As an Omani woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, what inspired you to pursue a career in architectural engineering and project management?

As an 18-year-old, I didn’t give much thought to the fact that this was a male-dominated industry. My focus was on what I enjoyed doing, and I have always loved creating and bringing visions to life—construction is precisely about that.

What motivated you to co-found Meezah Engineering & Project Management Consultant, and what challenges did you face in establishing yourself as a leader in the field?

After a few years in the industry, I recognized a gap in the market that we could fill. This led us to establish Meezah to provide project management services for medium to large-scale projects.

Many of your projects, such as the National Museum and Oman Across Ages Museum, are deeply rooted in Oman’s cultural heritage. How do you balance tradition with innovation in your designs and project management?

I do not see tradition and innovation as opposites. Traditional methods were innovative at the time of their introduction, making them inherently innovative by nature. Our approach is to respect and build upon these foundations while integrating modern solutions.

You’ve worked on landmark initiatives like the Oman Pavilion at Expo Dubai 2020. Can you share insights into the challenges and triumphs of leading such high-profile projects?

Every project presents its own challenges, but cultural projects are particularly complex because they involve an additional dimension—the need to convey stories and messages beyond just the physical structure. The biggest challenge is balancing the content, architecture, and engineering while ensuring that the story and message remain at the forefront.
Additionally, exhibition spaces come with unique technical challenges that are often not present in other types of buildings and structures.

As a female leader in architecture and project management, how do you mentor and empower other women to enter and thrive in this industry?

Wherever possible, I strive to provide opportunities for women—whether within my internal team or external collaborations. I mentor them and ensure they have a space where their voices are heard and valued.

What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced as a woman in this field, and how have you navigated them?

The construction industry remains male-dominated to this day. One of the biggest challenges I faced was having my competence questioned solely because of my gender. Early in my career, I encountered dismissiveness and resistance, especially when providing technical feedback.
I overcame these challenges by building my expertise, confidence, and reputation. Over time, my knowledge and skills spoke for themselves. Today, at Meezah, my expertise is sought after specifically for my unique insights and leadership.

You transitioned from architectural design to project management. What drove this shift, and how has your approach to leadership evolved over time?

Throughout my career—spanning both the public and private sectors—my leadership style has evolved from a managerial, task-focused approach to a more transformational one. I’ve learned that true leadership isn’t just about managing people but about inspiring and empowering them to reach their full potential.

Balancing a demanding career with raising three children is no small feat. How do you manage to integrate both aspects of your life successfully?

I’m not sure true balance is ever possible—there will always be times when one aspect takes precedence over the other. Additionally, mothers today face immense pressure to be perfect, often held to higher standards than previous generations.
At different points in my life, I have prioritized my family over my career, and I have no regrets about that. Each decision has been made with the well-being of my children and my aspirations in mind.

What role do you see women playing in shaping the future of Oman’s infrastructure and urban development?

Women—whether working professionals, stay-at-home mothers, aunts, or sisters—all play a vital role in shaping our society in various ways. Their contributions extend beyond formal job roles and into the very fabric of community development.

How do you incorporate sustainability and forward-thinking solutions into your projects, and what trends do you foresee in Oman’s engineering and construction landscape?

We work closely with our clients to introduce sustainable solutions and design strategies. However, there is still a long way to go, as sustainability is not yet a primary focus for many projects in Oman. The shift towards prioritizing sustainability will be key in the coming years.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter STEM fields, particularly in architecture, engineering, and project management?

If this is your passion, go for it! Every field has its challenges, but doing what you love is incredibly rewarding. Don’t let obstacles deter you—stay persistent, build your expertise, and seek out mentors who can support your journey.

Looking ahead, what are your goals for Meezah Engineering and your personal journey as a leader in Oman’s architectural and project management industry?

At Meezah, our goal is to become Oman’s leading consultancy for project management. Personally, I hope to see more Omanis—especially Omani women—take on leadership roles in the industry, shaping its future with their unique perspectives and talents.