Already the contractor has a well established operation in Abu Dhabi,  focussed on the oil and gas market.

The former Costain highways director will expand Costain’s reach to encompass design, construction and maintenance in rail, water and highways in the region.

In the UK, project director Simon Ellison will step into his shoes as new highways director.

Ellison worked on the successful M53 Bidston Moss strengthening viaduct contract for the Highways Agency, which was delivered three months early and ahead of budget.

Andrew Wyllie, Costain Group Chief Executive, said: “Both these individuals have, through performance and commitment, underlined Costain’s leading status in the industry.

“Tim Bowen will now take responsibility for implementing strategy in the Middle East and ensuring our customers there receive the same broad scope of service which we offer in the UK markets.

“Simon Ellison, having established a first class reputation in the Highways sector through project delivery, is now responsible for developing further our relationships with customers in this sector and maintaining Costain’s number one status in Highways.”