105 Design Director jobs in Saudi Arabia

WSP in the Middle East is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Design Director to join our team in Riyadh, KSA. This strategic leadership role is critical to the success of high-profile, multidisciplinary projects, ensuring innovative, sustainable, and technically sound design outcomes that align with our client's ambitions and broader project goals.

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight to the Project Design Management team across all project phases.
• Lead the development and implementation of forward-thinking design management strategies that ensure quality, innovation, and efficiency.
• Direct and coordinate multidisciplinary design teams to ensure alignment with project objectives, client expectations, and regulatory standards.
• Oversee the integration of design intent through coordination with stakeholders, consultants, and construction teams.
• Support business development efforts, including bids and proposals, by contributing design leadership and strategic insights.
• Act as the primary point of contact for design-related issues with the client, authorities, and project partners.

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of 20 years of relevant experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership or director-level role.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale, complex projects in the Middle East/KSA is essential.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Deep understanding of regional regulations, design standards, and sustainability practices.
• Experience working in multidisciplinary, collaborative environments.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.

Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.

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• Job Identification 72594
• Locations ROSHN Front - King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh, SA

The Design Director (DD) is responsible for all phases of a design project which includes the design of new build or refurbishment projects, including FF&E and colour schemes. Designs and feasibility studies are produced for commercial, hospitality, leisure and residential properties. The DD will oversee projects and lead the project teams from beginning to end being the main contact for all correspondence with the client and consultants, including coordination with sub-consultant.
The Design Director will manage multiple projects (internally and externally), have an excellent understanding of design process including but not limited to, driving design creativity and project and team management, space planning, materiality, FF&E, presentation skills, software knowledge, project/resource program, post contract knowledge/experience. The DD is responsible for mentoring the design team. Other areas of the job include budget pricing, budget management and procurement. The DD will ensure the Design Team follows the Project Quality Process (PQP).
In addition, the DD shall act as the primary client/stakeholder contact. Collaborating with clients, operators, architects, contractors, and other stakeholders will be crucial in creating and managing the project throughout Pre and Post contract stages. This shall involve coordinating the design on-site and even managing the construction team if the project scope includes this phase of a project.
Design Director drives creativity with the project and wider organization and ensuring project team and resources are well managed thus striking well balance between design and management. The DD is also responsible for strategic planning and growth of the organization.
The Design Director will also take on a management role in respect of interviewing potential new employees, monitoring staff performance during review periods and establishing and monitoring KPIs for the team, providing feedback on employee’s performance.
The Design Director will be required to prepare all resource schedules for projects and manage the weekly design studio meetings. From time to time the DD may also need to assist in preparing business development presentations and attend the presentation to secure the project. This may also include preparing a design scheme, fee proposals and identifying new business and promoting design services to potential clients.
The Design Director will report to the MD/SDD with respect to project deliverables and prepare time schedules to ensure deadlines are met.

The Design Director will plan and organize the design teams and their daily activities, setting out a clear plan and project program of deliverables and resources to ensure deadlines are met for all studio projects

Leadership: Lead and inspire a team of interior designers, providing direction, mentorship, and support. Foster a collaborative and creative work environment conducive to idea generation and innovation. Set clear goals and expectations for the team, and provide feedback and performance evaluations regularly. Managing the PQP process for all projects assigned.

Design Leadership: Provide strategic leadership and vision for the design team. Set design direction and standards, ensuring alignment with the overall brand and company objectives.

Team Management: Lead, mentor, and manage a team of designers, providing guidance and feedback, and fostering a collaborative and creative work environment. Allocate resources efficiently and ensure the team's productivity and performance.

Project Oversight: Oversee the design process from concept to completion, ensuring high-quality and timely delivery of projects. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including team development, and integrate design with overall business goals.

Design Strategy: Develop and implement design strategies that align with the company's overall business objectives. Stay abreast of design trends, industry best practices, and technological advancements to inform and improve design strategies.

Budget and Resource Management: Manage design budgets, ensuring efficient use of resources and adherence to financial constraints. Collaborate with other departments to ensure resources are allocated effectively.

Quality Control: Ensure the consistency and quality of design output across projects. Conduct regular reviews and critiques to maintain high design standards.

Innovation and Research: Foster a culture of innovation within the design team. Encourage continuous learning, research, and experimentation with new design tools and techniques.

Presentation Skills: Effectively communicate design concepts and strategies to both internal and external audiences. Design presentation, updates, and findings to clients and stakeholders.

