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Billionaire Profile
Hussain Sajwani
Global Rank
#180

Image: Farees Jamal | CC0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Hussain Sajwani

CEO, Real estate
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$15.281B
Estimated based on Real estate stock value as of March 6, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
72
Source
Real estate
Industry
Diversified
Citizenship
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Biography

Hussain Sajwani is a prominent Emirati billionaire and the founder of DAMAC Properties. As of March 2025, his net worth is estimated at $10.2 billion, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in the Middle East. Sajwani's source of wealth is primarily real estate, and he has built a global empire with a focus on luxury residential, commercial, and leisure developments. His career began in the food services industry before transitioning to real estate in Dubai in 2002. He is known for his innovative marketing strategies and collaborations with luxury brands like Versace and Bugatti.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Hussain Sajwani was born in Dubai in 1952 or 1953. He is an Emirati national. His father was a shopkeeper, exposing Sajwani to business from a young age. He received a government scholarship and studied industrial engineering at the University of Washington.

Rise to Success

Sajwani's career began in the finance department at Abu Dhabi Gas Industries in 1981. In 1983, he launched a catering business, Global Logistics Services. In 2002, he founded DAMAC Properties, capitalizing on Dubai's growing real estate market. DAMAC Properties has delivered over 43,700 homes and has projects in over 10 countries. Sajwani has partnered with brands like Trump, Versace, Fendi, and Bugatti. He is also investing in data centers through EDGNEX Data Centers by DAMAC.

Key Business Strategies

Sajwani's strategies include focusing on luxury properties, off-plan sales, and aggressive land acquisition. He has expanded globally, and acquired businesses such as Roberto Cavalli and De Grisogono.

Philanthropy

Sajwani supports various initiatives through the Hussain Sajwani – DAMAC Foundation. He is also involved in the One Million Arab Coders initiative.

Career Milestones

1981

Finance Department

Joined the finance department at Abu Dhabi Gas Industries.

1983

Launched Catering Business

Started a catering venture, Global Logistics Services.

2002

Founded DAMAC Properties

Established DAMAC Properties, a real estate development company.

2019

Acquired Roberto Cavalli

His private investment firm completed the acquisition of Italian fashion group, Roberto Cavalli.

2022

Acquired De Grisogono

Acquired the jeweler, De Grisogono.

2021-2022

Launched EDGNEX Data Centers

Launched EDGNEX Data Centers to build and operate data centers.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education/Community Development

Hussain Sajwani – DAMAC Foundation

Undisclosed

Supports various initiatives, including education and coding.

Education

One Million Arab Coders Initiative

Undisclosed

Supports the initiative to empower one million Arabs with computer coding skills.

Disaster Relief

COVID-19 Relief

$1M

Pledged Dh 1 million to the '100 million meals' campaign.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"It [success] has been a combination of luck and vision. Someone would open the door, and I would run and grab the opportunity."

Leadership Principles

Vision and Innovation

Driving the business with a focus on innovation and anticipating market trends.

Strategic Partnerships

Collaborating with global brands and partners to create unique and high-value projects.

Global Expansion

Expanding the business into new markets and sectors to achieve long-term growth.

Controversies & Challenges

2011

Egyptian Corruption Charges

Sentenced to five years in absentia over corruption charges in an Egyptian court; the sentence was later suspended.

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