< PreviousCOVER STORY www.mepmiddleeast.com 20 MEP Middle East | May 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com COVER STORY www.mepmiddleeast.com 20 MEP Middle East | May 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com “Attracting talent is only part of the equation. Retention is just as vital. Employers that offer real opportunities for development and balance will keep the talent they need” MEP_May2025_14-23_Cover Story_13602668.indd 2005/05/2025 10:39COVER STORY www.mepmiddleeast.comMay 2025 | MEP Middle East 21 www.mepmiddleeast.com Mowat’s reflections on recruitment, localisation, and career development echo the broader transformation underway within the MEP sector. As governments roll out ambitious infrastructure programmes and private developers compete for top-tier talent, the pressure to build strong, future-ready teams has never been greater. From the rising demand for specialists in data centres and sustainable design to the increasing emphasis on workforce nationalisation and inclusive hiring, the dynamics of talent acquisition are evolving rapidly. His observations provide a timely lens through which to explore the findings of the 2025 Salary Guide, developed in collaboration with MEP Middle East, offering a deeper look into hiring trends, compensation benchmarks, and the factors that are reshaping the workforce across the region. The MEP sector in the region experienced steady and resilient growth throughout 2024, largely fuelled by major infrastructure and real estate developments across the region. While comprehensive data on the total value of MEP project awards remains limited, the consistent rise in contract allocations indicates a robust market trajectory. This momentum is reflected in several notable projects, including the 100MW data centre project in Ajman, a strategic initiative enhancing the UAE’s digital infrastructure; the Palm Jebel Ali Luxury Villas, a large-scale residential development in Dubai; the Abu Dhabi Sphere Entertainment Complex, a flagship leisure and tourism project; and the Dubai Metro Blue Line, a transformative urban mobility initiative aimed at improving connectivity across the emirate. “The ongoing success and evolution of these projects are aligned with key industry trends and technological shifts. Digitalisation continues to reshape project delivery, with BIM and other advanced tools improving project coordination, planning accuracy, and execution efficiency,” says Mowat. “Sustainability also remains a priority, with green building initiatives, energy-efficient solutions, and environmentally responsible MEP strategies gaining ground, driven by regulatory requirements and global climate commitments.” EMERGING TRENDS These trends point to a rapidly expanding landscape filled with emerging opportunities. Large-scale developments such as Saudi Arabia’s NEOM and the UAE’s smart city initiatives are set to unlock substantial growth in the MEP sector, particularly for contractors, engineers, and consultants. With regional governments prioritising infrastructure investment, the demand for high-quality MEP design and execution will continue to grow, presenting ample opportunities for skilled professionals. Renewable energy is also a major driver, as there is a marked acceleration towards solar and wind power. As these technologies become increasingly integrated into MEP frameworks, professionals with expertise in sustainable systems, renewable energy integration, and green building practices will be in high demand, positioning the sector for a greener, more sustainable future. At the same time, smart building technologies and IoT integration are transforming the way MEP systems are designed and managed. Clients are increasingly seeking firms capable of delivering intelligent, data-driven solutions that not only enhance energy efficiency, but also improve building performance and occupant experience. This trend is set to revolutionise the sector, making it one of the most exciting areas for innovation and growth. Alongside these advancements, the regulatory changes across GCC are tightening building codes and introducing stricter energy efficiency standards. These changes create both challenges and opportunities, driving demand for consultancy services, compliance audits, and specialist training to ensure professionals stay ahead of evolving regulations and market requirements. DesignationSalary per monthExperience in years Junior Engineer10,000 – 15,000 AED0 – 3 Intermediate Engineer15,000 – 20,000 AED3 – 5 Senior Engineer25,000 – 30,000 AED7 – 12 Principal Engineer 33,000 – 36,000 AED10 – 15 Associate Engineer40,000 – 47,000 AED12+ Associate Director 45,000 – 65,000 AED13+ Technical Director 60,000 – 72,000 AED20+ Note: The above salaries are indicative only and subject to factors such as experience, location, and additional benefi ts MEP_May2025_14-23_Cover Story_13602668.indd 2105/05/2025 15:26COVER STORY www.mepmiddleeast.com 22 MEP Middle East | May 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com “Finally,” Mowat says, “the MEP sector faces an ongoing talent shortage, particularly at the Principal to Associate Director levels.” “This is especially critical in the fast-growing data centre sector, where the demand for technical specialists far