January 2026 Chapter Leader of the Month: Othoob Almugbel

AIAS Headquarters is proud to recognize Othoob Almugbel (she/her) as this month’s Chapter Leader of the Month, honoring her visionary leadership, resilience, and unwavering commitment to building community through architecture. As President of the AIAS Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University (PMU) Chapter, Othoob has played a pivotal role in shaping a thriving, student-led organization, establishing the first AIAS chapter in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province and the only active AIAS chapter in the Kingdom.

From her earliest days at PMU, Othoob found in AIAS the intersection of creativity and community she had been seeking. Motivated by a passion for teamwork and leadership, she worked diligently to foster that spirit through student organizations, volunteering, internships, and ultimately by founding and growing the AIAS PMU Chapter. Over three academic semesters, the chapter successfully hosted teaser activities and a formal launch, building momentum through programming that engaged students, faculty, professionals, and the broader community.

Under Othoob’s leadership, the chapter delivered an ambitious slate of initiatives. Highlights include participation in PMU’s annual Winter Event with hundreds of visitors; a three-part workshop series exploring AI, ancient civilizations, and professional practice; and the launch of a Materials and Tools Library to promote reuse and sustainability for design students. The chapter organized site visits to major projects including Jewar’s Harbor overlooking the Arabian Gulf and Alshaikh’s Twin Towers in downtown Alkhobar, and tailored a panel for Studio V students on the history and development of Northern Khobar.

Othoob also prioritized professional connection and exposure. The chapter hosted visualization workshops led by fellow students, open houses with senior students focused on navigating internships, and collaborative programs such as Space and Intersectionality and Lines to Landscapes. Through outreach to the regional professional community, the chapter secured exclusive invitations to exhibitions and expos and, by connecting with the Middle East AIA team, enabled students to attend the annual Year End Conference in Doha, Qatar. There, members learned from global industry experts, explored iconic cultural institutions, and connected with leaders across the region, an experience made possible entirely through student initiative.

Continuing to expand member value, Othoob led the launch of an AIAS PMU membership card, unlocking discounts with more than 25 local businesses across wellness, fitness, and hospitality. Each initiative reflected a core belief that architecture does not exist without community, and that students have a responsibility to lead, inspire, and build spaces for connection.

Othoob’s nominator, Latifah Alkhawlani, captured her impact succinctly: she is not just a team player, she is the team. Her ability to lead with confidence, solve problems with composure, and motivate others has been the foundation of the chapter’s success. With a clear vision for sustainability and long-term impact, Othoob continues to ensure that AIAS PMU not only thrives today but remains a lasting force for future students.

Through her leadership, Othoob Almugbel exemplifies the values of AIAS: initiative, service, and community. We are honored to celebrate her as Chapter Leader of the Month.