Expanding Our Reach into the GCC
We are pleased to announce the next phase of Thomas Gray’s strategic growth: our expansion into the Middle East.
This development marks a significant step in our mission to connect exceptional talent with leading organisations on a global scale. With rapid investment and development across construction, fit out, real estate and infrastructure, the Middle East presents exciting opportunities for both our clients and our UK-based candidates seeking to relocate.
By establishing a local presence, we are now even better positioned to deliver the bespoke, high-calibre recruitment services we are known for, enhanced by regional insight and cultural understanding. Our team will continue to support professionals throughout the relocation process, ensuring a smooth transition into this dynamic and fast-evolving market.
Why Has This Become a Trend?
A combination of career opportunities, lifestyle appeal, and economic advantage drives the growing movement of UK-based professionals to the GCC.
Several key factors have contributed to this shift:
- 🏗️ Ambitious national development plans, such as Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE’s ongoing diversification efforts, have sparked unprecedented investment in real estate and infrastructure, creating long-term demand for international expertise.
- 💸 A tax-free income structure allows professionals to maximise their earnings, an increasingly attractive proposition amid rising living costs in the UK and other Western markets.
- 🛡️ World-class infrastructure and safety, paired with a high standard of living, make the region especially appealing for both individuals and families.
- 🌍 A global talent mindset: Employers across the GCC actively seek international professionals for their technical knowledge and leadership experience, making relocation more accessible than ever.
- 🔄 A post-pandemic shift in priorities, with many professionals seeking meaningful work, improved lifestyle balance, and international exposure – all of which the GCC offers in abundance.
A Valued Partnership: Havelock One & Thomas Gray
Background
As the Middle East continues to attract high-calibre international talent, Havelock One, a recognised leader in interior fit-out, were looking to strengthen its senior teams across multiple divisions.
The introduction followed a trusted recommendation from a respected figure in the UK fit-out market, now based in Bahrain, who has known Ian, Managing Director of Thomas Gray, for over three decades. This reflects Thomas Gray’s reputation for fostering long-term professional relationships built on discretion, industry insight, and mutual respect.
Following initial discussions with senior stakeholders at Havelock One, including members of the HR team, Thomas Gray was formally appointed to support a series of strategic hires. This marked the beginning of a valued and collaborative partnership, shaped by a shared focus on communication, cultural fit, and long-term success.
Feedback from the Client and Candidates
Mark Waters
Divisional Director, Retail Manufacturing
“Thomas Gray, and in particular Ian, took the time to truly understand our business and culture, ensuring that the candidates have the right energy, drive and personality to be a success at Havelock One.
What we like about the team is that they focus on understanding our brief properly and source candidates as per the role requirement. This both saves time for our Management team as well as yields the desired results.”
Tom McEvoy
Divisional Director, Commercial Fit Out – Joined April 2025
“I was aware of Ian and Thomas Gray, his recruitment business, through reputation and coincidentally he had been highly recommended by a previous colleague. They were very professional, certainly beyond any of my expectations and Ian’s continued support, guidance, and responsiveness was exemplar throughout the entire process.
As someone who values customer service I thoroughly recommend Ian and his team.”
Jason Storr
Senior Production Manager, Retail Manufacturing Division – Joined May 2025
“From the initial call, Ian was fantastic in discussing what became my new role in Bahrain with a great company. He was an excellent communicator and listener, providing quick feedback throughout the interview process.
What stood out most was how personal the process felt — not transactional, but managed with great emotional intelligence, especially around the challenges of accepting a new role abroad.”