Design & Project Management: Developing initial ideas and acquiring key information about potential projects, discussing requirements in detail with clients (the brief) and setting project schedules. Conducting feasibility studies for projects.

Understanding individual clients' needs and the needs of the people using the building, developing design concepts in consultation with the client and establishing final briefs and program for the project

Manage client’s expectations as main point of contact of the project overseeing the team.

Overseeing the preparation of detailed working drawings, designs, plans, models and schemes

Conduct site visits and inspections to monitor construction progress, resolve design issues, and ensure compliance with approved design intent

Ensuring products specified, for example fittings, furniture, lighting, finishes, decoration and dressing, and providing samples for clients; this will include obtaining costs for all items and coordinating budgets

Keeping up to date with new developments in the design industry

Interview designers and team during staff reviews and provide report and feedback

• Design & Engineering

• Permanent Contract

• Director

• Riyadh

About Us

Egis is an international player active in architecture, consulting, construction engineering and mobility services. We create and operate intelligent infrastructures and buildings that respond to the climate emergency and contribute to more balanced, sustainable and resilient territorial development. Operating in 100 countries, Egis puts the expertise of its 19,500 employees at the service of its clients and develops cutting-edge innovations accessible to all projects. Through its wide range of activities, Egis is a key player in the collective organisation of society and the living environment of citizens all over the world.

With 3,500 employees across 8 countries in the Middle East, Egis has delivered over 700 complex development projects, stimulating economic growth and enhancing quality of life. Ranked among the top ten firms in the Middle East by Engineering News Record (ENR), Egis is committed to sustainable development. The Group's operations in the Middle East are built on strategic acquisitions and a deep understanding of local market conditions. Egis' long history of providing comprehensive engineering, consulting, and project management services makes it a trusted partner for regional governments, investors, and developers.

About the Role

We are seeking a visionary Design Director to join our Project Management Office (PMO) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This pivotal role will lead our urban planning and infrastructure initiatives, shaping the future of our rapidly developing cityscape.

• The Design Director coordinate with the control and governance team to develop an action plan and prioritize projects. He/She develop designs for landscaped environments and exteriors, private gardens, major land developments and infrastructure and public & business parks from initial concept through design development to detailed design and tender documents. From concept, schematic, detail, authorities submission, tendering and construction documentation, he/she provides technical management, leadership and coordination of multi discipline design delivery teams and acts as a primary interface on matters of coordination and implementation of project specific requirements.
• Develop and maintain the program design teamwork in such a way as to ensure the most economic and effective use of resources and the completion of design projects in line with target timescales.
• Development of design guidelines for the different typologies of the program strategy projects such as Wadis /Mosques/Schools/Utility corridors including roads/ Parks/ Water distribution and logistics/nurseries/ etc.
• Manage of tender process for all the program projects of the strategy launched during the contract period.
• Evaluation of tenders, prepare tender reports and recommendations, and selection of designer contractors.
• Responsible of the multi-disciplinary coordination of the overall program production and deliverables of a fully coordinated program documentations.
• Responsible of the production of all design packages of all stages, post concept design stage (all project documentation, including specifications, cut sheets & schedules) in line with the contractual obligations / scope of work and related deliverables.
• Manage the design process to ensure that it is compatible with its urban environment.
• Ensure design is in compliance with relevant codes, standards, regulations and requirements of local authority having jurisdiction.
• Work with design organizations, both internal and external, to deliver an approved project design.
• Manage the interfaces of civils design with other disciplines.
• Ensure that all construction, demolition, consultancy and associated tenders are issued administered and accepted in line with program requirements.
• Monitor progress of design delivery, identify areas for improvement, and take action to resolve outstanding issues.
• Ensure that critical dates are met on time, within agreed cost & to technical requirement.
• Ensure design risk assessments are carried out and that residual risk is transferred to the construction teams.
• Organizes and manages the design team and resources.
• Work with construction teams to ensure buildability considerations are incorporated
• Liaise with numerous stakeholders including clients, municipalities, government bodies and work teams
• Review verification and acceptance of the design outputs (calculations, drawings, specifications, reports) prior to issue for construction.
• Implementing practical, timely, cost-effective solutions to enable all elements of the project are safely constructed.
• Maintaining a clear picture of out-turn cost in accordance with standard framework, by ensuring monthly cost reports fully and accurately reflects all contracts let, change, risks, opportunities and variation orders and reporting to senior client level.
• Organizes and manages the design team and resources.
• Manage a team of experienced Architect and contract staff.
• Perform all other position related duties as requested

