Are you a skilled design professional looking for a Senior Architect Job in one of the most exciting cities in the world? AECOM is looking for talented leaders to join their Building Engineering team in Dubai South for 2026. This is your chance to work on world class projects that change how people live and move. AECOM is a global leader in infrastructure and design that helps communities thrive every day.
AECOM is a trusted firm that partners with clients to solve very complex building challenges. If you want to build a legacy for future generations, this role is perfect for you.
Job Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Title | Senior Architect |
| Company | AECOM Middle East Limited |
| Sector | Building Engineering / Construction |
| Website | https://aecom.com |
| Hiring Status | Urgent Hiring |
| Location | Dubai South, UAE |
| Work Type | On-Site |
| Contract | Full-Time / Contract |
| Experience | 6+ Years |
| ATS Keywords | BIM, Revit, Design Management, Coordination, RIBA |
| Expected Salary | AED 25,000 to AED 35,000 (Estimated) |
| Visa | Visa Sponsorship available |
| Apply Link | Official AECOM Careers Page |
Company Overview
AECOM is a global giant in the world of professional services. They are the top infrastructure consulting firm in the world. With over 50,000 professionals, they work on projects that make a real difference. In 2024, AECOM reported a huge revenue of 16.1 billion dollars. This shows they are a stable and growing company for any professional. They have a strong presence in the Middle East and have been building icons in the UAE for decades.
Expats love working at AECOM because of the diverse culture. You will work with people from all over the globe. The company values bold ideas and big dreams. They provide amazing training programs to help you grow your leadership skills. Working here means you are part of a team that champions your career goals. It is a welcoming workplace built on respect and community.
💡 Pro Tip: AECOM values professionals who understand BIM (Building Information Modeling). Make sure your CV shows your technical skills clearly.
Why This Job is Great for You
This Senior Architect Job involves leading high profile projects from start to finish. You will not just draw plans. You will manage teams and make big design decisions. You will report to an Associate or a senior team member who will guide you. This role is based in the Building Engineering department. This team is known for creating sustainable and resilient structures.
There are many growth opportunities at AECOM. They want you to move up into leadership roles. You will work on moderate to high complexity tasks that keep your work life exciting. Dubai South is the future of the city. It is near the new Al Maktoum International Airport. This means you will be at the heart of the next big construction wave in the UAE.
The work environment is collaborative. You will coordinate with internal teams like MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) and structural engineers. This helps you learn how different parts of a building come together. It is a fast paced but rewarding career path.
Key Responsibilities
- Design Leadership: Lead architectural design and BIM modelling to meet client goals.
- Team Management: Guide junior staff and make sure they follow the design brief.
- Quality Control: Conduct self checks and reviews to keep work accurate and complete.
- Coordination: Work closely with MEP and structural consultants to fix design clashes.
- Client Relations: Present design progress and technical packages to clients with confidence.
- Safety Standards: Ensure all designs follow Safety in Design (SiD) principles for workers and users.
- Budget Management: Manage resources to keep the project within the discipline budget.
Requirements & Qualifications
Mandatory Requirements
- Education: You must have a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or a Master’s degree.
- Experience: At least 6 years of experience after your undergraduate degree.
- Software: Strong skills in Revit and other architectural design software.
- Leadership: Proven ability to lead small to medium scale project teams.
Nice to Have
- Professional Certifications: RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) Part 2 or AIA (American Institute of Architects) is preferred.
- Language: Arabic is a plus but not required as English is the main work language.
- International Experience: Experience working on large scale infrastructure projects.
✅ Good News: This is a 2026 role, meaning the company is planning for long term growth. It is a stable career choice.
Salary & Benefits
Working in Dubai offers many financial perks. The most famous one is the Tax-Free Salary. This means you keep every dirham you earn. AECOM also offers a range of benefits to its staff members.
