154 Creative Directors jobs in the United Arab Emirates

We are looking for a talented and experienced Design Director / Design Principal that can bridge the link between creative architects and clients. This is a senior role for leaders who can interpret client briefs, turning them into award-winning innovative solutions and delivering timeless and sustainable projects. As a Design Director / Design Principal , you will be responsible for leading our creative teams and inspiring by developing new design ideas, looking at challenges from fresh viewpoints. In addition to communicating our company's creative vision to design teams and stakeholders, you should be able to adhere to deadlines and manage budget constraints to deliver to the highest standards of quality.

RMJM is seeking to appoint a Senior Design Director to support the continued growth of our Dubai Design Studio.

Responsibilities will include:

1. Manage and inspire a multi-cultural, multi-disciplined design teams through energetic and dynamic leadership
2. Sustain and develop relationships with existing and new clients
3. Develop designs that are firmly rooted in a strong narrative, pragmatic and respond to brief and context
4. Strong presentation of design ideas and design progress, supported by a design team, to the Client
5. Lead major projects by providing design and technical leadership
6. Able to effectively manage project commercial and financial responsibilities
7. Mentor staff and guide them towards professional excellence

Qualifications and Skills:

1. Master's degree in architecture
2. 20+ years of experience in architecture
3. Fluent, articulate and succinct presentation skills
4. A creative and enthusiastic leader to work with our existing team based in our Dubai Studio
5. Previous experience of working within leading international architectural design practices
6. Experience designing and delivering high-end Hospitality, Residential and Commercial projects
7. Have an existing portfolio of clients and contacts
8. A proven track record of winning and developing new business
9. Have detailed knowledge of the market in the Middle East region
10. Ability to lead bids and opportunities
11. In-depth understanding of Project Commercial and Financial Management
12. Conversant with BIM and other design technology

Include subject title "Design Director (20+ Years of Experience)"

The Design Manager oversees all aspects of the studio's design output, including project management, scheduling, team coordination, client relations, and administrative tasks. This role involves close collaboration with designers, clients, vendors, and other stakeholders to ensure timely project delivery, adherence to contracts, budget management, and maintaining the highest quality standards.

Success in this role requires extensive experience in luxury residential, hospitality, and commercial markets within the UAE, strong creative and management skills, and the ability to translate client briefs into exceptional designs.

Responsibilities:

1. Lead a team of designers and production staff, prioritizing client management and ensuring effective communication, clearly defined production schedules and deadlines.
2. Collaborate with HR to define roles, performance management, participate in interviews, and assist in the selection of new team members.
3. Collaborate with Sales Team on proposals and deliverables for scheduling new business.
4. Collaborate with Marketing team for content creation, opportunities and final project photos, videos, etc.
5. Manage deliverables for the design team, including interns, provide training, performance management, and development of KPIs, and identify growth opportunities.
6. Communicate the company's brand message through design, presentations, and professional conduct.
7. Create, implement, and maintain processes to optimize deliverables, streamline workflows, and improve software management, ensuring high system performance and production efficiency.
8. Represent the company at industry events, speaking engagements, and through social media platforms.
9. Foster strong relationships with clients to encourage repeat business and referrals for business development.
10. Effectively communicate with clients, vendors, and team members to understand design needs, preferences, and objectives, translating them into actionable project requirements.
11. Manage your own projects from concept to completion, ensuring alignment with client expectations and timely delivery of presentations and drawings.
12. Oversee project supervision both onsite and remotely, maintaining communication with clients and contractors.
13. Negotiate pricing, contracts, and terms with suppliers to secure cost-effective solutions while maintaining high quality standards.
14. Conduct regular project meetings to review progress, address challenges, and provide leadership and support to the team, maintaining a positive and collaborative work environment.
15. Oversee project documentation, invoicing, budget tracking, and resource allocation, ensuring accurate records are maintained.
16. Manage and organize the materials library, regularly reviewing samples to ensure they meet the studio's needs, while maintaining strong relationships with suppliers to facilitate timely procurement and updates on new materials.
17. Provide regular progress and performance reports to management, along with solutions to any issues.
18. Stay updated on industry trends to ensure the studio remains relevant and competitive.

• Bachelor's degree in Interior Design / Architecture.
• Proven experience as a Design Manager or Senior Interior Designer with a strong passion for creative design.
• Expertise in luxury residential, hospitality, and commercial interior design.
• Proficient in software such as AutoCAD, Photoshop, Illustrator, Microsoft Excel / word, PowerPoint, SketchUp and 3DS Max.
• Strong creative, organizational, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a large team of staff with strong leadership, mentoring, and interpersonal skills.
• Valid UAE driving license and vehicle.
• Must be flexible and available for international travel based on business needs.

