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PRP launches new joint venture in UAE

11.03.08

PRP has joined forces with UAE-based practice Architects International to form a new joint venture which will trade under the name of PRP - Architects International (PRP-Ai). The decision to enter into this partnership and establish a firm presence in the Middle East follows PRP’s first project win in Abu Dhabi – a Sustainable Administration Facility (SAF) for the zero carbon Masdar development.

Director Scott Lawrie, who spearheads PRP’s international portfolio, said: “We are experiencing phenomenal success overseas whilst taking steps to ensure that this growth is controlled and balanced with our established UK market. We have big plans in the Middle East; PRP has already secured a role on one of the most prestigious projects in Abu Dhabi - the SAF facilities for the zero carbon Masdar development.

“In each new market, we’ve elected to partner with like-minded local architects, demonstrating to our international clients that we mean business and are able to deliver the ‘best of both worlds’ – local knowledge and our extensive international, mixed use and residential experience. Our partnership with Architects International reinforces our commitment to this approach,” added Lawrie.

Founder of Architects International, Mazin Al Hakim, who was the former head of architecture at Atkins (Abu Dhabi), will be directing PRP-Ai’s Middle East and North Africa operations and working alongside Lawrie to drive business development across the region and internationally.

Al Hakim said: “Our partnership with PRP demonstrates our strong determination to grow the business both locally and globally – it is our intention to bring the best international skills and experience to this market. Our first PRP-Ai office in Abu Dhabi will serve as a gateway to the rest of the UAE and the growing GCC, Middle East and North Africa market. There are a number of projects we have in the pipeline, including two new hotels, a 600-unit residential development and other mixed use developments in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and other parts of the MENA Region.The government’s vision of the Abu Dhabi 2030 Plan is driving rapid growth, change and opportunity. It is an exciting time to be working here. PRP brings an unrivalled amount of expertise in sustainability, mixed use and residential design. Their international expertise and our local knowledge make this a winning partnership, aligned to market trends and the strategic vision of the government of UAE,” concluded Al Hakim.