By Architizer Editors | January 2025
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a fascinating confluence of tradition and innovation. Originally a desert trading hub, the UAE has evolved into a ground for experimentation and architectural innovation. Home to impressive structures such as the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab, the country has become a pole of attraction for architects worldwide. Zaha Hadid and Norman Foster for instance, have left indelible marks on the region, such as the Opus building and the Zayed National Museum. Modern UAE architecture seamlessly incorporates cutting-edge technology with cultural heritage, as seen in the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s floating dome and the carbon-neutral city of Masdar. Today the country stands at forefront of sustainable and adaptive design, while at the same time, testing the limits of architectural expression and construction.
With so many architecture firms to choose from, it’s challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in United Arab Emirates based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.
How are these architecture firms ranked?
The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firm’s level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firm’s ranking, in order of priority:
- The number of A+Awards won (2013 to 2024)
- The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2024)
- The number of projects selected as “Project of the Day” (2009 to 2024)
- The number of projects selected as “Featured Project” (2009 to 2024)
- The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2024)
Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of United Arab Emirates architecture firms throughout the year.
As a firm, Killa Design is dedicated to creating innovative buildings that are timeless, environmentally sustainable and contextually inspired. We specialise in mixed-use, high rise, hospitality, office and residential projects. We also have significant experience in retail, theatre, museum, urban design and master planning projects.
With value-led building solutions, cutting-edge and creative thinking, we strive to build strong relationships with our clients by going beyond the brief to help transform their project vision into viable, liveable spaces. Our people are passionate about responsible design and its impact on the lives we touch every day.
Some of Killa Design’s most prominent projects include:
- Museum of the Future, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Office of the Future, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Address Beach Resort, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Royal Arts Complex, Saudi Arabia
- SRG Tower, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
The following statistics helped Killa Design achieve 1st place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in United Arab Emirates:
| A+Awards Winner | 2 |
| A+Awards Finalist | 1 |
| Featured Projects | 2 |
| Total Projects | 19 |
Why Should I Trust Architizer’s Ranking?
With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the world’s largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the world’s best architecture each year.
Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.
