US COMMERCE DEPARTMENT AND AIA TRADE MISSION

The American Institute of Architects and the International Trade Administration held a trade mission to Doha, Qatar on November 18^th and 19^th, with a stop in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The purpose of this mission was to introduce small and mid-size U.S. firms to the expanding and diversifying Qatari and Saudi markets. The trade mission to Qatar was led by Robert Dunn Senior Commercial Officer from the US Embassy in Doha with local AIA Middle East assistance provided by Thierry Paret, FAIA.

The AIA delegation included 2014 First Vice President Elizabeth Chu Richter, FAIA who accompanied by Senior AIA National Staff and 14 American firms taking part in the trade mission. The three days included multiple opportunities for firms to meet potential local partners firms and government authorities and developers. These meetings took the form of “speed dating” sessions and presentations given by influential clients in Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

The trade mission also included visits to key large scale ongoing developments in Qatar such as Qatar Foundation’s Education City and Lusail City. The highly successful and informative three day mission concluded with a wonderful reception held under the stars at American Ambassador Dana Shell Smith’s residence in Doha.

Speed Dating Session between Architects and Potential Clients

Lunch at IM Pei's Islamic Museum with AIA President ElizabethChu Richter, FAIA (Right Center) and AIA Middle East Qatar Country Representative Thierry Paret, FAIA.