Al Ghurair Appoints Portugal's Top Architect for His First Project in UAE

Dubai, UAE: Al Ghurair Development has appointed Lisbon-based architectural practice Aires Mateus as lead architect for its upcoming premium residential project in Dubai South, marking the studio’s first residential development in the UAE.

The appointment reflects Al Ghurair Development’s continued strategy of collaborating with internationally acclaimed architects to deliver design-led residential projects that emphasise longevity, functionality, and architectural integrity.

Founded in Lisbon in 1988 by brothers Manuel and Francisco Aires Mateus, the practice has built a global reputation for architecture rooted in the relationship between physical form and cultural context. Over more than three decades, the studio has developed a distinct approach centred on proportion, materiality, and spatial clarity.

Its portfolio spans architecture, interior, product, and graphic design, with each project shaped through detailed contextual research and a focus on timeless design principles.

The practice has delivered notable projects across Europe, including the EDP Headquarters in Lisbon, the Museums of L’Élysée and mudac in Lausanne, the Olivier Debré Contemporary Creation Centre in Tours, and the Faculty of Architecture in Tournai. It has received multiple international recognitions, including the Pessoa Prize (2017), alongside the Secil Prize, several FAD Awards, and nominations for the Mies van der Rohe Prize.

Design philosophy aligned with long-term residential vision

Sultan Al Ghurair, CEO of Al Ghurair Development, said:

Every architect we work with is chosen because they bring something distinct. With Aires Mateus, what stood out was their discipline. For more than 30 years, they have maintained a singular focus on precision, proportion and the quality of space. That aligns closely with how we approach residential design at Al Ghurair Development, where every decision is guided by quality, practicality and long-term value. We are delighted to bring their work to the UAE for the first time.

For the Dubai South development, Aires Mateus will design a residential building offering one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes, including duplex units. The architectural concept is currently under development, with a focus on how spaces are experienced from within.

The practice’s approach prioritises natural light, spatial proportion, and the relationship between interior and exterior environments, rather than relying on decorative complexity.

Manuel Aires Mateus, Founding Partner of Aires Mateus, shared:

We approach each project as an opportunity to understand what already exists. The scale of the city, the light, the climate, and the way people move and inhabit space. Architecture begins there. It is not about adding complexity, but about clarifying what matters. In Dubai, the context is strong and very present. Our role is to respond with precision, creating spaces that feel natural to live in and clear in their intention. We are pleased to work with Al Ghurair Development on a project that invites us to bring a new perspective to a city that is always looking forward.

Expanding portfolio of design-led developments

The new project forms part of Al Ghurair Development’s growing residential portfolio, which includes The Weave in Jumeirah Village Circle, developed in collaboration with Australian architect Joe Adsett, and Wedyan on Dubai Canal, designed by Kengo Kuma under the Al Ghurair Collection super-prime brand.

Additional projects are also underway, including a development in Wadi Al Safa 3 designed by Neri&Hu Design and Research Office, alongside further developments in Dubai South and a masterplan in Al Jaddaf.

The appointment reinforces Al Ghurair Development’s focus on creating residential spaces that contribute meaningfully to Dubai’s evolving urban landscape. Each project is guided by the company’s philosophy of delivering purpose-driven, design-led developments that are built to stand the test of time.

Further details on the Dubai South project, including the full architectural concept, are expected to be announced as the design progresses.