Senior Interior Designer

Client of AE Recruitment; Dubai; On-site; AED 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Client of AE Recruitment in Dubai is seeking an experienced interior designer to lead projects from concept to delivery. The role requires building client relationships, mentoring junior staff, and ensuring design quality in various settings, including hospitality and healthcare.

The ideal candidate will have over 7 years of relevant experience, demonstrating a strong portfolio with Middle Eastern aesthetics, and proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD and SketchUp.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of interior design experience across hospitality, healthcare, residential.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects from inception to completion.
• Experience with high-profile clients in the Middle East.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects end-to-end ensuring design excellence.
• Build strong relationships with clients and translate their vision.
• Guide and inspire junior designers with mentorship.

Skills

Interior design

Client relationship management

Project management

Design software proficiency (AutoCAD, SketchUp)

Strong communication skills

FF&E experience

Tools

Photoshop

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Enscape

Adobe InDesign

Job description

Key Responsibilities

Lead projects end-to-end from early concept and narrative through to detailed design documentation and on-site delivery, ensuring design excellence at every stage.

Build strong, trusting relationships with clients, deeply understanding their aspirations, brand and culture, and translating these into compelling design solutions.

Develop bold, culturally resonant design concepts expressed through sketches, mood boards, materials palettes and 3D models.

Guide and inspire junior and intermediate designers by providing clear direction, constructive feedback and day‑to‑day mentoring to nurture their growth.

Oversee budgets and programmes, making smart, design‑led decisions on materials and finishes that balance quality, value and longevity.

Curate materials, furniture and finishes with a refined eye, responsive to local climate, cultural expectations and sustainability criteria.

Collaborate seamlessly with architects, consultants, contractors and suppliers to protect the design intent and resolve challenges proactively.

Keep ahead of regional and global design trends, materials and technologies, bringing fresh thinking and innovation into each project.

Prepare and deliver confident, engaging client presentations that clearly communicate ideas and the design journey.

Carry out site visits and inspections to monitor construction quality and alignment with the design vision, resolving issues quickly and professionally.

Champion sustainable, energy‑efficient design strategies tailored to the Middle Eastern climate.

Thoughtfully integrate local cultural elements and traditions so spaces feel authentic, welcoming and contextually rooted.

Proficiency in Photoshop, AutoCAD, SketchUp and Enscape is essential; Adobe InDesign is highly valued.

Strong design sensibility with excellent spatial awareness and a meticulous eye for detail.

High personal standards, with rigor around process, documentation and quality.

Clear, confident communication skills and strong time‑management, able to handle multiple high‑calibre projects simultaneously.

Proven ability to drive and defend exceptional design outcomes in a collaborative setting.

Genuine passion for design, creativity and continual learning, with the ambition to grow within the industry.

Strong FF&E experience is essential.

Qualifications

Experience required: 7+ years of interior design experience, ideally with a portfolio spanning hospitality, healthcare, commercial and high‑end residential projects.

Experience in the Middle East and/or projects that celebrate Middle Eastern aesthetics, culture and lifestyle.

Demonstrable track record of managing complex design projects from inception to completion.

Experience working closely with discerning, high‑profile clients and delivering bespoke, highly considered design solutions.

Previous responsibility for guiding or leading junior team members.

Proficiency in industry‑standard software (AutoCAD, SketchUp, 3D rendering tools, Revit) and Microsoft Office.

Strong knowledge of regional and international suppliers and materials appropriate to Middle Eastern climates and standards.

Comfortable with regular site supervision and quality control.

A strong, design‑led portfolio that demonstrates conceptual strength and refined execution, particularly in the Middle East.