outpaces local supply. To address this gap, companies are encouraged to expand their talent acquisition strategies beyond national borders, seeking international expertise to maintain project momentum, competitiveness and successful delivery in 2025 and beyond,” he adds. THE SALARY STRUCTURE As the MEP sector in the Middle East continues to grow and evolve, with emerging opportunities across infrastructure, renewable energy, smart technologies, and regulatory changes, the demand for skilled professionals is at an all-time high. With this increased demand, compensation packages are also evolving, reflecting the value placed on expertise in areas such as sustainable design, advanced building technologies, and energy efficiency. To offer further insight into this landscape, the table above presents a breakdown of average salaries in the MEP sector, “based on our own placement records and research, as well as feedback from clients and candidates across the UAE.” These salaries span a wide range of MEP disciplines and are reflective of both large international multi-disciplinary design consultants and locally owned firms. The data highlights significant variations, illustrating how salary bands differ depending on the size and scale of the company, as well as the complexity of the projects being managed. WHAT CANDIDATES LOOK FOR In today’s competitive UAE job market, attractive salaries alone aren’t enough to secure top talent. Candidates are increasingly looking for more holistic packages that address both professional growth and personal wellbeing. Employers who understand that competitive benefits go beyond financial incentives—by supporting lifestyle flexibility, family welfare, and long-term career aspirations—stand out as employers of choice. Health and Family Wellbeing This is non-negotiable for most candidates. Premium health insurance for the employee is expected, with many professionals; in particular those in senior roles—also seeking coverage that extends to immediate family members. Travel and Mobility Employees expect annual return flights home as a standard benefit, with family flights being a significant attraction at managerial and senior levels. Visa sponsorship for candidates and their families is also highly valued. Employers who simplify this process are considerably more attractive to potential hires, especially those relocating from outside the region. Work-Life Balance Post-pandemic, this has become a major priority. Candidates increasingly prefer employers offering “What really stands out in a candidate’s experience is their ability to see a project through from start to finish” James Mowat brings nearly two decades of insight to one of the region’s most dynamic recruitment sectors MEP_May2025_14-23_Cover Story_13602668.indd 2205/05/2025 10:40COVER STORY www.mepmiddleeast.comMay 2025 | MEP Middle East 23 www.mepmiddleeast.com remote or hybrid work options that support both their lifestyle and family commitments. Flexibility is now seen as a key marker of a progressive workplace. Incentives and Rewards Professionals are drawn to companies where they can link performance to reward. Clear, achievable company and individual targets tied to bonus structures create a tangible connection between effort and outcome, motivating employees while driving results for the business. Supportive Relocation Policies For international candidates especially, relocation assistance can be a deciding factor. Covering moving expenses, the temporary accommodation, and initial setup costs sets an employer apart in a crowded marketplace. This signals genuine support and reduces friction during the transition. Career Growth and Professional Development Employers who invest in ongoing learning through sponsored certifications, structured training programmes, and clear career progression pathways significantly increase their appeal. Upskilling also contributes to workforce retention and strengthens project capabilities, benefiting the business overall. 2025 AND BEYOND Whilst Saudi Arabia continues to dominate headlines with ambitious mega-projects, the UAE—particularly Abu Dhabi—is experiencing a strong resurgence, firmly positioning itself as a hub for growth and innovation in the MEP sector. This momentum is driven by major infrastructure investments, landmark developments, and a notable boom in data centre projects. As digital transformation accelerates across the region, the UAE has emerged as a key player. Developments like the 100MW data centre in Ajman underscore the country’s commitment to expanding its digital infrastructure. However, this rapid growth highlights a critical challenge: the local talent pool, especially skilled engineers and technical leaders, is not sufficient to meet demand. This talent shortage requires forward-thinking recruitment strategies that extend beyond national borders. Attracting and integrating international professionals is now essential to maintain project delivery timelines and meet quality expectations. As the industry expands, employers must also prioritise Equity, Diversity & Inclusion initiatives. Many companies are taking steps to diversify their workforce by hiring more female engineers and leaders— recognising that inclusivity drives innovation and strengthens competitiveness. “Ultimately,” Mowat