Head of Free Zone Planning & Property Management

Abu Dhabi Airports; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

An opportunity has arisen for a strategic and experienced professional to join Abu Dhabi Airports as Head of Free Zone Planning & Property Management. In this leadership role, you will oversee the planning and execution of Free Zone development projects, ensuring alignment with the organization’s vision. Candidates should have extensive experience in large-scale development projects and a strong background in urban planning and real estate.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience.
• At least 5 years in airport development or large-scale projects.
• Strong background in mixed-use developments and project supervision.

Responsibilities

• Manage the Free Zone’s development strategy and project execution.
• Coordinate project efforts across multiple departments.
• Lead CAPEX management and ensure project delivery aligns with strategic goals.

Skills

Leadership skills

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Engineering, Real Estate

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Abu Dhabi Airports is seeking a strategic, experienced, and forward-thinking professional to join our team as Head of Free Zone Planning & Property Management. In this pivotal leadership role, you will oversee the end-to-end planning and execution of Free Zone development projects, ensuring alignment with AD Airports’ long-term vision and commercial objectives.

About the Role

The role is responsible for managing the Free Zone’s short- and long-term development strategy. It involves oversight of client scope management, business development analysis, program management, and development briefs. This includes updating master plans, development management, ensuring on-time and within-budget project delivery, property inspections, and effective handover to clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement short- and long-term Free Zone development plans aligned with Abu Dhabi Airports’ strategic goals.
• Drive business case development, scope definition, and feasibility assessments for new projects.
• Act as the central point of contact for project coordination with departments such as Procurement, Facilities Management, Finance, and Airport Operations.
• Supervise land bank allocation, master plan updates, tenant fit-outs, and third-party development compliance.
• Evaluate and manage CAPEX, project budgets, timelines, and ROI.
• Lead handover and close-out phases for completed developments, ensuring seamless transition to clients and property management teams.
• Prepare periodic reports and present recommendations to senior leadership.
• Champion change management, team development, and stakeholder engagement.

What You’ll Bring

• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience, with at least 5 years in airport development or equivalent large-scale development projects.
• Strong background in mixed-use developments, real estate, urban planning, construction, and project supervision.
• Proven ability to manage complex developments and align with commercial outcomes.
• Working knowledge of software including MS Office; experience with property, construction, or project management tools is an advantage.
• Strong leadership, delegation, and communication skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Engineering, Real Estate, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.

Why Join Abu Dhabi Airports?

This is your opportunity to work with one of the region’s leading aviation entities, playing a key role in shaping Abu Dhabi’s Free Zone strategy. You’ll work on impactful projects that drive economic growth, innovation, and connectivity while collaborating with industry leaders and government stakeholders.