Hussain Sajwani’s journey from a young entrepreneur to a globally recognized real estate mogul is a testament to his visionary leadership, strategic foresight, and unrelenting drive. Born in Dubai in 1956, Hussain was exposed to business through his father’s modest shop. This early exposure ignited his entrepreneurial spirit, further nurtured during his time studying industrial engineering at the University of Washington.
Hussain’s career began in the finance department of Abu Dhabi Gas Industries, where he quickly realized that his ambitions lay beyond the confines of a corporate job. In 1982, he ventured into the catering business, launching a company serving high-profile clients, including the U.S. military and major corporations across the Middle East and Africa. The success of this venture provided Hussain with the capital and confidence to explore new opportunities, and he soon set his sights on real estate—a decision that would prove transformative for both him and the region.
In 2002, a pivotal moment in the region’s real estate history, Hussain founded DAMAC Properties. This decision, driven by his clear vision, marked a significant shift in his career and the industry. Under his leadership, DAMAC rapidly established itself as a leader in the luxury real estate market, known for its opulent residential, commercial, and leisure properties. Hussain’s vision was clear: to deliver world-class properties that combined luxury, innovation, and quality. His approach to real estate development has always been characterized by a keen understanding of market dynamics, a focus on customer needs, and a commitment to excellence.
Over the past two decades, DAMAC has grown into a global real estate powerhouse, with a portfolio that includes over 75 towers and numerous luxury residences, hotels, and commercial spaces across key cities such as Dubai, London, and beyond. One of the company’s flagship projects, the DAMAC Tower Nine Elms in London, stands as Europe’s first Versace-branded luxury residence, exemplifying the company’s commitment to offering unparalleled living experiences.
Under Hussain’s leadership, 2023 marked a particularly successful period for DAMAC Properties. The company launched a series of high-profile projects, including DAMAC Bay 1 and 2, Canal Heights 1 and 2, Coral Reef, Volta, and DAMAC Casa. Additionally, DAMAC continued to expand its already impressive portfolio by developing multiple clusters within the DAMAC Lagoons community, the UAE’s first pre-certified LEED Platinum community. Each of these developments reflects Hussain’s forward-thinking approach, blending luxury with sustainability and catering to the evolving needs of global investors and residents.
DAMAC’s influence is not limited to residential developments. The company has made significant strides in the hospitality sector, with the opening of the DAMAC Hills Mall and the Edge Rotana at DAMAC Hills 2, further solidifying its position as a leader in creating comprehensive lifestyle destinations. These projects are a testament to DAMAC’s ability to seamlessly integrate residential, commercial, and leisure elements, offering a holistic living experience.
Hussain’s strategic vision extends beyond traditional real estate development. Recognizing the growing importance of technology and digital infrastructure, DAMAC has ventured into the data centre business with its EDGNEX Data Centres by DAMAC initiative. With substantial investments across the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia, DAMAC aims to deliver a total capacity of 65MW by 2025. This move, driven by Hussain’s commitment to innovation and adaptability, positions DAMAC as a key player in the region’s digital transformation.
Philanthropy and social responsibility have always been integral to Hussain’s leadership. The Hussain Sajwani – DAMAC Foundation (HSDF) reflects his deep commitment to education, community support, and social impact. In 2023, the foundation contributed AED 5 million ($1.36 million) to the ‘1 Billion Meals’ campaign and AED 20 million ($5.45 million) to the Dubai Schools Project. These contributions highlight Hussain’s belief in the power of giving back and his dedication to creating opportunities for future generations.
DAMAC’s commitment to sustainability is equally strong. The company is affiliated with the Emirates Green Building Council and the UN Global Compact, reflecting its dedication to environmental stewardship. These affiliations, along with DAMAC’s participation in environmental exhibitions and its sustainability-focused projects, underscore the company’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainable development. This commitment to sustainability is a key aspect of DAMAC’s corporate culture and a driving force behind its future projects.
In conclusion, Hussain Sajwani’s leadership has transformed DAMAC Properties into a global real estate leader and set new standards for luxury, innovation, and sustainability in the industry. His ability to anticipate and adapt to market trends and a deep commitment to social responsibility have positioned DAMAC as a frontrunner in the global real estate market. As the company continues to expand its footprint and explore new opportunities, Hussain’s vision will undoubtedly continue to drive its success, shaping the future of real estate in the Middle East and globally.