insights How architects are tackling climate change in the UAE

The effect of the changing climate on architecture

Climate change will increase the frequency of unpredictable weather, and changes such as an increased air temperature may become permanent. S

ome materials like metal or bitumen can melt, expand, or stretch as they get warmer, which can cause buildings to collapse and roads to bleed once their tolerance is exceeded. 

Buildings with clay soil foundations are also vulnerable, as the ground beneath structures can crack or collapse in addition, increased rainfall causes the absorption of water, followed by the hardening and shrinking of the ground when it dries.

How can architects address climate change in the UAE

Architecture 2030 is a non-profit, nonpartisan, independent organisation established in response to the ongoing climate emergency. 

They are on a mission to rapidly transform the built environment from the main contributor of greenhouse gas emissions to a central solution to the climate crisis. 

This is because activities such as cement production and the burning of fossil fuels like oil, gas and coal are pumping unsustainable levels of carbon dioxide into the area.

Architects and engineers typically design buildings, bridges, roads, and other structures with the local climate in mind. Their plans incorporate materials and techniques that can endure an expected level of ranging temperatures, precipitation, and wind, and can survive natural disasters such as earthquakes and flooding. 

However, when these expected levels increase or decrease substantially, aspects of the building or infrastructure design will not be fit for purpose.

Why take your architecture career to the UAE?

Climate change is fundamentally changing the environmental conditions in which buildings and infrastructure are designed to operate. 

The UAE established a series of national priorities with the UAE Net Zero by 2050. This is a strategic initiative is a national drive to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. 

Innovative architecture is therefore required in the UAE to provide designs for buildings and infrastructure that can withstand the effects of the changing climate.

What does mean for you? It makes the UAE the perfect place to advance your architecture career and make a real impact on the world because it is a hub of opportunity, and the country is on a mission to tackle carbon emissions in the built environment. 

AtkinsRéalis stands out as an exceptional career destination for architects, offering a dynamic environment where sustainability, innovation, and technology converge. 

With a steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship, we empower our architects to design with a conscience, prioritizing green building practices and sustainable solutions. 

Tackle climate change in the UAE with AtkinsRéalis as an Architect 

Embarking on a career in architecture is an exhilarating journey filled with endless possibilities and boundless rewards. 

With each project presenting unique challenges and opportunities, architects are constantly stimulated and inspired to learn and grow. 

If you thrive on challenges and harbour innovative ideas for building a sustainable future in the face of climate change, then we eagerly invite you to join us at AtkinsRéalis. 

Together, let's create a world where architecture not only meets the needs of today but also paves the way for a resilient and sustainable tomorrow.

Browse our available architecture jobs today.