says, “attracting talent is only part of the equation. Retention is just as vital. Competitive salaries must be supported by comprehensive employee wellbeing programmes, flexible working conditions, and genuine opportunities for advancement. Employers that meet these expectations will not only secure top- tier talent but also retain it,” concludes Mowat. Khazna’s 100MW AI-optimised data centre under construction in Ajman will be the company’s largest in the UAE to date (Image used for illustrative purpose only) MEP_May2025_14-23_Cover Story_13602668.indd 2305/05/2025 15:26www.mepmiddleeast.com 24 MEP Middle East | May 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com TOP MEP CONSULTANTS 2025 www.mepmiddleeast.comwww.mepmiddleeast.com TOP MEP CONSULTANTS MEP_May2025_24-45_Top MEP Consultants_13590063.indd 2405/05/2025 11:09www.mepmiddleeast.comMay 2025 | MEP Middle East 25 www.mepmiddleeast.com TOP MEP CONSULTANTS The MEP Consultants Power List published annually by MEP Middle East recognises prominent design, engineering and project management consultancies making their mark in the region’s construction industry. The 2025 edition of the MEP Consultants Power List was compiled based on surveys, interviews conducted with business owners and department heads of the consulting firms, and publicly available information. The criteria for the listing include – but is not limited to – the financial health of the consultancies, size and expertise of their workforce, scale and status of competed and ongoing projects, value of MEP consultancy contracts, technology adoption and digital transformation initiatives. We have also considered the reputation of the firms in the market and their commitment to employee health and safety, diversity and inclusion, and sustainability. This list is not a ranking and does not place companies in any specific order of importance, but merely makes the effort to track the yearly progress of these companies and document their advancements in the built environment sector. www.mepmiddleeast.comwww.mepmiddleeast.com MEP_May2025_24-45_Top MEP Consultants_13590063.indd 2505/05/2025 11:11www.mepmiddleeast.com 26 MEP Middle East | May 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com TOP MEP CONSULTANTS Egis is a leading global architectural, consulting, construction engineering, operations and mobility services fi rm, known for its innovative solutions and commitment to design excellence within the MEP sector. Spearheaded by Michael Rimmer, Regional Director of MEP for the Middle East and South Asia, Egis has signifi cantly expanded its presence across the region, delivering engineering solutions that power some of the most ambitious and transformative projects. Rimmer’s leadership and nearly two decades of industry experience have cultivated a team of over 350 MEP professionals dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions for cultural landmarks, transportation infrastructure, and giga-developments. REGIONAL IMPACT 2024 was a landmark year for Egis, particularly within the Middle East, where the company saw remarkable growth as part of its ongoing “Impact the Future” initiative. The strategy fueled Egis’ impressive performance, achieving a turnover of €2.164 billion, representing a 14% increase from the previous year. Today, 24% of Egis Group's revenue comes from the Middle East, reinforcing the region’s critical role in the company’s global portfolio. The company is now among the top fi ve engineering fi rms in the region - a direct result of the company’s excellence and its strategic focus on delivering high-quality engineering solutions that meet the evolving demands a dynamic market and local communities. DIGITAL AND SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION Egis’ success is driven by its ability to harness the latest advancements in digital technology. Building Information Modelling (BIM), computational design and code-driven workfl ows are integrated to enhance project delivery, improve collaboration, and control costs. This digital-fi rst approach, combined with a commitment to sustainability, has set Egis apart as a leader in the rapidly evolving construction and infrastructure sectors. The company’s expertise in sustainability is evident in its eff orts to reduce environmental impact while maintaining operational effi ciency, a key consideration as the region works toward ambitious energy transition and sustainability goals. In 2024, Egis’ MEP team was honoured with a staggering 14 prestigious industry awards. Among these accolades were three wins at the MEP Middle East Awards, celebrating advancements in digital innovation and project delivery. The company also received ten awards at the CIBSE UAE Awards, including ‘GCC Project of the Year’ for the Natural History Museum and ‘Retrofi t Project of the Year’ for the Yas Waterworld Expansion. Beyond overseeing the delivery of complex MEP solutions for some of the most iconic and high-profi le clients such as Dubai Holding, Aldar, Miral, NEOM, and Diriyah Gate, Rimmer has cultivated a culture of continuous improvement within the company. He established the Technical Working Group (TWG), an internal platform dedicated to enhancing design quality, integrating digital tools, and driving