Branded residences are rapidly expanding in luxury markets such as Dubai, Miami, and Mexico City. These projects, often developed in partnership with names like Four Seasons, Porsche, or Aman, offer more than architecture. They deliver a lifestyle shaped by brand identity and emotional experience. Buyers today are not just acquiring property. They are investing in […]

We’re wired to follow the sun. But inside most hospitals, patients and staff are surrounded by artificial light that stays static all day—and all night. The result? Disrupted sleep, slower recovery, and burnout.  The solution lies in lighting that supports circadian rhythms: bright, cool light during the day to promote alertness and mood; dimmer, warmer […]

In regions like Scandinavia, Alaska, and northern Canada, lighting is more than functional—it’s essential to health and daily life. Long, dark winters challenge the body’s internal rhythms, often leading to Vitamin D deficiency, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and disrupted sleep cycles. But instead of resisting the darkness, these cultures have developed thoughtful, layered responses that […]

In lighting design, priorities typically include visibility, visual comfort, and energy efficiency. However, understanding the physical behavior of light can lead to more effective and informed design decisions. Luminescence, the emission of light by a material after it absorbs energy, is one such phenomenon that offers practical insight for architectural and lighting applications. Unlike incandescence, […]

Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept in the world of architecture and lighting design — it’s already reshaping the way buildings are imagined, designed, and experienced.  Over the past few years, architecture studios, lighting designers, and technology companies have begun to adopt AI tools that dramatically change the creative process. From optimizing spatial […]

Ramadan is one of the most significant times of the year across the Islamic world — a month that carries deep meaning, marked by reflection, generosity, and gathering. In Egypt and throughout the Arab world, fanoos lanterns have become a familiar sight during this time, illuminating streets and homes in celebration. While today’s lanterns are […]

 The Ned Doha represents a careful balance between heritage and innovation. Originally designed in the 1970s by Lebanese architect William Sednaoui, the former Ministry of Interior building stands as a significant piece of Doha’s architectural history. Positioned along the Corniche waterfront, near the Amiri Diwan and Grand Mosque, its transformation into a boutique hotel was […]

Cities are evolving, and lighting is playing a critical role in this transformation. No longer just a functional necessity, it has become a dynamic element of urban design, blending technology, aesthetics, and efficiency. IoT-enabled smart lighting is redefining how we illuminate public spaces, optimizing energy use while enhancing safety and experience. Smart lighting systems use […]

In lighting design, we often draw inspiration from the most breathtaking displays of natural light—and few are as awe-inspiring as the northern lights. This celestial phenomenon demonstrates how light, in its interplay with atmosphere and energy, can evoke powerful emotions and create unforgettable visual experiences. The northern lights result from charged solar particles interacting with […]

Lighting has always been more than a tool for visibility. For ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Greeks, it was a medium for storytelling, symbolism, and emotion. Their innovative use of light in architecture and rituals laid the foundation for the principles that guide contemporary lighting design today. The Karnak Temple In ancient Egypt, light […]

Flicker refers to the rapid, repeated variations in light output, often caused by fluctuations in voltage or electrical power supply. The effect may vary depending on several factors, such as the quality of the light source, the type of driver, and the stability of the electrical connection. Although more common in older lighting technologies like […]

In today’s workplace, where many spend long hours, creating the right lighting environment is essential for employee well-being and efficiency. Effective office lighting can prevent eyestrain, uplift mood, and enhance focus, which can, in turn, improve productivity and reduce absenteeism. Types of Office Lighting for a Productive Environment 2. General Lighting General lighting is essential […]

In public spaces, lighting can transform everyday environments into remarkable experiences. Carefully crafted lighting installations add depth and a sense of wonder, inviting visitors to pause, explore, and engage. By using different lighting techniques, designers can create visual rhythms and reflections that shift with the viewer’s perspective, making each visit unique. Discover Series Dubai, UAE […]

Human vision is remarkable, capable of detecting a wide range of light intensities. Yet, as light levels decrease, our ability to perceive fine details also diminishes. That’s why accurately measuring light is essential to create lighting environments that enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal. Here are some insights on how to measure light effectively to achieve […]

