Academic staff

• Dean
• massimo@cud.ac.ae
• +971(4)7096806
• Hub G,25

Dr. Maha Salman a LEED Accredited Professional (BD+C) architect holding a PhD in Sustainable Architecture from the University of Huddersfield, United Kingdom where she got “The Vice Chancellor's Award for an Outstanding Research Degree Thesis”. Dr. Maha Salman embraces numerous years of industry and academic experience in Canada and abroad. She is the author of several publications, including books, and has won a number of awards for her research work. Dr. Maha’s student-centered and interactive approach leads her philosophy to create a positive, engaging, and inspiring learning environment.

Dr. Seif Khiati is an Associate Professor - Architecture. He holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Washington USA (1988), and a Doctorate Degree in Urban Design from University of Washington (2004). His research interests include Architecture and Urban Design History, Sustainability and Technology in Buildings and Urban Form, and Computer Multimedia in Architecture.

Dr. Constantin Spiridonidis is an Architect (Univ. of Thessaloniki, Greece) Urban Planner (Univ. Paris VIII, France) and Dr. in Architecture and Urban Design (Univ. of Thessaloniki, Greece).

He is a Professor at the Faculty of Architecture and Interior Design at Canadian University Dubai. Prior to this, he was a Tenured Professor in School of Architecture of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.

Simona Azzali is an Associate Professor at the Department of Architecture. She is an interdisciplinary researcher with a background in urban planning and design. Her research crosses a wide spectrum including urban spaces in the Middle East and tropical Asia; liveability and social sustainability of public spaces; place-making as well as mega sporting events and their impact on the built environment. Simona Azzali is passionate about cities and strongly advocates a people-oriented and participatory design approach to building better cities by design.

Serkan Günay is an architect (IZTECH), Conservation Specialist (METU) and holds a PhD in Architecture from Oxford Brookes University – UK. 

• Master in Aesthetics and Visual Arts Practices
  High Institute of Fine Arts in Sousse, Tunisia
• Senior Lecturer
• zeineb.naouar@cud.ac.ae
• +971(4)7096265
• C2-01

Sophie A. Johnson combines her knowledge in design practice, research, and education. Beginning her professional journey in interior design and bespoke furniture making, she later transitioned to the field of teaching. With more than two decades of experience, she has contributed to education at various levels, from undergraduate to postgraduate, and has been an instructor at prominent design institutions in London, including Ravensbourne University, University of the Arts London: Chelsea School of Art, Central St Martins, and Wimbledon.

• Master in Architecture
  Columbia University
• Visiting Lecturer
• Christine.yogiaman@cud.ac.ae