Design Manager - AECOM Middle East - Dubai, UAE

AECOM Middle East Ltd; Dubai; On-site; AED 334,800 - 446,400; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

International exposure

Professional development opportunities

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

AECOM Middle East Ltd is seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead multidisciplinary design teams in Dubai. This role involves overseeing large-scale creative projects, ensuring design excellence, and blending creative leadership with technical precision.

The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's degree in Design or Architecture, 10 years of experience in design environments, and proficiency in design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite. Join AECOM to shape landmark projects that define future cities in the Middle East.

Qualifications

• 10 years of experience in multidisciplinary design environments, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record of managing large-scale design projects in the UAE or GCC region.
• Strong understanding of UX/UI principles, design systems, and user-centric development.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and creative direction for diverse projects, ensuring quality and innovation.
• Manage and mentor a team of designers and architects.
• Oversee project design from concept to delivery.

Skills

Design management and leadership

UX/UI and digital design integration

Multidisciplinary coordination

Concept development and presentation

Project delivery and client engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Design, Architecture, or related field

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite

Sketch

Figma

AutoCAD

Job description

Design Manager - AECOM Middle East - Dubai, UAE

Position Overview

AECOM Middle East is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Design Manager to lead multidisciplinary design teams in Dubai. This position offers an opportunity to drive innovation, oversee large-scale creative projects, and ensure design excellence across architecture, infrastructure, and digital environments. The ideal candidate will blend creative leadership with technical precision and a deep understanding of the UAE's design landscape.

Job Details: Country: UAE; City: Dubai; Industry: Architecture / Engineering Design; Function: Design Management / Creative Leadership; Salary: 30000-40000 monthly (Market estimated); Gender: Any; Candidate Nationality: Any; Job Type: Full-time.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and creative direction for diverse projects, ensuring world‑class standards of quality and innovation.
• Manage and mentor a team of designers, architects, and creative professionals to deliver high‑impact design outcomes.
• Establish and enforce design standards, guidelines, and workflows to maintain consistency and brand alignment.
• Oversee project design from concept to delivery, balancing creativity with technical and financial feasibility.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including engineers, planners, and digital specialists to integrate design excellence across all project phases.
• Present and articulate design strategies to clients, stakeholders, and internal leadership.
• Apply design thinking methodologies to enhance user experience and solve complex design challenges.
• Drive business growth through active participation in client proposals, pitches, and strategic design presentations.
• Stay informed of global and regional design trends, sustainability practices, and emerging technologies.

Ideal Profile

• Bachelor's degree in Design, Architecture, or related field (Master's preferred).
• 10 years of experience in multidisciplinary design environments, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record of managing large‑scale design projects in the UAE or GCC region.
• Strong understanding of UX/UI principles, design systems, and user‑centric development.
• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, Figma, AutoCAD, and other leading design tools.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strategic mindset with ability to balance aesthetics, functionality, and business goals.
• Culturally aware, adaptable, and experienced in cross‑functional collaboration.

Skills Set

• Design management and leadership
• UX/UI and digital design integration
• Multidisciplinary coordination
• Concept development and presentation
• Project delivery and client engagement

Why Join Us

• Shape landmark design projects across the Middle East that define future cities.
• Work within a global firm that encourages creativity, innovation, and collaboration.
• Benefit from international exposure, professional development, and career advancement opportunities.

About the Company

AECOM Middle East is a global design and infrastructure consultancy headquartered in Dubai, delivering high‑performance solutions across architecture, engineering, and urban development. With deep technical expertise and a focus on sustainable innovation, AECOM partners with governments and developers to design smarter, more resilient communities across the GCC and beyond.