Dubai is a city where dreams touch the sky—literally. When someone says Dubai, you automatically imagine yourself standing at a deluxe apartment’s terrace, staring at luxurious skyscrapers and visionary developments.
Behind this booming property market are a few powerful developers. They have helped shape the city’s famous skyline. But who are these? And who among them holds the title for the richest builder in Dubai,
If your guess is Hussain Sajwani, the founder and chairman of DAMAC Properties, then Yes- you are absolutely right! But how and what made him the richest developer of Dubai- let’s get the inside deeds-
Table of Contents
ToggleWho is the Richest Builder in Dubai: Hussain Sajwani or Mohamed Alabbar
The battle for the title of the richest builder in Dubai is between two real estate titans:
- Hussain Sajwani, the founder of DAMAC Properties, and
- Mohamed Alabbar, the founder and chairman of Emaar Properties.
Hussain Sajwani has an estimated net worth of $4.5 billion. No one knows Mohamed Alabbar’s personal net worth.
However, investors value Emaar Properties at over $16 billion. This makes it the largest real estate developer in Dubai. But that’s the sum for the company not an individual.
If you compare their real estate empires-
Mohamed Alabbar founded Emaar Properties. Hussain Sajwani founded DAMAC Properties.Emaar built Downtown Dubai, Dubai Mall, and luxury communities like Dubai Marina and Arabian Ranches. They specialize in high-end luxury properties. Some of their projects include DAMAC Hills, Aykon City, and branded residences like Versace, Cavalli, and Paramount.
Emaar also developed the Burj Khalifa, which is the world’s tallest building. DAMAC has expanded globally with projects in London, Saudi Arabia, and more. A publicly listed company, it is the largest developer in Dubai. A private owner holds DAMAC, and Sajwani makes all the decisions.
So, who is the richest? After looking at all the assets and Hussain Sajwani’s investments, we found that he is extraordinarily wealthy. His net worth is over $4.5 billion.
While Sajwani is the richest private real estate mogul, Emaar remains the most valuable real estate company in Dubai. So, if we’re discussing personal fortune, Hussain Sajwani wins. If we’re looking at company dominance, Mohamed Alabbar takes the lead.
Damac Properties chairman Hussain Sajwani is one of Dubai’s top property developers. People recognize him for his luxury real estate projects in the UAE.

Hussain Sajwani is the Richest Real Estate Developer in Dubai
Hussain Sajwani, born in 1953 in the UAE, started his journey as an entrepreneur in the 1980s. In 2002, he started DAMAC Properties. This happened when Dubai’s government allowed foreigners to own property in certain areas.
Since then, DAMAC has grown into one of the biggest and most important real estate developers in the UAE. It competes with major companies like Emaar Properties and Nakheel.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Hussain Sajwani, who is now the richest real estate developer in Dubai, initially worked in the food service industry. He provided catering services to the U.S. military and various energy companies in the Middle East. However, his life took a U-turn when his business acumen and vision led him to explore the real estate sector. And, what came next was an unexpected upgrade to Dubai’s landscape, one that no one could have anticipated.
Hussain Sajwani’s DAMAC Properties
Welcome to DAMAC Properties, a world where luxury knows no limits! Hussain Sajwani started DAMAC Properties to explore his interest in Dubai’s real estate. This company changed the idea of luxury in Dubai’s property market. With a shared vision, they created some of the city’s most famous homes, resorts, and commercial spaces.
But what truly sets DAMAC apart making it as one of the top real estate companies in Dubai? Is it their waterfront mansions and tall penthouses? Or is it their partnerships with luxury brands like Versace, Cavalli, and Paramount Hotels? Or maybe their extravagant designs that offer world-class amenities.
Well, whatever the reason, the conclusion is always the same. The top-class launches and landmark developments make people say WOW!
DAMAC Hills:
A premium golf course community featuring villas, townhouses, and apartments.
DAMAC Lagoons:
A Mediterranean-inspired luxury villa community.
AYKON City:
A high-end mixed-use development featuring luxury apartments and office spaces.
DAMAC Towers by Paramount Hotels & Resorts:
A collaboration with Hollywood’s Paramount to deliver an ultra-luxurious residential experience.
Cavalli-branded villas and apartments:
Exclusive high-end properties designed in collaboration with the famous fashion brand Cavalli.
Hussain Sajwani is the richest builder in Dubai. He leads Damac Properties, a top real estate company known for luxury developments. As a billionaire real estate developer in Dubai, he owns most of the opulent residences.

Hussain Sajwani’s Net Worth and Business Empire
Hussain Sajwani’s success in real estate has made him one of the richest people in Dubai. Even more than his name, people have started recognizing him as Dubai’s richest developer. You will not be surprised to learn that his net worth is now over $4.5 billion. This makes him one of the top real estate moguls in Dubai.
His wealth mainly comes from DAMAC’s successful property sales, international investments, and growth in global markets.
Global Expansion and Investments
Once Hussain Sajwani became the foremost property tycoon in Dubai, he expanded his so-called kingdom. DAMAC Properties extended its influence to international markets, including:
- Saudi Arabia – With high-end residential and commercial projects.
- London – with the DAMAC Tower in Nine Elms, an exclusive luxury development.
- Qatar – With real estate projects catering to high-net-worth individuals
You can easily see that one reason for Hussain Sajwani’s great wealth is DAMAC’s work with global luxury brands. This definitely helps in bringing unique, high-end experiences to Dubai’s real estate market.
Collaborations with Versace, Cavalli, Paramount, and Bugatti have helped DAMAC find a place in the ultra-luxury market. These partnerships also attract elite investors and buyers. Simple yet Genius!
Conclusion
In a nutshell, the richest builder in Dubai is undoubtedly Hussain Sajwani. As the visionary behind DAMAC Properties, he has played an unforgettable role in shaping Dubai’s real estate landscape. Sajwani has a billion-dollar empire and strong influence. He is a key player in the UAE’s property market.
But that is the thing about thrones. It only takes a second to adapt to the new leadership. One moment you are at the top of the world- and the next- you are not high enough to see the throne.
So, do you think there’s a suitable competitor ready to challenge Hussain Sajwani? Do, let me know in the comment section below. I’ll be waiting!