Senior Architect - Design

Job description / Role

Our client, a leading real estate developer, is seeking a Senior Architect with strong experience across the full design lifecycle, from concept through design development and authority approvals. The ideal candidate should have a solid understanding of UAE authority requirements, particularly in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and the ability to ensure compliance with local regulations and developer standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to architectural design across all project stages, including concept, schematic, design development, and authority submission
• Manage and coordinate external design consultants to ensure alignment with project vision, budgets, timelines, and developer standards
• Prepare, review, and validate architectural deliverables to ensure compliance with local authority regulations
• Support and manage the design approval process with relevant authorities in Abu Dhabi and Dubai
• Ensure designs meet developer guidelines, quality benchmarks, and technical requirements
• Coordinate with internal teams including development, project management, engineering, and commercial teams
• Review design changes and value engineering proposals while maintaining design intent
• Support construction documentation reviews and provide architectural input during the construction phase when required

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or Masters Degree
• Minimum 5-8 years of experience in architectural design, preferably with consultancy experience handling full design lifecycle projects
• Proven experience in concept and design development stages for residential, mixed-use, commercial, or large-scale developments
• Strong knowledge of Abu Dhabi and Dubai authority approval processes and regulations

About the Company

Service

Our aim is to provide our clients and candidates with a consistent, quality service that goes beyond the norm, giving them peace of mind and complete trust in our ability to meet their needs.

Knowledge

Big Fish consultants specialise in their fields and have extensive experience in the region and beyond. We take pride in our knowledge and network and believe that our relationships are built on trust and integrity and are made for the long term.

Care

At Big Fish, as well as caring for the people we work with, we also care about the world and environment we live in, that's why Big Fish support initiatives that promote human welfare, environmental protection and sustainability.