The Middle East’s real estate sector is booming, and behind this growth are visionary leaders transforming skylines and economies alike. If you’re looking for the top 10 real estate leaders making an impact in 2025, this guide spotlights those shaping the future of property development across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia, and beyond.
These executives were selected based on years of experience, revenue milestones, project scale, and the strategic value of their developments, drawing insights from the Forbes Middle East 2025 list.
Hussain Sajwani (Founder & Chairman, DAMAC Properties)
Hussain Sajwani is a self-made billionaire who turned DAMAC Properties into one of the most recognised luxury real estate brands in the UAE. With Sajwani at the helm, DAMAC has completed more than 46,000 properties and extended its footprint to global markets including the UK, Saudi Arabia, Canada, and the Maldives.
Sajwani’s sharp understanding of market trends and collaborations with luxury giants like Versace and Cavalli have positioned DAMAC as a leader in upscale real estate. He’s also behind mega-projects like DAMAC Lagoons and the 50-storey Safa Towers, redefining waterfront luxury in Dubai.
Mohamed Alabbar (Founder, Emaar Properties)
Few names are more iconic in real estate than Mohamed Alabbar, the visionary behind Emaar Properties. As the developer of global landmarks such as Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, Alabbar has helped establish Dubai as an international property hub.
In 2024, Emaar reported record revenues, driven by strategic launches like The Oasis, a $20 billion luxury community. Alabbar’s continued investment in digital transformation and international markets reinforces Emaar’s status as a global leader in real estate development.
Talal Al Dhiyebi (CEO, Aldar Properties)
Talal Al Dhiyebi has elevated Aldar to become Abu Dhabi’s premier real estate developer. Known for iconic projects like Yas Acres and Saadiyat Grove, Aldar has rapidly scaled under his leadership to manage over AED 40 billion in assets.
His focus on ESG principles, smart community solutions, and regional expansion into Egypt and Ras Al Khaimah makes him one of the most future-forward CEOs in the industry. Al Dhiyebi’s approach bridges luxury living with sustainable urban development.
Hisham Talaat Moustafa (CEO, TMG Holding (Egypt))
Hisham Talaat Moustafa leads one of Egypt’s most influential real estate conglomerates, Talaat Moustafa Group (TMG). With flagship developments like Madinaty and Al Rehab, TMG has delivered livable cities for over a million residents.
Under Moustafa’s leadership, TMG has entered the hospitality sector with luxury hotels like the Four Seasons in Sharm el-Sheikh. His ability to balance large-scale residential, commercial, and tourism investments marks him as a top-tier developer in North Africa.
Khalid Al Malik (CEO, Dubai Holding Real Estate)
Khalid Al Malik is a central figure in shaping Dubai’s real estate master plans. As the CEO of Dubai Holding Real Estate, he has overseen massive developments like Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and Business Bay.
Al Malik’s influence extends beyond property delivery; he also chairs major planning and infrastructure boards, helping align real estate with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan. His projects continue to attract global investors looking for long-term growth.
Hesham Al Qassim (CEO, Wasl Group)
With a background in finance and banking, Hesham Al Qassim has turned Wasl Group into one of Dubai’s most diversified real estate giants. The group handles residential, commercial, and hospitality assets valued in the billions.
Al Qassim is also a board member at Emirates NBD and Dubai Real Estate Corporation, offering him a unique financial lens on property development. His leadership ensures Wasl continues to thrive with innovative projects like Wasl1 near Dubai’s historic districts.
Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiya (CEO, Qatari Diar)
At the helm of Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiya manages a global portfolio worth over $35 billion. His leadership has helped Qatar export its real estate brand across 20 countries, including major developments in the UK, Morocco, and Egypt.
One of his notable achievements is the CityGate project in New Cairo, which combines smart city infrastructure with green urban design. Al Attiya’s commitment to architectural excellence and sustainability places him among the elite developers of the region.
Muhammad BinGhatti (CEO, Binghatti Developers)
Known for his bold, artistic architectural style, Muhammad BinGhatti has made Binghatti Developers a household name in Dubai real estate. His company is especially known for launching designer-branded residences with names like Bugatti Residences and Mercedes-Benz Places.
BinGhatti’s strategy focuses on blending art with real estate, targeting ultra-high-net-worth clients looking for exclusivity. His innovative use of AI in building design and construction has also positioned Binghatti Developers as a modern disruptor in the property sector.
PNC Menon (Founder & Chairman, Sobha Group)
PNC Menon’s reputation as a master craftsman of luxury stems from his founding of Sobha Realty, a company celebrated for its premium developments and in-house construction expertise. Originally from India, Menon has made Dubai his central base for expansion.
Projects like Sobha Hartland showcase his signature quality, combining waterfront living with integrated schools, retail, and parks. His legacy lies in building not just homes, but entire communities built to global luxury standards.
Rizwan Sajan (Founder & Chairman, Danube Properties)
Rizwan Sajan began with a trading business and evolved into one of Dubai’s leading affordable housing developers. Danube Properties is known for delivering value-packed residential projects with high quality, on-time delivery, and post-handover payment plans.
Sajan’s success lies in making home ownership accessible in a city known for its luxury pricing. His community-first approach, coupled with strategic pricing and flexible financing, has made Danube a favourite among first-time buyers and middle-income investors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the most influential real estate leader in the Middle East?
Hussain Sajwani and Mohamed Alabbar are widely regarded as the most influential real estate leaders in the Middle East.
What are the key trends in MENA real estate for 2025?
- Branded residences
- AI-powered smart communities
- Foreign investor interest
- Mixed-use urban megaprojects
Which cities are real estate hotspots in the Middle East?
Dubai, Riyadh, Cairo, and Abu Dhabi are currently leading the market in transaction volume and development activity.
Conclusion
The top 10 real estate leaders of 2025 aren’t just constructing buildings—they’re redefining how cities function, how people live, and where global capital flows. Each of these visionaries plays a critical role in shaping the Middle East’s urban future, blending innovation, luxury, sustainability, and financial acumen.
From mega-developments in Dubai and Riyadh to smart cities in Cairo and beyond, these leaders are leaving a lasting impact on the global real estate landscape. Whether you’re an investor, developer, or entrepreneur, watching their strategies offers valuable insights into where the market is headed next.
As urbanization accelerates, the influence of these leaders will only grow. Their bold visions, international expansion, and commitment to excellence ensure they remain at the forefront of the real estate revolution in the MENA region—and across the world.
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