Based in Dubai
Excellent Salary Offered
Responsible for leading and managing the design team for all residential and commercial projects including overseeing the design process from concept to construction, ensuring that all designs are innovative, functional, and meet the project’s budget and timeline. The role will involve the coordination of master planning, architectural, structural, engineering (MEP), landscape and interior design disciplines as well as sustainable and health and safety design.
Requirements

• Minimum 15 years of experience in design management in the real estate industry.
• Degree in Architecture, and/or Engineering, post-graduate degree preferred.
• Experience in MS Office, AutoCAD, Adobe In-Design, and Photoshop.

We are looking for a talented and experienced Design Director / Design Principal that can bridge the link between creative architects and clients. This is a senior role for leaders who can interpret client briefs, turning them into award-winning innovative solutions and delivering timeless and sustainable projects. As a Design Director / Design Principal, you will be responsible for leading our creative teams and inspiring by developing new design ideas, looking at challenges from fresh viewpoints. In addition to communicating our company’s creative vision to design teams and stakeholders, you should be able to adhere to deadlines and manage budget constraints to deliver to the highest standards of quality.

RMJM is seeking to appoint a Technical Design Director – Technical Advisory (Site-Based, Landmark Project), to support the continued growth of our Abu Dhabi Studio.

Responsibilities will include, but may not be limited to:

On-Site Technical Leadership

• Act as the lead technical liaison between the design team, contractors, and client representatives, ensuring adherence to approved drawings and specifications.
• Resolve construction-related design conflicts in real time, providing practical solutions without compromising design integrity.
• Oversee shop drawings, material submittals, and RFIs, ensuring compliance with design intent and project requirements.

Quality Control & Compliance

• Conduct regular site inspections to verify workmanship, materials, and systems meet technical and quality standards.
• Ensure all construction activities comply with local regulations, international codes, and sustainability targets (e.g., LEED, BREEAM).
• Lead defects prevention and resolution, coordinating with contractors to implement corrective actions.

Constructability & Value Engineering

• Review and advise on construction methodologies, sequencing, and logistics to optimize efficiency and safety.
• Collaborate with contractors to identify value engineering opportunities while maintaining design excellence.
• Assess temporary works, structural interfaces, and MEP coordination to mitigate risks.
• Identify and escalate critical technical risks (e.g., structural, façade, waterproofing) that could impact schedule or budget.
• Prepare daily/weekly technical reports for project leadership, documenting progress, issues, and resolutions.
• Support the testing & commissioning process, ensuring systems perform as designed.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Chartered Engineer/Architect (PE, RIBA, AIA, or equivalent) preferred.
• 15+ years in technical design and construction supervision, with experience on large-scale, landmark projects (high-rise, mixed-use, or cultural developments preferred).
• Strong background in on-site problem-solving, with expertise in façade systems, structural interfaces, MEP coordination, and waterproofing (if relevant to site conditions).
• In-depth knowledge of construction techniques, BIM coordination, and modern delivery methods (design-build, fast-track, etc.).
• Familiarity with local building codes, permits, and inspection processes.
• Proficiency in BIM/Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks, and construction management software.

Working Conditions:

• On-site based (Abu Dhabi), Full-time, Monday to Saturday

We thank all applicants for their interest. However, due to the high number of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way .

Our people at JLL and JLL Technologies are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best most talented people and empowering them to thrive grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether youve got deep experience in commercial real estate skilled trades or technology or youre looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

About JLL

Were JLLa leading professional services and investment management firm specializing in real estate. We have operations in over 80 countries and a workforce of over 92000 individuals around the world who help real estate owners occupiers and investors achieve their business ambitions. As a global Fortune 500 company we also have an inherent responsibility to drive sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Thats why were committed to our purpose to shape the future of real estate for a better world. Were using the most advanced technology to create rewarding opportunities amazing spaces and sustainable real estate solutions for our clients our people and our communities.

Our core values of teamwork ethics and excellence are also fundamental to everything we do and were honored to be recognized with awards for our success by organizations both globally and locally.

Creating a diverse and inclusive culture where we all feel welcomed valued and empowered to achieve our full potential is important to who we are today and where were headed in the future. And we know that unique backgrounds experiences and perspectives help us think bigger spark innovation and succeed together.

If this job description resonates with you we encourage you to apply even if you dont meet all of the requirements below. Were interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table

Project & Development Services - MENA

JLL Project & Development Services (P&DS) MENA provides consulting design management and build services to tenant and owners leveraging technology and digital solutions to drive outstanding service delivery.

