Honouring mothers by establishing an educational endowment fund: Danube Group contributes Dh10 million to Mothers’ Endowment campaign

Danube Group announced a contribution of Dh10 million to the Mothers’ Endowment campaign, joining the growing list of contributes to the campaign, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The campaign is aimed to honour mothers by establishing a Dh1 billion endowment fund to support the education of millions around the world in a sustainable manner.

Danube’s contribution is part of a significant response to the campaign, which coincided with the holy month of Ramadan, as individuals, businesses, businessmen and institutions continue to support the campaign and highlight the culture of giving and generosity, deeply rooted in the UAE community.

Expressing devotion

Rizwan Sajan, founder and chairman of Danube Group, said: “The Mothers’ Endowment campaign is aimed at supporting and empowering mothers in the UAE. Their unwavering dedication, and sacrifices shape the very fabric of society. Through this initiative, we not only honour their boundless contributions but also pave the way for a brighter future. This new addition to the initiative by Sheikh Mohammed during this month of Ramadan is a message of devotion to, and appreciation of mothers, while at the same time responding to the pressing needs of in underprivileged communities around the world, where challenging conditions prevent adequate access to education.”

“We are honoured to be part of this campaign, as well as previous charity and humanitarian campaigns launched under the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives. Contributing to this campaign is particularly significant as it represents the pillars of the society, women, and mothers, acknowledging their strength and selfless giving,” he added.

Honouring parents

The Mothers’ Endowment campaign aims to promote the values of honouring parents, kindness, compassion, and solidarity among members of the community, while solidifying the UAE’s humanitarian role by establishing a sustainable endowment that provides education that empowers underprivileged individuals and helps them drive sustainable development in their communities.

Proceeds of the campaign will go towards education projects supporting the education of millions around the world, by providing them with the tools and skills that help them lead independent, dignified lives. Projects under this campaign will be carried out in partnership with humanitarian organisations.

The Mothers’ Endowment campaign builds upon the success of previous humanitarian campaigns launched by Sheikh Mohammed in Ramadan and extends the UAE’s approach to charity and humanitarian efforts, based on structured teamwork, long-term planning, and sustainable benefits.

Donation channels

The Mothers’ Endowment campaign welcomes donations and contributions to the endowment fund from institutions and individuals across six main channels including the campaign’s website (Mothersfund.ae), as well as a dedicated call center via the toll-free number (800 9999). Donations are also possible via bank transfers in the UAE dirham to the campaign bank account number with Emirates Islamic Bank (AE790340003708472909201). Donations via SMS are possible by sending the word “Mother” to the following numbers (1034, 1035, 1036, 1038) for Etisalat by e& users. Other possible platforms for donating to the campaign are the DubaiNow app by clicking the “Donations” tab, and Dubai’s community contributions platform Jood (Jood.ae).

Source: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-network/honoring-mothers-by-establishing-an-educational-endowment-fund-danube-group-contributes-dh10-millio

MAHABIZ Convention: Bridging Continents for Business Beyond Borders in Dubai

Dubai: The Gulf Maharashtra Business Forum Global (GMBF) recently concluded 7th edition of its highly anticipated two-day convention, MAHABIZ 2024, with a resounding focus on the theme ‘Connect, Expand, and Grow.’

The culmination of MAHABIZ 2024 in Dubai marked a significant milestone for GMBF, as it brought together a diverse array of prominent figures, including local and global leaders, ministers, and politicians. The convention’s theme shed light on the potential of startups in the Middle East. It also explored lucrative business opportunities in African nations.

On the first day of the event, they featured an insightful panel discussion led by startup experts Deepak Ahuja, Sonali Goila, Mann Midha, and Nilmani Gautam. These experts delved into the intricacies of navigating the GCC startup landscape, offering a comprehensive overview of the region’s opportunities and challenges. Their consensus was clear: the Middle East is fertile ground for startups to thrive.

