Powerlist Creative 30 2024: Raees Ahmad, Head Of Design And Engineering, ALEC, Ranks 13th
As the Head of Design and Engineering at ALEC, Raees Ahmad is dedicated to transforming visions into reality through innovative practices and engineering solutions. With over 20 years of experience in the construction industry, he has honed expertise in design management, project management, sustainable practices, and cutting-edge engineering practices.
Throughout his career, Raees has been fortunate to lead and collaborate on numerous landmark projects that not only define city skylines but also enhance the communities they serve. His role encompasses overseeing the design process from initial stages to final execution, ensuring that every project adheres to the highest standards of quality and innovation.
“The United Arab Emirates is a country that epitomises ambition and grandeur, and my work here embodies the ethos of the relentless spirit that defines this remarkable place. Every project offers the chance to expand the envelope and reimagine possibilities. I’ve had the privilege to shape the ever-evolving skyline of Dubai and beyond. Concourses A and D, Terminal 1 and the Cargo mega terminal at Dubai International Airport, towers in the marina like Tower 9, Marina Plaza, and Marina Gate, and mall developments like Mirdif City Center are some of my finest accomplishments. I managed numerous prestigious EXPO-2020 projects including UAE Pavilion, Mobility Pavilion, and Firdous Studio. In Abu Dhabi, I contributed to the awe-inspiring Natural History Museum and the immersive Team Lab Phenomena and was part of the SeaWorld team. These project stands as a testament to ALEC’s commitment to excellence, featuring iconic design and innovation in construction,” highlights Raees.
Continuous learning has always been Raees’ priority, as he believes it is essential the personal and professional growth. He holds multiple certifications, including PMP, LEED-AP, LEED BD+C, and Dubai Municipality accredited engineer with unlimited floor license. His academic background includes a master’s in design management from Heriot-Watt University. Additionally, he is an ISO 19650 Information Management Practitioner and a member of the Emirates GBC Embodied Carbon Working Group. Raees was recognised with an award for his contribution to the UAE Pavilion by HH Noura Al Kaabi, Commissioner General at Expo 2020.
As a LEED-accredited professional, sustainability is at the forefront of his design philosophy. At ALEC, the team is committed to incorporating environmentally responsible practices in every phase of our work. Raees was the LEED Administrator for Mirdif City Center, one of the first projects in the UAE to achieve LEED certification.
As the UAE continues to grow, the industry must evolve to tackle the challenges posed by climate change and resource scarcity. He is excited to explore emerging technologies and recognized the potential of BIM as early as 2010 and prospectives that will revolutionize how we design and build.
As Raees continues to lead the design and engineering efforts, his goal remains clear: to push the boundaries of what is possible in construction, inspiring innovation while maintaining a focus on quality and sustainability. In summary, my journey in construction has been driven by a passion for design and a commitment to excellence. As they look toward the future, he is eager to continue embracing challenges, exploring new horizons, and leading ALEC to new heights.