FRM Urban, a multidisciplinary design and urban planning practice, is strengthening its presence across the Middle East, as demand grows for more holistic, human-centred approaches to urban development.
As cities across the region continue to evolve at pace, FRM is positioning itself to contribute to the next phase of urban transformation, one that prioritises how cities function, connect, and support the people who live in them. The firm brings together expertise in architecture, urban design, and development strategy to deliver cohesive, forward-thinking environments that respond to both current needs and long-term ambitions.
Across the region, urban development is becoming increasingly interconnected, with stakeholders moving beyond standalone developments towards more comprehensive urban frameworks that integrate mobility, public realm, land use, and community experience.
Hannah Fisher, Partner at FRM Urban, said: “Across the region, there is a clear shift towards more connected ways of thinking about cities. It’s no longer just about delivering individual developments, but about how different elements come together to create environments that function well, feel cohesive, and respond to the needs of the people who use them. At FRM, we approach each project through that wider lens, balancing long-term vision with the realities of delivery to ensure that what is designed can genuinely be realised.”
Operating across a diverse portfolio, FRM’s work spans large-scale masterplans, mixed-use developments, urban revitalisation initiatives, residential projects, and site-specific installations. The practice is defined by its ability to bridge strategy and design, ensuring that each project is grounded in both vision and practical implementation.
The firm is led by three partners whose combined experience spans landmark projects across the Middle East, Europe, the United States, Asia and Australia. Hannah Fisher brings expertise in design strategy and architecture urban frameworks, Bernhard Rettig contributes more than 25 years of international experience in urban design architecture, sustainability and placemaking, while Wagdy Moussa specialises in urban regeneration and complex development projects across international markets.
Bernhard Rettig, Partner at FRM Urban, added: “As cities continue to grow and evolve, the quality of the spaces between buildings becomes just as important as the buildings themselves. Successful urban environments are those that create a strong sense of place, encourage interaction, and support long-term sustainability. Thoughtful urban design has an important role to play in shaping communities that are both resilient and meaningful.”
Wagdy Moussa, Partner at FRM Urban, said: “Today’s urban challenges require multidisciplinary thinking that connects architecture, culture, environment and community needs from the outset. We are seeing increasing demand for places that are adaptable, distinctive and capable of creating lasting value for both residents and stakeholders.”
Together, the partners bring a multidisciplinary perspective that combines strategic thinking, design excellence, and a commitment to creating places with lasting impact.
FRM continues to collaborate with public and private sector stakeholders across the Middle East, the United Kingdom and beyond to deliver projects that support sustainable growth, resilience, and enhanced quality of life.
About FRM Urban:
FRM Urban is a multidisciplinary design firm specialising in urban design, architecture, and development strategy. With a deep understanding of city dynamics, placemaking, and sustainable growth, its mission is to create well-designed, functional, and sustainable environments that support the growth and liveability of cities across multiple scales.
Founded by three partners driven by the need for a fresh approach, the leadership team has led and delivered numerous high-profile projects around the world, with a particular emphasis on the MENA region.
With a strong presence across key markets in the Middle East the United Kingdom, and beyond, FRM operates across multiple scales and typologies, ranging from large regional masterplans, mixed use developments to urban revitalisation, residential and hospitality projects, as well as pavilions, cultural landmarks, and site specific works. This international perspective is grounded in a deep understanding of local contexts, enabling FRM Urban to craft projects that are both globally relevant and contextually resonant.
By combining design excellence with a strategic understanding of urban systems, FRM Urban is committed to improving quality of life, supporting sustainable growth, and helping cities meet the evolving needs of their communities.
