AIS expands into the Middle East: Allon van den Bergh on Building the Future of Work

Tell us about your journey so far — what experience do you bring with you, and how will it help shape the future of AIS in the Middle East?

I’ve lived and worked in seven countries, delivering real estate services across transactions, projects, and facilities management for clients in more than 100 countries across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

This has given me a unique understanding of both mature and emerging markets, and of the sensitivities that come with working for occupiers, landlords, and investors. My focus has always been on transforming client needs into practical, real-world solutions – something I’ve been doing in this region for the past 17 years.

What attracted you to join AIS?

What stood out to me immediately was the people and the culture. AIS has an energy that combines passion, creativity, and collaboration with real professionalism. It’s rare to find a company where those qualities are so balanced – where you can feel the drive to innovate, but also the commitment to deliver consistently at the highest standard. That combination is what drew me in. I wanted to be part of a team that not only creates inspiring workplaces, but also genuinely enjoys working together to make it happen.

How do you see your role shaping the UAE and Middle East division?

My role is to expand AIS’s presence in the region, build a high-performing team, and ensure we deliver exceptional workplaces for both international and local clients. I want AIS to be known here not just for design and build, but for creating environments that genuinely support business goals and leave a lasting impact.

What excites you most about leading this expansion?

I love building teams, creating memorable experiences for clients, and developing long-term partnerships with clients, landlords, project managers, and the wider supply chain. For me, success is about creating an ecosystem that consistently goes further than clients expect, making their lives easier and their roles more successful.

What does opening in the UAE mean for AIS’s global business ambitions?

The UAE and the wider Middle East is the most dynamic region in the world, driven by relentless innovation and creativity. Dubai offers AIS a platform for further expansion into the East while also strengthening our partnerships with clients already established here. It positions us to serve both inbound clients entering the region and outbound clients expanding globally from this hub.

What kinds of clients and sectors are a focus for the Middle East division?

It’s still early days, but our focus is on clients who value professionalism, transparency, and partnership. We want to work with organisations that see us as an extension of their team, a partner who can take challenges off their plate and deliver quality without compromise.

What workplace strategy and design trends are you seeing globally that are most relevant in the Middle East?

AI is playing a growing role in workplace design. It allows us to analyse how people use space in real time, model different scenarios, and create environments that are both efficient and adaptable. For example, AI can help optimise layouts to balance collaboration and focus, predict future space needs, and even personalise the workplace experience for employees.

But beyond the technology itself, the real trend is about creating workplaces that drive culture, pride, and loyalty. In a market as fast-moving as the Middle East, the most successful offices will be those that not only attract top talent but also evolve dynamically as new ways of working emerge.

How do you see technology and sustainability shaping client expectations here?

Innovation is part of the DNA of this region, and clients expect their workplaces to reflect that. Technology is no longer just about efficiency, it’s about creating smart, seamless environments that enhance employee experience, from integrated workplace apps to AI-driven space planning.

At the same time, sustainability is still high on the agenda. Clients want offices that not only look and perform well, but also reduce environmental impact and support long-term ESG goals. Our role is to bring fresh, creative ideas in both areas so that every project delivers lasting value.

What does success look like for AIS in the Middle East over the next 3–5 years?

Success will mean building partnerships with clients who choose to work with us both here and abroad – not just because we deliver better outcomes, but because we demonstrate passion and commitment. With the right clients, we’ll attract the best talent, expand our services, and keep investing in this region while fueling our global growth.

What unique cultural or business nuances should global clients be aware of when expanding into the UAE and the wider Middle East?

There really is no market like the Middle East. It can appear straightforward from the outside, but it requires expert guidance to navigate successfully. On the flip side, this is one of the most adaptable markets I’ve ever worked in, the pace of change and willingness to embrace new ideas can make the experience extremely positive for clients.

How does workplace strategy differ here compared to Europe, Asia, or North America?

The diversity of cultures in the region must be reflected in workplace design. At the same time, the fast-paced culture here and the fact that most people are in the region to work makes collaboration easier and change more readily embraced compared to many other markets.

What regulations or market practices make this region distinct for design and build projects?

Regulations evolve quickly as the market matures. On top of that, special economic zones in the UAE, as well as the distinct regulations of each country in the region, add complexity. Understanding and navigating these nuances is essential for project success.

Looking ahead, we’re excited about the journey that’s just beginning in the Middle East. While it’s still too early to share details, we’re already in conversations with some incredible clients and projects that will showcase what AIS can bring to the region. As our operations grow, we’ll be announcing partnerships that reflect our commitment to quality, innovation, and long-term collaboration. This is only the start, and we’re confident the next chapter will be one of our most exciting yet.