What to expect when you join the AtkinsRéalis graduate program in the UAE and Saudi Arabia

Do you want to play a part in the evolution of the Middle East? With our Middle East graduate program, you can shape projects that deliver Saudi Vision 2030 and redefine sustainable city living. Perfect for graduates looking to set their career off on the right foot, you can start a purpose-driven career in a region that's bursting with opportunity. 

We recognise the importance of nurturing the next generation of talent. That's why we launched our Middle East graduate development program. This initiative is designed to give recent graduates the hands-on experience and structured learning needed to succeed. 

If you're exploring graduate engineering jobs in the UAE and beyond, this grad scheme could be exactly what you're looking for. Here's what you can expect when you join this program.

Inside the AtkinsRéalis graduate engineering program in the UAE and Saudi Arabia

Our Middle East graduate program runs for 12 months and is open to graduates in engineering, architecture, and project management-related disciplines. This Middle East early careers opportunity is open in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia, with both nationals and expatriates alike welcome to come onboard. 

Successful applicants kick off their experience by joining one of our active teams, working alongside experienced professionals and immediately contributing to high-impact projects. If you're looking for graduate engineering programs in Saudi Arabia and UAE, you'll be eligible to apply if you have:

• A GPA of 3.2/4 or equivalent
• Fewer than 2 years of professional experience
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• A proactive and flexible approach to learning

Digging deeper, here's a few things you can expect from day one on the program. 

Structured learning and development plans 

At the start of the Middle East graduate job program, you'll receive a tailored development plan created alongside your line manager. This will outline objectives, skills, and contributions that will support your growth. 

As you progress through the program, this will be tweaked and reviewed through regular check-ins. Think of your development plan as the roadmap to becoming an expert in your field. You'll also take part in formal learning and development activities, including:

• Internal training sessions
• Job shadowing
• On-the-job learning through active project work
• Workshops and collaborative learning opportunities
• Personalised technical development plan 
• Mentorship program

Rotational assignments

You'll complete three project rotations, each designed to expose you to different disciplines, teams, or sectors. Depending on your background, you might rotate through different engineering disciplines, move between design and delivery teams, or work in areas such as architecture or digital innovation. The goal is to give you a broader perspective on how our projects are delivered across the region. 

From working on the mega projects of NEOM, the heritage projects in AlUla, to major transportation developments in the UAE, this is a chance to get a close look at world-leading projects. These rotations will also give you the space to find out which disciplines and areas you're best suited to and where your interests lie.

Mentorship and feedback

Throughout the program, you'll receive guidance and feedback from both your line manager and a dedicated mentor. This support runs through the structure of the Middle East engineering graduate program and helps you reflect and build confidence. 

Skills and experience gained through early careers in the Middle East

Our UAE and Saudi Arabia graduate programs are all about developing the skills that will send your career on an upward trajectory. Throughout the program, both technical and soft skills will be developed. 

Technical skills

With hands-on exposure to leading projects, you'll gain experience that's relevant to your discipline, including:

• Using technical tools and systems
• Understanding how to contribute on delivery tasks within live projects
• Contributing to design or engineering documentation
• Supporting research, analysis, and reporting

Soft skills

Equally important are the interpersonal and professional skills you'll pick up on the graduate program. Through workshops, mentoring, and daily project work, you'll develop:

• Effective communication in a professional setting
• Time management and task ownership
• Team collaboration across disciplines
• Critical thinking and problem-solving in real-time contexts

See Mohammed Alnoshan's inspiring story to find out more about the Middle East graduate program and the career it can lead to.

Real-world impact and contributions 

This Middle East graduate opportunity also allows you to build invaluable experiences. In Saudi Arabia, for example, graduates play a direct role in delivering the projects that support the national strategy to hit sustainability goals and improve quality of life. We're central to these large-scale giga projects, and as a graduate you'll play a crucial role in getting them over the line. As Reem Seraj, Vision 2030 Manager, puts it:

"The graduate program reflects the dedication of the company to the Saudi Vision 2030."

Engineering graduate jobs with career progression

Our graduate engineering programs are the starting point to a long-lasting career. Many graduates who complete the program successfully move into permanent positions here. You'll also be supported in working towards professional accreditation, with the experience from our graduate programs helping to build eligibility for organisations like RICS, ICE, or PMI. 

If you stay with AtkinsRéalis following your graduate scheme, you'll continue to benefit from:

• Ongoing access to professional development resources
• Continued support from senior colleagues
• The possibility of internal mobility within the Middle East and, where appropriate, internationally

Why AtkinsRéalis is a top choice for early careers in the Middle East

At AtkinsRéalis, we foster a workplace where everyone belongs. That means you'll be stepping into a culture where you're treated as a valued and respected professional from day one. You'll be given the space and trust you need to contribute, speak up, and share your bright ideas. 

We also offer a strong benefits package to our graduates to support wellbeing and performance. This is offered in both Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and is a reflection of our commitment to giving you what you need to thrive. Our package includes:

• A tax-free salary
• Transport and accommodation allowances if working in a remote location
• An annual flight contribution
• Private medical and life insurance
• 22 days of annual leave, plus public holidays
• Access to our internal learning and wellbeing platforms
• Relocation support, where applicable

Explore graduate engineering jobs in the UAE and Saudi Arabia

If you're ready to start your journey, our Middle East graduate programmes have everything you need. Combining structured learning with real responsibility, you'll develop alongside a dedicated team of professionals who are committed to helping you succeed. 

Ready to shape your future? Our graduate program has two intakes per year, in January and July, and we're excited to welcome our next cohort. Explore our Middle East graduate development program today or join our talent community to stay up to date.