Abbas Sharif Alaskari: Shaping the Skyline of Tomorrow with Emirati Soul

In a city where architectural ambition touches the clouds and innovation is the standard, Abbas Sherif Alaskari has carved a distinct identity. An Emirati architect engineer with a passion for both the future and the past, Abbas is reshaping the UAE’s urban fabric by seamlessly merging modern design with deep cultural roots. His projects don’t just stand tall—they speak, echoing the traditions, values, and natural beauty of the Emirates.

Born and raised in Dubai, Abbas developed a fascination with architecture at a young age. While studying at Al Mawakeb School, he was captivated by the contrast between traditional Emirati buildings and the futuristic skyline of his city. This early exposure inspired him to pursue a career in architecture, not just as a profession but as a way of storytelling.

He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering from the American University of Sharjah, where his thesis on sustainable architecture in arid climates received academic acclaim. This laid the foundation for his design philosophy: architecture must be both environmentally responsible and culturally respectful. He later deepened this vision with a Master’s in Urban Design and Planning from the University of Dubai, focusing on integrating Emirati architectural elements into modern urban landscapes.

What truly sets Abbas apart is his unwavering commitment to preserving the UAE’s identity in a rapidly globalising world.

After working at Dubai Municipality and Aecom Middle East, Abbas launched his firm, Alaskari Designs, in 2020. Since then, he has led a series of landmark projects that have drawn praise for their innovative blend of tradition and technology. His eco-resort in Ras Al Khaimah pays tribute to desert dwellings with its earthy materials and wind-tower cooling systems. At the same time, his cultural center in Abu Dhabi uses intricate Mashrabiya screens and open courtyards to bring old-world charm into a high-tech structure.

One of Abbas’s most talked-about projects is a futuristic residential complex in Dubai Marina, where smart technology meets sustainable living. Yet, even here, among sleek glass towers and intelligent automation, Abbas has incorporated design motifs inspired by traditional Emirati geometry—quietly reminding residents of their cultural heritage.

What truly sets Abbas apart is his unwavering commitment to preserving the UAE’s identity in a rapidly globalising world. While many architects chase global trends, Abbas brings the focus back home. “I don’t just want to design buildings,” he says. “I want to design legacies—structures that tell our story as Emiratis, and that respect our environment.”

Outside of his professional work, Abbas is deeply engaged in activities that fuel his inspiration. Whether he’s exploring the deserts of Liwa, attending falconry events, or sailing along the coastline, Abbas draws from the UAE’s natural landscapes and traditions to fuel his creativity. His sketchbooks are filled with interpretations of forts, dunes, and dhow boats—elements that often reappear in his architectural concepts.

He also devotes time to mentoring young architects and giving lectures at universities across the UAE. Through this work, he aims to cultivate a new generation of designers who are both forward-thinking and grounded in local heritage.

As sustainability and cultural preservation become more crucial than ever in global architecture, Abbas Sherif Alaskari stands at the forefront of this movement in the Middle East. His work not only helps shape the future of the UAE’s cities but also ensures that the spirit of the Emirates remains an integral part of their identity.

In Abbas’s words, “Architecture is not just about concrete and steel. It’s about memory, identity, and belonging. The UAE has a soul—and it deserves to be built into every corner of our skylines.”

With each project, Abbas Sherif Alaskari continues to prove that the most powerful architecture isn’t just seen—it’s felt.