Ilie Cebotari
I am an experienced and visionary Interior Design Director with 20 years of expertise leading creative direction, design strategy, and execution across large-scale Residential, Commercial, Retail, Mixed-Use, Heritage,…
About
I am an experienced and visionary Interior Design Director with 20 years of expertise leading creative direction, design strategy, and execution across large-scale Residential, Commercial, Retail, Mixed-Use, Heritage, and Hospitality projects in the UAE and GCC. I have a track record of shaping distinctive design identities that mix innovation, functionality, and the highest standards of quality, from concept through completion.
I excel at cross-functional collaboration with architecture, development, and construction teams, guiding brand guidelines, value engineering, and sustainable solutions while maintaining fiscal discipline. I lead multidisciplinary teams, mentor talent, and drive design excellence across markets in the UAE and GCC.
- 23 years' experience
- Joined June 2026
Skills· 16
Languages
- EnglishFluent
- Romanian, Moldavian, MoldovanFluent
- RussianFluent
- FrenchBeginner
Industry experience
- Real Estate & Construction
- Government
- Healthcare
- Education
- Professional Services
- Media & Entertainment
- Travel & Hospitality
- Retail
More experts in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Art Directors for hire in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Creative Directors for hire in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Creative Producers for hire in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Interior Designers for hire in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Post Production Supervisors for hire in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Presentation Designers for hire in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Product Designers for hire in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Project Managers for hire in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Story Producers for hire in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Studio Managers for hire in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Work experience· 14 roles
Led the interior design vision and strategy across a prestigious governmental and institutional portfolio valued at over $16B, spanning Workspace, Mixed Use, Residential, F&B, Wellness, and hospitality spaces. Defined universal design standards, mentored a high-performing team, collaborated with commercial and procurement to drive value engineering, and ensured compliance with Local Building Codes, NFPA, ADA, and LEED standards, overseeing BIM coordination and external consultants.
Spearheaded Concept Design and technical execution for AKALA Residence by ARADA and Mosque and Office Tower complex for Emaar HQ. Reviewed and approved comprehensive design packages, detailed drawings, material selections, and high-value FF&E specifications to ensure design excellence. Coordinated with architecture, development, and operators to safeguard design intent, while leading teams to meet brand identity and budget targets.
Mentored a department of 13 interior design professionals, delivering large-scale developments including heritage-driven Diriyah Gates, the Ministry of Commerce HQ, and Qatar Energy Medical Facility. Served as key liaison to senior government stakeholders, presenting design concepts and securing rapid approvals; implemented QA/QC processes and ensured integration within architectural master plans.
Education
Certifications and awards· 5
Hire Ilie Cebotari today
Post a job and invite Ilie, or contact them directly. No hidden commission.