International delegates from countries such as Japan, Ethiopia, Rwanda, UAE, South Africa, and Cango shared their valuable insights on various sectors, including green energy, crypto, and mining. Dr Nitin Seth, Vice Chairman of G.D. Foods from India, added significant value to the convention.

Rajesh Agarwal, the chairman of RKG group, took a moment to underscore the essence of GMBF. Describing it as a 16-year-old organisation boasting over 500 members, Agarwal emphasised the forum’s unique familial approach and its commitment to a problem-solving ethos. GMBF, according to Agarwal, stands as a solution-oriented organisation, reflecting its core philosophy.

The second day of MAHABIZ 2024 witnessed a compelling address by Nitin Gadkari, the Indian Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways. Gadkari unveiled India’s ambitious roadmap to achieve carbon neutrality by 2070, showcasing the nation’s commitment to sustainable development. The gathering served as a platform for global leaders and innovators to engage in discussions surrounding sustainable development and the forging of economic partnerships.

As the Chief Guest, Sheikha Jawaher Bint Khalifa Al Khalifa added a touch of royalty to the event. Minister Gadkari’s virtual discourse highlighted India’s remarkable renewable energy and sustainability strides. He emphasised groundbreaking solutions such as self-sustainable aviation fuel from biomass, bio-CNG production, and bamboo-based bioethanol refining. Gadkari stressed the pivotal role of technology, innovation, and international collaboration in realising India’s ambitious vision of carbon neutrality by 2070. He applauded India’s rapid adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy sources as critical drivers of sustainable progress.

The significance of Mumbai in India’s economic landscape was also underscored, acknowledging its role in attracting substantial domestic and international investments.

Satish Kumar Sivan, the Consul General of India, echoed Gadkari’s sentiments, emphasising the deep-rooted cultural ties between India and the UAE. He shed light on recent milestones in economic collaboration, including a notable surge in bilateral trade volume, reaching USD 85 billion in the last fiscal year. Sivan highlighted recent agreements, such as the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) and the Intergovernmental Framework Agreement on India’s Middle East Europe Economic Corridor, aimed to bolster economic integration and cooperation across diverse sectors.

A directory of all delegates’ contact details was launched by the GMBF Global Committee members team and made available to all delegates.

Dr Sunil Manjarekar, President of GMBF Global, mentioned that the global impact of MAHABIZ 2024 was evident in the diverse representation, with delegates from 22 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Japan, Kenya, Rwanda, and Ethiopia. He also mentioned that the convention witnessed the participation of more than 400 delegates on the first day and 800 delegates on the second day. During the MAHABIZ 2024, a substantial business of approx. USD 85 million was generated.

Dr Sunil said MAHABIZ 2024’s success lies in its commitment to fostering connections, facilitating expansion, and promoting growth. He also thanked the organising team, who worked relentlessly to make this event a success.

The event catalysed meaningful discussions and collaborations, paving the way for a brighter future in business and economic development.

Source:https://www.maagulf.com/view/87139/featurednews/mahabiz-convention-bridging-continents-for-business-beyond-borders-in-dubai

Rizwan Sajan: From Dubai’s 1% Man to 101 levels

Rizwan Sajan, the founder and chairman of Danube Group, is famous for being the “1 per cent man in Dubai”, but he’s reaching fresh heights with his company’s latest tower project

Going from the slums of Mumbai to the heights of Dubai is a rags-to-riches story that belongs to none other than Rizwan Sajan, also known as the 1 per cent Man.

Sajan’s business initially focused on building materials, then home retail and today the UAE skyline is dotted with his company’s residential towers.

Some Dubai residents may even refer to him as the emirate’s own ‘rocket man’ as his charismatic approach to marketing has helped him in becoming a household name.

“I have been a strong believer of marketing. Starting from the early days of Danube Group, we’ve been using various marketing strategies to create an impact. Even with limited funds in the 1990s, we successfully marketed our brand. What we did was very interesting — we utilised small trucks and branded their tyres. It was visible and strong. It also gained popularity very quickly, making Danube Building Materials visible everywhere,” Sajan tells Gulf Business.

