Hussain Sajwani is a name that resonates with luxury and innovation in the world of real estate. As the founder of the DAMAC Group, Sajwani has crafted a remarkable legacy, transforming the UAE’s skyline and expanding his influence across global markets.
A Modest Beginning
In 1982, Hussain Sajwani embarked on his entrepreneurial journey by founding DAMAC Group. Initially focused on catering and logistics, the company laid the foundation for his later ventures. His foresight and business acumen became evident when he spotted a burgeoning market for real estate in Dubai in the early 2000s.
It wasn’t long before he established DAMAC Properties in 2002, leveraging Dubai’s decision to allow freehold property ownership for international investors. This bold move turned DAMAC Properties into one of the Middle East’s largest and most prestigious real estate developers.
Pioneering Real Estate and Beyond
Sajwani’s knack for identifying opportunities saw him expand DAMAC’s operations across the GCC, Levant, and beyond. From Qatar to the Maldives, Toronto to London, DAMAC has made its mark with luxurious residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. Some of its flagship developments include the glamorous DAMAC Hills communities and the AYKON City along Dubai’s iconic Sheikh Zayed Road.
Key Milestones
Under Sajwani’s leadership, DAMAC has achieved several significant milestones:
- Launching its first master development, DAMAC Hills, in 2013.
- Collaborating with global luxury brands like Versace and Cavalli to create opulent, branded properties.
- Establishing Trump International Golf Club Dubai, which added prestige to DAMAC Hills.
- Delivering over 47,000 homes and having 33,000 more under development, spanning some of the world’s most vibrant cities.
A Legacy of Giving Back
Beyond business, Hussain Sajwani is deeply committed to philanthropy. The Hussain Sajwani – DAMAC Foundation focuses on empowering youth and providing education to underserved communities. Its initiatives include the ‘One Million Arab Coders’ program and scholarships for Emirati students in collaboration with Dubai Schools.
In 2022, the foundation pledged AED 5 million to the ‘1 Billion Meals’ campaign, providing food to vulnerable communities across 50 countries. Through various charitable efforts, Sajwani continues to impact lives far beyond the boundaries of the UAE.
Grooming the Next Generation
Hussain Sajwani’s family is actively involved in the DAMAC legacy. His children, Ali, Amira, Abbas, and Mehdi, hold key positions within the group, ensuring that the entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence continue for generations to come.
Conclusion
Hussain Sajwani is more than just a billionaire entrepreneur; he is a trailblazer who has put Dubai on the global real estate map. From luxury properties to philanthropic endeavors, his vision has inspired countless others to dream big and achieve more.
