Zuhair Hamed Fayez stands as a towering figure in Saudi Arabia’s architectural and engineering consultancy sector. As the chairman of Zuhair Fayez Partnership (ZFP), he has guided the firm to become a beacon of innovation and excellence for over four decades. Born in Jeddah in 1945, Fayez’s career reflects a blend of academic rigor, visionary leadership, and a commitment to shaping sustainable urban environments. His contributions extend beyond architecture, influencing education, governance, and emerging technologies like virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI).
Fayez’s journey began in Jeddah, where he was born in 1945. His passion for architecture and engineering led him to the United States for higher education. In 1970, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture (BARCH) and a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (BSC) from the University of Colorado. He continued his studies there, obtaining a Master’s degree in Urban Design (MARCH) in 1971. Zuhair Hamed Fayez furthered his expertise with a doctoral degree from the University of Michigan, researching housing solutions for developed countries using Time-Space analysis, with a focus on Saudi Arabia. In 2010, the University of Colorado-Boulder honored his achievements with an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters Honoris Causa.
Founding of Zuhair Fayez Partnership
In 1975, Fayez returned to Saudi Arabia and founded Zuhair Fayez Partnership, starting with a small team of architects, engineers, and planners. Today, ZFP employs over 2,900 professionals across offices in Jeddah, Riyadh, Al-Khobar, Cairo, and Manila. The firm is licensed by the Ministry of Commerce for Architecture, Engineering, and Information Technology throughout Saudi Arabia. ZFP made history as the first Middle Eastern consultancy in its field to receive the ISO9001 and Tick-IT Certificate, reflecting its dedication to quality. The firm’s growth from a modest startup to a global player underscores Fayez’s strategic vision.
Services and Expertise
ZFP offers a wide array of services, positioning it as a comprehensive consultancy. Its expertise includes:
- Architectural and Engineering Design: Crafting innovative, sustainable designs for diverse projects.
- Construction Management: Ensuring timely and cost-effective project delivery.
- Interior Design: Creating functional and visually appealing interiors.
- Master Planning: Developing strategic plans for urban and large-scale projects.
- Landscaping: Designing green spaces to enhance environments.
- Project Management: Overseeing projects from inception to completion.
- Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing (MEP) Engineering: Specializing in HVAC, piping, fire fighting, and electrical systems.
- Surveying Services: Providing precise surveying for construction.
- Roads, Bridges, and Tunnels Design: Expertise in infrastructure development.
- Geotechnical Investigations: Ensuring site stability and safety.
- Engineering Information Systems (EIS): Implementing Facilities Management Systems (FMS), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Maintenance Management Systems (MMS).
- Software Development and Automation: Delivering advanced IT solutions.
- Environmental Protection and Consultancy: Promoting sustainable practices.
- Transportation, Aviation, Maritime, and Railways: Offering specialized consultancy.
ZFP’s adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology enhances coordination among architects, engineers, and contractors, ensuring efficient project execution.
Major Projects and Achievements
ZFP has completed over 300 projects, many earning regional and international awards. Its portfolio showcases versatility across sectors. Notable projects include:
| Project Name | Description |
| Information Technology and Communications Complex | A state-of-the-art facility for advanced IT systems. |
| Judicial Court Complex | A modern judicial facility with innovative design. |
| Sudatel Headquarters | Headquarters for Sudan Telecommunications, showcasing international expertise. |
| Lexus Center | A luxurious automotive center in Riyadh. |
| SABIC Headquarters | Headquarters for Saudi Basic Industries Corporation, a global petrochemical leader. |
| ARAMCO Mosque | A blend of traditional and modern architecture for Saudi Aramco employees. |
| Granada Center | A mixed-use development integrating commercial and residential spaces. |
These projects highlight ZFP’s ability to deliver high-profile, award-winning developments using advanced technologies like BIM.
Leadership and Vision
Zuhair Hamed Fayez’s leadership has been pivotal to ZFP’s success. His vision emphasizes quality, innovation, and sustainability, positioning ZFP as a leader in the industry. He has championed the integration of technologies like BIM, enhancing project efficiency. Fayez’s strategic foresight has expanded ZFP’s reach, with offices across the Middle East and Asia, and partnerships with global IT firms like Microsoft and Oracle.
Community and Professional Involvement
Zuhair Hamed Fayez’s influence extends to education and governance. He is a founding member and chairman of the Board of Trustees of Dar Al-Hekma University for Girls in Jeddah and a founding member of Dar Al-Fikr Schools. He serves as a trustee of the University of Colorado Foundation and is a member of its Chancellor’s Global Ambassadors Council. Fayez also holds positions on the New Advisory Board of the College of Architecture & Planning at the University of Colorado and is a founding member of the Fazlur Rahman Khan Chair at Lehigh University.
In governance, Fayez served on Saudi Arabia’s Consultative Council from 1993 to 1997 and the Provincial Council of the Makkah Region from 2005 to 2009. He is a member of the Saudi Council of Engineers and the U.S.-Saudi Arabian Business Council, and previously served on the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce & Industry board from 2001 to 2005.
Innovative Ventures
Since 2010, Zuhair Hamed Fayez has explored new frontiers, founding companies in infotainment, edutainment, and entertainment using VR, AR, and AI. These include:
- Barajoun Entertainment FZ-LLC: The first CGI studio in the MENA region, producing animated feature films.
- Midwam Edutainment Limited Company: Specializing in VR and AR-based education.
- Alif Baa International Systems: Investing in VR and AR entertainment venues.
These ventures reflect Fayez’s commitment to leveraging technology for education and entertainment.
Zuhair Hamed Fayez’s legacy is one of innovation, leadership, and impact. Through Zuhair Fayez Partnership, he has transformed Saudi Arabia’s architectural landscape, delivering projects that blend functionality with sustainability. His contributions to education, governance, and emerging technologies underscore his multifaceted influence. As ZFP continues to lead in consultancy, Fayez’s vision ensures it remains at the forefront of creating smart, sustainable cities.