“Marketing is the most effective way to boost brand visibility and sales, especially in Dubai. Nowadays, social media stands out as the best owned marketing tool. Currently, we’re putting in our best foot forward to promote Danube Properties and we’ve been trying multiple mediums and platforms. You name it, we’ve done it. Danube Properties is reaching new heights, quite literally, every day,” says Sajan.

And Sajan has, literally, gone from a disruptor in the real estate market in 2014 in Dubai to launching what will be one of Business Bay’s most iconic towers: Bayz 101.

Scheduled to be completed in 2028, the 101-level residential building will be situated within just a two minutes’ walk of the Business Bay Metro Station.

It promises to have spectacular views of the iconic Burj Khalifa. And naturally, buyers can purchase units via Danube’s 1% plan.

As per this plan, buyers pay a 20 per cent down payment at the time of booking, and then they can pay the remaining 80 per cent in monthly instalments of 1 per cent.

A visit to Danube’s office along Sheikh Zayed Road, makes one realise how popular this plan is. Packed with buyers, Danube’s offices are a constant hive of activity and a miniature of the Bayz 101 building sits gleaming in the middle of the entrance to its building.

Buzzing around this are customers signing up to take up properties, whether it be in Dreamz, Jewelz or Wavez, among its already 13 completed projects. The company has another 15 ongoing projects in its pipeline.

“We have grown very fast as we have championed the affordable luxury properties for the last ten years and have managed to convert thousands of tenants to homeowners, who now enjoy living in the comfort of their own homes,” Sajan tells Gulf Business.

“To maintain our leadership in the affordable luxury segment, we have followed a strategy. First, we have launched one project at a time. Unless the project was sold out, we did not launch the next project. We have maintained this for the last ten years of our existence. This way, we managed the project development cycle – from project launch, sell-out, and contracting before moving on to the next project.

“Second, we have been a delivery-focused developer. Delivery is key to gaining buyer trust and the real estate business is about trust. Buyers put their life savings in a dream home. You can’t play around with it. We need to deliver it on time, so that the buyer can move in on time and save his rent to pay instalments.

“Third, we offer luxury properties – but at an affordable price. So, we don’t compromise on quality. In fact, we have been exceeding customer expectations – better amenities and facilities than what we had promised to customers,” Sajan notes.

Surging real estate growth
Dubai’s property market has been on a tear since the end of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“In 2023, we also witnessed rents skyrocketing and it will continue to do so in 2024. The Dubai real estate market will continue to grow in the next 2 years by at least 20-25% and this will inspire further confidence among property buyers,” Sajan tells Gulf Business.

Another major boon for the market has been a decision by UAE authorities to make it easier to attain a Golden Visa through property investment. Here, the country plans to scrap the Dhs1m property down-payment that was previously required for residents to qualify for the 10-year Golden Visa.

Instead, residents will soon be able to qualify for a Golden Visa if the property that they’ve bought is over Dhs2m in value.

Rizwan Sajan, the founder and chairman of Danube Group, is famous for being the “1 per cent man in Dubai”, but he’s reaching fresh heights with his company’s latest tower project

 

Going from the slums of Mumbai to the heights of Dubai is a rags-to-riches story that belongs to none other than Rizwan Sajan, also known as the 1 per cent Man.

Sajan’s business initially focused on building materials, then home retail and today the UAE skyline is dotted with his company’s residential towers.

Some Dubai residents may even refer to him as the emirate’s own ‘rocket man’ as his charismatic approach to marketing has helped him in becoming a household name.

“I have been a strong believer of marketing. Starting from the early days of Danube Group, we’ve been using various marketing strategies to create an impact. Even with limited funds in the 1990s, we successfully marketed our brand. What we did was very interesting — we utilised small trucks and branded their tyres. It was visible and strong. It also gained popularity very quickly, making Danube Building Materials visible everywhere,” Sajan tells Gulf Business.

