The Chairman of DAMAC Properties, Hussain Sajwani, spoke with Yousef Jamal El-Din and Manus Cranny on Bloomberg Daybreak Middle East where he spoke about the Dubai real estate market, DAMAC’s 40th anniversary highlights and business updates.

Chairman at the Milken Institute Middle East and Africa Summit which took place in Abu Dhabi on November 17-18, 2022.

Despite the challenges of the global pandemic, the UAE persevered and overcame obstacles to emerge as one of the safest destinations for residents and tourist alike. Expo has attracted over 8 million visitors so far, injecting positivity and revenue into the economy and triggering a property market rebound. Things are looking up and I’m grateful for the forward-thinking policies being implemented by our wise leaders, our loyal customers, as well as the support of my dear family, friends and employees. Wishing everyone a safe and prosperous new year ahead!

The UAE has risen to become the Middle East’s most globalised country and it ranks no. 4 globally among 169 countries in the 10th DHL Global Connectedness Index. I believe this achievement is the result of the UAE’s central location and flow of foreign investment. The future keeps getting brighter for the UAE.

More reason to invest in the UAE! Our country has risen to 23rd in the IMD World Competitiveness Centre’s World Talent Report 2021, maintaining its top position in the Arab world and second in the MENA region. These are encouraging signs as the UAE makes steady progress at a time when other parts of the world continue to face socio-economic challenges. I believe the reason for the UAE’s high scores is the result of visionary leadership, progressive reforms and technology-centric planning.

It keeps getting better for Dubai’s tourism industry. Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport will have served over 1.6 million passengers before the year-end, as a result of the peak holiday travel period. Also, following the reopening of the final phase of Concourse A at Terminal 3, the world’s busiest airport by international traffic is now operating at its full capacity. I believe the decisive steps taken by the Government to protect its visitors and residents have proven to be integral to the recovery of the emirate’s tourism sector.

Dubai has always been regarded as an inclusive society. Not only because it is home to over 200 nationalities, but also in how the city facilitates convenience for people of determination. In January 2022, Dubai will host the Dubai Accessible Tourism International Summit where experts will shed light on the challenges faced by around one billion people of determination across the globe. I’m pleased that Dubai is leading the change in yet another area that positively impacts our world.

It was my utmost pleasure to meet the president of Angola, João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço. We discussed the global real estate industry and potential business opportunities in Angola. I look forward to meeting him again.

Celebrating an independent and prosperous nation. I wish all Qatari citizens and residents a Happy National Day.

Dubai takes another significant step towards improving the quality of life without compromising on the environment. The @rta_dubai has announced that electric scooters will be available for use in 10 districts across the city during the first quarter of 2022, as part of phase 1. This shift towards sustainable, efficient transport confirms Dubai’s reputation as one of the world’s most preferred and safest places to live.

Congragulations to everyone who took part in the Dubai Fitness Challenge 30×30 – DAMAC. The participants engaged in various sessions and activitites across DAMAC locations. Kudos to the winners and here’s to healthier lifestyles!

It’s been a month of recognition! I was honoured to be awarded the “Real Estate Business Leader of The Year” at the Gulf Business Awards. In addition, the DAMAC Hills 2 community centre won an award for Design and Development at the Retail Congress MENA 2021. I dedicate this achievement to my amazing team. A well deserved win!

Family time well spent at @Expo2020Dubai! It was great to experience the world and exchange perspectives. I encourage you all to visit #Expo2020 and discover countries, cuisines, and business opportunities. It’s amazing to see the amount of effort that’s gone into creating this hub of creativity, culture and innovation.

I took advantage of the holiday weekend and spent it in Istanbul with my son Abbas. We enjoyed exploring the beautiful streets and landmarks of this wonderful city. What are your weekend plans?

It was a pleasure and privilege to meet Mr. Patrick Archi, Prime Minister of the Ivory Coast, along with my good friend Hussain Al Nowais. We engaged in discussions about business as well as issues facing both, the Ivory Coast and the MENA region. An insightful meeting indeed!

It was a pleasure meeting with Alexandre Raffoul, Head of Business Engagement, Middle East & Africa at World Economic Forum and Joanna Lahham, Business Engagement Lead- Middle East and Africa at World Economic Forum. We discussed different issues and trends in the MENA region and where DAMAC could add value and help shape the industry.

It was a hugely productive conversation with Muhammad Lutfi – Minister of Trade of Indonesia, Patrick Walujo, Co-Founder & Co-Managing Partner at Northstar Group, and Garibaldi Thohir, CEO of Adaro Energy. We discussed current trends in Indonesia and how Indonesian companies are ramping up digital efforts. Until we meet again.

It was a pleasure meeting with Anindya Bakrie, CEO of Bakrie Global Ventura; Deputy Chairperson, Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN). Coming from different regions, we had an exciting and dynamic conversation where we discussed creative and unconventional approaches to the business. I look forward to more insightful meetings. Until we meet again.

