Billionaire Profile
Kabir Mulchandani
Global Rank
#1824

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Kabir Mulchandani

CEO, FIVE Holdings
IN
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.2B
As of December 2025
Age
53
Source
Real estate
Industry
real-estate
Citizenship
IN

Biography

Kabir Mulchandani, a prominent figure in the real estate and hospitality sectors, has a net worth of $2.2 billion. His wealth stems from his ownership of FIVE Holdings, a Dubai-based company known for its luxury hotels and resorts. Mulchandani's career began in the consumer electronics industry before transitioning to real estate in Dubai, where he has achieved remarkable success. He is recognized as a visionary leader, with significant achievements in the hospitality industry and is also known for his philanthropic efforts.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Kabir Mulchandani was born on October 6, 1972, in Mumbai, India. He was raised in Mumbai and attended the Cathedral and John Connon School before pursuing his education at Phillips Exeter Academy and Stanford University, where he majored in industrial engineering. Early in his career, Mulchandani worked in his family's consumer electronics business, Baron Electronics. In the 2000s, he moved to Dubai and began investing in real estate, which would later serve as the foundation for his success.

Rise to Success

Mulchandani's journey in the real estate and hospitality sector began with SKAI Holdings, founded in 2011. The company was later rebranded to FIVE Holdings in 2017. Despite facing challenges, including a period in jail in 2009 following the Dubai property market crash, Mulchandani persevered and rebuilt his career. Key projects include the FIVE Palm Jumeirah, FIVE Jumeirah Village, and FIVE Zurich. In November 2023, FIVE Holdings acquired the Pacha Group, encompassing its hotel and nightclub ventures.

Key Business Strategies

Mulchandani's success is attributed to his innovative approach to luxury hospitality and real estate development. He focuses on creating exclusive, high-end experiences. FIVE Holdings' strategy involves integrating luxury hospitality with entertainment and lifestyle, as seen in its properties and the acquisition of the Pacha Group. He has also prioritized sustainability, achieving LEED Platinum certifications for his properties and developing net-zero building designs.

Philanthropy

Mulchandani is known for his philanthropic efforts. He founded Project Udaan, which provides medical support and surgeries to underprivileged children in India. FIVE Holdings also supports various charitable causes, contributing to healthcare, education, and social inclusion. In 2017, he was awarded Philanthropist of the Year by CEO Middle East.

Career Milestones

2011

Founded SKAI Holdings (later FIVE Holdings)

Established the Dubai-based real estate investment firm, which would later develop into a prominent hospitality brand.

2017

Rebranded SKAI Holdings to FIVE Holdings

Reflected the evolution of the company into a major player in luxury hospitality and entertainment.

2023

Acquired Pacha Group

Expanded the company's portfolio into the entertainment and nightlife sectors.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Healthcare

Project Udaan

$2M

Funds pediatric heart surgeries and supports surgeries for facial deformities for underprivileged children.

Education

Room to Read

$0.2M

Supports literacy and girls' empowerment programs in India.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Leadership Principles

Innovation

Continuously challenging the status quo and developing new ideas to enhance customer experience.

Sustainability

Implementing environmentally friendly practices in all projects and operations.

Customer-centricity

Prioritizing customer satisfaction by offering unparalleled experiences.

Controversies & Challenges

2009

Arrested on Fraud Charges

Mulchandani was arrested in Dubai on fraud and embezzlement charges, spending 140 days in jail, but was later acquitted in 2010.