If you are considering trading in your career as a construction manager in Blighty for one on the sun-kissed shores of Dubai, now is the right time to make the move. By all accounts, the construction sector in Dubai is booming, reaching a record high of more than $86 billion in value in 2022.

The city-state is growing faster than ever, meaning that there is a high demand for the construction management jobs Dubai needs to keep pace.

Moreover, there is a special need for construction management jobs in Dubai for UK citizens. This is because UK managers have the coveted experience and credentials that Dubai sorely needs.

If you’re wondering what the construction industry Dubai is experiencing is really like, and how to land your dream job there, read this comprehensive explainer to find out.

Use an Agency That Specialises in Construction Management Jobs in Dubai for UK Citizens

Before you can work in Dubai construction management, you need to find a role and employer that fits your needs. If you’re based in the UK, trying to find a suitable employer can be intimidating. After all, there is no shortage of fake job ads and exploitative contracts across the industry.

That’s why we highly recommend using a UK-based construction industry recruiter to help you find your ideal role. A qualified agency can offer 100% verified and legitimate roles with reputable employers in the UAE.

They can help you shop around for the right role, and act as your negotiator to ensure you are offered the best possible salary and incentives for your in-demand skills.

For peace of mind and financial security, always choose a trusted recruiter that has a presence in the UK, like SSA.

Secure the Right to Work Construction Management Jobs in Dubai

While tourists from the UK can visit the UAE without applying for a visa, this does not entitle you to work.

For this, you will need a residency permit that entitles you to work. The easiest way to do this is to work with your recruiter on landing a construction job.

Once you have an offer, you can show proof of this offer when applying for a residency visa to the UAE Department of Labour. You will also need to provide:

  • Proof of credentials
  • Passport photos
  • Travel documents
  • Health check certificate
  • Application form

Again, your recruiter can help you with this to ensure the process is as smooth and as speedy as possible.

Write Your CV, UAE-Style

There are many jobs for construction managers in Dubai, not all of which are of equal quality. To land your dream role, you’ll need a CV that is up to scratch.

It’s worth noting that CVs follow a slightly different style than what you might be used to writing for UK jobs in construction. We recommend keeping your CV minimal in design and as functional as possible.

Do not use fancy design features or images. Make your CV as targeted as possible, and make sure to include the keywords that your potential employer is looking for, such as “engineer” or “construction management experience”.

Always include your education, and remember that you do not usually need to include a photo with a Dubai CV. Make sure to ask your recruiter if they have any tips on how to write a winning CV for the Dubai construction job you want.

An Overview of the Dubai Construction Industry

As mentioned, the contruction industry in Dubai is experiencing a boom not seen since before the 2008 financial crash.

The city-state is experiencing huge inflows of people and money. Dubai was the No. 1 destination for the global rich in 2022, and this is likely to be the case in 2023.

The city is also diversifying its economy and is attracting skilled workers from every corner of the globe to achieve this. As such, the demand for qualified construction managers is higher than ever.

Dubai needs people with experience managing very large construction projects, including residential, commercial, and industrial sites. If you have this kind of experience, you will have plenty of options when job hunting in Dubai.

Salaries for Dubai Construction Managers

As you might have guessed, salaries for Dubai construction managers are high, owing to surging demand. While compensation varies depending on the company and the project, you can expect an average salary of around AED 21000 (£4650) a month.

However, for candidates with more experience, salaries can be much higher, often double or triple this number. Oh, and the kicker? There is zero income tax levied on individuals in Dubai.

This means that every penny of your salary as a construction manager is yours to keep. If you look at the high amount of tax you are probably paying to HMRC right now, this might not look too shabby.

Life in Dubai

While an abundance of jobs and high salaries are obvious draws, most people love Dubai for its lifestyle. While the heat can be difficult to adjust to, countless Brits love the year-round sun and close proximity to the coast.

Dubai is also an easygoing place, with vibrant nightlife and one of the planet’s best food scenes. The quality of life for skilled ex-pats tend to be very high, and you may even be offered a relocation package, free or subsidised housing in a villa or condo, and free tuition at a quality school.

If this sounds like the life for you, it’s time to start polishing off that CV.

Choose SSA to Embark on the Opportunity of a Lifetime

Choosing construction management jobs in Dubai is not just a good career move. It’s a chance for adventure, sun, healthy compensation, and invaluable career experience that will take you anywhere.

If you’re ready to make the move, we have got you covered. At SSA, we offer dedicated support to those seeking construction management jobs in Dubai for UK citizens.

We’ll find you a job that fits your needs and experience, negotiate the best offer on your behalf, and ensure that your move to the UAE is as smooth as possible. To find out more about what we can do for you, do not hesitate to give us a call today.