Head of Free Zone Planning & Property Management

Abu Dhabi Airports; Abu Dhabi Emirate; On-site; AED 48,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aviation entity is seeking a strategic Head of Free Zone Planning & Property Management in Abu Dhabi. You will oversee development projects, ensuring alignment with the organization’s long-term vision. The ideal candidate has over 10 years of experience in relevant fields, including large-scale development and urban planning. This role offers a chance to shape significant projects that contribute to economic growth and innovation.

Benefits

Work with industry leaders

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience, with at least 5 years in airport development or large-scale development projects.
• Strong background in mixed-use developments and urban planning.
• Proven ability to manage complex developments.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning and execution of Free Zone development projects.
• Drive business case development and feasibility assessments.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and ROI.

Skills

Leadership

Communication Skills

Project Management

Business Development

Education

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

Master’s degree

Tools

MS Office

Project Management Software

Job description

Head of Free Zone Planning & Property Management

Head of Free Zone Planning & Property Management

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.

Seniority level

Seniority level

Director

Employment type

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Job function

Business Development and Project Management

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Head Of • Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates