10 Top Architecture Firms in United Arab Emirates; 2025 Review
The architectural landscape of United Arab Emirates is nothing short of extraordinary. Home to some of the world’s tallest skyscrapers and most innovative designs, the region is a global hub for cutting-edge architecture and urban development. In 2023 alone, the construction and architecture market in the Middle East was valued at over $335 billion, with United Arab Emirates leading the charge as a center for iconic projects and ambitious master plans.
The nation’s real estate and construction sectors contribute approximately 11% to its GDP, underscoring the vital role of architecture in its economic growth. This article delves into the top architecture firms in United Arab Emirates, highlighting the visionaries behind the region’s stunning skylines and groundbreaking projects.
Top Architecture Firms in United Arab Emirates
In this article, we explored top architecture firms in United Arab Emirates; including, Dewan Architects, Godwin Austen Johnson, X Architects, Naga Architects, Archidentity, Edge, Killa Design, Diar Consult, RMJM FZ-LLC, and JT+Partners.
1. Dewan Architects
Dewan Architects and Engineers (DAE), founded in 1984 by Mohamed Al Assam after relocating from Iraq to Abu Dhabi, UAE, has grown into one of the Gulf region’s top three architectural and engineering firms.
Globally recognized among the top 50 in its field, DAE is celebrated for blending local cultural heritage with a commitment to environmental sustainability. In addition to its headquarters in Abu Dhabi, DAE operates offices in Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iraq, India, and the Philippines.
Top Projects:
- Park Hyatt Resort in St. Kitts
- The Abu Dhabi Viceroy Yas Hotel
- The Djibouti Kempinski
2. Godwin Austen Johnson
Godwin Austen Johnson (GAJ), headquartered in the UAE, is a renowned multidisciplinary firm offering specialized services in architecture, interior design, and MEP engineering. With a diverse team of over 110 professionals from more than 20 countries, GAJ has established itself as a leader in hospitality, education, commercial, residential, and master planning projects across the Middle East and North Africa.
Top Projects:
- Bab Al Shams’ Arabian Court Residence
- Spa and the Dubai Creek Golf
- Yacht Club
3. X Architects
X Architects, a prominent architectural firm based in Dubai, integrates Arab-Islamic traditions into contemporary, environmentally friendly designs. Co-founded in 2003 by principal architects Ahmed Al-Ali and Farid Esmaeil, the firm emphasizes a critical design approach that reflects cultural identity and sustainability.
Farid Esmaeil, an architect, researcher, and entrepreneur, graduated from the American University of Sharjah with a degree in Architecture. Under his leadership, X Architects has garnered international recognition for projects that balance modernity with contextual relevance. Notably, the firm received the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture in August 2019 for the Wasit Wetland Centre, highlighting their commitment to environmentally conscious design.
X Architects’ approach involves creating adaptive and contextual built environments, viewing architecture as a language that speaks of the place. Their designs are culturally robust, place-sensitive, and environmentally friendly, contributing to the evolving architectural landscape of the UAE and beyond.
Top Projects:
- Shindagha Historic District in Dubai
- Perfume House, and
- Story of the Creek Museum
4. Naga Architects
NAGA Architects, established in 2000 in Dubai, is an award-winning multidisciplinary planning and design firm with over six offices across the Middle East and the United States.
The firm offers services in urban master planning, architectural and interior design, landscape architecture, urban market research, real estate investment advice, building engineering, value engineering consultancy, and construction management.
Top Projects:
- Dubai Marina Tower
- Dubai College of Tourism
5. Archidentity
Archidentity, founded in 2009 by Ahmed Abdulrahman Bukhash, is a Dubai-based architectural firm renowned for its post-modernist approach that reinterprets traditional Arabian Gulf typologies within a contemporary context.
The firm’s design philosophy emphasizes creating unique architectural identities by infusing regional symbolism into modern designs, harmonizing functionality with cultural heritage.
