Cushman & Wakefield Core appoints Craig Rooney to lead Project & Development Services in the UAE

Dubai, UAE, November 10, 2025: Cushman & Wakefield Core has announced the appointment of Craig Rooney as Managing Director of Project & Development Services (PDS), marking the official launch of this service line in the UAE and establishing a new capability for the firm.

With over 20 years of international experience delivering complex real estate developments across multiple sectors, Craig will lead the firm’s efforts to provide end-to-end project and development management - from site selection and feasibility to design, delivery, and operations.

The new service line completes Cushman & Wakefield Core’s full-service capability, enabling clients to benefit from integrated advisory across leasing, valuation, capital markets, and project delivery.

Expanding the firm’s full-service offering

Welcoming Craig to the business, Edward Macura, Co-CEO of Cushman & Wakefield Core, said: “The launch of Project & Development Services marks an important step in our growth journey. As our clients’ needs evolve, we’re committed to offering expertise that spans the entire property lifecycle, from strategy and investment through to project delivery and operation. Craig brings a wealth of development and delivery experience to the firm. His leadership and technical expertise will allow us to provide clients with the same level of confidence and capability they expect from Cushman & Wakefield globally, delivered with deep local understanding”.

About Project & Development Services (PDS)

Cushman & Wakefield Core’s Project & Development Services team advises clients through every stage of the project lifecycle, from concept, design, and procurement to construction, handover, and operations. The service is designed to help occupiers, investors, and landlords reduce risk, optimise costs, and ensure delivery excellence across commercial, residential, and mixed-use developments.

The launch of PDS in the UAE reflects growing client demand for integrated project management and development advisory solutions in one of the world’s fastest-moving real estate markets.

Delivering projects from concept to completion

Commenting on the launch, Craig Rooney, said: “PDS is really about taking a project from an idea to reality; everything from site selection and feasibility right through to delivery and operations. What excites me about this role is the opportunity to take the global expertise of Cushman & Wakefield and combine it with Cushman & Wakefield Core’s deep local knowledge to create something truly distinctive for our clients. It’s a boutique offering built around putting clients first, one that’s agile, hands-on, and focused entirely on creating value at every stage of the project lifecycle.”

About Craig Rooney

Before joining Cushman & Wakefield Core, Craig led the real estate and development function at Shamal Holding, overseeing an AED 20 billion portfolio that included Dubai Harbour, Baccarat Hotel & Residences, Hart Shoreditch London, and Naia Island Dubai. He previously contributed to major projects such as La Mer Dubai, Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, and Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.

He holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA), a BSc in Construction Management, and is a Member of the Chartered Institute of Building (MCIOB).

Cushman & Wakefield Core appoints Craig Rooney to lead Project & Development Services in the UAE (image)

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