“Marketing is the most effective way to boost brand visibility and sales, especially in Dubai. Nowadays, social media stands out as the best owned marketing tool. Currently, we’re putting in our best foot forward to promote Danube Properties and we’ve been trying multiple mediums and platforms. You name it, we’ve done it. Danube Properties is reaching new heights, quite literally, every day,” says Sajan.

And Sajan has, literally, gone from a disruptor in the real estate market in 2014 in Dubai to launching what will be one of Business Bay’s most iconic towers: Bayz 101.

Scheduled to be completed in 2028, the 101-level residential building will be situated within just a two minutes’ walk of the Business Bay Metro Station.

It promises to have spectacular views of the iconic Burj Khalifa. And naturally, buyers can purchase units via Danube’s 1% plan.

As per this plan, buyers pay a 20 per cent down payment at the time of booking, and then they can pay the remaining 80 per cent in monthly instalments of 1 per cent.

A visit to Danube’s office along Sheikh Zayed Road, makes one realise how popular this plan is. Packed with buyers, Danube’s offices are a constant hive of activity and a miniature of the Bayz 101 building sits gleaming in the middle of the entrance to its building.

Buzzing around this are customers signing up to take up properties, whether it be in Dreamz, Jewelz or Wavez, among its already 13 completed projects. The company has another 15 ongoing projects in its pipeline.

“We have grown very fast as we have championed the affordable luxury properties for the last ten years and have managed to convert thousands of tenants to homeowners, who now enjoy living in the comfort of their own homes,” Sajan tells Gulf Business.

“To maintain our leadership in the affordable luxury segment, we have followed a strategy. First, we have launched one project at a time. Unless the project was sold out, we did not launch the next project. We have maintained this for the last ten years of our existence. This way, we managed the project development cycle – from project launch, sell-out, and contracting before moving on to the next project.

“Second, we have been a delivery-focused developer. Delivery is key to gaining buyer trust and the real estate business is about trust. Buyers put their life savings in a dream home. You can’t play around with it. We need to deliver it on time, so that the buyer can move in on time and save his rent to pay instalments.

“Third, we offer luxury properties – but at an affordable price. So, we don’t compromise on quality. In fact, we have been exceeding customer expectations – better amenities and facilities than what we had promised to customers,” Sajan notes.

Surging real estate growth
Dubai’s property market has been on a tear since the end of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“In 2023, we also witnessed rents skyrocketing and it will continue to do so in 2024. The Dubai real estate market will continue to grow in the next 2 years by at least 20-25% and this will inspire further confidence among property buyers,” Sajan tells Gulf Business.

Another major boon for the market has been a decision by UAE authorities to make it easier to attain a Golden Visa through property investment. Here, the country plans to scrap the Dhs1m property down-payment that was previously required for residents to qualify for the 10-year Golden Visa.

Instead, residents will soon be able to qualify for a Golden Visa if the property that they’ve bought is over Dhs2m in value.

Interestingly, Sajan highlights how this marks a transition for the UAE market from being, traditionally, an environment where expats only stay for a few years to more long-term residency.

“We expect the Dubai real estate market will see sustained growth over the next five years as it has matured and is no longer a transitional market. Also, the emirate’s population will continue to increase in the coming years as new job opportunities will be created as well as more high-net-worth individuals will flock to the emirate to cash in on higher capital and rental returns. In addition, the government’s pro-business and pro-investor policies will continue to attract fresh capital into the real estate sector,” says Sajan.

Sajan and his team at Danube have also been around long enough to see many changes in the Dubai property market over the years.

This includes the makeup of buyers and renters in the emirate. Sajan proudly says that Danube Properties has catered to more than 112 nationalities and that his company remains committed to providing the highest level of services to clients from all over the world.

