glean new perspectives, and elevate your creative horizons.
AIA Middle East has partnered with Everything Architecture to bring you a panel session titled The Role of Architects in Building a Net Zero World.
USGBC+AIA+GBCI MENA present
LEED + Sustainable Architecture Building Tours
December 7th
Embark on a journey of architectural marvels as we present three exclusive tours that unveil the ingenuity and creativity of architects in action. Explore cutting-edge designs, witness groundbreaking concepts, and gain insights into the innovative work shaping the future of our built environment. Don't miss out on a day filled with creativity, discovery, and the artistry of architectural visionaries.
Join us for an immersive experience on Thursday, December 7, 2023, at the prestigious ICD Brookfield, JLL Offices, and Dubai Chambers. We look forward to welcoming you to an event where innovation meets inspiration!
AIA+RIBA COP28 Networking Session
December 7th
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) are holding a reception to recognize the contributions of architects to global climate action and to celebrate the signing of our Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
On the occasion of COP28, AIA and RIBA wish to express that through joint cooperation and shared objectives we can advance the profession of architecture globally and promote a more sustainable and equitable future through design.
AIA Middle East Year End Conference
December 8-9th
Join us this winter in Riyadh for the AIA Middle East Year End Conference to celebrate design excellence. This year’s conference will take place on December 8-9 in KAFD.
Our event aims to inspire, educate, and connect individuals who are shaping the future of architecture in the Middle East.
