Authority Architect (AOR)

Job Description

Architect (Authority) AOR - 8+ years in a similar role, with proven experience in UAE projects, BIM-mandated submissions (post-2024 Dubai BIM Mandate), and sustainability compliance.

• Collaborate with the Business and Management Team to oversee projects from initial proposal to Building Completion Certificate (BCC), ensuring compliance with 2025 regulations.
• Develop and implement strategies for timely approvals, including exception approvals, using digital submission portals (e.g., Dubai Municipality's 2025 streamlined systems).
• Review client requirements/design briefs, ensuring compliance with authority regulations, BIM standards, and climate change mitigation measures.
• Lead authority transactions across UAE emirates (Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, etc.), staying updated on Sharjah's 2024 real estate reforms.
• Support project leads/design team in scheduling deliverables to meet authority requirements and project deadlines.
• Oversee preparation/review of authority submissions (online/physical), ensuring compliance with IFC data formats for BIM and green certifications.
• Track approvals using UAE Digital Government Strategy 2025 portals, maintaining schedules for timely outcomes.
• Maintain checklists for approvals and NOCs, updated with 2025 requirements (e.g., GHG reporting).
• Keep the team informed on existing/new regulations (e.g., UAE climate laws, Dubai green updates) and maintain records.
• Participate in technical discussions at municipalities, leveraging AI-assisted data insights.
• Lead research on authority requirements per project type, incorporating AI-driven compliance tools.
• Conduct design reviews to ensure compliance with codes, authorities, and 2025 sustainability mandates.
• Prepare and maintain project documentation (e.g., correspondence, minutes, approvals) using automation tools.
• Support development of Concept Design, Schematic Design, Detail Design, and Construction Documents, utilizing AI for iterations and VR for reviews.
• Demonstrate expertise in Revit and BIM, adhering to ISO 19650-compliant workflows.
• Prepare and present design proposals to clients/authorities using generative AI visualizations.
• Contribute to the company's Data Insights initiative and Lessons Learnt Database with AI analytics.
• Collaborate with the technology team to automate authority processes using AI and BIM tools.
• Liaise with local authorities, attend technical meetings, and focus on sustainability/tech integration.
• Conduct site inspections/surveys, utilizing drone/AR tools where applicable.
• Assist HR in technical interviews for Design department recruitment, evaluating BIM/AI proficiency.
• Continuously update skills on modern practices, authority requirements, and guidelines, training other Architects/Engineers.

• Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch) required.
• Certifications in Building Information Modeling (BIM), LEED, or Al Sa'fat accreditation preferred.

• Software Proficiency:
• Advanced expertise in Revit Architecture (including Revit BIM compliant with Dubai Municipality standards), Autodesk suite (AutoCAD, Navisworks for clash detection), Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, and MS Office.
• Familiarity with AI-driven design tools (e.g., generative AI for conceptual modeling) and VR/AR software for virtual site inspections and client presentations.
• Knowledge of sustainability assessment tools integrated with Al Sa'fat rating system or EDGE software for green building evaluations.
• Documentation & Communication:
• Technical report writing, Arabic/English documentation, translation, and correspondence.
• Preferably native Arabic speaker with excellent command of English.
• Analytical & Organizational:
• Strong problem-solving skills enhanced by AI-driven insights.
• Proficient in project management tools (e.g., Celoxis or equivalent for 2025 UAE compliance).
• Creative & Negotiation:
• Design thinker with imaginative and creative problem-solving.
• Strong decision-making and negotiation skills for regulatory exceptions.

• Regulatory Knowledge:
• In-depth understanding of local authority regulations and digital submission portals in Dubai (Dubai Municipality, Trakhees, DDA), Sharjah (Sharjah Municipality), Abu Dhabi (DMT), and other UAE emirates.
• Familiarity with 2024-2025 updates, including:
• Dubai Law No. 7 of 2025 (Contracting Activities).
• Law No. 6 of 2025 (Governmental Land Allocation).
• Mandatory BIM submissions for buildings over 40 floors or 300,000 sq ft.
• UAE Federal Law No. 11 of 2025 on Climate Change (GHG emissions reporting).
• Al Sa'fat Dubai Green Building System and 2025 Dubai Green Building Regulations (energy efficiency, water conservation, microclimate).
• Decree No. (24) of 2021 on 3D printing in construction.
• Driving License: Valid UAE driving license required for site visits across emirates.