Associate

We are looking for an Associate Architect for an opportunity in Dubai who leads with concept, manages design delivery and has a strong commercial understanding of projects/development. You will work across hospitality, high-rise, residential, mixed-use and masterplanning projects, locally in the UAE and internationally.ResponsibilitiesConcept and design leadershipDevelop strong, original design conceptsGuide the design vision as projects progress, keeping the concept intact through each stageContribute to masterplanning, including land use, density, massing, urban framework and phasing to individual buildings, massing models and facadeDesign management and developmentLead and coordinate design teams through concept, schematic, design development and tender stages.Manage consultant coordination (structure, MEP, façade, landscape, interiors, specialist advisors) and resolve design clashes early.Design review and manage drawings, models and reports for quality, buildability and consistency with the approved concept.Commercial and cost awarenessTest design decisions against budget, efficiency (GFA, NSA, gross-to-net) and programme from the earliest stage.Work with cost consultants on cost plans and value engineering, and make sure design changes are weighed for cost and time.Help prepare fee proposals, resourcing plans and project programmes, and track scope and variations.Client and project engagementAct as a day-to-day contact for clients, operators, developers and consultants.Support business development through bids, pitches and competition entries.Work with international teams and partners on projects outside the UAE.QualificationsBachelor's or Master's degree in ArchitectureProfessional registration or chartership is preferred (RIBA, ARB or equivalent); eligibility for UAE registration is helpful.Experience10 years+ of post-qualification experience, with a substantial part in the UAE or GCC.A proven record on hospitality, residential and mixed-use projects, with exposure to masterplanning.Experience across multiple stages, from concept through design development, with a clear understanding of how the later stages affect the concept.Experience leading design teams and coordinating external consultants.Working knowledge of UAE authority approvals and local codes (Dubai Building Code, Civil Defence / fire and life safety, Dubai Municipality guidelines).International project experience is a strong plus.Skills and attributesStrong conceptual and graphic ability, supported by a portfolio that shows both ideas and delivery.Commercial awareness: confident discussing efficiencies, areas, costs, value engineering and programme with clients and cost consultants.Clear communicator, comfortable presenting to senior stakeholders and writing concise reports.Organised, proactive and able to manage several projects at once.Collaborative leader who can motivate and develop a multicultural team.SoftwareRevit and AutoCAD; Rhino / Grasshopper is a plus.SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), and Enscape / Twinmotion or similar visualisation tools.Microsoft Office; BIM coordination tools such as Navisworks are an advantage.AdvantageousExperience with AI in architecture is a clear advantage. This could include:Using generative AI tools for concept exploration, image development and design iteration.Computational or parametric design workflows (Grasshopper, Python or similar) and data-driven options analysis for massing and yield studies.Applying AI to design management, such as automating repetitive documentation, summarising consultant comments or checking design briefs.Helping shape how AI tools are adopted across the studio, including standards, quality control and responsible use.