Creating the perfect atmosphere goes beyond aesthetic appeal. Functionality and comfort play an essential role in lighting design, especially in commercial and hospitality spaces. One of the key factors in achieving optimal lighting is managing glare, which can significantly affect the visual comfort of the space’s users. That’s where the Unified Glare Rating (UGR) comes […]

Have you ever marveled at a building’s captivating appearance at night? The secret often lies in facade lighting design. This art involves illuminating a building’s exterior to create stunning visual effects, enhancing its beauty and identity. We believe that facade lighting is about more than just adding lights. It’s about understanding the architecture, environment, and […]

First impressions are vital, particularly in the hospitality industry. Lighting is not just about visibility; it’s about creating an inviting atmosphere. If the lighting isn’t right, even the best food and drinks may not entice customers to stay. A recent survey emphasized the importance of good lighting, revealing that “72% of respondents had left a […]

Effective lighting design can influence everything from productivity and safety to comfort and wellbeing, making it a vital consideration in various settings, including residential, commercial, and transportation environments. One specific application of lighting design is in airplane cabins, where lighting plays a significant role in passenger comfort and safety. Airplane cabins dim their lights during […]

The circadian rhythm, the body’s natural cycle of physical, mental, and behavioral changes over a 24-hour period, is profoundly influenced by light. Modern lighting design increasingly integrates circadian principles to enhance well-being and productivity across various environments. This article delves into the influence of circadian lighting in education, hospitality, and healthcare, demonstrating how adjustable lighting […]

Dubai, often hailed as the jewel of the Gulf, and recently crowned world’s most picturesque city at night, owes much of its identity to its radiant lighting. Renowned for its glittering skyline and luxurious ambiance, the city strategically integrates light as a pivotal element in its urban design. From the iconic Burj Khalifa to the […]

Lighting is more than just a functional element of design; it’s an integral component that shapes our perception of space, color, and texture. Yet, despite its importance, lighting design is frequently an afterthought in the broader conversation about interior aesthetics. This oversight can undermine both the beauty and practicality of any environment. Through a thoughtful […]

In an era where technology relentlessly reshapes the contours of every industry, our world of lighting design is no exception. As we navigate through this digital evolution, one of the most intriguing developments is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into our professional toolkit. This integration not only promises to redefine our workflows but also […]

Beyond mere illumination, strategic lighting enhances atmosphere, guides customer behavior, and significantly impacts sales. Here’s an in-depth look at how tailored lighting solutions can transform retail spaces. Setting the Atmosphere with Ambient Lighting Ambient lighting is foundational in establishing the overall mood of a store. Warm lighting creates a welcoming ambiance, ideal for stores aiming […]

“Dark sky” does not mean “dark ground”; if you’re smart, you can have a dark sky without losing light on the ground. What is Light Pollution? Out of all the various pollution humans create, light pollution gets the least attention. But light pollution is one of the most prevalent issues facing the developed and developing […]

Light plays a crucial role in sacred architecture, influencing design and imbuing spaces with symbolic meaning. This paper examines how various cultures and epochs have integrated light into sacred structures to enhance their spiritual and aesthetic significance. Evolution of Light in Architecture The architectural styles have significantly evolved to incorporate light, transitioning from the dimly […]

Light serves as a powerful symbol in various spiritual and religious contexts across different cultures and periods. This paper explores the diverse roles of light within major world religions and its ongoing metaphysical importance. Light in Major World Religions In Hinduism, the festival of Diwali commemorates the triumph of light over darkness. In Islam, light […]

Throughout history, light has been a pivotal element in human development, shaping our activities, safety, and progression from ancient times to modern days. This paper explores the historical journey of humankind’s interaction with light, from the discovery of fire to the development of artificial lighting methods. Early Discoveries and Uses The accidental discovery of fire […]

