Insights Five ways architects are shaping the landscape of the Middle East

Across the evolving landscape of the Middle East, Architects play a large part in designing and planning complex building structures that are in line with groundbreaking innovation. 

The construction market in the Middle East & Africa is valued at USD 48 Billion and is expected to increase by 3.5% between 2024 and 2029, which highlights just how prevalent the role of architects is. 

Giga projects in Saudi Arabia are playing their part in boosting the construction market sector, with the country’s economy entering a post-oil era, Architects play an important role in moving project milestones along and shaping modern cities, infrastructure, and cultural landmarks.

We’ve put together five ways that architecture jobs are shaping the future of the Middle East.

1. Designing sustainable urban spaces

Throughout the Middle East, Architects are leading the charge in creating and designing eco-friendly cities integrated with green technology and sustainable design.

With green projects, smart city designs, and innovative use of renewable resources, sustainability lies in the fabric of urban planning across the region. 

A career in architecture with AtkinsRéalis will enable you to use state of the art digital technology which unleashes countless benefits when planning sustainable urban spaces.

2. Building iconic skylines

In recent years, the Middle East has become renowned for its futuristic, world-famous skylines, with cutting-edge designs that push the boundaries of architecture.

Take the New Murabba Project for example, with the Mukaab skyscraper at its core, Riyadh is set to be redefined with the completion of one of the world’s largest buildings. 

Ambitious projects like this one drive demand for Architect jobs in Saudi Arabia, and more, broadly, across the whole region.

3. Preserving cultural heritage through modern design

The groundwork is being laid out for sustainable tourism that respects natural and cultural heritage within the region. 

Balancing modernity with cultural heritage sees architects create spaces that honour traditional religious and aesthetic elements while still implementing innovative design. 

Construction projects like this maintain cultural identity while ensuring architectural relevance in 2024 and beyond.

4. Creating innovative public spaces and infrastructure

Another area where professionals with a background in architecture contribute to the landscape is by transforming public spaces into vibrant hubs for community engagement, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. 

In Saudi Arabia for example, there are some state of the art stadium construction projects underway ahead of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup and the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Innovations such as these see Architects create functional spaces that both promote tourism and strengthen the region’s cultural appeal.

5. Driving mega-projects and visionary developments

The Middle East is home to visionary architectural mega-projects that see professional architects assist with reshaping entire cities to push the limits of what's possible in urban development. 

Large-scale projects like NEOM in Saudi Arabia or smart cities in the UAE showcase futuristic planning and architectural marvels. These projects are setting new global benchmarks for urban development and city planning.

Architects at AtkinsRéalis solve complex and high-profile infrastructure challenges while designing cities, towns, and communities to meet the needs of modern populations worldwide, weaving economic and social sustainability into every project they add their skills to.

There’s never been a better time to search for Architecture jobs in the Middle East

Now you know how Architects are continuing to shape and redefine the landscape of the region, it’s time to browse our available positions so you can play a part in engineering a better future for our planet and its people.

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