en.Wedoany.com Reported - Gensler has appointed Dima Rachid as Design Director of Landscape Urbanism for its Middle East Cities Studio, reinforcing the firm's long-term commitment to creating people-centric urban experiences in both the public and private sectors. Based in Dubai, Rachid will play a central role in advancing the studio's efforts to address climate challenges and build resilient urban environments.
In her new role, Rachid will work closely with multidisciplinary teams under the guidance of Steven Velegrinis, Gensler's Middle East Design Director and Head of Urban Practice for Asia Pacific and the Middle East, to deliver innovative, integrated, and context-specific solutions that prioritize sustainability, livability, and long-term resilience. This appointment comes as Gensler's Middle East Cities Studio continues to grow, delivering projects across the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and international markets, including: Rawasi Muscat, Oman's first mountain wellness integrated tourism complex—a hospitality-driven vibrant destination; a tourism master plan for Vang Vieng, Laos; a master plan proposal along Egypt's Mediterranean coast; and infrastructure and resilience-focused work across Africa, including projects in Kenya and the Lagos Coast Master Plan in Nigeria.
Velegrinis stated: "Dima brings a thoughtful and contemporary approach to urban design, rooted in ecological intelligence and systems thinking. As our urban practice continues to grow, her leadership will enhance our ability to deliver impactful solutions at scale. She understands how to translate complexity into clarity and create spaces that are both resilient and meaningful for communities." Rachid's portfolio includes major public space and regeneration projects, such as the JAX Ministry of Culture in Diriyah, the Horsh Beirut regeneration plan, the JAX public space regeneration plan, and a sustainable greywater treatment pilot in a giga-project in Saudi Arabia. She also brings deep academic and thought leadership, having taught in Los Angeles, Beirut, and Dubai, and regularly contributes to regional discussions on urban design, sustainability, and the future of cities.
Tariq Shaikh, Co-Managing Director and Principal of Gensler Middle East, added: "Rachid's appointment reflects Gensler Middle East's continued investment in urban design and planning capabilities. Our Cities Studio plays a key role in delivering holistic, future-ready solutions that support national visions and global sustainability goals—enhancing tourism, commerce, and everyday life." Todd Pilgreen, Co-Managing Director and Principal of Gensler Middle East, concluded: "The projects ahead of us are complex and require broad systems thinking. Rachid's leadership and multidisciplinary experience will strengthen our ability to support clients in delivering high-impact, large-scale, community-centered projects, helping Gensler become a trusted partner in shaping the next phase of growth in the Middle East."
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