Christian Vasquez, Senior Project Architect and Business Development Executive at National Engineering Bureau (NEB), has been re-elected as President of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) Dubai Chapter for the 2025–2026 fiscal year.
The announcement was made during the high-profile annual UAP Dubai Design Awards Ceremony on June 28 at Bluewaters Forum, Delano Dubai — a landmark event spotlighting architectural excellence and innovation.
The ceremony drew an elite crowd of industry leaders, including top executives and senior architects from prestigious firms such as AtkinsRéalis, Nikken Sekkei, AECOM, SOM, Gensler, RSP, BSBG, P&T, Dewan, Integrity Design, WSP, Arcadis, AE7, PALAFOX, Perkins Eastman, and many others. Influential developers and real estate giants like Emaar, DP World, Sobha Realty, Majid Al Futtaim, Aldar, and Expo City Dubai also participated. The event’s prestige was further amplified by the presence of dignitaries and representatives from Dubai Municipality, TECOM Group, the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai and Northern Emirates, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Middle East, and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Gulf Chapter.
Largest and Most Influential Filipino Architect Network in the Middle East
UAP Dubai represents a powerhouse community of over 500 licensed Filipino architects — all holders of the Philippine Professional Regulatory Commission’s board certification — who drive innovation across design firms, government agencies, contractors, and developers throughout the region. It is the largest and most influential Filipino architects’ chapter in the Middle East, leaving a significant imprint on the region’s built environment.
New Leadership Team
Joining Vasquez in leading the chapter are:
- Marvin Alipio, VP for Programs (Architect / 3D Experience Designer, Spiro)
- Arvin Quides, VP for Operations (Managing Partner, Sketchlife Design)
- Jess Cyril Siton, Secretary (Senior Architect & 3D Visualizer, NEB)
- Estelita Villadelrey, Treasurer (Senior Architect, NEB)
- Ana Maria Jean Dizon, Auditor (Project Execution Lead, XBD Collective)
- Jan Michael Peramide, Immediate Past President (Design & Master Planning, Expo City Dubai)
A Bold Vision for Growth and Global Impact
With his re-election, Vasquez charts an ambitious roadmap for UAP Dubai — positioning it as a dynamic hub for knowledge exchange, strategic partnerships, and international collaboration. His agenda includes executive forums with architects and developers, masterclasses empowering architects as entrepreneurs, curated networking for mentorship and career growth, and expanding global dialogues through webinars and lectures.
“UAP Dubai is more than a professional organization — it’s a vibrant network of influence, innovation, and shared vision,” Vasquez stated. “Together, we’ll leverage our collective strength to create tangible value for members and the wider industry.”
Globally Recognized, Proudly Filipino
Founded in 1975, UAP is the official body of Filipino architects, affiliated with the Union of International Architects (UIA), Architects Regional Council Asia (ARCASIA), and the APEC Architects Registry. With over 600 licensed Filipino architects in Dubai alone and a global membership exceeding 60,000, UAP champions continuous professional development.
“Our commitment is clear,” Vasquez said. “To keep Filipino architects globally competitive, continuous learning and adaptation are non-negotiable.”
Discover more about UAP Dubai and its initiatives at www.uap124.org.
