Steve Coates

Managing Director, Owner at Matthews EMEA Ltd

United Arab Emirates

About

At Matthews, we are a fully vertically integrated real estate developer, investor, and consultancy firm, specializing in delivering high-impact, complex assets across our strategic markets in the GCC, Europe, and North America. With a relentless focus on forging enduring relationships and assembling elite teams, we consistently achieve exceptional results, project after project. As a trusted JV partner, we bring 37 years of proven expertise in developing and owning diverse asset classes—from luxury hotels and championship golf courses to expansive residential and hospitality portfolios. Our consultancy services deliver actionable, experience-driven insights, honed from our hands-on success in investing, developing, and managing thriving real estate ventures. We are proud major landowners in North America and are actively expanding our residential portfolio in the UK through strategic alliances with local and institutional investors. Our track record speaks volumes: We’ve spearheaded iconic projects like Dubai’s Museum of the Future, Sharjah’s Beeah HQ, Naia Island in Dubai, and a portfolio of transformative developments across the UAE, KSA, and UK. By seamlessly integrating Development, Project, and Cost Management, we ensure unparalleled control, efficiency, and speed—driving superior outcomes on even the most ambitious endeavors. If you’re seeking a powerhouse partner for real estate investment, development, or advisory support in the GCC, Europe, or North America, let’s connect and explore how we can elevate your vision.

Experience

  • Managing Director EMEA, Owner at Matthews
    May 2013 - Present · 13 yrs 5 mos

  • Head of Middle East for Program Cost Consultancy at AECOM
    Oct 2012 - May 2013 · 8 mos

    I led Program Cost & Consultancy in the Middle East with a position on the global board for our business line. I initiated, set up & developed Aecoms development and Investment Management service in the EMEA within AECOM, working closely with AECOM Capital in the US, driving a 27% EBITDA.

  • AECOM (incorporating Davis Langdon, An AECOM Company) (11 yrs 8 mos)
    • Equity Partner for Davis Langdon & Head of United Arab Emirates, Middle East Board Member
      Mar 2008 - Oct 2012 · 4 yrs 8 mos

      Total P&L Accountability Led the Business

    • Partner, Head of Bahrain Office for Davis Langdon, Middle East Board Member
      Apr 2005 - Mar 2008 · 3 yrs

      Total P&L Accountability Led the Business

    • Associate for Davis Langdon
      Mar 2001 - Apr 2005 · 4 yrs 2 mos

      Associate in the London Office looking after a team on various projects

  • Senior Project Surveyor at Gardiner & Theobald LLP
    Apr 1999 - Mar 2001 · 2 yrs

    Chartered Training

  • Employers Representative at Schroders
    2000 - 2001 · 1 yr

    Supported the re structure of the business further to the sale of the Private Bank. A Client Representative responsible for relocating 2500 people across 11 London sites, some of which needed refurb and some new office fit outs over a busy 10 months.