‏I met with Muhammad Lutfi, Minster of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia. We discussed potential opportunities and cooperations. Indonesia is a fascinating country. A great conversation indeed

My family and I had a delightful time meeting with Pandu Sjahrir, Chairman Sea Limited Indonesia, and Roderick Purwana, Managing Partner of East Ventures. It is nice to see my children leading the conversation with industry leaders and adding their input on how digitalization is reshaping businesses.

It was a memorable evening with my family as we launched the eagerly-awaited DAMAC Lagoons – a new water-inspired master community in Dubai. This is a landmark moment for DAMAC Properties and this project is another fine jewel in our crown.

It was a pleasure meeting Vladislav Doronin, CEO of Aman Resorts. Conversations with industry captains are always insightful and constructive. Among other things, we discussed the trends that are shaping the global hospitality industry. My older sons were also present and offered their perspectives on the subject. It was an afternoon well spent.

It is always great to meet old friends. I happened to catch up with Mohammad Abunayyan at the Future Investment Initiative Conference in Riyadh. Mohammad and I go back a long way. We first met 37 years ago over lunch at his late father’s house. I really cherished our time together, and it was heartwarming to relive old memories.

Nothing better than spending the break with my loved ones in my favourite city, London. I hope you’re all enjoying the long weekend.

Spent a relaxing time in London with my dear friend, Hussain Al Nowais where we enjoyed a fabulous meal at the famous Nusr-Et Steakhouse. Thank you, Salt Bae, for your wonderful hospitality and glad to see you again. It is always nice to relax, unwind, and spend quality time with friends.

It was a great experience doing this interview with CNBC, and an absolute pleasure to be on set with Dan Murphy. We discussed several topics related to the MENA region. Tune in tomorrow at 8:00 am to watch the full interview. #cnbc

It was a pleasure for my son Abbas and I to meet the President of Senegal, Mr. Macky Sall. We discussed potential opportunities for collaborations and explored where DAMAC could add value. A very enjoyable and insightful conversation.

During my recent trip to Milan, I had the pleasure of meeting with H.E. Attilio Fontana, President of the Lombardy Region, and Mr. Giovanni Bozetti, Businessman, Author and University Professor. We engaged in business talks, potential future plans and interesting conversations about cultural ties between the #UAE and #Italy. Thank you for this great hospitality and I look forward to more insightful meetings in the future.

Earlier this week I attended Roberto Cavalli’s first fashion show in three years at Milan Fashion Week. It was a spectacular show highlighting the brand’s beautiful new collection. I’m optimistic that we are bringing the cherished Cavalli brand into the next era and I’m very excited for what the future holds. A special thanks to creative designer Fausto Puglisi and the entire management team of Cavalli. A job well done!

It was a pleasure meeting with R. Yofi Grant, the CEO of Ghana Investment Promotion Centre. We had interesting conversations about the current real estate market and potential investment opportunities in #Africa. I look forward to gaining more insight about the region’s growth and development, specifically Ghana.

On a recent vacation, I enjoyed business conversations, personal discussions and funny moments with my family. It really interests me to listen to my children and learn from their perspectives. I also truly cherish times like this as I allow myself to relax and enjoy discovering a new country with my family members by my side.

Taking in the beautiful scenery along the magnificent Bosphorus channel in Istanbul. This ‘East meets West’ city is unique as it lies on two continents — Europe and Asia — and never fails to charm its visitors. One of my favourite spots!

I discussed the changing landscape for investment, real estate and development for the tourism industry at the Saudi #TourismRecoverySummit held in Riyadh today. It was a fascinating and fruitful discussion which also touched on the exciting new opportunities emerging for the tourism industry in the GCC — particularly Saudi Arabia. @saudi.mt

It was a pleasure to meet Rixos Hotels Founder and Chairman Fettah Tamince and Al-Kholi Group Founder and Chairman Dr. Hamza Al Kholi on the sidelines of the #TourismRecovery Summit held in Riyadh today. The Saudi government has done an incredible job planning for future investment in the country’s tourism industry that has great potential, and I believe there is tremendous opportunity for investors here.

It was wonderful meeting Dr. David Washburn, CEO of nChain, and Mr. Calvin Ayre, entrepreneur and founder of the Ayre Group. Their insights into the Bitcoin industry and blockchain technology gave me a refreshing perspective on investment opportunities in the near futur

It was my pleasure to recently meet H.E. Nasser Ahmed Khalifa Alsowaidi, the former Chairman of the National Bank of Abu Dhabi. His insights into the financial sector and vision for UAE’s future are unparalleled. An afternoon well spent.

It was my pleasure to meet Mr. Said Ibrahimi, CEO of Casablanca Finance City (CFC), and Mr. Aziz El Khyari, Head of Business Development. CFC is an economic and financial hub that encourages international investors to invest and operate in North, West and Central Africa. For any investors or institutions looking to explore this region, CFC is the bridge to these opportunities.

