Lead Architect

About This Role

Lead Architect

We are seeking an accomplished Lead Architect to lead high-profile projects in the UAE, delivering innovative and sustainable architectural designs from concept to completion. The ideal candidate will have strong design leadership and proven multidisciplinary project experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all design phases (Concept, Schematic, Detailed Design, Construction Documents, and Handover), ensuring alignment with project vision and client expectations.
• Provide creative design direction and drive innovative, practical solutions across multidisciplinary teams.
• Oversee the development of technical specifications, drawings, visualizations, and presentations.
• Collaborate closely with MEP, structural, landscape, and interior teams to deliver fully integrated designs.
• Ensure compliance with UAE regulations (Dubai Municipality, Civil Defense, DEWA, Trakhees) and sustainability standards (Estidama, LEED, Al Sa’fat).
• Liaise with local authorities and secure necessary approvals, including for high-rise projects.
• Mentor and guide junior and mid-level architects, maintaining design quality and consistency.
• Champion BIM workflows (Revit, BIM360, Navisworks) and integrate emerging technologies such as AI tools and VR/AR.
• Support on-site activities to ensure design intent is maintained during construction.
• Promote sustainable and energy-efficient design solutions in line with Dubai’s net-zero goals.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.
• Minimum 12 years of experience in architecture, with at least 6 years in the UAE/Dubai working on high-rise, residential, commercial, hospitality, or mixed-use projects.
• Strong multidisciplinary project experience working with integrated design teams.
• Registered Architect with Dubai Municipality or equivalent body (high-rise approval eligibility is essential).
• Expert proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, and visualization tools (Lumion/Enscape/Twinmotion).
• Solid experience with BIM tools (BIM360/Navisworks) and parametric design (Grasshopper).
• In-depth knowledge of UAE regulations and sustainability frameworks.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project coordination skills.
• Proven ability to deliver projects on time and within budget.

Performance Monitoring

Performance will be assessed on:

• Design leadership and team mentoring
• Quality, innovation, and sustainability of design outputs
• Technical accuracy and regulatory compliance
• Successful multidisciplinary coordination and project delivery
• Contribution to digital transformation and sustainability goals