The transformation of the former Ministry of Interior building into a boutique hotel recognized the historical and architectural significance of one of Doha’s oldest buildings. Designed in the 1970s by Lebanese architect William Sednaoui – is a celebrated historical landmark of Doha. With its finely rhythmic façade and sculptural silhouette, the state building is considered […]

Recent years have witnessed inclusivity taking center stage in mainstream conversations, emphasizing the importance of catering to vulnerable societal groups. This cultural shift extends to architectural design, where a one-size-fits-all approach is no longer sufficient. UMAYA Lighting Design recently completed a project in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the significance of inclusive lighting design. Lighting holds the […]

We are thrilled to announce that we have been shortlisted in the Retail and Restaurant categories at the Light Middle East Awards, which will take place next January 19th. at the Ritz Carlton Dubai. These nominations are for our work in Marli New York Boutique in Riyadh and The Canary Club in Dubai. The Light […]

Our Dubai studio continues to receive recognition for their work at the Zayed University Innovation Centre; this time an Honorable Mention at the LIT Design Awards ! The LIT Design Awards was created to recognize the efforts of talented international lighting product designers and lighting implementers, under the premise that lighting is an art and […]

Since it’s opening a couple of months ago, The Canary Club has already become one of the trendiest hangouts in Dubai. The restaurant blends the iconic style and flavors of West Coast destinations like Malibu, Palm Springs, Cabo and Acapulco. Designed by Fighterbrands, the interiors are ’70s revival with lots of rattan, wicker, macramé, shag […]

We are excited to share that after 22 months of intense work by our international team, the lighting design of the Six Flags Qiddiya Park is reaching completion. The theme park will cover a total area of 320,000 square meters and have a level of theming and detailing unseen in any other Six Flags in […]

The construction of the Village Mall in Jeddah is reaching completion and due to open within the next couple of months. Spanning over 100,000 sqm over three levels with a total build-up area of 208,000 sqm, the new mall will include a cinema, a hypermarket, a luxury hotel, an open-air promenade, 132 stores, 45 fine […]

After much anticipation, the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm opened its doors last March 2022. The six-storey resort is spread over 48,000 square meters, featuring 325 rooms and suites with private balconies, 322 underground parking spaces, seven food and beverage outlets, a spa, a kid’s club, a game room, a 70-metre pool, a […]

We are thrilled to share the opening of the new MARLI New York flagship store at the Kingdom Centre in Riyadh, KSA. This flagship store is the first of a new generation of MARLI New York stores that’s boosting the brand’s legacy. Designed by Aranda\Lasch of New York, the store feels intimately connected to its […]

Visa has opened its new headquarters in Dubai that will serve almost 90 countries across Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa (CEMEA) region. The design and construction were managed by Sweid & Sweid, with BSBG as Lead Consultant and Gensler as Interior Designers. UMAYA Lighting Design was appointed to deliver lighting design to […]

We are thrilled to announce that we have been shortlisted in the Workplace, Education & Healthcare category at this year’s Light Middle East Awards, which will take place next September 30th. This nomination is for our work at the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre in Zayed University. The Light Middle East Awards take place annually, and […]

The interior design for this Innovation & Entrepreneurship Centre at Zayed University revolved around the notion of a wadi, Arabic term for valley, where knowledge, collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurship ideas converge. The space is therefore influenced by organic forms; interconnecting events, features and spaces by undulating passageways which dominate the experience of the user. The […]

Another beautiful project comes to fruition, this time Citizenship Invest Headquarters at Jumeirah Lakes Towers in Dubai. These high-end office interiors, designed by Maria Mendez Brugarolas from @dezignmestudio, strikes the perfect balance between a corporate space and an inviting atmosphere. The exquisite palette of finishes blends seamlessly the different spaces, which are further enriched by touches […]

Alex Shaw from our Dubai studio participated in a series of podcasts organized by Linealight where lighting designers around the world were interviewed on specific lighting topics. “Hotels have developed into something much larger than just an accommodation. What they offer is not a nice room and a good breakfast anymore, but an experience. This […]

After much anticipation, the Banyan Tree Residences Hillside Dubai is finally open! The contemporary residential tower and complex sits on a prime corner of Jumeirah Lakes Towers, overlooking the Emirates Golf Club. Unlike other towers in the neighborhood, the development features a standalone tower, complemented by a large clubhouse, sporting amenities, extensive lawn area, a […]

We are proud to share that we have received 3 Honorable Mentions at the Construlita Lighting Awards 2020. These were for our installation Implosion in the Light Art category, the Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Interior Lighting and the Coca-Cola Arena in Large Spaces. Keep them coming!

