About Arena

Arena is an international integrated event services company. The company provides event solutions, designing and delivering temporary environments to a variety of sporting, commercial and cultural events across the globe.

With a global reach that extends from the US, UK and Middle East & Asia, Arena pride themselves on their ability to provide the ‘Arena Standard’ around the world. Offering a truly tailored and bespoke experience with an extensive product offering around the world, Arena “turn space into place”.

Flagship recurring events include the Olympics, Rugby World Cup, Commonwealth Games, Ryder Cup, European Tour, Wimbledon Championships, PGA Tour, European Tour.

For more info: https://www.arenagroup.com

Position Description

Job Title: Quantity Surveyor / Estimator – Events

Reporting Into: Manager Estimation – Events

Direct Reports: NA

In-direct Reports: Design, Project Management, Procurement, Finance

Location: UAE (Office-Based with Site Visit Requirements)

Contract Type: Full-Time

Job Objective:

To prepare accurate cost estimates, BOQs, and commercial documentation for temporary event infrastructure including structures, seating, interiors, and site services. The QS/Estimator plays a vital role in supporting bids, pricing strategies, and project cost control, ensuring the successful delivery of Arena’s high-profile events across the region.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Contract Estimation

• Review tender documents, RFPs, design drawings, and client briefs to develop event project estimates.
• Prepare BOQs, rate breakdowns, and pricing schedules based on Arena’s rate cards, supplier inputs, and historical data.
• Coordinate with Account Managers, Designers, and Operations to validate scope and build accuracy into estimates.
• Identify material, transport, manpower, and subcontractor requirements for each project.
• Participate in bid strategy meetings and support the commercial team in preparing proposals.
• Ensure estimates are submitted within tight deadlines and aligned with client specifications.

Post-Award Quantity Surveying

• Track project variations, scope changes, and cost impacts throughout project execution.
• Prepare and submit variation orders, interim valuations, and final accounts.
• Maintain up-to-date cost reports and support the Project Manager with budget tracking.
• Assist procurement with price comparisons, supplier quotes, and subcontractor agreements.
• Conduct value engineering and suggest cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or delivery.

Commercial & Documentation

• Maintain project costing files, tender databases, and rate history logs.
• Review supplier and subcontractor invoices for accuracy and alignment with contract scope.
• Support in financial closeouts, reporting, and lessons learned for each event.
• Ensure compliance with Arena’s SOPs, ISO standards, and regional commercial regulations.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong analytical, numerical, and commercial skills.
• In-depth knowledge of cost estimation and quantity surveying principles in temporary construction/event industries.
• Proficient in MS Excel, AutoCAD (basic take-offs), and estimation software (e.g., Candy, CCS).
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to work under pressure with multiple bids.
• Strong interpersonal and cross-department coordination skills.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, Construction Economics, or related field.
• Minimum 3–5 years of QS/estimation experience, ideally in the events, exhibitions, or temporary works sector.
• GCC/UAE/KSA experience preferred.
• Familiarity with event-specific scopes such as overlay, seating, structures, and temporary services is an advantage.
• Valid UAE/KSA driver’s license is a plus.