Managing Director
Abdulla Abdulghaffar
Architect | Urban & Regional Planning
Professional Biography
Born in Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, in 1951, Abdulla Abdulghaffar is an accomplished architect, urban planner and senior executive with an extensive professional career spanning architecture, urban development, strategic planning and organizational leadership.
He completed his early education in Bahrain before pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Architecture at the University of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He subsequently obtained a Master’s degree in Town and Regional Planning from the University of Sheffield, United Kingdom.
Over the course of his career, Abdulla has held several senior positions within Bahrain’s Physical Planning Directorate, contributing to the development and management of urban planning initiatives. His professional journey included responsibilities as a Senior Architect and leadership positions overseeing Urban Renewal, Detailed Planning and National Planning departments.
These experiences have given him a comprehensive understanding of architecture, land-use planning, urban development and the practical challenges of transforming development strategies into successful projects.
Since 2007, he has served as Managing Director of AAG Architects & Engineers, providing professional leadership and strategic direction while drawing on decades of architectural, planning and management experience.
His professional philosophy combines creative vision with practical expertise, emphasizing thoughtful design, sustainable development, technical excellence and the successful realization of projects.
Education & Academic Qualifications
- 1969Certificate of Science, Manama Secondary School, Bahrain.
- 1969–1974Bachelor of Science in Architecture, University of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- 1978–1979Master of Arts (MA) in Town and Regional Planning, University of Sheffield, United Kingdom.
Professional Experience
- 2007–PresentManaging Director, AAG Architects & Engineers.
- 2002–2006Manager, National Planning Department, Physical Planning Directorate.
- 1985–1995Head of Detailed Planning Department, Physical Planning Directorate.
- 1980–1984Head of Urban Renewal Department, Physical Planning Directorate.
- 1974–1977Senior Architect, Physical Planning Directorate, Ministry of Housing, Bahrain.
Selected Development Projects
His professional involvement spans a number of residential, landscape and property development projects, including:
- Miami Garden – Housing Development
- Palace Garden 1, 2, 3 and 4
- Al-Jazera Garden
- Al-Jashra Palm
- Al-Yamama Garden
- Vence Garden
- Fahad Garden
- Budaiya Oasis
- Bahamma Garden
- Mahel Garden
- Abha Garden
- Manama Garden
- Al-Qusaibi Building – Exhibition Road
International Conferences & Professional Engagement
Throughout his career, Abdulla has participated in conferences, seminars and professional engagements focused on town and regional planning across several countries, including:
- Bahrain
- Tunisia
- Sudan
- United Arab Emirates
- France
- Egypt
- Germany
- Jordan
These international engagements have contributed to his professional exposure to diverse planning practices, urban development approaches and architectural perspectives.
Leadership & Professional Legacy
With decades of experience spanning public-sector planning and private-sector consultancy, Abdulla Abdulghaffar brings a valuable combination of technical expertise, institutional knowledge and executive leadership to AAG Architects & Engineers.
His continued leadership reflects a commitment to professional integrity, thoughtful development and delivering architectural and engineering solutions that contribute to the built environment of the Kingdom of Bahrain.