Another exciting opportunity for this 2020! Our Helsinki office has recently been appointed as lighting consultants for The Cohort in Athens, Greece. The Cohort is a new technology-enabled hospitality company that provides both private and shared spaces which empower the modern traveler. At the center of The Cohort is community, where people share and learn […]

Our lighting scheme for Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai has been shortlisted for Hotel Lighting Project of the Year at the Lighting Design Awards 2020. This is one of the most prestigious events in the industry, with hundreds of entries showcasing the best lighting design projects across the globe. The gala dinner and winners’ announcement […]

The new Japanese Restaurant in town, designed by yours truly, is now open. Kanteen’s lighting scheme is all about drama, sparkle and atmosphere. Stop by whenever you have the time; they have their own Sake Lady!

The concept behind the design of the first Warehouse Gym in Dubai was to recreate the gritty feel of the ’80s gyms. Raw materials, exposed structures and huge graffiti by renowned artists Tom Deams and Shaun Sper take us back to the New York underground grungy world. Light had a key role in this project, […]

Alex Shaw from our Dubai studio will be presenting at the Architecture & Design Theatre in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Wednesday 12th. of February at 7.30pm. The presentation, called Light for Hospitality, will focus on current trends in hospitality lighting design, with emphasis on brand reinforcement, contextualization and value generation. This conference is part of […]

The latest addition to our F&B collection is Sel & Miel, an authentic French brasserie located at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Doha, Qatar. Reminiscent of Parisian lifestyle, the sophisticated interiors are organized in four different seating sections; the main dining area, the bar, an indoor terrace, and a private dining room called the Chef’s Table. […]

2019 has been an incredible year for our team; new offices, unexplored countries, fun projects and the most amazing clients. In other words, a lot of hard but very gratifying work. Check out this short animation which sums up the past 12 months. 2020, we are ready !

Our Dubai studio continues receiving recognition for their work at the Coca-Cola Arena; this time an Honorable Mention at the LIT Design Awards! The LIT Design Awards was created to recognize the efforts of talented international lighting product designers and lighting implementers, under the premise that lighting is an art and a science, and is […]

We are thrilled to announce the opening of our most recent F&B project, El Cedro Tasting Room at the Sharq Village & Spa in Doha, Qatar. The art of small luxuries is celebrated at this upscale lounge, where craftsmanship is showcased in both the design and offerings. Fine, hand-rolled cigars are presented as if rare […]

The lighting scheme of Azizia Mosque is multi-layered, in order to assign a clear hierarchy of elements while keeping a soft and balanced atmosphere throughout the building. Key elements, namely the mehrab, domes, arches and screens were given visual priority, not only as a means of showcasing the high level of artistry, but also to […]

We are happy to have collaborated with Art Jameel in their pop-up shop last week at Dubai Design Week in D3 district, creating a fun yet simple and inexpensive lighting scheme. The store featured a carefully curated selection of design items, together with the broadest range of art and architecture books.

