For someone who helped in building some of Kuwait’s most important public buildings, Azizz K. Mamuuji is remarkably humble. He doesn’t seek the spotlight, but prefers to focus on the work, the team, and the process. And over the past 40 years, that focus has turned him into one of the most respected figures in Kuwait’s architectural scene.
Azizz is the Deputy Managing Director at Gulf Consult, one of Kuwait’s leading design and engineering firms. He also leads the architectural division, guiding teams through every stage, from design and planning to execution and delivery. But his story began far from Kuwait.
From Kenya to Kuwait: The Journey Begins
Azizz started his career after studying architecture and urban design in Kenya and England. In 1982, he moved to Kuwait, a country that was growing rapidly and had an increasing demand for thoughtful, well-planned infrastructure.
He entered the local scene through private architectural practice, learning quickly how to adapt global ideas to local culture.
That ability to balance international standards with regional needs has remained a signature of his work ever since.
Working with the Government
Between 1988 and 1990, Azizz worked with the Ministry of Public Works in Kuwait. He was part of the Special Projects Follow-up Office, helping manage major government developments. It was here that he saw how architecture could directly support a country’s progress, not just by shaping buildings but by improving lives.
Regional Experience and Return
In the early 1990s, Azizz took his skills to Qatar, joining Dar Al Handasah as an Associate. The move gave him wider exposure and the chance to lead projects across the Gulf. But Kuwait still felt like home. So, in 1995, he returned and joined Gulf Consult, a firm that had already earned a strong reputation since it was founded in 1967.
A Leader at Gulf Consult
At Gulf Consult, Azizz quickly became a key part of the leadership team. As Deputy Managing Director, he’s responsible for not just running projects but mentoring architects, guiding young talent, and making sure every design meets both client expectations and cultural context.
Under his leadership, the firm has continued to grow and evolve.
It has taken on major institutional and government projects, partnered with global firms, and earned recognition for its thoughtful, sustainable designs.
Championing Green Design
In March 2022, Azizz was invited to speak at the fifth “Green Talks” event in Kuwait, organized by the Kuwait Green Building Council and Volvo Cars. The event focused on the adaptive reuse of buildings, something Azizz is passionate about.
He spoke about the need to design with the future in mind, not just for today’s needs. In a region where development is often rapid and large-scale, his call for sustainability stood out as both wise and timely.
A Personal Approach to Leadership
Ask anyone who’s worked with Azizz, and they’ll tell you the same thing: he’s calm, grounded, and generous with his time. He leads by example, not by title. He listens more than he speaks, and when he does speak, it’s with clarity and purpose.
He doesn’t just manage projects. He builds relationships with clients, consultants, and team members. That might be why so many international firms enjoy working with Gulf Consult under his leadership.
Awards Without the Ego
The firm’s work has received plenty of international awards, including the 2023 International Architecture Award for the College of Science and Faculty Club at Kuwait University.
Azizz had a significant role in leading the architectural team on this project. But you won’t hear him talking about awards unless you ask. For him, the real reward is seeing a project come to life and knowing it’s making a difference.
Today, Azizz continues to shape Gulf Consult’s architectural direction while staying deeply involved in the details. He’s proof that good leadership doesn’t have to be loud. It just has to be consistent, thoughtful, and honest.
His journey from studying in Kenya and England to becoming one of the most trusted names in Gulf architecture is inspiring, not because it’s flashy, but because it’s real.
Azizz K. Mamuuji has built more than buildings. He’s built trust. And that, in the end, might be his greatest design of all.
