MEP engineer jobs in the UAE

About the role: MEP engineer

MEP engineers design, install and maintain the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems that make buildings work: HVAC and district cooling connections, power distribution and lighting, water supply and drainage, and fire fighting and fire alarm systems.

In a hot climate where buildings depend on air conditioning, MEP is one of the most in-demand technical fields in the UAE. Consultancies design and supervise systems, MEP contractors install and commission them, and facilities management companies run and maintain them once buildings are handed over. Hotels, hospitals, malls, data centres and residential towers all need MEP teams.

Listings typically ask for experience with local authority approvals for power, water and fire safety, and for software such as AutoCAD, Revit MEP or HAP. Commissioning, testing and handover experience is valued, as is knowledge of green building requirements such as Estidama in Abu Dhabi or Al Sa'fat in Dubai.

Main responsibilities

• Design or review HVAC, electrical, plumbing and fire systems
• Supervise installation and coordinate with other trades
• Prepare submittals and obtain authority approvals
• Test and commission systems before handover
• Plan preventive maintenance in operating buildings

Skills employers look for

• Mechanical or electrical engineering degree
• AutoCAD, Revit MEP and load calculation software
• Knowledge of local fire and utility regulations
• Testing and commissioning experience
• Coordination and reporting skills

Qualifications in the UAE

An attested engineering degree is normally required. Experience with approvals from the civil defence and local power and water authorities is frequently mentioned, and green building training (Estidama, LEED) is an advantage for design roles.