The team at UMAYA Lighting Design is thrilled to announce the launch of our Helsinki lighting design studio. As our second location in Europe and eighth worldwide, the latest addition to the UMAYA network not only strengthens our presence across the region but complements our current team based in Barcelona. UMAYA’s new Helsinki office will […]

Located at the iconic Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, this chic rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the creek in a relaxing and refined setting. The design, organic and multifunctional, provided immense possibilities in terms of lighting design and user perception. The soft delineation of the stylish white furniture combined with the bold backlit […]

We are proud to announce that our Implosion installation at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai has been shortlisted for the DARC Awards 2019, in the Art category. The DARC Awards gives fellow lighting designers the opportunity to vote for their favorite lighting design schemes. An initial shortlist of projects has been selected from a range […]

Ingo Maurer, the German industrial designer whose playful and unexpected creations earned him the nickname “Poet of Light”, passed away last October 21st. at the age of 87. In 1960 he escaped a divided Germany and lived between New York and San Francisco for three years while working as a graphic designer and art director […]

Women in Lighting is an inspirational digital platform that profiles women working in the field of lighting design. It aims to promote their passion and achievements, narrate their career path and goals, celebrate their work and therefore help elevate their profile in the lighting community. You can watch Pauline’s full interview in the below link.

This interior design concept, created by Gensler, was showcased at The Hotel Show Dubai last September. The narrative revolved around the nomadic lifestyle, and focused on the flexibility and transformative experience, creating a lifetime of stories. Our Dubai studio developed the lighting design scheme, which focused on layering the space, enhancing the textures and catering […]

We are proud to announce the confirmation of our second office in Europe, and eighth worldwide. Location to be disclosed soon. Stay tuned !  

Pauline Dibs from our Dubai studio will join the Women in Lighting Panel Discussion on Wednesday 16th. October at 3.45pm. The event is part of the THINKLIGHT Conference, taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 15-17 October 2019. You can check the full program and register for free at:

We are thrilled to announce that we have been shortlisted in two categories at this year’s Light Middle East Awards, which will take place next October 17th. at The Atlantis Hotel, Dubai. The nominations are for the Coca-Cola Arena and our Implosion installation, in the Entertainment & Leisure and Light Art categories. The Light Middle […]

Developing the main lighting installation for the largest indoor arena in the region was not an easy task. It not only had to evoke a sense of energy and excitement, but also provide the atrium with character and identity. The primary inspiration was taken from the geometrical structure of the facade. The trapezoidal shape was […]

We are delighted to have teamed up with Gensler for the Hotel Room Design Challenge, which will take place at The Hotel Show Dubai from 17-19 September 2019, Dubai World Trade Centre. The interior design concept, named Wandering Nomad, is inspired by the nomadic lifestyle, and focuses on the flexibility and transformative experience, creating a lifetime […]

Without a doubt the final photoshoot of a project is as exciting as it is nerve wracking. Our Dubai team was hard at work earlier this month portraying several of our latest creations, in this case the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Thank you Verko Ignjatovic from Tea House Productions for all your patience and talent ! Check below […]

The 8th edition of Beirut Design Week is currently being held under the theme “Design & Nostalgia”, a topic urging exhibitors and artists to take visitors back in time and trigger the dilemma of yearning for what was left behind or trying to be inspired by it. UMAYA was invited to partner with the organizer The […]

It is said that variety is the spice of life, and we couldn’t agree more. Our Latin America Studio got recently appointed for the lighting design of a weekend house in Uruguay’s magnificent countryside. The architectural design was developed by LGD Architects (www.lgdarquitectos.com), a leading firm in the region known for its innovative and elegant […]

We are thrilled to announce that Azizia Mosque in Saudi Arabia received a commendation at the Lighting Design Awards in London last May 16th. This is one of the most prestigious events in the industry, with hundreds of entries showcasing the best lighting design projects across the globe. This majestic 23,140 m2 building is located […]

Wajih Smadi from our Dubai studio participated in a panel’s discussion at the Middle East Lighting Design Summit last April, which focused on the growing importance of efficient public lighting. Here is a summary of the core ideas discussed. Lighting Consultants should ensure that lighting schemes are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also efficient and […]

We are proud to share that we have received an IES Illumination Award of Merit for our work at the Emaar Boulevard, in the outdoor lighting design category. The IES Illumination Awards program recognizes individuals and companies for their professionalism and originality in lighting design based on the individual merit of each entry. Judges are […]

The origin of the use of lanterns in Ramadan is believed to date back to the 10th century, when caliphs or their deputies in Egypt would be welcomed by children holding lanterns as they arrived to Cairo the night before the first day of Ramadan. They would walk around the city holding their lit lanterns […]