“Due to evolving geopolitical dynamics, Dubai has experienced a significant influx of individuals relocating from various global regions. Notably, in 2023; Indians, Russians, and British investors have emerged as the primary contributors to Dubai’s real estate market. Additionally, neighbouring countries such as Egypt, Lebanon, and Turkey are increasingly becoming assertive players in the Dubai property landscape, signifying a broader spectrum of international interest in the city’s real estate sector,’ says Sajan.

But Sajan goes on to highlight a particular nationality as emerging as a serious purchaser of properties.

“We, at Danube Properties, have seen a surge of interest and investments, especially from Russians in 2023. In the last 12 months, they have accounted for 22 per cent of our buyers. Dubai has built a strong reputation for stability, security, and luxury, and it has become a beacon of hope for those seeking a haven for their investments. However, Indians have always been our top investors, and in 2023 they made up 32 per cent of our customers in the UAE,” says Sajan.

What goes up in markets, though, often can come down. The financial crisis in late 2008 was an example of this. Following surging property prices in the likes of Dubai, the emirate was hit hard by company closures and job losses.

The real estate market would build up to recover again, only for the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 to put a damper once again on prices.

So, does this moment that we’re in now, represent a new real estate bubble? Not quite, says Sajan.

“No, there is no bubble,” says Sajan.

“In fact, if we go by the property rates across the major global cities around the world such as New York, Hong Kong, London, Paris, property prices in Dubai are undervalued by two to three times. Swiss bank UBS, in its latest Global Real Estate Bubble Index 2023, ranked the Dubai property market as ‘fairly valued’, which proves that there is no bubble. Keeping in mind population growth and supply of new residential units, in coming years we can safely say that the market will stay at a fair value and attractive for investors, offering very healthy returns,” he adds.

Interestingly, Sajan highlights how this marks a transition for the UAE market from being, traditionally, an environment where expats only stay for a few years to more long-term residency.

“We expect the Dubai real estate market will see sustained growth over the next five years as it has matured and is no longer a transitional market. Also, the emirate’s population will continue to increase in the coming years as new job opportunities will be created as well as more high-net-worth individuals will flock to the emirate to cash in on higher capital and rental returns. In addition, the government’s pro-business and pro-investor policies will continue to attract fresh capital into the real estate sector,” says Sajan.

Sajan and his team at Danube have also been around long enough to see many changes in the Dubai property market over the years.

This includes the makeup of buyers and renters in the emirate. Sajan proudly says that Danube Properties has catered to more than 112 nationalities and that his company remains committed to providing the highest level of services to clients from all over the world.

“Due to evolving geopolitical dynamics, Dubai has experienced a significant influx of individuals relocating from various global regions. Notably, in 2023; Indians, Russians, and British investors have emerged as the primary contributors to Dubai’s real estate market. Additionally, neighbouring countries such as Egypt, Lebanon, and Turkey are increasingly becoming assertive players in the Dubai property landscape, signifying a broader spectrum of international interest in the city’s real estate sector,’ says Sajan.

But Sajan goes on to highlight a particular nationality as emerging as a serious purchaser of properties.

“We, at Danube Properties, have seen a surge of interest and investments, especially from Russians in 2023. In the last 12 months, they have accounted for 22 per cent of our buyers. Dubai has built a strong reputation for stability, security, and luxury, and it has become a beacon of hope for those seeking a haven for their investments. However, Indians have always been our top investors, and in 2023 they made up 32 per cent of our customers in the UAE,” says Sajan.

What goes up in markets, though, often can come down. The financial crisis in late 2008 was an example of this. Following surging property prices in the likes of Dubai, the emirate was hit hard by company closures and job losses.

The real estate market would build up to recover again, only for the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 to put a damper once again on prices.

So, does this moment that we’re in now, represent a new real estate bubble? Not quite, says Sajan.

“No, there is no bubble,” says Sajan.

“In fact, if we go by the property rates across the major global cities around the world such as New York, Hong Kong, London, Paris, property prices in Dubai are undervalued by two to three times. Swiss bank UBS, in its latest Global Real Estate Bubble Index 2023, ranked the Dubai property market as ‘fairly valued’, which proves that there is no bubble. Keeping in mind population growth and supply of new residential units, in coming years we can safely say that the market will stay at a fair value and attractive for investors, offering very healthy returns,” he adds.

