Dubai’s transformation from a desert city to a global hub of luxury and innovation has been fueled by visionary entrepreneurs. Among them, Hussain Sajwani, the founder and chairman of DAMAC Properties, stands out as a pioneer of luxury real estate. His bold investments, strategic global partnerships, and diversification into fashion and technology have made him a dominant force in the industry.
From humble beginnings to becoming a billionaire mogul, Sajwani’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and ambition.
Early Life and Education
Hussain Sajwani was born in 1952 or 1953 in the United Arab Emirates. He grew up in a business-oriented family, where his father ran a watch and pen trading shop. His mother also contributed to the family’s income by selling fabrics and household goods.
Sajwani’s exposure to business from a young age sparked his entrepreneurial mindset, but he also pursued higher education. He received a government scholarship to study industrial engineering and economics at the University of Washington in the United States. During his time abroad, he developed a global perspective on business and investments that would later shape his ventures.
Early Career and First Business Ventures
After graduating, Sajwani returned to the UAE and started working as a contracts manager at Abu Dhabi Gas Industries. However, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his first business in 1982—a catering venture.
The Catering Business That Laid the Foundation
His catering company, now known as Global Logistics Services, began by serving construction companies, military bases, and major corporate clients. Over time, it expanded to serve clients such as:
- The U.S. military during the Gulf War
- Bechtel, one of the world’s largest construction companies
- Various hotels, hospitals, and corporate offices across the Middle East and Africa
The success of his catering business provided a strong financial foundation, allowing him to later enter the lucrative real estate market.
The Birth of DAMAC Properties (2002-Present)
In 2002, the Dubai government changed property ownership laws, allowing foreigners to own real estate. Hussain Sajwani saw this as a golden opportunity and founded DAMAC Properties.
First Success and Rapid Growth
DAMAC’s first project was a luxury residential building in Dubai, which sold out in record time. Sajwani’s ability to anticipate market demand led him to develop more high-end residential, commercial, and hospitality projects.
Today, DAMAC Properties is a global leader in luxury real estate, with thousands of delivered homes, hotels, and resorts.
Key DAMAC Developments:
- Trump International Golf Club Dubai – Built in partnership with Donald Trump’s organization, featuring a world-class golf course and ultra-luxury villas.
- DAMAC Hills – A massive luxury community with golf courses, designer villas, and state-of-the-art amenities.
- Paramount Hotels & Resorts Dubai – A Hollywood-themed hotel and serviced apartments in collaboration with Paramount Pictures.
- AYKON City – A futuristic multi-tower development on Sheikh Zayed Road with luxury residences and hotels.
Under Hussain Sajwani’s leadership, DAMAC Properties has expanded beyond Dubai, developing projects in London, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan, Lebanon, and the United States.
Strategic Global Partnerships
Sajwani’s business success is not just due to real estate but also strategic collaborations with international brands.
- Trump Organization – DAMAC built two Trump-branded golf courses in Dubai, making Sajwani one of Donald Trump’s key business allies in the Middle East.
- Versace, Fendi, and Roberto Cavalli – DAMAC developed branded luxury apartments featuring Italian-designed interiors by these world-renowned fashion houses.
- Paramount Hotels & Resorts – Bringing Hollywood glamour to Dubai’s hospitality sector.
These exclusive partnerships helped DAMAC attract high-net-worth investors, positioning it as a premium luxury developer.
Expanding Beyond Real Estate
Apart from real estate, Sajwani has diversified into multiple industries:
1. Acquiring Luxury Fashion Brands
In 2019, Hussain Sajwani’s private investment firm DICO Group acquired Roberto Cavalli, a renowned Italian fashion brand. This move aligned with his strategy to merge fashion and real estate, as DAMAC began incorporating high-end fashion designs into its projects.
In 2022, DAMAC also acquired Swiss luxury jewelry brand De Grisogono, further expanding into the high-end fashion and luxury goods market.
2. Investing in Data Centers & Technology
In 2025, Sajwani announced a $20 billion investment in U.S. data centers through his new venture Edgnex. This move signals his interest in AI, cloud computing, and future technologies.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Hussain Sajwani is married with four children. His son, Ali Sajwani, serves as Managing Director of Operations at DAMAC Group, while his daughter, Amira Sajwani, leads the company’s sales and development.
Despite his enormous wealth, Sajwani remains committed to philanthropy:
- Dubai One Million Coders Initiative – Donated millions to support free coding education for youth.
- Education and Youth Empowerment – Regular contributions to scholarships and university funding in the UAE.
- COVID-19 Relief Efforts – Provided financial assistance and housing support to affected families.
Net Worth and Global Recognition
As of 2024, Hussain Sajwani’s estimated net worth is over $3 billion, making him one of the richest real estate developers in the Middle East.
He has been featured on Forbes’ Billionaires List and recognized as one of the most influential business leaders in the region.
Legacy and Future Vision
Hussain Sajwani’s impact on Dubai’s real estate industry is undeniable. Through DAMAC, he has redefined luxury living, bringing international brands, architectural excellence, and innovation to the region.
Looking ahead, his investments in technology, fashion, and AI-driven real estate signal a new chapter for DAMAC, ensuring its global expansion beyond real estate into the digital economy.
As Sajwani continues to reshape industries, he remains a symbol of visionary leadership, luxury real estate dominance, and strategic business acumen.
Follow Hussain Sajwani on Social Media
For the latest updates on his ventures:
- LinkedIn: Hussain Sajwani
- Twitter: @HussainSajwani
- Instagram: @hussainsajwani
