Position title
Project Director - Construction - Abu Dhabi
Job Location
Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, 0000, AE
Employment Type
Full-time
Industry
Construction
Base Salary
AED45,000-AED60,000 Per month
Date posted
June 17, 2026
Valid through
September 30, 2026
Description

Project Director - Construction - Abu Dhabi (AED 5 Billion+ Portfolio)

Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Position Type: Full-Time

Reporting To: Executive Director / VP of Operations

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly accomplished Project Director Construction Abu Dhabi to take executive ownership of a premier portfolio of mega-developments valued in excess of AED 5 Billion. This high-profile role requires an expert leader to oversee the entire project lifecycle from mobilization through to final handover and client satisfaction.

The ideal candidate will have an established track record in mega project construction in the UAE, specifically leading high-rise residential construction (30+ stories), flagship luxury villa developments, and complex mixed-use developments in the UAE. You will ensure all assets are delivered safely, within budget, on schedule, and to the highest international quality standards.

Core Responsibilities

Executive Leadership & Strategy

  • Define and implement comprehensive project execution strategies across the entire portfolio lifecycle.

  • Direct and mentor large, multidisciplinary project teams, including Project Managers, Construction Managers, Engineering Managers, and commercial support functions.

  • Foster a high-performance culture rooted in strict accountability, safety, and operational excellence.

Project Planning & Operational Execution

  • Oversee critical-path scheduling, resource forecasting, procurement strategies, and onsite execution.

  • Establish rigorous risk management frameworks to proactively identify bottlenecks and execute mitigation plans.

  • Ensure all phases of construction meet strict structural, aesthetic, and authority requirements.

Commercial & Financial Management

  • Maintain absolute fiscal accountability for project budgets exceeding AED 5 Billion.

  • Monitor cash flow, cost-to-complete reporting, and overall project profitability metrics.

  • Lead the evaluation and negotiation of major variation orders, extensions of time (EOT), and contractual claims.

Stakeholder & Authority Relations

  • Act as the primary executive liaison for clients, principal consultants, joint-venture partners, and Tier-1 subcontractors.

  • Manage approvals and maintain strong relationships with Abu Dhabi municipalities and utility authorities.

Candidate Requirements

This is one of the premier construction executive jobs in the GCC. To be considered, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Experience & Education

  • Total Experience: Minimum 20+ years of verifiable experience in civil construction and project management.

  • Leadership Experience: Minimum 10 years serving in a senior executive capacity (e.g., Project Director, Operations Director, or Country Manager).

  • Financial Scope: Proven history of successfully delivering individual or portfolio projects valued at AED 3–5 Billion or above.

  • Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or Architecture is mandatory. Chartership (MRICS, MCIOB) or PMP certification is highly advantageous.

Technical & Sector Expertise

  • High-Rise: Direct experience managing high-rise residential or commercial towers exceeding 30 stories.

  • Residential & Infrastructure: Proven background as a Luxury Villa Project Director overseeing premium master-planned communities, including extensive external infrastructure works.

  • Geographic Experience: Extensive, mandatory UAE/GCC project experience with an active network and deep understanding of regional procurement and local regulations.