“Dubai remains a robust destination for global real estate investment due to various factors such as world-class infrastructure and a growth outlook. This growth can be attributed to the path-breaking policies adopted by the UAE government, which have had a positive impact on not only the real estate sector but also other sectors of the economy,” Sajan goes on to say.

To drive home his point further, Sajan further tells Gulf Business that other research houses have pointed to how Dubai remains a competitive market.

According to Knight Frank’s Wealth Report 2023, property prices in Dubai are still lower than London, Hong Kong, Geneva, and New York. For example, $1m can buy 105 square metres of prime property in Dubai as compared to 33 square metres in New York, 34 square metres in London and 37 square metres in Geneva.

Henley Private Wealth Migration also estimates that 4,500 millionaires relocated to Dubai in 2023, making it one of the top two most attractive destinations for high-net-worth individuals to migrate to. This comes after 5,000 millionaires relocated to Dubai in the previous year.

101 levels: Meet Bayz 101
Driving around Dubai these days, one will find a lot of advertising and marketing, along the sides of buses, billboards, and buildings about Danube’s latest pièce de résistance — the Dhs3bn Bayz 101.

Ground will be broken on the tower later this year, but it will ultimately become one of the tallest towers in Business Bay when it is completed in 2028.

Built on an area of 2.1 million square feet, Bayz101 will offer a diverse range of living spaces, including studio apartments, 1BHK, 2BHK, 3BHK, 4BHK, and retail options. From Dhs1.2m, buyers will be able to acquire studio units.

It will further offer 40 amenities ranging from a health club, swimming pool, jogging track, sports arena, workspace, business centre, tennis court, sky bar, and even doctors on call.

With Bayz 101, Danube is also offering its famous 1 per cent monthly payment plan, thereby ensuring that more residents are able to realise the dream of owning a home in one of the world’s premier locations.

“This project exemplifies Danube Properties’ commitment to delivering exceptional living spaces and redefining the standards of contemporary urban living,” says Sajan.

Community living
Township projects and communities have also been prominently adding to the real estate sector in the Middle East, says Sajan. Families prefer to live in communities where educational institutions, healthcare, retail, and other community facilities are easily accessible.

“This is a natural progression to the real estate market development. Demand for ready-to-move-in apartments always existed, but with the sky-rocketing rents, the demand for off-plan properties has gone exponentially high. As Dubai continues to grow and provide opportunities for professionals from all over the world, we are going to see more professionals moving in with high incomes. They would prefer off plan as well as ready-to-move-in apartments and villas. So, rent-to-own, mortgages and payment plans will help the developers sell these inventories faster,” says Sajan.

Driving growth into the future
Whether it’s building out communities or towers that reach over 100 levels into the sky, Danube has become one of the fastest growing, and biggest, real estate developers in the UAE.

“Danube Properties has come a long way in perfecting the art of developing homes with all the facilities, amenities and quality finishing and delivering them on time and at affordable price,” says Sajan.

“For more than eight years, we have delivered affordable luxury to thousands of families. From 2023, we have added the touch of brand by joining hands with luxury brands to bring branded residences to our buyers who like a touch of class in their homes,” he adds.

Finally, Sajan concludes that Dubai will continue to be a rising giant in the world of real estate development for years to come.

“Of late, Dubai has seen a massive increase in investors from new markets such as Western Europe, attracted by higher returns. Most of the global studies have rated rental and capital returns offered by the Dubai market higher than the other major cities around the world. And this will be a key factor that will dictate the market and drive it forward,” says Sajan.

Built on an area of 2.1 million square feet, Bayz101 will offer a diverse range of living spaces, including studio apartments, 1BHK, 2BHK, 3BHK, 4BHK, and retail options. From Dhs1.2m, buyers will be able to acquire studio units.

