Washington, D.C. – August 11, 2014 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) today announced its sponsorship of the first-ever Architecture Service Trade Mission to the Middle East. The trade mission to Doha, Qatar will take place November 17-19.

The purpose of this mission is to introduce U.S. firms to the expanding and diversifying Qatari market. Qatar continues to develop new infrastructure projects as they broaden their economic scope. The mission will focus on opportunities for U.S. exporters in master planning (city or regional planning, and port redevelopment); hospitals and healthcare architecture; hospitality; airports and other transportation facilities; mixed-use projects; sports and entertainment; and educational facilities.

“This trade mission represents another exceptional opportunity to expand the reach of architectural talent around the globe,” said 2015 AIA President Elizabeth Chu Richter, FAIA, who will represent the AIA on the trade mission. “Our profession represents a major economic tool for boosting U.S. exports and creating jobs here in the United States.”

In Doha, mission participants will have market briefings with the Commercial Service and industry experts, networking opportunities with local industry experts, business-to-business meetings, site visits, meetings with government officials, and more. Mission participants will also have the option of making an additional stop in Riyadh from November 15-17 that can include business to business meetings, market briefings and site visits.

The mission, a joint venture with the International Trade Administration, supports President Obama’s National Export Initiative (NEI) and his goal of doubling U.S. exports by the end of 2014. The AIA and U.S. Department of Commerce have previously sponsored similar successful trade missions to India in 2012 and to Brazil in 2013.

For more information, please refer to the mission statement found here. Recruitment for this mission will begin immediately and conclude no later than September 15, 2014. For an application or other information, please contact Arica Young, U.S. Commercial Service, at Email Contact or 202-482-6219. Further questions about the AIA’s involvement in trade missions should be directed to Derek Washam, the AIA’s Manager of Federal & International Programs, at 202-626-7595 or Email Contact.

About The American Institute of Architects

Founded in 1857, members of the American Institute of Architects consistently work to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through nearly 300 state and local chapters, the AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards. The AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders, and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation and world. Visit www.aia.org.


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