Maša Šuica from our Dubai studio was in Milan earlier this month to discover the latest trends in decorative lighting design and manufacturing. Here are her top picks and thoughts on the direction the industry is moving: Without a doubt this past edition of Euroluce has seen a lot of innovation in terms of materials […]

Dubai’s newest event venue is almost ready. Set to launch officially on June 6th. This fully air-conditioned multipurpose arena will have a capacity for 17.000 people, being the largest in the region. Our Dubai studio designed all interior front-of-house areas, including two bespoke lighting installations at the main entrance lobby and dine and view restaurant. […]

Less than a year since its opening, the Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl is already a proven success. The luxurious interiors, designed by London based firm MKV Design, is a smart re-imagination of traditional Arab inheritance. Our Dubai studio developed the lighting design for all public areas and guestrooms, collaborating in […]

We are thrilled to share that we have been selected winners in the Landscape Lighting category at the LIT Design Awards 2018 for our lighting interventions at the Emaar Boulevard in Dubai. The LIT Design Awards was created to recognize the efforts of talented international lighting product designers and lighting implementers, under the premise that […]

When Dubai Parks and Resorts Project Management found the need to completely redesign the lighting for the entire Motiongate Dubai, they looked to Patrick Gallegos and his team at Gallegos Lighting Design and their 35 years of experience to make this happen a mere 15 months before opening. Based in California USA but working internationally, […]

We are proud to share that we have received Excellence in Lighting Award under the category Work Spaces for our work at the Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, UAE. http://www.construlitalighting.com/cla/

Our lighting scheme for Azizia Mosque in Saudi Arabia has been shortlisted for Heritage Lighting Project of the Year at the Lighting Design Awards 2019. This is one of the most prestigious events in the industry, with hundreds of entries showcasing the best lighting design projects across the globe. The gala dinner and winners’ announcement […]

UMAYA Lighting Design is proud to announce its recently established partnership with Gallegos Lighting Design, an internationally renowned lighting design consultancy led by the eminent lighting designer Patrick Gallegos. With 35+ years of experience coupled and well over 600 successfully illuminated projects located across North America and beyond, the team at Gallegos holds a particular […]

We are pleased to announce that our team, led by Dewan Architects + Engineers, received an Honorable Mention for the proposal for the Hadith Narrators Museum, located in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. The ideas competition, organized by the Madinah Region Development Authority MDA, is part of a long-term development vision for the future of the city, […]

Chanel has launched its first beauty and fragrance store in the Middle East. Located in the new Fashion Avenue extension at The Dubai Mall, the 130 m2 space follows the aesthetic of the fashion house, where luxury is key. Materials are sumptuous, with gold breaking up the monochrome color theme. The lighting scheme developed by […]

Wajih Smadi, Senior Lighting Designer at our Dubai office, will participate in a panel discussion at the Middle East Lighting Design Summit on April 30th. 2019. The topic will be the “Growing Importance in Efficient Public Lighting”. The debate will focus on how public lighting can change the perception of a space, how it can […]

We are proud to announce that both Azizia Mosque and the Emaar Boulevard have been shortlisted for the DARC Awards 2018, in the Places and Spaces categories. The DARC Awards gives fellow lighting designers the opportunity to vote for their favorite lighting design schemes. An initial shortlist of projects has been selected from a range […]

The iconic Jumeirah Beach Hotel reopened after a five-month renovation, which covered guest bedrooms and suites as well as public areas and restaurants. The popular hotel returned with a tasteful yet bold new look inspired by the sea, sand and nature. It has been developed in an airy contemporary style, with white, gold and blue […]

We are excited to announce that our very own Pauline Dibs has obtained her CLD Certification, the first Lighting Designer in the United Arab Emirates to achieve such endorsement. The Certified Lighting Designer (CLD) certification is the first evidence-based certification in architectural lighting design in the world, and is designed to assess whether an individual […]

