Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Languages
Timeline
Generic
Dunia  Khaleel

Dunia Khaleel

Abu Dhabi,UAE

Summary

Senior design leader with 15 years of experience shaping high-end residential, branded hospitality, and lifestyle-driven communities across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. As Head of Interior Design at Aldar, I oversee a AED 52 billion portfolio and lead the creative direction, design DNA, and full design lifecycle from concept to handover.

I specialize in experience-led design, lifestyle positioning, and guiding interior design for major developments in a way that balances creativity, strategy, and market relevance. My focus is on defining the interior design vision, elevating product quality, and ensuring consistent design excellence across large-scale developments.

I work closely with global architects, operators, and interior design consultants to ensure cohesive design delivery and clear decision-making.

Overview

8
8
years of professional experience

Work history

Associate Director - Interior Design

Aldar Properties
Abu Dhabi, UAE
04.2025 - Current

Lead the Interior Design division overseeing a AED 52 billion portfolio across residential, hospitality, branded residences, and wellness-driven communities.

  • Set creative direction, materiality, and design DNA across major developments.
  • Manage the full design lifecycle from concept to handover, ensuring quality and alignment.
  • Select and coordinate consultants and operators, guide key design reviews and decisions.
  • Oversee CGIs, presentation materials, and show units to support launch readiness.
  • Lead VIP interior design consultations, creating bespoke, customized design solutions for clients, driving sales upgrades and guiding high-value selections.

Key Projects :

Faya Al Saadiyat Villas & Mansions, The Wilds Dubai, The Row – Saadiyat Cultural District, Nikki Beach (RAK), Rosso Bay (RAK), Nobu Hotel Abu Dhabi, Nobu Residences Saadiyat, Waldorf Astoria Residences, Art House, The Source I/II/III, Athlon Dubai, Yas Riva, Gardenia Bay, Sama Yas, Manarat Living, Fahad Beach Residences, Yas Golf Collection, Reeman Living, The Sustainable City – Yas Island, Mandarin Oriental Residences Saadiyat, Louvre Abu Dhabi Residences, Mamsha Gardens.

Senior Vice President – Interior Design

Aldar Properties
Abu Dhabi, UAE
04.2023 - 04.2025

Oversaw a AED 28 billion interior design portfolio across luxury residential, branded hospitality, and lifestyle-led communities.

  • Directed visioning, material strategy, and FF&E direction across the full development portfolio.
  • Led design reviews with global consultants, architects, and operators.
  • Presented strategic design decisions to C-suite leadership.
  • Delivered launch collateral including CGIs, mock-ups, and show units.

Vice President – Interior Design

Aldar Properties
Abu Dhabi, UAE
02.2021 - 04.2025

Managed a AED 5 billion design portfolio across residential and mixed-use developments.

  • Reviewed concepts, layouts, materials, and guidelines.
  • Ensured design alignment with development strategy and market expectations.
  • Collaborated with architects, consultants, and operators to deliver cohesive interiors.
  • Supported launches with mock-ups, storytelling, and sales collateral.

Project manager

Musanada
Abu Dhabi, UAE
11.2017 - 02.2021
  • Led a AED 150 million project portfolio from concept to execution, overseeing schedules, cost, and quality.
  • Developed interior concepts, palettes, and presentations; supported technical coordination and reviews within my projects.

Education

Master's in Interior & Living Design -

Domus Academy
Milan, Italy
/2008 - /2009

Bachelor's in Interior Design -

Zayed University
Abu Dhabi, UAE
/2003 - /2007

Skills

Creative Direction & Design DNA

Luxury Residential & Branded Hospitality

Lifestyle & Experience-Led Communities

Innovation & Future-Living Concepts

Market Positioning & Product Strategy

Presentation & Stakeholder Alignment

Client Journeys & Experience Touchpoints

FF&E Direction, Materiality & Design Guidelines

CGI Direction, Visual Strategy & Show Unit Planning

Design Reviews & Quality Assurance

VIP Design Consultations

Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration

Accomplishments

    Edaad Scholarship

    Awarded by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum — 2008

Languages

English
Proficient (C2)
Arabic
Proficient (C2)

Timeline

Associate Director - Interior Design

Aldar Properties
04.2025 - Current

Senior Vice President – Interior Design

Aldar Properties
04.2023 - 04.2025

Vice President – Interior Design

Aldar Properties
02.2021 - 04.2025

Project manager

Musanada
11.2017 - 02.2021

Master's in Interior & Living Design -

Domus Academy
/2008 - /2009

Bachelor's in Interior Design -

Zayed University
/2003 - /2007
Dunia Khaleel