What do we need from you

• Master's degree in Urban Planning, Architecture or Landscape
• Minimum of 15 years' experience in urban planning and infrastructure projects, with at least 5 years in a leadership role
• Strong organizational qualities with background as Design office Director supervising pools of designers and projects at all stages of design, supervision and construction
• Strong design and commercial skills, win work and oversee delivery
• Effective leader (has an instinctive eye for talent), proven ability to motivate others and get results both through direct reports and external suppliers (Internal as well as external third-party sub consultants);
• Strategic thinker – ability to spot opportunities and galvanize the resource and the expertise in order to capitalize on them.
• Experience of interpreting and understanding local rules, regulations and design guides.
• Appreciation and working knowledge of sustainable design techniques and solutions, such as LEED and alike.
• Excellent client meeting, presentation and report writing skills.
• Skills in Design Management and Bid Preparation.
• Entrepreneurial outlook – keen interest to play a pivotal role in growing the business.

Job Description
What if you could do the kind of work the world needs?
At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

We are seeking a highly experienced Design Director with over 20 years of industry expertise to lead the design delivery of a landmark masterplanned project in Jeddah. The scope includes a 10km canal and a series of vertical assets, requiring coordination across multiple disciplines and stakeholders.

This is a challenging and high-impact role suited for a visionary leader with a proven track record in delivering complex, large-scale urban developments.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the design strategy and execution for the entire project lifecycle.
• Manage and coordinate multiple workstreams, including Local Design Consultants (LDCs), international partners, and internal teams.
• Ensure design integration across infrastructure, landscape, architecture, and vertical assets.
• Maintain alignment with project vision, client expectations, and regulatory requirements.
• Drive innovation and design excellence while balancing functionality, sustainability, and cost.
• Review and approve design deliverables at all stages.
• Facilitate stakeholder engagement, including government entities, developers, and consultants.
• Identify risks and implement mitigation strategies throughout the design process.

Qualifications

• Minimum 20 years of experience in architecture, urban design, or related fields.
• Proven experience delivering large-scale masterplanned projects, including vertical assets.
• Strong leadership and coordination skills across multidisciplinary teams.
• Deep understanding of design processes, project phasing, and construction interface.
• Experience working in the Middle East is preferred.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Degree in Architecture, Urban Design, or related discipline; advanced qualifications are a plus.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.
Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.

Company Description

Egis is an international player active in architecture, consulting, construction engineering and mobility services. We create and operate intelligent infrastructures and buildings that respond to the climate emergency and contribute to more balanced, sustainable and resilient territorial development. Operating in 100 countries, Egis puts the expertise of its 19,500 employees at the service of its clients and develops cutting-edge innovations accessible to all projects. Through its wide range of activities, Egis is a key player in the collective organisation of society and the living environment of citizens all over the world.

With 3,500 employees across 8 countries in the Middle East, Egis has delivered over 700 complex development projects, stimulating economic growth and enhancing quality of life. Ranked among the top ten firms in the Middle East by Engineering News Record (ENR), Egis is committed to sustainable development. The Group's operations in the Middle East are built on strategic acquisitions and a deep understanding of local market conditions. Egis' long history of providing comprehensive engineering, consulting, and project management services makes it a trusted partner for regional governments, investors, and developers.

Job Description

We are seeking a visionary Design Director to join our Project Management Office (PMO) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This pivotal role will lead our urban planning and infrastructure initiatives, shaping the future of our rapidly developing cityscape.

