Shazad Azam, Founder and Chief Operating Officer, International Design Associates (IDA)

In 2013, Azam founded IDA as a small studio in Manama, Bahrain, with a clear vision to deliver thoughtful, people-centric design. Today, that vision has grown into an international multidisciplinary practice of more than 100 professionals, with offices spanning Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Pakistan, Thailand and London.

Under Azam’s leadership, IDA has become one of the region’s fastest-growing design firms, delivering luxury hospitality destinations, branded residences and mixed-use developments that combine strong commercial performance with memorable user experiences. The firm’s portfolio includes high-profile projects such as Sofitel Al Khobar, Curio Branded Residences in Riyadh, Gulf Hotel Autograph Collection in Bahrain, and Kempinski Marina Residences in Dubai.

Central to Azam’s approach is a belief in clarity, functionality and purpose. By removing unnecessary complexity, he creates environments that feel intuitive, emotionally engaging and deeply connected to the people who use them.

“As a child, I was convinced I was destined to become a fashion designer,” shares Azam. “My mother, however, had other ideas. She politely – but firmly – suggested I find something else to design, so I turned my attention from clothing to the world around me. Over time, that curiosity evolved into a passion. I became fascinated by how the built environment influences the way we think, feel, and connect with one another.”