Head of Development – Real Estate Projects

About the role

The Head of Development will lead the full real‑estate development lifecycle, from feasibility and design through construction, handover and close‑out. Reporting to the CEO, this senior professional will ensure projects meet design, quality, budget, programme and regulatory requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute development strategies, budgets, programmes and delivery plans for residential, commercial and mixed‑use projects.
• Provide senior technical oversight for civil, structural, architectural and MEP works, reviewing consultants’ proposals and coordinating building systems.
• Manage design teams, ensuring concept, schematic, detailed and IFC designs align with project objectives and authority regulations.
• Oversee construction activities, monitor contractor performance, quality, safety and schedule compliance, and lead site review meetings.
• Control commercial aspects: budgets, cost plans, variations, contractor claims and value‑engineering opportunities.
• Lead appointment and performance management of consultants, contractors and specialist suppliers, resolving technical and contractual issues.
• Ensure regulatory compliance, obtain permits, NOCs and final completion certificates from UAE authorities.
• Drive quality management, QA/QC monitoring and defect resolution through to final handover.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Construction Management or related field; Master’s degree or professional certifications (PMP, MRICS, CEng) are a plus.
• Minimum 10 years of real‑estate development experience, with at least 10 years directly with UAE developers.
• Proven track record delivering large‑scale residential, commercial or hospitality projects from design through construction and handover.
• Extensive hands‑on experience in civil and MEP coordination and managing multidisciplinary project teams.

Required skills

• Construction Management
• MEP Engineering
• Project Management
• Civil Engineering
• Cost Management
• Quality Management
• Design Coordination
• Stakeholder Management