We are thrilled to announce that we have been shortlisted for 6 awards at this year’s Light Middle East Awards, which will take place next September 25th. at the Hilton Hotel in Habtoor City, Dubai. The nominations are for the Azizia Mosque, The Emaar Boulevard, The Dubai Mall and Souk Al-Bahar projects, in the External, […]

We are excited to have been shortlisted for the Iluminet Awards in Mexico, for the interior lighting design of Khalifa University and Etihad Museum; joint efforts between our studios in Dubai, Barcelona and Uruguay. The Iluminet Awards revolve around the Iberoamerican Lighting Design Biennial, which this year has its third edition. The event includes a […]

We are thrilled to announce that Azizia Mosque has reached completion. This majestic 23140m2 building which can hold up to 25,000 worshipers is located just minutes away from Al-Haram in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Over four years of hard work have finally paid off. The images speak for themselves.

Faysal Al-Haffar, Senior Lighting Designer and Project Manager in our Dubai studio, participated in a panel discussion at the Middle East Lighting Design Summit 2018. The panel, titled Architectural Lighting 2.0, discussed mainly the adoption of new ideas in the Middle East, the direction of the current lighting design market, the use of light as […]

Our Dubai office has recently completed the interior and exterior lighting design for the Banyan Tree Residences Hillside Dubai. The project consists of a contemporary residential tower and complex overlooking Emirates Golf Club, in a prime corner site of Jumeirah Lakes Towers. Unlike other towers in the neighborhood, the development features a standalone tower that […]

February saw the opening of The Santa Maria Hotel and Golf Resort, part of The Luxury Collection by Starwood Hotels, UMAYA’s first hospitality project in Central America. The new hotel features 182 luxurious guestrooms and suites with authentic Panamanian design elements, including traditional Mola blankets to adorn the beds, handmade baskets made by the Embera […]

UMAYA is proud to announce its appointment as the external and façade lighting design consultants of the Velamar and Marina Village communities in Panama. These are part of Buenaventura, a 9.000.000m2 urban development on the Pacific coast, 80 minutes west of Panama City. This is UMAYA’s fifth lighting design consultancy contract since landing in Panama […]

We are proud to announce that we have received three honorable mentions at the LIT Design Awards 2017, for our work in Cielo Sky Lounge, Etihad Museum and Khalifa University. The LIT Design Awards was created to recognize the efforts of talented international lighting product designers and lighting implementers, under the premise that lighting is […]

UMAYA took home yet another award; this time for their work at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi. The Light Middle East Awards take place annually, and recognizes the finest lighting design projects and practices in the region, across several different categories. The gala ceremony took place last October 19th. at the Dubai International Convention and […]

We are thrilled to announce that we have been shortlisted for 4 awards at this year’s Light Middle East Awards, which will take place next October 19th at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The nominations are for the Etihad Museum and Khalifa University projects, in the External, Sustainable and Innovative Project of the […]

Recent years have witnessed the Middle East’s architectural and engineering design community embrace a seemingly never-ending cascade of technologies. Such systems and solutions have supported designers in keeping pace with increasingly multi-faceted projects, thus ensuring design processes are streamlined irrespective of project complexity. Most noteworthy amongst these has been the growing prevalence of Building Information […]

We are proud to have been featured in Illumni for our work at Khalifa University extension project in Abu Dhabi. Congratulations to our Dubai office for such amazing work. You can follow the link below to see the complete article. http://www.illumni.co/khalifa-university-extension-by-umaya-lighting-rsp-architects-elite-design-engineering-consultancy/

Our site team is hard at work finalizing several lighting interventions at The Emaar Boulevard. These are part of a comprehensive lighting master plan developed by our Dubai office to enhance the overall lighting scheme of the boulevard. The lighting proposal aims at revitalizing the public areas and fostering human interaction, through the creation of […]

Last January Etihad Museum opened its doors to the public. The project, which covers 2.5 hectares and includes new and restored buildings, tells the story of the United Arab Emirates. The site is adjacent to the Union House, the exact location of the signing of the 1971 agreement between the Trucial States and hence the […]