Working in Architecture in Dubai has a few differences to the UK. Here are my latest learnings about finding a job and working here: 👇
𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐉𝐨𝐛
🔸The competition is fierce, you have people from all over the world who want to work and live here
🔸You need to have an edge, what makes you different?
🔸Your network plays an important role - who do you know?
🔸Usually a 2 to 3-stage interview process
🔸It’s easier to find a job while you’re in Dubai (fact)
🔸Your CV and portfolio should highlight experience in large-scale or high-end projects across various sectors. Without such experience, finding a role may prove challenging.
🔸You need to get your degrees attested (you can already start the process).
🔸Manage your salary expectations. You might not earn double your current salary but don’t forget you’re not paying tax, and your visa and health insurance are covered.
🔸Salary ranges vary a lot, so don't be too hung up on job titles
🔸There is no pension system but you do get a "gratuity" when you leave, which is about 5% of your total salary, depending on various conditions
🔸Thriving sectors are High-rise Residential, High-end Residential, Hospitality, Mixed-Use, Office, Cultural, and Retail
𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤
🔹You need to be driven, adaptable and want to push the boundaries
🔹Revit and Rhino are the most used software here
🔹Although more of your technical work will be outsourced to others, you need to review everything and have a keen eye for detail
🔹Standard working hours are 48 hours per week
🔹Hybrid working is not really a thing here. People don't move here to work from home, they come here to work on some incredible projects.
🔹Companies pay for your visa and health insurance, but you don't get a pension - so make sure you're managing your savings
🔹Everything is very fast-paced, so buckle up. Projects move much faster, there’s less bureaucracy and construction happens 24/7
🔹The title of Architect is not protected, but being ARB/RIBA registered is highly regarded. This also comes with high expectations from you.
🔹Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills are a must as you'll work with many different nationalities & demanding clients
FYI - Renting is slightly different here. You either pay your year's contract up-front in one cheque (some landlords accept up to 4-6) plus a deposit, but don’t expect to pay month by month. You’ll need some money saved up for this, and short-term lets are expensive. 💷
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If I learn anything else, I will let you guys know. In the meantime, if anyone has anything to add, please feel free to put it in the comments below. 👇
Thanks to everyone who's continually helping me understand the Dubai market - Andy Shaw, Mahmoud Shahin, Mohammed Balila 🇸🇦🇮🇹, Farah Naz FCIBSE, Dana Sulcova, Maxwell Connop, Dimitar Rashkov, William Gregory Bell RIBA, Abadir Hashi, Thomas Lobb and Oz Jason 👏
#Relocating #Architecture #Dubai #FreshStart ArchJobs
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