Job Information
AECOM Graduate Urban Planner in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Company Description
Work with Us. Change the World.
At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.
There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.
We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.
Job Description
Join AECOM's 2026 Graduate Program
Are you a passionate graduate with a keen interest in urban planning and sustainable development? AECOM invites you to apply for the role of Graduate Urban Planner within our innovative Urbanism + Planning team. This opportunity is part of our Graduate Program, offering you the chance to collaborate with experienced planners on transformative urban projects.
About the Role: As a Graduate Urban Planner at AECOM, you will be at the forefront of shaping vibrant and sustainable cities. Your responsibilities will include:
Supporting planning concepts and operations, completing basic applications under the guidance of senior planners.
Contributing to research-based tasks, ensuring the quality of output aligns with local office standards.
Developing an understanding of client and authority Planning Portals and Policy systems.
Assisting in report production and project management tasks, including preparation of Project Management Plans (PMPs) and drafting Meeting Minutes (MoMs).
Analyzing project briefs and sites, collaborating with peers to develop comprehensive site reviews and recommendations.
Conducting planning history research and site visits, describing key constraints and opportunities under the supervision of senior planners.
Collecting, comprehending, and representing Zoning Regulations, local regulatory frameworks, and urban design guidelines in the operating regions.
Contributing to maintaining an updated planning library with relevant standards, regulations, and guidelines.
Contributing to the planning benchmarks library by bringing in the latest trends and innovative ideas in systems, processes, governance, policy, and strategies.
What We're Looking For: We are seeking enthusiastic graduates who are:
Passionate about urban planning and creating livable, resilient communities.
Interested in sustainable development and innovative urban design solutions.
Possess strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
Effective communicators and team players who thrive in collaborative environments.
Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Urban Planning from an accredited University
Candidates must be recent 2024 or 2025 graduates (no later than Sept 2025) to be eligible for AECOM's Graduate Program.
Successful applicants must have achieved a minimum GPA of 3.3 or 2:1 (or equivalent) and above.
If you hold a Master’s degree, it must have started within 12 months of finishing your Bachelor’s to meet the program’s continuous education requirement.
Candidates with more than 1 year of postgraduate work experience are not eligible for the program and are encouraged to apply for our professional-level roles instead.
Additional Information
Recruitment Timeline
Here’s what you can expect throughout the application journey.
Applications Open: April 23, 2025
Applications Close: May 23, 2025
Screening & Interviews: May – June 2025 (includes CV review, phone screening, and technical interviews)
Mobilization & Visa Processing: July – August 2025
Start Date: September 2025 (Earlier start requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis).
Program Orientation: October 2025 - Our full graduate cohort from across the Middle East will come together for a dedicated induction, networking, and team-building experience.
About AECOM
AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at aecom.com.
What makes AECOM a great place to work
You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
ReqID: J10126998
Business Line: U&P
Business Group: DCS
Strategic Business Unit: ME and Africa
Career Area: Planning
Work Location Model: On-Site
Legal Entity: AECOM MIDDLE EAST LIMITED DUBAI BRANCH