Archidentity’s portfolio encompasses a diverse range of projects, including residential, commercial, and cultural developments, each reflecting a commitment to sustainability and contextual relevance. The firm’s work has been recognized in various publications and exhibitions, contributing to the evolving architectural landscape of the UAE.
In December 2024, Archidentity was honored to be featured in Architectural Digest Middle East’s AD100 2025, highlighting their significant contributions to architecture and design in the region.
The firm’s team comprises a diverse group of professionals dedicated to delivering innovative and culturally resonant design solutions. Their projects have been showcased in esteemed platforms, reflecting their commitment to excellence and innovation in architecture.
Top Projects:
- Al Barari Villas
- The Opus
- Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) Apartments
6. Edge
EDGE Architects, established in 2009, is an award-winning architectural and lead consultancy firm with offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The company specializes in architecture, interior design, and master planning, offering comprehensive services that encompass the entire design and construction process. Their diverse portfolio includes projects ranging from residential towers and luxury hotels to commercial developments and large urban plans.
EDGE’s commitment to design excellence, budget management, and environmental stewardship has earned them recognition, including the Cityscape Global Awards Emerging Markets 2016 for Best Residential Medium – High Rise (Future) for 1/JBR. Their integrated approach and dedication to client needs position them as a leading practice in the Middle East.
Top Projects:
- 1/JBR, Dubai
- Aston Martin Showroom, Dubai
7. Killa Design
Killa Design, founded in 2015 by architect Shaun Killa, is a Dubai-based architecture studio renowned for creating innovative, timeless, and environmentally sustainable buildings inspired by their context.
The firm specializes in mixed-use, high-rise, hospitality, office, and residential projects, with significant experience in retail, theater, museum, urban design, and master planning.
One of their most acclaimed projects is the Museum of the Future in Dubai, a testament to their commitment to futuristic and sustainable design. Killa Design has received numerous accolades, including the Architecture Firm of the Year award in 2021.
Top Projects:
- Address Beach Resort
- Office of the Future
- Marsa Al Arab Hotel
8. Diar Consult
Diar Consult, founded by Samir Daoud in London in 1986 and established in the UAE in 1987, operates offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This multidisciplinary consultancy offers services in architecture, landscape design, interior design, urban design, and master planning.
Their design philosophy emphasizes regionalism, creating architecture that responds to cultural, traditional, historical, climatic, and environmental contexts. Notable projects include the Al Bahar Towers in Abu Dhabi, recognized for their innovative facade design. Diar Consult has received accolades such as the Best Luxury Architect Visualization & Design award from Luxury Lifestyle Awards. Their commitment to excellence has established them as a leading consultancy in the Gulf region.
Top Projects:
- Al Bahar Towers in Abu Dhabi
- Diar Consult
9. RMJM FZ-LLC
RMJM FZ-LLC is the Middle Eastern branch of RMJM, a global architecture and design firm established in 1956 by Robert Matthew and Stirrat Johnson-Marshall. Operating from Dubai Design District, RMJM FZ-LLC offers services in architecture, interior design, and urban planning.
The firm emphasizes creating innovative and sustainable designs that reflect cultural and environmental contexts. With a presence across five continents, RMJM integrates global expertise with local insights to deliver diverse architectural solutions.
Top Projects:
- Capital Gate tower in Abu Dhabi
- Lakhta Center in St. Petersburg
10. JT+Partners
JT+Partners is an award-winning architectural firm specializing in architecture, master planning, and integrated design practices. With offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Beirut, the firm has established a remarkable reputation with an international property portfolio. Their design philosophy emphasizes responding to climate, urban fabric, society, and individual client needs to create unique places.
JT+Partners’ commitment to innovation and sustainability has positioned them as a leading firm in the architectural landscape, delivering projects that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Top Projects:
- Treyam – Premier Lagoon Destination, Saudi Arabia
- Elanan Gulf of Aqaba, Saudi Arabia
- Mango House Seychelles, Mahe
Resources: aaup | architizer | archdaily | rethinking the future | archello | Facebook | Design Middle East | Spears 500 | Arch Identity | Architectural Digest | Edge Design