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RIBA agrees new partnership with UAE’s Society of Engineers

Find out more about our latest partnership as we continue to strengthen relationships in the Gulf.

09 May 2024

As we prepare to celebrate the 15th anniversary of our Gulf Chapter at the end of 2024, and continue to develop our international ties, we have formed a new partnership with the Society of Engineers United Arab Emirates (SOEUAE). 

Signed by RIBA’s CEO Dr Valerie Vaughan-Dick and SOEUAE’s President Eng. Abdullah Yousef Al Ali, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focusses on supporting one another and seeking mutually-beneficial training and professional development opportunities for the members we represent.    

The SOEUAE accredits engineering certifications, regulates professional practices, standards and specifications and helps develop the skills and qualifications of all engineers and architects in the UAE. The MOU will allow us both to offer training and development opportunities for architects and engineers, as well as establish UAE and Gulf-contextualised CPD to appeal to regional architects. 

On the new partnership, RIBA Chief Executive, Dr Valerie Vaughan-Dick said: 

“I am delighted to sign this Memorandum of Understanding with the SOEUAE today. This is a highly significant partnership for the RIBA and our members, as we continue to strengthen our relationships in the Gulf. 

We know that the area continues to present great opportunities for RIBA members and this agreement will provide special access to the benefits of RIBA membership, through a dedicated programme of support to enable the global exchange of knowledge and skills to support the delivery of a highly-innovative and low carbon built environment. 

RIBA Chief Executive Dr Valerie Vaughan-Dick (left) and President of SOEUAE Eng. Abdulla Yousef Al Ali (right) during the virtual signing

This new partnership reflects the importance of our relationship with the SOEUAE and will enable us to strengthen existing relationships to work together and collaborate more effectively. 

This MoU will provide the vehicle for both institutes to share knowledge and expertise. The RIBA has a long-established education programme and we look forward to sharing this through our dedicated CPD provision is about the exchange of knowledge. 

Access to the SOEUAE network is of huge value to the RIBA and we look forward to delivering joint initiatives and projects to create new networks and partnership that will benefit our collective membership and the enhance the talents of architects in UAE. 

We look forward to working with our esteemed friends over the coming years, to enhance the collective strength of the architecture profession in the UAE to grow the global architecture community for the mutual benefit of all.” 

RIBA Chief Executive Dr Valerie Vaughan-Dick (left) and President of SOEUAE Eng. Abdulla Yousef Al Ali (right) in a meeting last year

His Excellency Engineer Abdullah Yousef Al Ali, President of the Society of Engineers said: 

“I am delighted to announce the formalization of our Memorandum of Understanding with the esteemed Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). This milestone represents a pivotal moment in our shared commitment to advancing the fields of engineering and architecture through collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation. 

At the heart of this agreement lies a dedication to fostering robust partnerships that transcend borders and cultures. By joining forces with RIBA, a renowned institution with a rich history and global footprint, we aim to harness the collective expertise of our respective communities to address the complex challenges facing the fields of engineering and architecture. 

Through this partnership, we envision a future where interdisciplinary collaboration flourishes, where ideas are shared, and where innovation thrives. Together, we will work tirelessly to promote the exchange of experiences and research, to facilitate professional development opportunism, and to advocated for sustainable practices that prioritize environmental stewardship and societal well-being. 

From left to right, Mohamed Mahmoud Korym, Head of Admin & Financial Department Deputy General Manager at the SOEUAE, Aldrine Sanchez, Senior Development Executive at RIBA, Dr. Valerie Vaughan-Dick, Chief Executive at RIBA, Eng. Abdulla Yousef Al-Ali, President at the SOEUAE, Eng. Mohamed Al Ali, Board Member at SOEUAE and Eng. Tariq Deemas Al Suwaidi, General Manager at SOEUAE at a meeting last year.

Moreover, this Memorandum of Understanding reflects our unwavering commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity within our professions. By recognizing the valuable contributions of architects and engineers from diverse backgrounds, we seek to create a more equitable and representative industry that empower individuals to reach their full potential. 

As we embark on this journey together, I am confident that our partnership with RIBA will serve as a beacon of collaboration and excellence in the fields of engineering and architecture. Together we will push the boundaries of innovation, inspire future generations of professionals, and leave a lasting legacy of positive impact on our community. 

In closing, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Valerie Vaughan-Dick, Chief Executive Officer of RIBA, and to all those who have contributed to the development of this Memorandum. I look forward to the fruitful collaboration and meaningful achievements that lie ahead as we work together to shape a brighter future for our professions.” 

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