Director of Architecture

DIRECTOR OF ARCHITECTURE – HOSPITALITY & LEISURELocation: Abu Dhabi, UAESalary: Up to AED 65,000 per month + full benefits packageOur client is a leading international design and architecture consultancy with an impressive portfolio of high-profile projects across the Middle East and beyond. They are seeking an exceptional Director of Architecture to lead the design and delivery of luxury hospitality, mixed-use leisure, and resort developments in the UAE. This is an outstanding opportunity to shape iconic destinations and create world-class architectural experiences in one of the world's most dynamic markets.The Director of Architecture will provide strategic design leadership and creative direction for major hospitality and leisure projects from initial concept through to construction completion. You will lead multidisciplinary teams including architects, interior designers, engineers, and consultants to deliver exceptional built environments. This role demands a distinguished track record in luxury hospitality architecture, strong leadership credentials, and the ability to manage complex, high-value projects in a demanding, fast-paced environment.Responsibilities Lead the architectural design vision for major hospitality, resort, and mixed-use leisure projects across the UAE and wider regionDirect multidisciplinary design teams through all project phases from feasibility and concept design to construction deliveryBuild and maintain strong relationships with clients, developers, and key stakeholders, ensuring alignment of vision and expectationsProvide creative leadership and design excellence across luxury hotel, resort, and leisure developmentsOversee preparation of design documentation, technical specifications, and client presentations to exceptional standardsEnsure all designs meet UAE regulatory requirements, international building standards, and sustainability benchmarksMentor and develop architectural talent within the practice, building high-performing teams and fostering innovationManage multiple concurrent projects ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standardsPresent design proposals and strategies to senior clients, investors, and approval authorities with clarity and convictionChampion design innovation while maintaining commercial viability and operational functionalityCoordinate seamlessly with structural, MEP, landscape, and interior design disciplines for integrated deliveryRepresent the consultancy at industry forums, client pitches, and design competitionsRequirementsMinimum 18-20 years' experience in architecture with significant leadership on major hospitality or resort projectsBachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture; professional registration (ARB, RIBA, AIA, or equivalent) strongly preferredExtensive portfolio demonstrating delivery of luxury hotels, resorts, or mixed-use leisure developmentsProven creative direction and design management expertise with world-class hospitality projectsExceptional leadership skills with track record of inspiring, mentoring, and managing large architectural teamsOutstanding client relationship management capabilities with experience engaging C-level executives and developersSuperior communication and presentation skills with ability to articulate sophisticated design concepts effectivelyDeep understanding of hospitality design principles, guest experience, operational requirements, and brand standardsExperience working in the UAE or GCC region highly advantageous; knowledge of local regulations beneficialStrong technical proficiency in relevant design software and understanding of BIM processesCommercial awareness with ability to balance design ambition with project constraints and financial realitiesProven ability to manage multiple high-pressure projects simultaneously while maintaining design excellenceFluency in English essential; Arabic or additional languages advantageous