People development and engagement: PNC Architects empowers employees at scale

The firm continues to build a future-ready workforce that drives excellence from within.

PNC Architects has emerged as a standout at the Real Estate Asia Built Environment Awards 2025 for going beyond design and technical prowess through a people-centred development framework. The firm, which won Employee Engagement Initiative of the Year - United Arab Emirates, ensures it not only innovates by tools and processes but also by empowering its people.

Between 2024 and 2025, PNC Architects delivered an impressive 3,678 man-hours of technical training through 56 instructor-led sessions, aimed at equipping its workforce with the tools needed to thrive in a dynamic industry. These were complemented by 12 masterclasses led by senior leaders and seasoned professionals, offering invaluable insights into critical topics and elevating standards across the organisation.

“This high-calibre knowledge transfer ensured that employees at all levels benefitted from the insights and standards upheld by those further up the leadership ladder,” the firm stated.

The firm's emphasis on continuous learning extended beyond the classroom. Across multiple departments, employees completed over 1,100 e-learning courses, highlighting a culture of continuous self-driven professional growth. More than 600 webinar man-days were hosted, accompanied by expert-led roundtables that facilitated cross-functional collaboration and domain integration.

A culture of inclusion and recognition

PNC Architects’ people-first philosophy was further exemplified through initiatives like IDEA SPACE, a platform designed to encourage innovation from within. Employees were invited to propose ideas to improve efficiency, streamline operations, and enhance sustainability. A total of 167 ideas were submitted to IDEA SPACE, with several already implemented.

Additionally, recognition is another pillar of the firm’s engagement strategy. Through initiatives like the Employee Excellence Awards 2025 and Half-Yearly Commendation Programmes, PNC Architects celebrated the achievements of team members at every level, from junior architects to site personnel.

A standout initiative was the appointment of a team of Group Captains, selected to streamline coordination between the Dubai and LPL Hyderabad offices. This move was both a practical improvement in operational cohesion and a strong endorsement of internal leadership talent.

Well-being, unity, and culture

Employee well-being has remained central to PNC Architects. Amongst its recent meaningful campaigns include Pink October Breast Cancer Awareness and blood donation drives, complemented by team-building events ranging from group outings to festive traditions like Secret Santa, all contributing to a unified, supportive workplace culture.

PNC Architects' internal achievements were mirrored by broader recognition earned by its parent company, Sobha Realty. In 2024, Sobha Realty was named a Great Place to Work – UAE and the Best Place to Work for Millennials in the GCC.

“As a key contributor to this distinction, PNC Architects’ inclusive policies, employee development programmes, and vibrant workplace culture played a pivotal role in shaping the group's overall reputation as a progressive and people-focused employer,” the firm added.

Through a holistic, strategic, and compassionate approach to employee development and engagement, PNC Architects continues to set a benchmark for excellence in the architectural industry and beyond. With empowered employees at its core, PNC Architects is not just designing buildings; it’s building the future of work.

Real Estate Asia Built Environment Awards, presented by Real Estate Asia, celebrates outstanding achievements in construction, architecture, and interior design across Asia.  

The Real Estate Asia Awards and Built Environment Awards are presented by Real Estate Asia Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2026 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's exceptional projects or initiatives in the Real Estate industry, please contact Julie Anne Nuñez at julie@charltonmediamail.com.