Sumaya Dabbagh is a Saudi architect educated in the United Kingdom. She established Dabbagh Architects in 2008. Sumaya has accomplished several notable projects since beginning her practice, demonstrating her interest in the notions of memory, identity, and belonging.

The multi-award-winning projects such as Mleiha Archaeological Centre building as well Gargash Mosque have been globally recognised as a significant example of a new emerging approach to Architecture in the UAE. The Al Ain Museum, currently under construction is another example of their renowned portfolio of sensitive, contextual designs.

the multi-award-winning projects such as Mleiha Archaeological Centre building as well Gargash Mosque have been globally recognised as a significant example of a new emerging approach to Architecture in the UAE. The Al Ain Museum, currently under construction is another example of their renowned portfolio of sensitive, contextual designs.

To Sumaya, contextual architecture is driven by homegrown talent, using local materials to become connected to the place. This definition has been demonstrated throughout the practice’s body of work, and more recently amplified in her recent installation “Earth To Earth”, presented as part of the Sharjah Architecture Triennial second edition opened from Nov 23 -March 24. Sumaya has also made it her mission to break stereotypes and limit beliefs about women in the architecture profession. She has become a role model for many aspiring architects by showcasing what women can do and how powerfully they can impact change.