operational effi ciency. Looking ahead, Egis is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation. The company’s “Impact the Future” initiative will remain central to its strategy, ensuring that its projects meet the evolving demands of the Middle East but also lead the way in advancing the global MEP sector. EGIS MICHAEL RIMMER REGIONAL DIRECTOR – MEP MEP_May2025_24-45_Top MEP Consultants_13590063.indd 2605/05/2025 11:11www.mepmiddleeast.comMay 2025 | MEP Middle East 27 www.mepmiddleeast.com TOP MEP CONSULTANTS Ranked among the world’s leading consultancies, KEO off ers comprehensive services in planning, architec ture, engineering, sus tainabilit y, cost consultancy, facilities management, and project and construction management. At the heart of this multidisciplinary approach is KEO’s MEP division, comprising 75 dedicated MEP professionals supported by over 250 specialists from the wider design group. In response to signifi cant wins already this year, the division is focused on expanding its team and strengthening talent development through initiatives such as the KEO Academy, BIM Academy, mentorship programs, and external certification opportunities—ensuring the next generation of MEP talent is empowered to drive future success. Over the past 12 months, the MEP team has delivered a number of high-profi le, technically complex projects while maintaining strict adherence to project schedules. This includes Damac Bay, an ultra-luxury residential tower located at Dubai Harbour, where KEO provided innovative design solutions for a landmark now under construction. COLLABORATION THAT DRIVES EFFICIENCY With an integrated approach to project management, KEO facilitates seamless coordination and communication among disciplines to streamline delivery and reduce risk. “Our advantage lies in our strategic utilisation of KEO’s extensive resources across our global offi ces,” says Mohamad Ballout, Director – MEP Engineering, KEO. “This networked approach allows us to tap into a diverse pool of talent and expertise, enabling us to tackle even the most complex project challenges with confi dence.” KEO remains at the forefront of technological advancement in digital twin modelling, BIM, AR/VR, IoT integration, AI and machine learning, and cloud-based collaboration platforms. Digital solutions are implemented strategically to optimise workfl ows and unlock revenue-generating opportunities for clients. One example is the digital twin platform created for a KEO offi ce using Autodesk Tandem and integrated IoT sensors. This solution collects and analyses real-time data, allowing the fi rm to demonstrate the tangible benefi ts of digital twins and win new projects. “We have been investing in cutting-edge tools, software, and techniques to streamline our processes, enhance productivity, and deliver exceptional outcomes. Where tools do not exist, we will continue to build in-house applications that answer the industry’s needs,” says Mohamad. KEO prioritises sustainability and energy effi ciency to align with global carbon reduction goals. The company supports clients in achieving their sustainability targets through green building certifi cations, renewable energy strategies, advanced design tools, and close collaboration with in-house sustainability experts and leading manufacturers to stay aligned with the latest regulations and best practices. A standout example is the DEWA HQ, scheduled for completion later this year. Designed to be the world’s largest and smartest net-positive governmental building, it features over 10,000 solar photovoltaic (PV) panels installed across its façade and rooftop, with a capacity to generate more than 7,000 kW of renewable energy. Alongside its regional success, KEO continues to grow its international footprint. Over the past year, the company has opened new offi ces in Portugal and London, with additional expansion plans expected to unfold before year-end. KEO INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANTS MOHAMAD BALLOUT DIRECTOR – MEP MEP_May2025_24-45_Top MEP Consultants_13590063.indd 2705/05/2025 18:16www.mepmiddleeast.com 28 MEP Middle East | May 2025www.mepmiddleeast.com TOP MEP CONSULTANTS RED Engineering Design is a global leader in complex building design, specialising in the delivery of mission-critical infrastructure for the world’s most data-reliant industries. Nowhere is this more evident than in the company’s growing presence across the Middle East, where RED has established itself as a trusted partner for high-capacity, sustainable, and AI-ready data centre facilities. A RECORD YEAR IN THE MIDDLE EAST 2024 was a record year for RED in the region, marked by signifi cant revenue growth and the successful delivery of multiple large-scale data centre design projects. During this period, RED strengthened relationships with key clients and established new income streams in KSA and Kuwait—expanding its footprint across the GCC and reinforcing its position as a trusted advisor in mission- critical infrastructure. Established in Dubai in 2007, RED’s Middle East operation has grown in both scale and capability, supporting the region’s rapid digital transformation. The team continues to deliver world-class engineering consultancy services across the GCC, working closely with major