It will further offer 40 amenities ranging from a health club, swimming pool, jogging track, sports arena, workspace, business centre, tennis court, sky bar, and even doctors on call.

With Bayz 101, Danube is also offering its famous 1 per cent monthly payment plan, thereby ensuring that more residents are able to realise the dream of owning a home in one of the world’s premier locations.

“This project exemplifies Danube Properties’ commitment to delivering exceptional living spaces and redefining the standards of contemporary urban living,” says Sajan.

Source: https://gulfbusiness.com/rizwan-sajan-from-dubais-1-man-to-101-levels/

Meet man who once lived in slums, sold books on roads, now one of richest Indians in Dubai, his massive net worth is…

Many people are born poor and die poor, but Rizwan Sajan’s perspective was different; his hardship and success demonstrate that being born into a poor family is unavoidable, but dying poor is entirely within one’s control. Born in the Mumbai slums of Ghatkopar, Rizwan Sajan began his career as a street vendor, peddling firecrackers and books while also delivering milk to help support his family. After his father died when Sajan was sixteen, he started working at his uncle’s building materials store in Kuwait in 1981. From trainee salesman to manager, Sajan advanced through the ranks fast.

Many entrepreneurs have built prosperous companies despite adversity and a lack of financial situation; a first-generation entrepreneur, Rizwan Sajan, the founder and chairman of Danube Group, is one such individual. Having begun his career as a salesman, this non-resident Indian businessman is currently among the wealthiest Indians in Dubai. His billion-dollar Danube Group is among the biggest building material companies in the world, with branches spread across the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and India.

He founded the Danube Group in 1993, and it has since grown into a diversified business conglomerate with interests in real estate development, home décor, and building materials. The group generated an annual turnover of USD 2 billion last year, and Sajan’s personal net worth is estimated to be in the billions of dirhams, according to the UAE Ministry of Economy’s website.

Source:https://www.dnaindia.com/business/report-meet-man-who-once-lived-in-slums-sold-books-on-roads-now-one-of-richest-indians-in-dubai-his-massive-net-wo-3077739

Danube Properties moves into sports sponsorship

Danube Properties Dubai has stepped in as the sponsor of the Celebrity Cricket League which will be hosting its opening matches in the UAE for the first time.

Truckers UAE, a food truck provider, has taken on the role of the local host partner, enhancing the synergy between the event and the vibrant local community.

Celebrity Cricket League (CCL) has grown into India’s most-watched sport and entertainment event since it started in 2011. The previous season garnered an impressive cumulative TV and digital reach, connecting with over 250 million viewers across the country.

The 10th season of CCL will kick off the opening weekend in the UAE on Friday, 23rd February at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The event is known for its unique blend of sports and entertainment – sportainment.

It will feature 8 teams representing major film industries in India, including Hindi, Punjabi, Bhojpuri, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam, CCL Season 10 will unite over 200 beloved film celebrities under a single platform, promising unparalleled entertainment.

Distinguished personalities associated with CCL include Salman Khan, the brand ambassador of Mumbai Heroes, Riteish Deshmukh, Captain of Mumbai Heroes, and Sohail Khan, Owner of Mumbai Heroes,

Danube Properties is a part of the Danube Group, which has a portfolio of properties including Starz, Oceanz, Eleganz and Sportz and Bayz.

Source: https://campaignme.com/danube-properties-moves-into-sports-sponsorship/

Dubai luxury property market to maintain fastest growth rate in H2..

Demand for Dubai’s luxury properties will remain strong in the second half of 2023 and will be the fastest growing market among all the major cities around the world on the back of the continued inflow of millionaires, with the market facing a supply shortage of high-end units.

Following an 11.2 per cent increase in capital value during the January-June period, industry analysts project another up to 10 per cent increase in prices of high-end units during the second half, maintaining the fastest growth rate for the whole year.

Importantly, the luxury segment will continue to drive the capital value of the mid and affordable units as well.

