Raya Ani is a visionary architect renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to the field. Her accolades include being elevated as a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects by the New York Chapter, the highest honour for her exceptional work and contributions to architecture and society.
Raya holds a Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering with distinction from Baghdad University and a Master’s in Architecture from MIT, awarded the Harvard/MIT Aga Khan Scholarship. She has made an unforgettable mark on the industry with an illustrious career spanning decades across three continents and four countries. She is a licensed architect in New York and a US Green Building Council Accredited Professional (LEED AP).
Raya is highly hands-on and detail-oriented, engaging in every aspect of project design and supervision. Her multifaceted and visionary approach enables her to integrate creativity with functionality seamlessly. Her ability to balance budget constraints while maintaining design integrity has established her as a sought-after professional in the industry.
Her relentless pursuit of excellence and exploration of innovative strategies led to the founding of RAW-NYC Architects in New York City. Her endeavour to celebrate Arab achievements led her to establish RAW-NYC in Dubai Design District, a strategic move aimed at strengthening and reviving the rich legacy of the Arab world and ensuring its contributions are recognized and celebrated on a global stage.
VISIONARY ARCHITECTURE
Recognized as one of the most influential architects in the MENA region, Raya’s designs testify to her unwavering commitment to environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Her visionary plans for the Marshes of Iraq achieve economic viability while addressing critical ecological concerns and preserving cultures.
Raya’s 2023 portfolio showcases a range of iconic structures, including confidential projects in KSA and notable works such as DESTINAU and the Green Bridge of Baghdad. DESTINAU establishes a new benchmark in holistic design, creating a pioneering destination that redefines hospitality and wellness, reflecting her commitment to excellence. Meanwhile, the Green Bridge of Baghdad pays homage to Mesopotamian achievements and serves as a beacon of inspiration for the people of Iraq, creating a landmark that will never cease to amaze. Its design transcends the traditional car and pedestrian bridge concept, creating an urban public park that overlooks the Tigris River flowing underneath. These projects exemplify Raya’s relentless drive to innovate and advocate, empowering the public and private sectors through architecture.
Raya is currently leading RAW: SPACES, an innovative initiative in Dubai to support businesswomen. This project highlights her dedication to creating empowering environments that foster women’s professional growth.
Through the canvases of her designs, Raya explores architecture’s power as a tool for empowerment and transformation, inspiring architects and creatives globally.
EMPOWERMENT
Raya’s life and work epitomize a profound dedication to architectural excellence and a positive, empowering impact on the global community. Her commitment to education as a catalyst for social empowerment is evident in her design of the first green school. Her focus on community empowerment is also reflected in projects such as the Women’s Building in New York and the creation of two residential green buildings in NYC.
Raya Ani’s boundless energy to inspire and empower through her creative and strategic visions is evident in the Iraqi Pavilion at Expo 2020. She lobbied for Iraq’s participation, designed the pavilion, and supervised its construction. By creating a prominent platform for Iraq and its people, she increased visibility at the world expo and promoted public and private investment.
Her well-acclaimed competition entry for the Bamiyan Cultural Center in Afghanistan, which won a merit award at the AIA International Region Awards in Prague, further reaffirms her dedication to empowering communities through design. Raya has also participated in volunteer workshops to build schools and homes for children in Tanzania and designed the Iraqi Safe House of Innovation for Hisham Al Thahabi—Arab Hope Maker 2017, which aims to empower homeless children and orphans in Iraq.
Raya’s winning vision for the Liberland Competition embodies her passion for creating self-sufficient communities through innovation and technology while embracing sustainability. By proposing an innovative algae urban farming system, she addresses future needs and empowers communities to adopt sustainable practices, paving the way for a resilient future.
LEADERSHIP
Raya was the first woman elected President of the American Institute of Architects in the Middle East, winning the election to become the 2017 President. She spearheaded the official launch of AIA Middle East in Jordan and later in Iraq, showcasing her commitment to empowering Arab and Iraqi architects globally. She advocated for a shared vision and knowledge, aiming to create a positive impact by promoting design excellence.
In 2021, Raya Ani was appointed by UNESCO as the President of the Jury for the international architectural competition for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Al Nouri Complex in Mosul.
In 2022, she received the 2021 Takreem Award for Environmental Development and Sustainability. The award recognizes Arabs who have achieved excellence in their field of expertise.
As a leader and icon in her field, Raya Ani’s legacy resonates beyond the structures she creates, redefining the relationship between the public and architecture at the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and empowerment.