In the ever-evolving skyline of the United Arab Emirates, where steel and glass towers rise from desert sands, one name stands out as a visionary voice of balance between the past and the future: Abbas Sherif Alaskari. An Emirati architect engineer and founder of Alaskari Designs, Abbas is not just building structures—he's shaping a narrative of cultural continuity and sustainable innovation.
A Deep-Rooted Foundation in the UAE
Born and raised in Dubai, Abbas Sherif Alaskari's connection to the UAE runs deeper than concrete and blueprints. His educational journey, beginning at Al Mawakeb School and continuing through a Bachelor’s in Architectural Engineering at the American University of Sharjah, laid the groundwork for his passion for structure, space, and culture. His academic focus on sustainable architecture in arid climates foreshadowed a career defined by environmentally conscious design in the Gulf's challenging environment.
Furthering his expertise with a Master’s in Urban Design and Planning from the University of Dubai, Abbas’s research emphasized the integration of traditional Emirati elements into modern cityscapes, a philosophy that would become central to his work.
From Public Spaces to Private Innovation
Abbas began his career at Dubai Municipality, designing community-focused infrastructure projects. Here, he learned the practical and social dimensions of architecture—how buildings can serve not just as shelters, but as connective spaces that nurture community and identity.
He then moved to Aecom Middle East, where he participated in major developments across the UAE, refining his ability to bring cultural sensitivity to large-scale urban projects. His designs stood out for incorporating elements such as wind towers, courtyards, and mashrabiya screens, echoing the textures of traditional Emirati homes.
Leading His Own Legacy
In 2020, Abbas founded Alaskari Designs, a boutique architectural firm based in Dubai that specializes in sustainable, culturally inspired architecture. His notable projects include:
A luxury eco-resort in Ras Al Khaimah that uses passive cooling techniques and earth-toned materials to blend into the desert landscape.
A cultural center in Abu Dhabi that serves as a modern ode to Emirati heritage, using geometry, calligraphy, and local materials to tell a story through space.
A futuristic residential complex in Dubai Marina, featuring smart technology and green design, yet rooted in the aesthetics of regional architecture.
More Than an Architect
Outside the drafting table, Abbas is a man of many passions. From falconry and desert exploration to painting and mentoring young Emiratis, his life is a canvas of creativity and patriotism. He often visits historical sites like Al Fahidi Fort and Qasr Al Hosn, drawing inspiration from the craftsmanship of the past.
Vision for the Future
Abbas believes the future of architecture in the UAE lies in innovation that honors identity. As cities grow vertically and technologies advance, he remains steadfast in advocating for buildings that reflect Emirati values—resilience, hospitality, and harmony with nature.
Through his work, Abbas Sherif Alaskari continues to redefine what it means to be a modern architect in the UAE—one who dares to imagine tomorrow, while staying deeply rooted in the spirit of the land.
Write a comment ...