Emaar Properties: A Leader in Global Architecture and Real Estate Innovation

If you’re looking for a company that pushes the boundaries of modern architecture and construction, Emaar Properties of Dubai is undoubtedly one of the world’s foremost. This real estate giant has not only transformed the face of Dubai but is also renowned for its acclaimed projects worldwide. Did you know that many of Dubai’s modern icons, such as the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, are creations of this company?

Mohamed Alabbar: Founder of Emaar, Middle East’s Real Estate Mogul

Mohamed Alabbar is a familiar and leading name in the Middle East’s real estate industry and the founder of the colossal company Emaar Properties. This prominent Emirati entrepreneur, born in 1965, has not only played a key role in Emaar but has also significantly contributed to the establishment of the e-commerce platform Noon and chairs the Americana Restaurants Group. He began his remarkable path to success with a degree in Business Administration from Seattle University (received in 1981).

Emaar: From Founding to a Global Real Estate Empire

Emaar Properties was established in 1997 by Mohamed Alabbar. Under his strategic vision and leadership, Emaar Dubai has emerged as a dominant player in global financial markets since 2000. By June 2021, this colossal holding company had reached a valuation of US$15.5 billion, demonstrating its remarkable success and international scale of operations.

Diverse Business Portfolio:

The activities of Mohamed Alabbar and Emaar extend far beyond real estate development in the UAE. The group is also actively engaged in:

• International property development across foreign markets

• Construction and management of luxury commercial centers

• Operation of chain hotels and premium hospitality destinations

• Development of iconic skyscrapers and landmark towers

Prominent World Records of Mohamed Alabbar and Emaar Company:

Emaar’s role in shaping Dubai’s modern skyline and setting unparalleled global milestones is unmatched. Key achievements under Mohamed Alabbar’s leadership include:

Burj Khalifa: World’s tallest tower (completed 2010), now a global icon of innovation.
The Dubai Fountain: World’s tallest fountain (275m, length of two football fields), among Dubai’s top attractions.
At The Top, Burj Khalifa: World’s highest observation deck (opened 2014), offering unmatched aerial views.
Guinness Lighting Record: “Largest LED-illuminated façade” record using 70,000 LED panels for NYE displays.
Dubai Tram: First modern street tram system in the Gulf region, advancing urban mobility.

Emaar’s Landmark Projects:

• Burj Khalifa (828m): World’s tallest structure

• Dubai Mall: World’s largest shopping destination

• Dubai Marina: Luxury waterfront community

• The Dubai Fountain: World’s largest choreographed fountain

• Emaar Square Istanbul: Mixed-use hub in central Istanbul

• Bibliotheca Alexandrina: Modern revival of ancient wonder

• Future Projects: Emaar South, Dubai Creek Harbor

Emaar’s Global Presence:

Emaar currently operates more than 30 active branches in various countries including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Pakistan, Morocco, India, and other parts of the world. This global expansion demonstrates Emaar’s ability to adapt to diverse markets and execute large-scale projects in different regions.

One of the most notable examples of Emaar’s international collaboration is the construction and management of 5-star hotel complexes under the luxury “Giorgio Armani” brand, showcasing the pinnacle of architecture and design.

Below, we highlight some of Emaar’s most significant international projects in selected countries:

Key Emaar Projects in Egypt:

Emaar’s presence in Egypt has been marked by several key and impactful projects:

• Reconstruction and development of the Eastern Harbor Library of Alexandria: In 2002, Emaar undertook the responsibility for reconstructing and developing this important cultural project.

• Cairo Project: In 2005, Emaar launched a massive residential, commercial, and recreational complex called “Cairo” in Egypt’s capital, which remains one of the company’s largest projects in the region.

• Tourist Resort: In 2008, the company began construction of a major tourist resort in Egypt that significantly contributed to the country’s tourism industry development.

Emaar’s Activities in Turkey:

Emaar has also maintained an active and growing presence in Turkey:

• Turkey Branch Opening: In 2013, Emaar officially established its branch in Turkey to expand operations in this strategic market.

• Hotel and Shopping Center Development: The company has constructed and manages several luxury hotels and modern shopping centers across Turkey.

• Tuscan Valley Project: In 2007, Emaar began developing “Tuscan Valley” in Turkey. This project includes a collection of luxury villas, commercial spaces, and recreational facilities, designed with inspiration from Tuscan architecture and Italian landscapes.