Director - Development - Abu Dhabi

Sobha LLC; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

Sobha LLC is seeking a senior professional to lead strategic real estate design and delivery oversight of large-scale development projects in Abu Dhabi. The role involves driving development strategies, managing teams, and ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks.

The ideal candidate will have 20+ years of experience in the GCC/UAE real estate sector, with strong analytical and financial skills. A bachelor’s degree in a related field is essential, with a master's degree preferred.

Qualifications

• 20+ years of leadership experience in property, infrastructure, or large-scale development.
• Strong knowledge of AUH-UAE planning and permitting authorities.
• Excellent communication skills for managing stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Develop and drive the company’s development strategy for master-planned communities.
• Lead entitlement processes and regulatory applications across UAE authorities.
• Monitor project delivery, adjusting plans to meet schedule and compliance requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Financial modeling

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Architecture, Real Estate, Engineering

Master’s/MBA preferred

Job description

Role Purpose

Lead strategic real estate design, urban planning, feasibility assessment, approvals, design development, and delivery oversight of large‑scale development projects spanning residential high rise, villas, commercial and infrastructure roads, and utilities components in line with business objectives and Abu Dhabi regulatory frameworks.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Develop and drive the company’s development strategy for master‑planned communities, infrastructure, and mixed‑use developments.
• Conduct market analysis, investment feasibility, competitive benchmarking, and risk assessments.
• Lead entitlement processes and regulatory applications across UAE authorities.
• Manage multidisciplinary teams including planners, designers, consultants, and external stakeholders.
• Oversee design approval workflows and ensure conformance with standards and sustainability goals.
• Monitor project delivery, adjusting plans to meet schedule, quality, budget, and compliance requirements.
• Implement digital tools, analytics, and delivery frameworks to advance development excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Architecture, Real Estate, Engineering, or related field (Master’s/MBA preferred).
• 20+ years of leadership experience in property, infrastructure, or large‑scale development within the GCC/UAE.
• Strong commercial, analytical, and financial skills including feasibility and valuation modelling.
• Knowledge of AUH‑UAE planning and permitting authorities, real‑estate law, and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management capability.