The American Institute of Architects (AIA)

The American Institute of Architects (AIA), based in Washington, D.C., has become a leading professional membership association for licensed architects, emerging professionals, and allied partners since is inception in 1857.

With nearly 300 state and local chapters, and a growing number of international chapters, the AIA protects and serves architects and design professionals, monitors legislative issues that impact the public and the profession, to recognize and promote excellence in architectural design, technology and design related issues.

The members of the American Institute of Architects create a community to share knowledge and advocate a shared vision to have a positive impact on the direction of the profession, the shape of our neighborhoods, and our world.

 

The AIA Middle East Chapter (AIA ME)

AIA Middle East (AIA ME), a Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, was established in 2010 to serve the professional interests of the growing number of AIA member architects practicing in the Middle East and North African region (MENA).  When it was formed it was the fifth international chapter of the AIA, and it just this short period of time has grown to become the largest international chapter, with over 400 members.

The domain of this Chapter includes the following (16) countries in the MENA region: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, UAE and Yemen.

The administrative headquarters of the chapter are in the UAE capital city, Abu Dhabi, with regional representatives in the member countries.

Each year the AIA Middle East chapter:

  • Sponsors continuing education lectures and talks throughout the region to help architects maintain their licensure
  • Sets the industry standard in contract documents with more than 100 forms and contracts used in the design and construction industry
  • Conducts market research and provides analysis of the economic factors that affect the business of architecture
  • Serves as an advocate of the architecture profession
  • Promotes design excellence and outstanding professional achievement through an awards program
  • Hosts the annual AIA Middle East Year End Conference in a different member country each year.  The conference is open to all industry professionals.