Contributor – Matthew Smith, Head of School- School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society (EGIS) at Heriot-Watt University, Dubai
The UAE construction market is projected to grow from USD 41 billion in 2024 to USD 50.40 billion by 2029, according to a report by Mordor Intelligence. Despite challenges like inflation, high interest rates, and geopolitical tensions, JLL MENA’s recent report highlights a positive outlook for the UAE projects market. The industry is increasingly embracing digitalisation, driven by initiatives like the UAE Digital Government Strategy 2025. Technologies such as building information modeling (BIM), digital twins, drones, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence are being implemented to enhance efficiency and collaboration. Challenges like cost concerns and knowledge gaps persist. Companies are conducting digital maturity assessments to accelerate digital transformation, improve efficiency, empower personnel, and facilitate informed decision-making. This shift towards digitalisation opens numerous job opportunities, especially as the demand for tech-savvy professionals grows. Emerging roles in digital project management, virtual construction design, and data analysis are becoming increasingly vital, positioning students with these skills at the forefront of the industry’s modernisation and growth.
Reports indicates that the construction and real estate sector in the UAE led the region’s job market in 2023, in line with the ongoing construction boom. The most sought-after roles included sales, project managers, and business analysts, reflecting the robust demand for professionals who can drive business growth and innovation.
Heriot-Watt University Dubai (HWUD) tailors its programmes to equip students with the skills required to meet real-world industry challenges and succeed in a competitive marketplace. The School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure, and Society (EGIS) offers highly acclaimed degree programs designed to meet the specific demands of local businesses and industries. These programs include Real Estate Management and Finance, Architecture, Architectural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Real Estate, Construction Project Management, Commercial Management and Quantity Surveying, Facilities Management, and Civil Engineering and Construction Management.
Heriot-Watt University was the first British university to establish a campus in Dubai. The university has consistently been ranked as a top provider of higher education, excelling in teaching, research, student satisfaction, and graduate employability. The KHDA Higher Education Classification, in partnership with QS, awarded HWUD a five-star rating from 2018 to 2022. The university has received initial institutional licensure from the UAE’s Ministry of Education (MoE) through the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA). The 218,000-square-foot campus has been thoughtfully designed with a focus on student experience.
Heriot-Watt University graduates are highly sought after by employers for their readiness in the workforce. The career-focused degrees are well-regarded for their relevance to business and industry needs. In a recent survey, the university ranked 1st in Scotland and 2nd in the UK for graduate employability, with over 84% of graduates securing full-time employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The accredited programmes and the support of the Careers Advisory Service ensure that students are equipped with the skills needed to excel in the job market. The university provides valuable connections with top employers both nationally and internationally.
Higher educational institutions are actively working to bridge the knowledge gap in the industry by collaborating with various stakeholders, including government and business leaders. The Centre of Excellence and Sustainable Construction (CES²C) at HWUD collaborates with similar organisations and government entities to transform the built environment and cultivate the next generation of professionals. By fostering a creative environment that encourages collaboration among multidisciplinary researchers, industry experts, and government bodies, CES²C serves as a global hub for innovative thinking.
Digitalisation and technological advancements are reshaping the landscape, offering exciting new career opportunities. This dynamic environment promises a rewarding and impactful career for those entering the field today.