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- Visa Sponsorship
| Benefit Type | What is included? |
|---|---|
| Base Salary | Paid monthly in AED (No income tax). |
| Accommodation included | Typically provided as a housing allowance in your monthly pay. |
| Transportation | Travel allowance or company provided transport options. |
| Medical Insurance | Comprehensive health cover for the employee. |
| Full processing of work permits and residency visas. | |
| Vacation | Paid time off and annual flight tickets to your home country. |
| Retirement | Retirement savings plan and stock purchase options. |
End of Service Gratuity: When you finish your contract, you receive a lump sum payment. This is calculated based on your final salary and years of service. It is a great way to save for your future.
Who Should Apply
This job is not for everyone. It is for architects who want to lead. If you are someone who enjoys solving puzzles and working with people, you will fit in well. Here is our fit guide:
- The Leader: You know how to motivate a team and get the best out of people.
- The Tech Expert: You are comfortable with advanced BIM tools and technical codes.
- The Coordinator: You can talk to engineers and clients without getting confused.
- The Problem Solver: You find ways to make designs better and cheaper without losing quality.
About Location: Dubai South
Dubai South is an emerging urban area. It is designed to be the center of logistics and aviation. It is very close to the Expo City site. The work model here is usually on-site during weekdays.
- Lifestyle: Modern, clean, and very safe for families and individuals.
- Cost of Living: If you earn AED 30,000, you might spend AED 10,000 on rent and living. This leaves you with AED 20,000 in savings every month.
- Weather: It is sunny all year. It gets very hot in summer, so most work is indoors.
- Transport: The Dubai Metro connects many areas, but a car is helpful in Dubai South.
Day in the Life of a Senior Architect in Dubai
“My morning starts with a team meeting to review BIM models. I spend the afternoon at the site in Dubai South to check progress. Then, I have a video call with international consultants to coordinate MEP designs. Before I leave, I review a junior architect’s work to ensure quality. Every day feels like I am helping build the future of this amazing city.”
How to Apply
The application process for this Senior Architect Job is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure you are considered for the role.
- Application: Submit your CV and portfolio through the AECOM portal.
- Screening: A recruiter will check if you meet the 6 year experience mark.
- Technical Assessment: You may be asked to show your Revit skills or design portfolio.
- Interview Rounds: You will talk to the department lead and HR (Human Resources).
- Offer: If you are the right fit, you will receive an offer letter.
- Visa Process: AECOM will start your Visa Sponsorship and background checks.
The whole process usually takes 3 to 6 weeks. Be patient but stay prepared.
CV Tip: Highlight your “Action + Tool + Result.” For example: “Led a team of 5 using Revit to deliver a project 10 percent under budget.” This makes your CV readable by software and humans.
⚠️ Important: Make sure your portfolio includes clear drawings and finished project photos. Visuals are key for an architect.
Visa & Legal Corner
Moving to the UAE requires legal paperwork. AECOM is an established entity and will handle most of this for you. Most expat roles come with Visa Sponsorship. This is typically a 2 year renewable work visa.
Document Checklist:
- Valid Passport (at least 6 months left).
- Attested Education Degrees (verified by your home country and UAE embassy).
- Experience Letters from previous employers.
- Clear Background Check or Police Clearance.
- Medical Test (Required once you arrive in Dubai).
Note that probation periods in the UAE are usually 6 months. During this time, the employer and employee can see if the fit is right. Always read your final contract carefully before signing.
FAQ
1. Is there an age limit for this Senior Architect Job?
There is no strict age limit, but you must be physically fit to work on-site and meet the experience criteria of 6 plus years.
2. Does AECOM provide accommodation?
They usually provide a housing allowance as part of your total salary package. This helps you choose where you want to live in Dubai.
3. How long does the visa process take?
Once you sign the offer, it typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to get your entry permit for the UAE.
4. Is the salary really tax-free?
Yes. The UAE does not charge income tax on your earnings. You keep the full amount mentioned in your contract.
5. Can I bring my family with me?
Yes. With a Senior Architect salary, you can sponsor your spouse and children for residency visas.
Disclaimer
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- Always apply through the official AECOM careers link provided above.