Real Estate Strategy Manager

First Abu Dhabi Bank

Job Title
Real Estate Strategy Manager Premises and Leasing Operations First Abu Dhabi Bank Dubai
Job Description
Real Estate Strategy Manager Premises and Leasing Operations First Abu Dhabi Bank Dubai

Role Summary
Join First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the UAE s largest and most secure financial institution, as a Real Estate Strategy Manager based in Dubai. In this strategic operations role, you will lead real estate planning, lease negotiations, ATM rental management, and fit-out coordination across the UAE and international locations. You will collaborate closely with landlords, project teams, and finance to ensure real estate initiatives align with FAB s growth objectives, compliance standards, and cost-efficiency goals.

Job Details
Job Location: Dubai, UAE
Industry: Banking
Function: Operations
Gender: Any
Candidate Nationality: Any
Candidate Current Location: Any
Job Type: Full time

What You ll Do

* Develop and execute the bank s Real Estate strategy, ensuring alignment with growth plans across UAE and international operations
* Lead all lease negotiations for bank branches, offices, kiosks, and ATMs, securing competitive market rates
* Manage all aspects of notional rent reporting, approvals, and expense coordination with Group Finance and Expense teams
* Oversee premises administration including site handovers, utility setups, and Central Bank approvals for new or closed locations
* Work with internal legal, compliance, and risk teams to ensure proper agreement execution and audit readiness
* Collaborate with Real Estate consultants to assess potential expansion locations and optimize current lease portfolios
* Monitor lease payments, AOV deposits, and vendor obligations to prevent delays or reputational risks
* Serve as a single point of contact for governance matters, audit closure, and policy documentation related to real estate and premises
* Support budget preparation and monitor monthly expenses related to real estate and projects
* Coordinate with Projects team for fit-out activities, permit acquisition, and vendor payment tracking

Candidate Requirements

* University degree in Business Administration, Finance, or related field
* 6 10 years of experience in real estate operations or leasing within the banking sector
* Strong negotiation, vendor management, and financial analysis skills
* In-depth understanding of leasing contracts, notional rent structures, and real estate compliance
* Strong coordination capabilities with internal stakeholders and external landlords or authorities
* Excellent communication, documentation, and project tracking abilities
* Proficiency in English and computer-literate across relevant tools and financial systems