Insights What does it take to be a construction manager in the Middle East?

A construction manager is responsible for almost everything that happens on a construction site. They are one of the most senior people on a project, overseeing and directing specific operations to ensure successful delivery on time and on budget.

We’re always looking to the future, and we’re growing our teams to provide a sustainable future for the next generation. If you’re looking to take the next step in your engineering career, why not consider a role as a construction manager?

What does a construction manager do?

No two days are the same for a construction manager. The key responsibilities of a construction manager include providing planning, leadership, direction, and technical expertise on a fast-paced and complex construction site. They effectively manage the timely procurement of materials, equipment, plant and labour resources, delivery to site and construction of the subcontract work packages.

Construction managers may be tasked with anything from monitoring progress on finances or planning schedules to dealing with clients, subcontractors, or the general public, and even hiring new staff to enrich their teams, including architects, surveyors and engineers. Whilst the role of a construction manager can be challenging and multifaceted, ultimately it is rewarding.

How to become a construction manager?

To be a construction manager, typically you will need to be qualified and have extensive experience in a construction-related discipline, primarily engineering. 

You will need a demonstrable track record in the delivery of mixed-use, multi-functional projects and be effective in building good working relationships.

Once you have this under your belt, you’ll need to be able to demonstrate excellent communication and leadership skills to be able to interact with numerous stakeholders. 

We all know that construction projects can sometimes face challenges, so as one of the most senior people on a project, being able to motivate your team is essential. 

Additionally, by embracing innovation and utilising digital technologies as a construction manager, projects, and your career will have greater success.

Working in the Middle East

Typically, due to the traditional heritage and culture of the Middle East, countries have generally been slower to adapt to key changes that are significant for the prosperity of both people and the environment. 

However, there is a shift towards establishing a more sustainable future with an objective to diversify the economy from just crude oil and towards more sustainable initiatives. 

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) in particular, has become a more attractive place to work for both local people and expatriates over the last few years as governments make commitments towards becoming more inclusive, sustainable, and modern, investing in these areas to provide for a better.

A series of national priorities have been established as part of Vision 21 in the UAE, including ‘Sustainable environment and infrastructure’. This strategy focuses on improving air quality, increasing clean energy within the built environment, and implementing green growth plans.

Why the UAE?

Under Abu Dhabi’s Economic Vision 2030, pioneering construction managers will be in increasing demand in the UAE to help shift the core of its economy from unsustainable resources to knowledge, innovation, cutting-edge technologies, and new economic alternatives such as smart cities. 

Smart cities are emerging in the UAE and all over the world, as they will address economic and social challenges, whilst also unlocking potential long-term benefits. 

Smart cities, like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, are paving the way for an improved quality of life and ensuring our environment is protected for future generations to come by using data and digital technology to work to make better decisions.

Build your career as a construction manager in the Middle East

At AtkinsRéalis, we are one of the leading engineering and construction groups in the world, and we have a strong presence in the Middle East region built up over fifty years. 

We’re looking for more experienced construction managers to join our teams in the Middle East. Working as a construction manager in this city is both motivating and fulfilling and no two projects are the same, so you’ll always be developing and learning new skills. 

If you’re looking for your next challenge, browse our available construction manager jobs in the Middle East today. 

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