About the Role
a large international infrastructure contractor expanding its regional footprint. This is a site-based role in Dubai, owning contract administration, cost control and claims management for a major live project. The hire follows a run of new contract wins across the region, and the business is scaling to match. It's a rare seat for someone who wants full ownership of the commercial function on a project of real scale.
The role
- Own contract administration and cost control on a major Dubai infrastructure project
- Manage variations, extensions of time and commercial claims under FIDIC
- Read and interpret architectural, structural and MEP drawings daily
- Negotiate commercial terms directly with clients, suppliers and subcontractors
- Work on-site, tracking cost, risk and contract exposure in real time
What you'll bring
- 8–15 years in commercial or contract management on large construction projects
- Deep working knowledge of FIDIC Conditions of Contract, Red or Yellow Book
- Fluent written and spoken English and Mandarin Chinese
- Track record managing variations, extensions of time and claims
- Ability to read drawings across architectural, structural and MEP disciplines
- Background on large-scale infrastructure or civil engineering projects is an advantage.
What's on offer
- Full ownership of the commercial function for a major live project
- Site-based role with direct exposure to senior project leadership
- Room to grow within a business scaling across new international markets
Why apply through Guildhall
- Boutique executive search firm in Dubai, established 2010
- 8x independent industry awards since 2020
- 4.9-star Google rating from 250+ reviews
- Direct access to the retained consultant running this search
Hiring a Commercial Manager in Dubai
A Commercial Manager on a large infrastructure project in Dubai typically owns contract administration, cost control and claims for a live package, working closely with project leadership and site teams. The role sits on-site rather than in a head office, and demands fluency in FIDIC contract mechanics alongside the ability to read construction drawings directly. Demand for this profile tends to spike when contractors win new large-scale work and need commercial staff mobilised quickly to protect margin and manage risk from day one.
Common questions
What does a Commercial Manager do in Dubai?
A Commercial Manager on a construction or infrastructure project owns contract administration, cost control and claims for their package. They manage variations and extensions of time under FIDIC, read technical drawings, and negotiate commercial terms with clients and suppliers on-site.
What experience do I need to apply?
Typically 8 to 15 years in commercial or contract management on large construction or infrastructure projects, with strong working knowledge of FIDIC contracts. Candidates should be able to read architectural, structural and MEP drawings and have direct experience managing claims and variations.
How do I apply?
Apply directly on this page. A Guildhall consultant reviews every application personally and will contact suitable candidates on a confidential basis.
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The Agency Behind This Role
This search is managed by Guildhall — an 8× award-winning executive search and recruitment agency, rated 4.9★ across 250+ Google reviews, recruiting in Dubai and across the GCC.