A new home for Populous

Populous, the global architecture and design practice, renowned for iconic projects such as Wembley Stadium, Emirates Stadium, Royal Ascot racecourse, The International Convention Centre in Sydney and Silverstone’s Formula 1 Circuit, announces the official opening of a new office in Dubai to bring its design expertise to its Middle Eastern clients.

The move extends Populous’ global presence to 15 offices worldwide and is its first in the Middle East and Africa (MENA) region. Populous employs more than 600 people around the globe.

Located at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the office will act as a centre for the region, co-ordinating a full range of Populous’ architecture, masterplanning, interior design, event planning and brand activation services.

Ben Vickery, the Populous Senior Principal responsible for the delivery of the Sydney Olympic Stadium, London Olympic Event Overlay and Wembley Stadium, will oversee the development of the office and business operations in the region.

Populous has become increasingly active in the Middle East in recent years and existing projects include Dubai Arena, Qadsiya stadium in Kuwait and Al Ahly Stadium in Egypt.

Christopher Lee, Managing Director of Populous (EMEA), said: ‘We’re excited about the opportunity to offer our world-class design experience in designing stadia, arenas, convention centres, equestrian facilities and motorsports facilities to our Middle-Eastern clients. Led by one of our most experienced stadium architects Ben Vickery, we believe Populous will offer an unparalleled service bringing world-class experience to the region to help our clients deliver truly world-class facilities for all people of the Gulf’.

Ben Vickery, Senior Principal and Dubai office lead, said: ‘Establishing an office in the Gulf will enable Populous to be closer to our clients, consultants and contractors in the region, improving communication and co-ordination for current and future projects in the Middle East.

“I’m very excited about the opportunity to bring Populous unsurpassed experience to our Middle-East clients. A strong regional presence will enable Populous to offer our truly world-class, cutting-edge design experience with local knowledge, experience and support’.

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