40 Years, 500 Architects, 1 Visionary: The Mohamed Al Assam Legacy

Mohamed Al Assam stands as a towering figure in Middle Eastern architecture, renowned for founding Dewan Architects + Engineers, a firm that has redefined the region’s skyline. His journey from a young architect in Iraq to a global influencer reflects a blend of talent, perseverance, and vision. 

Born into a middle-class family in Najaf, Iraq, Mohamed Al Assam grew up surrounded by the city’s rich cultural heritage. The historical significance of Najaf and Baghdad shaped his early perspective on architecture. He excelled academically, earning outstanding high school scores that secured his admission to the University of Baghdad’s College of Engineering. There, he earned a bachelor’s degree in architecture, laying the foundation for his future achievements.

Career Beginnings

In 1974, Al Assam left Iraq to seek new opportunities, resettling in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The UAE’s rapidly growing construction sector offered fertile ground for his ambitions. From 1976 to 1980, he served as a project manager at Wigmore Assam & Partners Consultancy, gaining hands-on experience in the region’s architectural landscape. He later moved to Kuwait, working as a project manager for Rowais Contracting from 1980 to 1984. These roles honed his skills in managing complex projects and leading teams.

Founding Dewan Architects + Engineers

In 1984, Al Assam took a bold step by founding Dewan Architects + Engineers in Abu Dhabi. His goal was to create a firm that prioritized “design-led” architecture, where quality and innovation were paramount. The completion of Baniyas Tower in 1988, Dewan’s first high-rise commercial project, cemented its reputation as a major player in the region. This milestone marked the beginning of Dewan’s transformative journey.

Growth and Expansion

Under Al Assam’s leadership, Dewan Architects + Engineers grew exponentially. In 1999, the firm opened a design studio in Dubai, contributing significantly to the emirate’s iconic skyline. By 2025, Dewan had expanded to eight offices across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Qatar, the Philippines, India, and Barcelona, with plans for further growth in Southeast Asia and Africa. Employing over 500 professionals, Dewan has become one of the largest architectural firms in the Middle East.

The firm’s growth reflects Al Assam’s strategic vision. He has fostered a collaborative culture with an open-door policy that encourages innovation. His ability to lead multidisciplinary teams has enabled Dewan to tackle diverse projects while maintaining high standards of quality and profitability.

Key Projects and Achievements

Dewan’s portfolio showcases its versatility and excellence. The firm has delivered a wide range of projects, including:

Dewan’s commitment to excellence has earned it numerous accolades. In 2022, Mohamed Al Assam was ranked 9th in the Powerlist for Icons of Architecture by Design Middle East. The firm’s ranking among the top 50 in the World Architecture 100 “Big List” highlights its global influence. Many of Dewan’s projects have also achieved LEED accreditation, reflecting a focus on sustainability.

Leadership Style and Philosophy

Al Assam’s leadership is defined by a hands-on approach and a commitment to quality. He emphasizes “design-led” architecture, ensuring that every project balances aesthetics with functionality. His open-door policy fosters a family-like culture at Dewan, where employees, known as “Dewanees,” collaborate closely. This environment has been instrumental in the firm’s success.

Al Assam also advocates for bold architectural initiatives. He encourages architects to explore opportunities in conflict areas like Iraq, where he sees immense potential for growth. “There is a lot of potential,” he said. “Right now, because of the political and security situation, most projects are frozen. However, when the crisis is over, Iraq will need hundreds of thousands of architecture, engineering, and planning firms to work there.” His work in Iraq, including urban master plans for Najaf, Karbala, and Basra, demonstrates his commitment to regional development.

Recent Developments

In 2025, Dewan launched the Dewan Award for Architecture 2025 Competition, reinforcing its dedication to fostering innovation. The firm also unveiled a landmark monograph celebrating 40 years of architectural achievement, highlighting its legacy and global impact. These initiatives underscore Al Assam’s ongoing influence.

Additionally, Al Assam has supported educational and cultural initiatives. He has served as a judge for the Tamayouz Excellence Award and launched the Dewan Award for Architecture in 2017, focusing on designs addressing local challenges in Iraq. His involvement in the Rifat Chadirji Prize and efforts to preserve Baghdad’s historic center further highlight his commitment to his homeland.

Personal Traits and Legacy

Mohamed Al Assam is a successful architect and a mentor and visionary. His integrity, professionalism, and dedication to quality have earned him respect across the industry. His ability to lead a diverse team while maintaining a hands-on role in design sets him apart. Al Assam’s legacy lies in the structures he has created and the architects he has inspired.

His memberships in the UAE’s Emirates Green Building Council, Society of Engineers, and Iraqi Engineering Union reflect his commitment to professional excellence. His vision for Dewan as a global, design-led firm continues to drive its success.

Mohamed Al Assam’s journey from Najaf to the helm of Dewan Architects + Engineers is a testament to his vision and resilience. Through Dewan, he has transformed the Middle East’s architectural landscape, creating landmarks that blend cultural significance with modern innovation. As he continues to lead and inspire, his legacy will shape the future of architecture for generations to come.