We bring a life-cycle perspective to our clients from development solutions to our core services in programme project and cost management and consulting in digital solutions tenancy management sustainability leisure & entertainment and workplace & design.

Role

The Project Design Director will be responsible for leading and managing the design aspects of complex corporate projects working closely with multiple stakeholders. This role requires a strong design background and the ability to oversee and direct design teams. The Project Design Director will be expected to successfully deliver high-quality design solutions that meet client specifications adhere to budgets and timelines and contribute to the companys profitability.

What this job involves

• Manage the design process for multiple projects from concept to completion
• Collaborate with and manage multiple stakeholders including clients internal teams and external partners
• Develop and implement innovative design strategies that align with client goals and project requirements
• Oversee and mentor design teams ensuring high-quality output and adherence to company standards
• Conduct and lead client presentations effectively communicating design concepts and solutions
• Manage project budgets timelines and resources to ensure successful project delivery
• Review and optimize project programmes ensuring projects are completed on time and within scope
• Oversee on-site management coordinating with contractors and supervising construction activities
• Conduct regular site visits to monitor progress quality and adherence to design specifications
• Implement and manage risk mitigation strategies throughout the project lifecycle
• Coordinate and lead project meetings with internal teams clients and external stakeholders
• Develop and maintain project documentation including reports change orders and status updates
• Stay current with industry trends technologies and best practices in design and project management
• Contribute to business development efforts including preparing bids and proposals
• Ensure compliance with JLL procedures standards and relevant regulatory requirements
• Foster a culture of creativity collaboration and continuous improvement within the design team

Desired skills and experience for this

• Degree qualified in architecture interior design or related field
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in corporate interior design with at least 5 years in a leadership role
• Professional certification (e.g. NCIDQ LEED WELL) preferred
• Strong portfolio demonstrating a range of successful design projects
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships at all levels
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and industry engagement

What you can expect from us

We succeed together and believe the best inspire the best so we invest in supporting each other learning together and celebrating our success.

Our Total Rewards program reflects our commitment to helping you achieve your career ambitions recognizing your contributions investing in your well-being and providing competitive benefits and pay.

We cant wait to see where your ambitions take you at JLL. Apply today

Location:

If this job description resonates with you we encourage you to apply even if you dont meet all of the requirements. Were interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table

JLL Privacy Notice

Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) together with its subsidiaries and affiliates is a leading global provider of real estate and investment management services. We take our responsibility to protect the personal information provided to us seriously. Generally the personal information we collect from you are for the purposes of processing in connection with JLLs recruitment process. We endeavour to keep your personal information secure with appropriate level of security and keep for as long as we need it for legitimate business or legal reasons. We will then delete it safely and securely.

For more information about how JLL processes your personal data please view our Candidate Privacy Statement.

For additional details please see our career site pages for each country.

For candidates in the United States please see a full copy of our Equal Employment Opportunity policy here.

Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process including the online application and/or overall selection process you may email us at . This email is only to request an accommodation. Please direct any other general recruiting inquiries to our Contact Us page > I want to work for JLL.

Required Experience:

Director

Technical Design Director (Site-Based, Landmark Project), 15+ Years' Experience. RMJM is seeking to appoint the Technical Design Director – Technical Advisory (Site-Based, Landmark Project), to support the continued growth of our Abu Dhabi Studio.

• On-Site Technical Leadership
  • Act as the lead technical liaison between the design team, contractors, and client representatives, ensuring adherence to approved drawings and specifications.
  • Resolve construction-related design conflicts in real time, providing practical solutions without compromising design integrity.
  • Oversee shop drawings, material submittals, and RFIs, ensuring compliance with design intent and project requirements.
• Quality Control & Compliance
  • Conduct regular site inspections to verify workmanship, materials, and systems meet technical and quality standards.
  • Ensure all construction activities comply with local regulations, international codes, and sustainability targets (e.g., LEED, BREEAM).
  • Lead defects prevention and resolution, coordinating with contractors to implement corrective actions.
• Constructability & Value Engineering
  • Review and advise on construction methodologies, sequencing, and logistics to optimize efficiency and safety.
  • Collaborate with contractors to identify value engineering opportunities while maintaining design excellence.
  • Assess temporary works, structural interfaces, and MEP coordination to mitigate risks.
  • Identify and escalate critical technical risks (e.g., structural, façade, waterproofing) that could impact schedule or budget.
  • Prepare daily / weekly technical reports for project leadership, documenting progress, issues, and resolutions.
  • Support the testing & commissioning process, ensuring systems perform as designed.

