Business Details
37 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design in Dubai
Established in 1989, Gaj UK (GAJ) has been a pioneering force in shaping the Middle East's architectural identity for over three decades. Our award-winning practice seamlessly blends cultural heritage, contemporary aesthetics, and sustainable design across luxury resorts, high-end residences, commercial landmarks, civic institutions, and educational campuses. With a globally recognised team of industry leaders, creative visionaries, and technical experts, we prioritise collaboration with clients, consultants, and stakeholders to deliver visually striking, functionally efficient, and environmentally responsible designs.Our enduring relationships with clients and partners ensure each project aligns with their vision while achieving architectural excellence. Rooted in British design traditions dating back to 1847, GAJ operates across the UK, Middle East, India, and Africa, driving architectural evolution through thought leadership and future-focused solutions. We believe architecture transcends buildings, crafting meaningful experiences that foster connections and inspire enduring transformation.
Services
Architectural Design
Sustainable Design
Interior Architecture
Masterplanning
Heritage Conservation
BIM Consultancy
Project Management
Urban Design
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in Middle Eastern architectural design
- Our team includes internationally recognised experts with 10-year average tenure
- We implement BIM technology for precision in complex projects
- Our designs integrate traditional Arabic elements with modern sustainability
- We maintain ISO 9001 certified quality management systems
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service creates innovative structures that harmonise cultural heritage with modern functionality. Specialising in luxury resorts, commercial landmarks, and educational institutions, we employ BIM technology for precision. With 30+ years of regional expertise, our team delivers sustainable solutions that meet international standards while respecting local traditions.
Sustainable Design
We integrate environmentally responsible practices throughout the design process, achieving energy-efficient buildings that reduce carbon footprints. Our LEED-certified professionals apply passive design strategies and locally sourced materials. This approach has earned multiple sustainability awards, including MEERA's Sustainable Project of the Year recognition for The Jafar Centre.
Interior Architecture
Our interior architecture service focuses on human-centred spaces that balance aesthetics with practicality. From concept to completion, we create mood boards, detailed plans, and material specifications. The team specialises in hospitality interiors, ensuring seamless integration with exterior architecture while maintaining strict compliance with UAE regulations.
Project Management
We oversee projects from initial concept through construction, ensuring timely delivery within budget. Our BIM experts coordinate multidisciplinary teams, while authority liaison architects manage regulatory approvals. With 14+ years average site engineer experience, we maintain quality control across complex developments like Dubai Creek Harbour's Palace Hotel.
Heritage Conservation
Specialising in preserving cultural identity, our heritage conservation service incorporates traditional Arabic motifs into modern structures. This expertise is evident in projects like The Chedi Al Bait Sharjah, where historic building techniques were revitalised using contemporary materials, creating spaces that respect tradition while meeting modern functionality requirements.
People
Jason Burnside
Managing Director
A highly successful architect with expertise in education sector design, Jason leads GAJ's strategic vision. With extensive regional experience, he oversees financial performance and drives innovation in architectural solutions across the Middle East.
Brian Johnson
Chairman
With over 40 years of regional experience, Brian is a distinguished figure in Middle Eastern architecture. Recognised for pioneering the integration of traditional Arabic themes into modern design, he established GAJ's enduring commitment to cultural heritage and innovation.
Alaa Abdelmohsen Sayed
Executive Director
A strategic thinker with a proven track record in major project delivery, Alaa specialises in management and design. Since joining GAJ in 2017, he has led complex developments requiring analytical problem-solving and comprehensive understanding of project acquisition and execution.
Andrew Milburn
Associate
Recognised as the region's BIM pioneer, Andrew has championed digital transformation in architecture for over a decade. With 20+ years at GAJ, he delivers informative BIM talks globally and implements cutting-edge technology solutions for complex architectural projects.
Christine Espinosa Erlanda
Associate Director
A LEED-certified sustainable design advocate, Christine combines architectural expertise with environmental stewardship. As an accomplished designer, she leads green building initiatives and ensures GAJ's projects maintain the highest standards of sustainability and ecological responsibility.
Questions
What architectural styles does GAJ specialise in?
We specialise in blending traditional Arabic and Islamic architectural elements with contemporary design principles, creating distinctive structures that respect cultural heritage while embracing modern functionality.
Does GAJ handle international projects?
Yes, we operate across the Middle East, UK, India, and Africa, with recent projects in Morocco, Oman, and the UK. Our team's diverse expertise enables effective cross-border collaboration and cultural adaptation.
How does GAJ incorporate sustainability into designs?
We implement passive design strategies, energy-efficient systems, and locally sourced materials. Our LEED-certified professionals ensure all projects meet international sustainability standards while achieving specific environmental performance targets.
What sectors does GAJ work with?
We specialise in residential, commercial, hospitality, educational, and civic projects, with award-winning expertise in luxury resorts, high-end residences, and large-scale urban developments across the Middle East.
How long has GAJ been in operation?
Established in 1989, we've maintained continuous operation for over 35 years, building enduring relationships with clients and partners while evolving our design approach to meet changing architectural demands.
Does GAJ use modern design technology?
Yes, we employ BIM technology, 3D modelling, and digital fabrication techniques. Our team includes regional BIM pioneers who ensure cutting-edge technological integration while maintaining traditional design excellence.