He has been called Canada’s Warren Buffett for his ”value” investment style, it was my pleasure to host Mr. Bruce Flatt, CEO of Brookfield Asset Management, along with Mr. Anuj Ranjan, Managing Partner, Head of Europe and Asia-Pacific Private Equity, and CEO of South Asia and Middle East. Financial talks are always insightful with these talented experts.

It was my distinct pleasure to meet Mr. Othman Benjelloun, a legend in the finance and banking sector and a prolific humanitarian both in Morocco and globally. Mr. Benjelloun is the CEO of BMCE Bank of Africa, and president of the FinanceCom Group which is a symbol of excellence across industries for over 5 generations. Always a privilege to meet visionaries like Mr. Othman who has been instrumental in transforming industries.

Meeting Mr. Ferit Şahenk, one of Turkey’s most influential visionaries and Chairman of Doğuş Group, along with Mr. Hakan Ferhatoğlu, Chairman of ATA Invest, was an absolute pleasure. Always a positive experience to share and exchange ideas with industry experts and leaders.

Each one of us must to do our part in healing the world from the Covid-19 pandemic. I urge everyone to get the vaccine as I did. It’s our responsibility towards ourselves and to those around us, at work and at home. Together, let’s take a pledge to stay safe and rid the world of Covid-19. #GetVaccinated

It was a pleasure hosting Urs Rohner, Chairman of Credit Suisse. His invaluable insights on the banking sector derived from Credit Suisse’s long and successful journey, gave me interesting perspectives on the global banking industry.

Gazing upon the iconic @BurjAlArab never gets old, just like spending quality time with your loved ones will always feel special. A precious moment with my son Abbas as we brought in the new year. #HappyNewYear2021

It was my pleasure to host Dr. Guillaume Leyte, the President of the University of Paris II Panthéon-Assas and Professor Dr. Nada Mourtada-Sabbah, Secretary General of the University Leadership Consortium, at DAMAC along with my daughter Amira. Needless to say, it was an insightful day for us all.

My daughter is an everyday reminder that the world is changing and that women are now more instrumental than ever before in running the world’s economies. Bless you, Amira.

We live for priceless moments like these with our loved ones. From our family to yours, wishing everyone a happy December. #Maldives #Vacation

I had the pleasure of meeting Noureddin Bongo Valentin, the General Coordinator of Presidential Affairs of the Gabonese Republic, along with my friends Hussain Nowais and Abdul Jabbar Al Sayegh. A lovely gathering, with great company.

I was delighted to host Anuj Ranjan, Managing Partner, Head of Europe and Asia-Pacific Private Equity, and CEO of South Asia and Middle East for Brookfield Asset Management.

Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of hosting Shayne Nelson and Ahmed Al Qassim, Group CEO and Senior Vice President Group Head of Corporate & Institutional Banking of Emirates NBD, respectively.

I’ve always enjoyed being at work and giving it my very best. This is because I have also learnt the importance of spending time doing the other things I enjoy. Here, making most of family time, with my brother in law, Ali.

Water behind and the wind in our face… Looking back to an unforgettable time with the boys. Here with Ali and Abbas.

Moments like these… Here, with my youngest, who always manages to bring a broad smile to my face and that of his loved ones.

There are few greater pleasures in life than spending time with your good friends. With my dear friend Hussain Alnowais in London.

Sometimes, even Mehdi’s t-shirt gives good advice..

My eldest two play key roles in the day-to-day operations of @DAMACofficial

My daughter Amira Sajwani and I had the honour today to meet again with HE Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Member and the Minister of Tolerance in the UAE

I was delighted to meet Dr Magdi Yacoub at the Arab Hope Makers ceremony

With my peers and our great leader, HH Sheikh Mohammed at the Arab Hope Makers event

With H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid at the Arab Hope Makers event

I am delighted to pledge my support to the Arab Hope Makers pioneering initiative in its building of the Magdi Yacoub Global Heart Center in Cairo

On tour of the spectacular Expo 2020 site with HE Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Minister of State for International Cooperation & Director-General of the Expo 2020 Dubai Office and other leaders

With HE Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation (DACC) and Dubai South

Always a great honour to meet our Visionary Leader HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid

It was a pleasure catching up with my good friend, and noted financier and philanthropist, Michael Milken

I caught up with Khaled Al-Mheiri, Founder and CEO of Evolvence Group, and Wladimir Klitschko, the world’s longest reigning heavyweight boxing

It was great catching up again with Michael Milken, and HE Khaldoon Al Mubarak, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Mubadala Development Company

It was great catching up with Joseph Sitt, Founder of Thor Equities

Talented, hard-working and a true role model for women all across the UAE. My beloved daughter, Amira

Enjoying a winter evening at home in Dubai with my youngest son, Mehdi

With HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan

I had the honour of catching up with the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan in Davos, Switzerland

With HE Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Minister of the Economy of the United Arab Emirates, in Davos