• The Design Director coordinate with the control and governance team to develop an action plan and prioritize projects. He/She develop designs for landscaped environments and exteriors, private gardens, major land developments and infrastructure and public & business parks from initial concept through design development to detailed design and tender documents. From concept, schematic, detail, authorities submission, tendering and construction documentation, he/she provides technical management, leadership and coordination of multi discipline design delivery teams and acts as a primary interface on matters of coordination and implementation of project specific requirements.
• Develop and maintain the program design teamwork in such a way as to ensure the most economic and effective use of resources and the completion of design projects in line with target timescales.
• Development of design guidelines for the different typologies of the program strategy projects such as Wadis /Mosques/Schools/Utility corridors including roads/ Parks/ Water distribution and logistics/nurseries/ etc.
• Manage of tender process for all the program projects of the strategy launched during the contract period.
• Evaluation of tenders, prepare tender reports and recommendations, and selection of designer contractors.
• Responsible of the multi-disciplinary coordination of the overall program production and deliverables of a fully coordinated program documentations.
• Responsible of the production of all design packages of all stages, post concept design stage (all project documentation, including specifications, cut sheets & schedules) in line with the contractual obligations / scope of work and related deliverables.
• Manage the design process to ensure that it is compatible with its urban environment.
• Ensure design is in compliance with relevant codes, standards, regulations and requirements of local authority having jurisdiction.
• Work with design organizations, both internal and external, to deliver an approved project design.
• Manage the interfaces of civils design with other disciplines.
• Ensure that all construction, demolition, consultancy and associated tenders are issued administered and accepted in line with program requirements.
• Monitor progress of design delivery, identify areas for improvement, and take action to resolve outstanding issues.
• Ensure that critical dates are met on time, within agreed cost & to technical requirement.
• Ensure design risk assessments are carried out and that residual risk is transferred to the construction teams.
• Organizes and manages the design team and resources.
• Work with construction teams to ensure buildability considerations are incorporated
• Liaise with numerous stakeholders including clients, municipalities, government bodies and work teams
• Review verification and acceptance of the design outputs (calculations, drawings, specifications, reports) prior to issue for construction.
• Implementing practical, timely, cost-effective solutions to enable all elements of the project are safely constructed.
• Maintaining a clear picture of out-turn cost in accordance with standard framework, by ensuring monthly cost reports fully and accurately reflects all contracts let, change, risks, opportunities and variation orders and reporting to senior client level.
• Organizes and manages the design team and resources.
• Manage a team of experienced Architect and contract staff.
• Perform all other position related duties as requested

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Urban Planning, Architecture or Landscape
• Minimum of 15 years' experience in urban planning and infrastructure projects, with at least 5 years in a leadership role
• Strong organizational qualities with background as Design office Director supervising pools of designers and projects at all stages of design, supervision and construction
• Strong design and commercial skills, win work and oversee delivery
• Effective leader (has an instinctive eye for talent), proven ability to motivate others and get results both through direct reports and external suppliers (Internal as well as external third-party sub consultants);
• Strategic thinker – ability to spot opportunities and galvanize the resource and the expertise in order to capitalize on them.
• Experience of interpreting and understanding local rules, regulations and design guides.
• Appreciation and working knowledge of sustainable design techniques and solutions, such as LEED and alike.
• Excellent client meeting, presentation and report writing skills.
• Skills in Design Management and Bid Preparation.
• Entrepreneurial outlook – keen interest to play a pivotal role in growing the business.

What if you could do the kind of work the world needs?

At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

We are seeking a Design Director – Infrastructure with over 15 years of experience in civil engineering and infrastructure design to lead the delivery of a major development project in Riyadh. The role involves managing and coordinating multiple infrastructure design contracts, including Primary Infrastructure, Secondary Infrastructure, Highways, Drainage and related systems.

This is a strategic leadership role requiring deep technical expertise, strong coordination skills and the ability to drive design excellence across complex infrastructure workstreams.

• Lead and oversee the design delivery of all infrastructure components within the project.
• Manage and coordinate multiple infrastructure design contracts and consultants.
• Ensure integration and alignment across primary and secondary infrastructure, highways, drainage, utilities, and public realm.
• Review and approve design submissions, ensuring compliance with project requirements, local regulations, and international standards.
• Collaborate with project stakeholders, including government authorities, developers, and engineering teams.
• Monitor design progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Support procurement and construction teams with design-related inputs and technical guidance.

• Champion sustainability, innovation, and value engineering throughout the design process.

• Minimum 15 years of experience in infrastructure design and delivery.

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related discipline; Master's degree preferred.
• Proven track record in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects, ideally within the Middle East.
• Strong understanding of infrastructure systems including roads, drainage, utilities, and site-wide services.
• Experience managing multidisciplinary design teams and external consultants.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
  Familiarity with regional codes, standards, and permitting processes.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.

Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.

SYSTRA is one of the world's leading engineering and consultancy groups specialising in public transport and sustainable mobility. With over 10,300 employees, SYSTRA's mission is to design safe and sustainable transport solutions to bring people together, develop social inclusion and facilitate access to employment, education and leisure throughout the world.

For 65 years, the Group has been working alongside cities and regions to contribute to their development by creating, improving and modernising their infrastructure and transport systems, throughout the life cycle of their projects. SYSTRA is involved from the earliest stages of design through to the testing, deployment and maintenance phases. The company provides all its services in over 80 countries worldwide and generates 74% of its turnover internationally. With its new services, SYSTRA supports its clients and partners in their digital, ecological and energy transition, in order to invent the mobility of tomorrow.

