In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s architectural renaissance stands Tariq Hajj, a visionary architect whose firm, Tariq Hajj Architects (THA), has left an indelible mark on the region’s skyline. With a career spanning over three decades, Hajj has built structures and crafted spaces that resonate with the cultural and modern aspirations of Saudi Arabia. As the founder of THA, he has established a firm renowned for its innovative designs, commitment to sustainability, and ability to transform client visions into reality.
Tariq Hajj, a Saudi national, pursued his passion for architecture by obtaining a master’s degree in architecture from the prestigious University of Washington in the United States in 1985. His time in the US exposed him to diverse architectural styles and philosophies, equipping him with international perspectives that he would later integrate into his work back home.
Professional Journey
Before founding THA, Hajj honed his skills as a project manager at Saudi Diyar Consultants, where he oversaw major architectural projects, including high-end residential, commercial, and institutional developments. This experience was instrumental in shaping his understanding of the diverse needs and challenges in architecture. It also prepared him to establish a firm that would prioritise client collaboration and creative problem-solving. His affiliations with esteemed organizations, such as the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the International Union of Architects (UIA), further solidified his standing in the global architectural community.
Founding THA
In 1990, driven by a vision to create architecture that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, Tariq Hajj established Tariq Hajj Architects in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia. From its inception, THA was committed to providing unique solutions to each project, ensuring that every design reflects the specific context and requirements of its location and clients. Over the years, THA has grown into one of Saudi Arabia’s most respected architectural firms, known for its ability to deliver exceptional designs across various sectors, including commercial, residential, and mixed-use developments. The firm’s global footprint extends to projects in Bahrain, Qatar, Lebanon, and the UK, showcasing its versatility and international reach.
Design Philosophy
At the core of THA’s success is its design philosophy: every project is a unique problem that demands a unique solution. Hajj and his team believe in listening intently to their clients’ needs and then allowing their creativity to guide the design process. “We listen to our clients and then we listen to our heart,” Hajj has stated, emphasizing the importance of approaching each project with fresh perspectives and without pre-conceived notions. This approach ensures that no two projects are alike, and each stands as a testament to THA’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and meticulous attention to detail. The firm integrates sustainable principles into every project, prioritizing environmentally conscious designs that resonate with modern architectural trends.
Notable Projects
THA’s portfolio boasts an impressive array of projects that highlight their versatility and excellence. One of their early triumphs was winning the design competition for the regional headquarters of Banque Saudi Fransi in Al-Khobar, a project that showcased their ability to deliver sophisticated corporate architecture. Another significant project is the Al-Rashed corporate headquarters in Riyadh, which blends functionality with elegance, serving as a landmark in the capital city.
Perhaps one of their most celebrated works is the Al Rashid Residence Towers in Al Khobar, also referred to as the Alshaikh Residential Tower. This luxurious residential complex consists of five towers connected at the rooftop, offering residents unparalleled views and amenities, including a rooftop pool and extensive parking facilities in three basement floors. THA was responsible for the concept design, development, production of working drawings, and bid documents, demonstrating their comprehensive expertise in large-scale, mixed-use developments. The project exemplifies luxury living and underscores THA’s capability to create spaces that enhance the quality of life for their users.
THA’s client list reads like a who’s who of Saudi Arabia, including high-profile individuals such as Prince Fahd bin Abdullah and Prince Abdulaziz bin Fahd, as well as major organizations like Arab National Bank, Saudi Telecom Company, and Saudi British Bank. Their affiliates include international firms like Pei Partnership Architects (New York, USA), HOK (London, UK), and Arquitectonica (Miami, Florida, USA), indicating their collaboration on significant global projects.
| Project | Location | Description |
| Banque Saudi Fransi Headquarters | Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia | Regional headquarters designed through a competition win, showcasing corporate elegance. |
| Al-Rashed Corporate Headquarters | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia | A landmark corporate building blending functionality and aesthetic appeal. |
| Al Rashid Residence Towers | Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia | Five luxurious residential towers with rooftop amenities and extensive parking. |
Awards and Recognitions
The excellence of THA’s work has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, the firm was honored with the Luxury Lifestyle Awards for Best Luxury Architect Studio in Saudi Arabia, a testament to their consistent delivery of high-quality, innovative designs. Reflecting on a previous accolade, Tariq Hajj expressed his pride: “We are so proud to have been selected as a winner of such a prestigious award by the panel of specialists at Luxury Lifestyle Awards in the category of Best Luxury Mixed-use Architecture for Alshaikh Residential Tower. It is gratifying for our entire team to receive this great recognition for our commitment to delivering unique design solutions that suit the client brief every time”. Additionally, in 2022, THA was recognized for their outstanding work on the Al Rashid Residence Towers, further cementing their reputation as leaders in luxury architecture.
Impact and Legacy
Tariq Hajj’s impact extends beyond the buildings he designs. He is a mentor and a role model in the architectural community, as evidenced by his participation in events like the Rawabi Holding Talent Exhibit in 2013, where he inspired young talents to pursue careers in architecture. A testimonial from the event praised his dedication: “Few accomplished professionals of his caliber dedicate the time to give back to their community in this way—Mr. Hajj is a wonderful role model through and through”. His commitment to nurturing the next generation of architects is as strong as his dedication to his craft.
Through THA, Hajj has contributed to the architectural landscape of Saudi Arabia with designs that are not only functional but also culturally resonant and forward-thinking. His work has helped elevate the standard of architecture in the region, merging local sensibilities with global standards. THA’s projects, from corporate headquarters to luxurious residential complexes, have become landmarks that define the modern skyline of Saudi Arabia.
Tariq Hajj and THA continue to push the boundaries of architecture in Saudi Arabia, blending traditional values with modern innovation. As the firm looks to the future, it remains steadfast in its mission to create spaces that not only meet the needs of today but also stand as enduring symbols of architectural excellence. Through his leadership, Tariq Hajj has not only shaped the skyline of Saudi Arabia but has also inspired a new generation of architects to dream big and build better. His legacy is one of creativity, sustainability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, ensuring that THA remains a beacon of architectural innovation for years to come.
