IAB and Shah Cement to build a new space for architecture, unveil Shah Cement Arena

Shah Cement and the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB) came together at Inspire & Impact to mark a new chapter in their longstanding collaboration, with the ceremonial groundbreaking of IAB’s upcoming expansion and the unveiling of SHAH CEMENT ARENA at IAB’s Agargaon premises.

The initiative reflects Shah Cement’s continued commitment to supporting the architectural community and contributing to platforms that encourage professional interaction, knowledge exchange and creative dialogue. As part of the collaboration, Shah Cement is supporting the expansion of IAB’s premises, which will include an approximately 11,000-square-foot basement and a three-storey conference and exhibition facility.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

The multipurpose basement will be named SHAH CEMENT ARENA, envisioned as a dedicated space for the architectural community to come together for conferences, exhibitions, professional gatherings and knowledge-sharing. The initiative reflects Shah Cement’s belief that building goes beyond creating structures—it is also about creating spaces where people, ideas and possibilities come together to create meaningful impact.

The event brought together respected members of the IAB Executive Council, including members who have been involved with the organisation since its foundation, alongside leading architects, professionals and members of the architectural community. Their presence from the groundbreaking ceremony through to the concluding celebration reflected the significance of the initiative and its connection to the wider architectural fraternity.

The occasion was graced by the presence of Ar. Prof. Dr. Abu Sayeed M. Ahmed, President, Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB), and Ar. Dr. Masud Ur Rashid, General Secretary, Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB), whose leadership and support further underscored the importance of the initiative. Representing Shah Cement and Abul Khair Group, the event also welcomed Naushad Chowdhury, Brand Director – AKG, Kazi Asif Iqbal, GM – Finance, Shah Cement, and Ibrahim Khalil, AGM (Brand Marketing).

Their presence, alongside the respected IAB Executive Council members and members associated with IAB since its foundation, added significance to an occasion that celebrated not only the beginning of a new physical space but also the continued relationship between Shah Cement and the architectural community.

Through Inspire & Impact, the groundbreaking, SHAH CEMENT ARENA unveiling and the longstanding partnership between Shah Cement and IAB came together as a celebration of collaboration and the future of Bangladesh’s built environment.

With SHAH CEMENT ARENA, Shah Cement and IAB continue their journey of creating meaningful opportunities for the architectural community—building a space where people can connect, ideas can be exchanged and new possibilities can take shape.