Sumaya Dabbagh
Meet The Jury
Sumaya Dabbagh is a Saudi architect educated in the UK. She founded Dabbagh Architects in 2008, a RIBA Chartered architectural practice based in Dubai, UAE. Since then, she has completed a number of significant projects that demonstrate her interest in the intangible notions of memory, identity and belonging.
The multi award winning projects such as Mleiha Archaeological Centre building (2016) as well as Gargash Mosque (2021) have been globally recognised as significant examples of a new emerging approach to Architecture in the Gulf region. The Al Ain Museum, nearing completion, is anticipated to be an addition to their renowned portfolio of sensitive, contextual designs.
Sumaya has also made it her mission to break stereotypes and limiting believes about women in the architecture profession. By demonstrating what women can achieve, and how much they can influence change, she has become a role model to many aspiring architects.