• Chartered Engineer / Architect (PE, RIBA, AIA, or equivalent) preferred.
• 15+ years in technical design and construction supervision, with experience on large-scale, landmark projects (high-rise, mixed-use, or cultural developments preferred).
• Strong background in on-site problem-solving, with expertise in façade systems, structural interfaces, MEP coordination, and waterproofing (if relevant to site conditions).
• In-depth knowledge of construction techniques, BIM coordination, and modern delivery methods (design-build, fast-track, etc.).
• Familiarity with local building codes, permits, and inspection processes.
• Proficiency in BIM / Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks, and construction management software.

• On-site based (Abu Dhabi), Full-time, Monday to Saturday

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way .

Our people at JLL and JLL Technologies are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you've got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you're looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

About JLL

We're JLL—a leading professional services and investment management firm specializing in real estate. We have operations in over 80 countries and a workforce of over 92,000 individuals around the world who help real estate owners, occupiers and investors achieve their business ambitions. As a global Fortune 500 company, we also have an inherent responsibility to drive sustainability and corporate social responsibility. That's why we're committed to our purpose to shape the future of real estate for a better world. We're using the most advanced technology to create rewarding opportunities, amazing spaces and sustainable real estate solutions for our clients, our people and our communities.

Our core values of teamwork, ethics and excellence are also fundamental to everything we do and we're honored to be recognized with awards for our success by organizations both globally and locally.

Creating a diverse and inclusive culture where we all feel welcomed, valued and empowered to achieve our full potential is important to who we are today and where we're headed in the future. And we know that unique backgrounds, experiences and perspectives help us think bigger, spark innovation and succeed together.

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if you don't meet all of the requirements below. We're interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table

Project & Development Services - MENA

JLL Project & Development Services (P&DS) MENA provides consulting, design, management and build services to tenant and owners, leveraging technology and digital solutions to drive outstanding service delivery.

We bring a life-cycle perspective to our clients, from development solutions to our core services in programme, project and cost management and consulting in digital solutions, tenancy management, sustainability, leisure & entertainment, and workplace & design.

Role

The Project Design Director will be responsible for leading and managing the design aspects of complex corporate projects, working closely with multiple stakeholders. This role requires a strong design background and the ability to oversee and direct design teams. The Project Design Director will be expected to successfully deliver high-quality design solutions that meet client specifications, adhere to budgets and timelines, and contribute to the company's profitability.

What this job involves

• Manage the design process for multiple projects, from concept to completion
• Collaborate with and manage multiple stakeholders, including clients, internal teams, and external partners
• Develop and implement innovative design strategies that align with client goals and project requirements
• Oversee and mentor design teams, ensuring high-quality output and adherence to company standards
• Conduct and lead client presentations, effectively communicating design concepts and solutions
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and resources to ensure successful project delivery
• Review and optimize project programmes, ensuring projects are completed on time and within scope
• Oversee on-site management, coordinating with contractors and supervising construction activities
• Conduct regular site visits to monitor progress, quality, and adherence to design specifications
• Implement and manage risk mitigation strategies throughout the project lifecycle
• Coordinate and lead project meetings with internal teams, clients, and external stakeholders
• Develop and maintain project documentation, including reports, change orders, and status updates
• Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and best practices in design and project management
• Contribute to business development efforts, including preparing bids and proposals
• Ensure compliance with JLL procedures, standards, and relevant regulatory requirements
• Foster a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the design team

Desired skills and experience for this

What you can expect from us

We succeed together and believe the best inspire the best, so we invest in supporting each other, learning together and celebrating our success.

Our Total Rewards program reflects our commitment to helping you achieve your career ambitions, recognizing your contributions, investing in your well-being and providing competitive benefits and pay.

We can't wait to see where your ambitions take you at JLL. Apply today

Location :

Abu Dhabi, ARE, Dubai, ARE

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if you don't meet all of the requirements. We're interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table

JLL Privacy Notice

Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading global provider of real estate and investment management services. We take our responsibility to protect the personal information provided to us seriously. Generally the personal information we collect from you are for the purposes of processing in connection with JLL's recruitment process. We endeavour to keep your personal information secure with appropriate level of security and keep for as long as we need it for legitimate business or legal reasons. We will then delete it safely and securely.

For more information about how JLL processes your personal data, please view our Candidate Privacy Statement.

For additional details please see our career site pages for each country.

For candidates in the United States, please see a full copy of our Equal Employment Opportunity policy here.

Jones Lang LaSalle ("JLL") is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process – including the online application and / or overall selection process – you may email us at om. This email is only to request an accommodation. Please direct any other general recruiting inquiries to our Contact Us page >

I want to work for JLL.