Context

SYSTRA's Infrastructure & Built Environment Business Unit is anticipating future growth, with potential design projects in the pipeline. To prepare for these possible opportunities, We are seeking an accomplished
Senior Project Director
to lead the infrastructure design delivery of a flagship masterplan project.

With a minimum of 25 years' proven experience, you will provide strategic leadership and manage multidisciplinary teams to ensure the holistic integration and timely delivery of complex infrastructure components within a large-scale, multi-phase masterplan. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in design management and successful execution of complex infrastructure undertakings.

Missions/Main Duties

• Leadership & Strategy

• Oversee and direct all design delivery phases for infrastructure (transport, utilities, public realm, etc.) within a major masterplan.

• Develop and implement project delivery strategies in line with client goals and masterplan vision.

• Engage with executive leadership and stakeholders to align on objectives, milestones, and KPIs.

• Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and coordinate multidisciplinary teams, including internal staff and external consultants.

• Foster a collaborative team culture focused on excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.

• Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as the principal point of contact for client, authorities, partners, and key stakeholders.

• Represent the project at senior-level meetings, presentations, and negotiations.

• Project & Design Management

• Oversee the preparation of technical design deliverables – ensuring quality, compliance, and commercial viability.

• Coordinate with planning, architecture, engineering, and environment teams to deliver integrated solutions.

• Manage design change, technical risks, and issues to project objectives.

• Program & Financial Oversight

• Plan and control project schedules, budgets, and resources; drive timely and cost-effective delivery.

• Monitor project performance, implement corrective actions, and report progress at executive level.

• Delivery Excellence

• Champion best practices in project delivery, sustainability, and digital innovation.

• Ensure compliance with all regulatory, safety, and quality standards.

Profile/Skills

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Urban Planning, or related discipline.
• Minimum 25 years of experience in leading major infrastructure design and delivery projects, including large-scale masterplan or city-scale developments.
• Significant experience in a senior leadership/director role within a consultancy environment.
• Proven track record delivering complex, multidisciplinary projects across design and delivery phases.
• Extensive experience engaging with high-level stakeholders, clients, and government agencies.
• In-depth knowledge of infrastructure systems, regulatory frameworks, and project management methodologies.
• Chartered status with a recognized professional body preferred.
• Inspirational leadership and team development
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving
• Outstanding communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent program and commercial management abilities
• Customer-focused, results-driven, with a commitment to quality and innovation

Systra is an equal opportunities company; this position is open to all applicants.

Company Description

With over two decades of experience, Mission Consultant Engineering is a trusted partner in engineering and consulting services, committed to delivering innovative and sustainable solutions. Our multidisciplinary expertise, combined with cutting-edge technologies and dedication to excellence, ensures we meet the evolving needs of our clients and society. As a Class One engineering firm, we are fully aligned with Saudization and local content requirements, fostering local capacity and expertise. Together, we are building a brighter future in line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site role for a Technical Office Senior Engineer Marine located in Riyadh. The Technical Office Senior Engineer Marine will be responsible for preparing shop drawings, Bill of Quantities (BOQ), and conducting quantity surveying. The role also involves coordination and collaboration with civil and electrical engineering teams to ensure project specifications and deadlines are met.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in preparing Shop Drawings and BOQ
• Experience in Civil Engineering Engineering
• Skills in Structural Designing.
• Skills in Quantity Surveying
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
• Ability to work on-site in Riyadh
• Bachelor's degree in Civil or Architectural Engineering.
• Experience in the marine engineering field is a plus
• Familiarity with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and related regulations is beneficial

WSP in the Middle East is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Design Director to join our team in Riyadh, KSA. This strategic leadership role is critical to the success of high-profile, multidisciplinary projects, ensuring innovative, sustainable, and technically sound design outcomes that align with our client's ambitions and broader project goals.

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight to the Project Design Management team across all project phases.
• Lead the development and implementation of forward-thinking design management strategies that ensure quality, innovation, and efficiency.
• Direct and coordinate multidisciplinary design teams to ensure alignment with project objectives, client expectations, and regulatory standards.
• Oversee the integration of design intent through coordination with stakeholders, consultants, and construction teams.
• Support business development efforts, including bids and proposals, by contributing design leadership and strategic insights.

• Act as the primary point of contact for design-related issues with the client, authorities, and project partners.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture, Engineering, or related field.

• Minimum of 20 years of relevant experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership or director-level role.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale, complex projects in the Middle East/KSA is essential.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Deep understanding of regional regulations, design standards, and sustainability practices.
• Experience working in multidisciplinary, collaborative environments.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.

Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.

With us, you can. Apply today.