developers, hyperscalers, and colocation providers to meet rising demand for resilient, energy-efficient data centres. RED’s approach blends global expertise with deep regional knowledge—underpinned by the latest advances in AI integration, energy strategy, and environmental design. DESIGNING FOR THE AI ERA As Lead Consultants and MEP Engineers on some of the most ambitious data centre projects in the region, RED is known for its ability to balance cutting-edge technology with environmental stewardship. With a commitment to future-ready infrastructure, the business delivers designs that are both scalable and robust—capable of meeting the operational and environmental demands of an increasingly AI- powered world. LEADERSHIP DRIVING EXCELLENCE This momentum is sustained by RED’s deeply experienced leadership team. Directors Simon Young and Kenneth Heney remain at the heart of operations in the Middle East, bringing together strategic insight and delivery excellence. Young’s expertise in client development and sector engagement has helped shape RED’s presence in the region, while Heney—leading project delivery— ensures the consistent execution of high-performance, future-ready designs. Heney’s technical oversight and leadership have been critical in delivering scalable, resilient infrastructure that meets the rigorous demands of the AI era. Together, they continue to strengthen RED’s reputation as a design partner of choice for mission-critical developments across the GCC. As RED continues to expand its international portfolio, the company remains focused on shaping the future of data centre infrastructure—helping clients navigate the evolving demands of AI, connectivity, and sustainable engineering on a global scale. The company places strong emphasis on building enduring client partnerships, working not just as consultants, but as long-term strategic allies invested in the success of every project. RED ENGINEERING KENNETH HENEY REGIONAL DIRECTOR MEP_May2025_24-45_Top MEP Consultants_13590063.indd 2805/05/2025 11:11www.mepmiddleeast.comMay 2025 | MEP Middle East 29 www.mepmiddleeast.com TOP MEP CONSULTANTS Sudlows Consulting delivers expert support, management, and guidance across the full life cycle of critical facilities. The company is currently leading testing and commissioning services for over 2GW of IT hyperscale projects across the EMEA and APAC regions and is actively engaged in more than 8GW of capacity in North America. These large-scale undertakings refl ect Sudlows Consulting’s capabilities in managing complex, high-stakes infrastructure projects that demand technical precision and operational excellence. A key area of focus for the fi rm is tackling today’s most urgent data centre challenges: improving sustainability, maximising energy effi ciency, and enhancing performance without compromising resilience. Every engineer at Sudlows Consulting is a data centre specialist, enabling the team to eff ectively report on, recommend, and resolve mission- critical issues within existing environments, as well as design and implement highly resilient and redundant data centre infrastructures. With deep expertise in the latest technologies and a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of critical environments—whether a data centre or server room— Sudlows Consulting positions itself as a trusted partner in infrastructure delivery. A VISION STEERED BY INDUSTRY EXPERTISE Sudlows Consulting was founded in 2014 by John Rippingale, a seasoned professional in MEP engineering. Drawing on his extensive experience in design, sales, management, and project delivery, Rippingale has led the company through consistent year-on-year growth. Under his leadership as the CEO, Sudlows Consulting has expanded its global footprint and built a strong presence in strategic markets around the world. STRATEGIC GROWTH THROUGH ACQUISITION In 2025, Sudlows Consulting was acquired by Kent, a global powerhouse in engineering with more than a century of heritage. Founded in Ireland, Kent has evolved into a major player in both conventional and low-carbon energy sectors. This acquisition marks a significant chapter in Sudlows Consulting’s evolution, enabling it to leverage Kent’s global network, fi nancial strength and engineering expertise. The partnership with Kent signifi cantly enhances Sudlows Consulting’s ability to deliver innovative and sustainable solutions, reinforcing its leadership in the rapidly expanding data centre sector. It also positions the company to scale its operations and continue providing world-class services for mission-critical facilities worldwide. A GLOBAL PLATFORM FOR INNOVATION The expanded footprint allows the consulting firm to collaborate more closely with clients on a regional level, tapping into local resources to deliver tailored, high-performance solutions. By combining Sudlows Consulting’s niche expertise in critical infrastructure and data centre design with Kent’s broader engineering and sustainability capabilities, the integration empowers the fi rm to take on large-scale, complex projects with confi dence—delivering future- ready solutions on a truly global platform. JOHN RIPPINGALE CEO SUDLOWS CONSULTING, A KENT COMPANY MEP_May2025_24-45_Top MEP Consultants_13590063.indd 2905/05/2025 11:11Next >