In the heart of the UAE’s rapidly evolving skyline, Abbas Sherif Alaskari, a visionary architect engineer based in Dubai, is on a mission: to ensure that as the nation builds towards the future, it remains deeply rooted in its cultural past.
Born and raised in Dubai, Abbas’s connection to Emirati traditions runs deep. From his early education at Al Mawakeb School to his advanced studies at the American University of Sharjah and the University of Dubai, he has consistently focused on blending modern innovation with the rich architectural legacy of his homeland. His academic thesis and research projects explored sustainable architecture in arid climates and the integration of traditional Emirati elements into contemporary urban landscapes, setting the foundation for a career defined by cultural preservation.
Reviving Heritage Through Architecture
Abbas Sherif Alaskari’s work is distinguished by his ability to reimagine traditional Emirati architecture in a modern context. Drawing inspiration from historical structures such as the Al Fahidi Fort and Qasr Al Hosn, he incorporates features like wind towers (barjeel), courtyards (hosh), and geometric mashrabiya screens into sleek, modern buildings. These elements not only pay homage to the past but also provide practical benefits, such as natural ventilation and shade, crucial for the UAE’s desert environment.
Through his firm, Alaskari Designs, Abbas has led projects that stand as living examples of this philosophy. A cultural center in Abu Dhabi, designed by him, captures the spirit of traditional Emirati homes while utilizing cutting-edge sustainable technology. Similarly, a luxury eco-resort in Ras Al Khaimah seamlessly blends traditional desert architectural motifs with modern luxury, offering guests an authentic yet contemporary experience of Emirati culture.
A Vision for Sustainable Preservation
For Abbas, preserving heritage isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also about sustainability. Traditional Emirati architecture evolved over centuries to adapt to the harsh desert climate, employing strategies that naturally cool and protect buildings without heavy reliance on modern energy systems. Abbas sees these time-tested methods as crucial tools for designing more environmentally responsible structures today.
By reviving these techniques, he promotes an architectural language that is both sustainable and culturally significant. His projects often utilize local materials, such as coral stone, palm fronds, and gypsum, while integrating renewable energy systems like solar panels, creating harmony between tradition and innovation.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond his architectural projects, Abbas Sherif Alaskari is passionate about mentorship. He regularly lectures at universities across the UAE, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation in design education. Through workshops and seminars, he encourages young Emirati architects to explore their heritage, understand its value, and find creative ways to express it in a modern world.
His efforts aim not only to produce beautiful buildings but also to cultivate a new generation of architects who will carry the torch of Emirati culture forward.
Conclusion
In a nation known for its futuristic skyscrapers and rapid modernization, Abbas Sherif Alaskari stands out as a guardian of tradition. Through his work, he proves that progress and preservation are not opposing forces but can coexist beautifully. His dedication ensures that as the UAE soars to new heights, it does so on a foundation firmly anchored in its rich and proud heritage.