Fundraising Consultant – Gulf Region (Based in Dubai)

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Duration: Consultancy contract – part-time (~5 days / month)

Reports to: Middle East Coordinator (Swisscontact)

Background

Swisscontact is a leading international development organization headquartered in Switzerland. We promote inclusive economic, social, and ecological development to make a sustained contribution toward prosperous and resilient societies. We have a growing portfolio in the Middle East, and we are looking to expand our fundraising base to further support our work in the region.

Position Overview

Swisscontact is seeking a dynamic, well-connected Fundraising Consultant based in Dubai to support our efforts in mobilizing funds from Gulf-based donors, including philanthropic foundations, development funds, private sector companies and government entities. The consultant will play a key role in identifying opportunities, cultivating relationships, and positioning Swisscontact as a trusted implementation partner for development initiatives across the Middle East and, to a lesser extent, North and West Africa.

Key Responsibilities:

Donor Mapping & Intelligence

• Identify and profile relevant Gulf-based donors, including foundations, public entities, CSR initiatives, and multilateral funding channels based in the region.
• Monitor relevant calls for proposals and funding trends in the Gulf.

Fundraising Strategy & Engagement

• Develop a Gulf-focused fundraising strategy.
• Initiate and build relationships with key donors and funding institutions.
• Represent Swisscontact at relevant networking events, meetings, and forums.

Proposal Development Support

• Contribute to the design and writing of high-quality concept notes and proposals tailored to the priorities of Gulf donors.
• Work closely with Swisscontact’s teams in the Middle East, Africa, and Switzerland to align proposals with regional strategies and donor priorities.

Positioning & Visibility

• Enhance Swisscontact’s visibility with Gulf-based donors through strategic communication and outreach.
• Provide input on external messaging and pitch materials tailored for the Gulf context.

Perform Other Duties

• Attend and participate in capacity building events locally and internationally as required.
• Perform other punctual tasks as dictated by the program, office, and the country's circumstances.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Proven track record in fundraising, business development and resource mobilization with Gulf-based donors.
• Strong network of contacts in Gulf philanthropic foundations, government entities, private sector companies and regional development funds.
• Knowledge of the development landscape in the Middle East, and ideally North and West Africa.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; Arabic is a strong asset.
• Experience working with or for an international NGO, development agency, or consultancy in a similar context.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to work independently and proactively identify opportunities.
• Strong sense of autonomy, with a result-oriented approach and commitment to delivering measurable outcomes.
• Self-starter with strong interpersonal and negotiation skills.

Contract Type

This is a part-time consultancy position, with an expected level of effort of approximately 5 days per month over a period of 12 months.

The contract may be extended based on performance and the availability of funding. Flexibility in scheduling and availability to attend in-person meetings or events in the Gulf region is expected.