Senior Specialist – Development Review Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Full-time

This role leads the review of planning submissions from AD Ports customers, therefore ensuring alignment with approved master plans, development guidelines, and building codes. You will coordinate with multiple disciplines involved in the development review process, suggest modifications, and lead the preparation of development proposals for Abu Dhabi Ports projects. Consequently, your strategic advice on sustainable, safe, and attractive developments directly shapes the physical growth of AD Ports Group’s land holdings in line with Emirate of Abu Dhabi regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning review process for Abu Dhabi Ports customers, therefore ensuring all submissions comply with master plans, development guidelines, and approved building codes.
• Coordinate with other disciplines involved in the development review process, suggesting modifications to streamline approvals and enhance customer experience.
• Lead the preparation of development proposals for AD Ports Group projects, participating in monitoring plan compliance and providing technical support during implementation.
• Provide necessary guidance to promote safe, sustainable, and attractive developments, therefore enhancing the quality of built environments across port zones.
• Participate in preparing development and design guidelines, codes, and other rules or regulations as required. Coordinate or support the preparation and periodic update of architectural and planning documents (e.g., building codes).
• Enhance the culture of development services and approvals awareness across AD Ports Group Clusters, Business Units, and Subsidiaries.
• Act as a strategic advisor to leadership on development services and approvals best practices, therefore fostering a forward‑thinking approach that anticipates future trends and technological advancements.
• Manage in‑house project teams and external consultants to carry out planning tasks, ensuring adherence to HSE, sustainability, business continuity, and security regulations.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning or Architecture (Master’s degree is a plus). EFQM Certified Assessor is preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a similar role, specifically in planning permits, quality, health and safety, environment, and business continuity management aspects.
• Excellent English and Arabic language skills (written and spoken) – mandatory.
• In‑depth knowledge of industry standards and the ability to understand strategic issues while holding an overall perspective of the organisation.
• Detail‑oriented and organised, with ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Exceptional leadership skills with a track record of developing high‑performance teams, plus strong technical aptitude and superior project and people management skills.
• Ability to handle customers with care to deliver results, therefore ensuring positive stakeholder relationships.
• Experience contributing to development and land management policies, including building permits.

What You’ll Gain

• Opportunity to shape the physical development of AD Ports Group, a global integrated trade and logistics enabler owned by ADQ, operating across 5 clusters – Digital, Economic Cities & Free Zones, Logistics, Maritime, and Ports.
• Competitive tax‑free monthly salary (AED 25,000–35,000) plus medical insurance, annual flight allowance, and end of service gratuity.
• Be part of the first organisation in the Middle East to receive Investors in People (IIP) Platinum accreditation, therefore benefiting from strong leadership development programmes.
• Strategic role influencing master planning and building codes for major port developments, directly contributing to Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification and global trade connectivity.