Populous expands global footprint with Dubai office opening

Global architecture and design practice Populous has opened a new office in Dubai to bring its design expertise to its Middle Eastern clients.

The move extends Populous’ global presence to 17 offices worldwide and is its first in the Middle East and Africa (MENA) region.

Located at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the office will act as a centre for the region, co-ordinating a full range of Populous’ architecture, masterplanning, interior design, event planning and brand activation services.

Ben Vickery, the Populous senior principal responsible for the delivery of the Sydney Olympic Stadium, London Olympic Event Overlay and Wembley Stadium, will oversee the development of the office and business operations in the region.

Populous has become increasingly active in the Middle East in recent years and existing projects include Dubai Arena, Qadsiya stadium in Kuwait and Al Ahly Stadium in Egypt.

Announcing the expansion, Populous (EMEA) Managing Director, Christopher Lee stated “we’re excited about the opportunity to offer our world-class design experience in designing stadia, arenas, convention centres, equestrian facilities and motorsports facilities to our Middle-Eastern clients.

“Led by one of our most experienced stadium architects, Ben Vickery, we believe Populous will offer an unparalleled service bringing world-class experience to the region to help our clients deliver truly world-class facilities for all people of the Gulf.”

Vickery added “establishing an office in the Gulf will enable Populous to be closer to our clients, consultants and contractors in the region, improving communication and co-ordination for current and future projects in the Middle East.

“I’m very excited about the opportunity to bring Populous unsurpassed experience to our Middle-East clients. A strong regional presence will enable Populous to offer our truly world-class, cutting-edge design experience with local knowledge, experience and support.”

The company is also expanding its American footprint with a new office opening in Dallas, Texas.

Led by Byron Chambers and Jonathan Kelley, the new office will focus on a wide range of project types and services including sports and entertainment venues, convention centres, aviation experience architecture, hospitality architecture and interior design.

Populous employs more than 600 people around the globe and is known for its designs for the Western Sydney Stadium, International Convention Centre Sydney and UK projects including Wembley Stadium, Emirates Stadium, Ascot Racecourse and the Silverstone Formula 1 Circuit.

Image: Populous' design for the Dubai Arena.