From discussing future collaborations with the Society of Engineers UAE to meeting the ruler of the Sharjah at his palace, Valerie has enjoyed a successful week representing RIBA internationally.
Thursday, 7 December, Dubai, U.A.E
Unlocking Opportunities with the Society of Engineers UAE (SOEUAE)
In a productive meeting with the Society of Engineers UAE (SOEUAE), we discussed exciting plans to elevate the architectural profession in the region.
Focussing on recognising active architect members of SOEUAE and facilitating a smooth path to RIBA Chartered Membership, Valerie’s discussion with Eng. Abdulla Yousef Al Ali, President of SOEUAE, explored a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at fostering greater collaboration.
Valerie and Eng. Abdulla Yousef Al Ali agreed that the joint focus of the MoU will be to enhance combined support for both organisation’s members offering training and development opportunities for architects and engineers, with the objective of elevating their professional skills.
RIBA committed to providing SOEUAE with knowledge of its CPD courses and training activities relevant to the Gulf region, and establishing UAE and Gulf-contextualised CPD to appeal to SOEUAE's members.
Monday, 11th December 2023, Sharjah, U.A.E
Empowering Architectural Education with American University of Sharjah (AUS)
In a journey that began with the opening of the RIBA Gulf office in 2019, the American University of Sharjah (AUS) has played a pivotal role in the expansion of the RIBA’s Gulf Chapter.
Valerie, accompanied by Peter Jackson FRIBA and Aldrine Sanchez, Business Development Executive at RIBA Gulf Office, had a productive meeting with Dr. Varkki Pallathucheril, AUS Dean of the College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD) and professors to discuss proposed programs for 2024 and leveraging the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two entities in October 2022.
Dean Varkki and colleagues provided a tour of the College of Art, Architecture Design at AUS and showcased their cutting-edge facilities and the exceptional talent and creativity of its students through an impressive display of their architectural works.
The tour gave Valerie a first-hand glimpse of the state-of-the-art laboratories, studios, and technological resources that contribute to the university's commitment to fostering innovation and academic excellence in Architecture.
The architectural masterpieces crafted by the students served as a testament to the institution's dedication to nurturing artistic vision and pushing the boundaries of design and architecture.
The meeting was followed by visit to the House of Wisdom by Fosters + Partners and one of Sharjah's architectural wonders.
Special Meeting at the Ruler's Palace
Valerie then had the honour of meeting the ruler of Sharjah and an Honorary Fellow of RIBA, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, where they discussed RIBA's plans to bring the RIBA collections to Sharjah to coincide with the Sharjah Triennial in 2026.
The discussion focused on how the drawings, sketches and models from the Gulf can contribute to maintaining the urban landscape and conserving architectural heritage in the region.
As we head into 2024, these underline RIBA's commitment to fostering architectural excellence, education, and professional growth in the vibrant landscape of the UAE.
Visit the RIBA Gulf homepage to keep up to date on the latest activities and news in the region.
