Mark Powell Kyffin is a British-trained architect and an influential leader in contemporary cultural and heritage architecture, with more than 28 years of international experience delivering complex, high-profile cultural projects. He is currently Director of Architecture at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, where he provides strategic architectural leadership and oversight across the full project lifecycle, guiding major developments from concept through to completion. Mark has played a pivotal role in shaping Abu Dhabi’s global cultural profile, most notably through the Saadiyat Cultural District. In addition to his own designs, he works closely with world-renowned architectural practices, and other internationally acclaimed designers to realise landmark contemporary cultural institutions of global significance. Alongside these projects, he has led the conservation, restoration, and adaptive reuse of nationally important heritage sites such as Qasr Al Hosn and the Cultural Foundation, ensuring a sensitive integration of historic fabric with contemporary architectural interventions. He is a qualified architect, holding an Upper Second Class BA (Hons) in Architecture and a Masters (Diploma) in Architecture with Distinction, and is professionally registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). His earlier career was established in leading UK architectural practices where he developed a strong foundation in design excellence, conservation, and complex project delivery. Beyond professional practice, Mark is a highly respected contributor to the international architectural community. He is a regular Jury Chair at the World Architecture Festival (WAF), a judge for the both the World Architecture News (WAN) Awards and The RIBA Middle East Awards (Gulf Chapter), whilst also being a frequent speaker at international architecture and cultural forums. He also lectures in architecture at universities across the region, contributing to education, professional discourse, and the mentoring of emerging talent. Mark is currently the UAE representative for the RIBA and a former RIBA Branch President. Mark’s work and the projects under his leadership have received multiple international accolades, including recognition at the World Architecture Festival, The RIBA Awards and World Architectural News Awards. He is widely regarded as a leading voice in contemporary cultural and heritage architecture in the Middle East and internationally.