Principal Architect

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

WSP is seeking a Principal Architect in Dubai for a senior leadership role to drive design excellence on major building projects, lead multidisciplinary delivery, and set technical direction while staying client facing and hands-on. You will oversee design packages, BIM models, and interdisciplinary coordination, champion sustainability and digital integration, and mentor the architecture team while supporting business development. Requirements include a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Architecture, Registered Architect status, 15+ years’ experience with at least 5 in the Middle East, and a proven track record on complex mixed-use, hospitality, or civic developments with a strong portfolio and Revit/BIM proficiency and UAE/KSA local authority knowledge. To apply, tailor your portfolio and CV to demonstrate leadership, client engagement, delivery outcomes, and BIM leadership; be ready to discuss design process and team development.

What if you could do the kind of work the world needs?

At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

The Principal Architect is a senior leadership role responsible for driving design excellence, leading multidisciplinary design delivery, and providing technical and strategic direction across large‑scale building projects. You will be client‑facing, hands‑on with design, and instrumental in developing architectural capability within the region.

Design Leadership

• Lead architectural design from concept to IFC, ensuring innovation, quality, and alignment with client vision.

• Oversee development of design packages, technical drawings, BIM models, materials, and specifications.

• Ensure seamless interdisciplinary coordination with structural, MEP, sustainability, digital, and specialist teams.

Technical Excellence

• Provide expert guidance on building codes, regulatory compliance, materials, construction methods, and technical solutions.

• Conduct technical reviews, QA/QC of architectural deliverables, and drive continuous improvement.

• Champion design efficiency, value engineering, sustainability, and digital integration (Revit, BIM360, etc.).

Project & Client Management

• Act as primary design interface to clients and stakeholders.

• Manage design programmes, resources, risks, deliverables, and change controls.

• Lead design presentations, workshops, and coordination meetings.

Team Leadership & Capability Building

• Mentor and guide architects, BIM teams, and design coordinators.

• Support recruitment, team development, and knowledge‑sharing initiatives within the architecture group.

• Contribute to establishing design standards, libraries, workflows, and best practices.

Business Development

• Support bids, proposals, fee development, and technical write‑ups.

• Strengthen WSP’s architectural offering through thought leadership and client engagement.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Architecture from a recognized university.
• Registered Architect (RIBA, AIA, ARB, or equivalent) 
• 15+ years’ architectural design experience, with at least 5 years in the Middle East.
• Proven leadership on large‑scale, complex developments (mixed‑use, hospitality, commercial, civic, or similar).
• Strong portfolio demonstrating conceptual strength and technical delivery.
• Advanced proficiency in Revit, BIM workflows, and digital design tools.
• Strong design sensibility with technical rigour.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management.
• Ability to lead teams and manage multiple fast‑paced projects.
• Deep understanding of local authority requirements in UAE/KSA.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.

Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world. 

With us, you can. Apply today.