In order to cash on unprecedented demand, Rizwan Sajan, founder and chairman of Danube Properties, said more than 15 projects were launched and nearly sold out at launch between June and July.

“It reflects a strong investor appetite, which I believe, will continue not only for the rest of the year but also continue well in 2024. Although the prices are significantly high compared to the lows of the Covid-19 pandemic period, it is still reasonable and in some cases, there is room for further growth. It is also good for property buyers and investors as the increased rental yield makes up for the increased price. So, for a Dh1 million apartment, investors can still count on Dh50,000 – Dh70,000 rent, which is between 5-7 percent annual return on investment,” said Sajan.

DMCC, Danube Properties to develop new AED2bn residential towers in Dubai’s Jumeirah Lakes Towers

DMCC, the free zone authority in Dubai, has partnered with leading private developer Danube Properties to bring a new residential project to Jumeirah Lakes Towers district.

The development will see two 65-storey towers built, providing 1,200 residential units with a total built-up area of 1.7 million square feet.

Valued at approximately $545 million (AED 2 billion), the project will sit adjacent to DMCC’s Uptown Dubai neighbourhood.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC said: “Demand for premium residential property across the JLT community is higher than ever, as we have seen with the resounding success of Viewz, our first project with Danube which is fully sold.

“Boasting a community of over 100,000 people, JLT has become one of the most popular districts in Dubai thanks to its truly complete offering for visitors, businesses and residents. We are proud to partner with Danube for a second time as we continue to shape and drive the transformation of JLT and enhance the high-quality residential offering for our expanding community.”

New residential towers announced in Dubai’s Jumeirah Lakes Towers
This latest collaboration follows the success of Danube and DMCC’s previous Viewz project, comprising two towers which have been fully sold.

“As a rapidly expanding private real estate developer in the UAE, we are constantly seeking prime plots in strategic development zones. This partnership with DMCC empowers Danube Properties to enhance the appeal of our upcoming project, providing an opportunity for investors and homebuyers to capitalise on future value appreciation thanks to JLT’s attractive location and the support of DMCC,” Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group added.

Throughout 2023 DMCC partnered with five developers on six commercial and residential projects across JLT and Uptown Dubai.

The authority’s continued development of these areas supports record foreign investment into Dubai. DMCC itself accounts for 11 percent of the emirate’s foreign direct investment.

Source: https://www.arabianbusiness.com/industries/real-estate/dmcc-danube-properties-to-develop-new-aed2bn-residential-towers-in-dubais-jumeirah-lakes-towers

https://www.arabianbusiness.com/industries/real-estate/dmcc-danube-properties-to-develop-new-aed2bn-residential-towers-in-dubais-jumeirah-lakes-towers

101 Floors, 1,346 Homes and More; Dubai Soon To Welcome Bayz101 With Units Starting At AED1.2M

Dubai, a city synonymous with architectural marvels, is set to welcome Danube Properties’ latest gem – Bayz101. This ambitious project, situated in the heart of Business Bay, is a colossal 101-level skyscraper boasting 1,346 homes, with prices starting at an enticing AED1.2m ($327,000). Let’s delve into the details of this groundbreaking venture.

In the realm of towering structures, Bayz101 stands as the fourth tallest in Dubai, joining the elite league alongside the iconic Burj Khalifa, Marina 101, and Princess Tower. Scheduled for completion in 2028, this mega-tall tower is not merely a residential haven; it is a testament to Danube Properties’ commitment to luxury and investment excellence.

Covering a sprawling 2.1 million square feet, Bayz101 marks Danube Properties’ largest venture to date, both in terms of units and overall space. The project offers a diverse range of living spaces, from chic studio apartments to spacious four-bedroom homes, alongside retail options, catering to a myriad of lifestyle preferences.

With prices commencing at AED1.2m ($327,000) for studio units, Bayz101’s total development value surpasses AED3bn ($817m). What sets this project apart is its 1% monthly payment plan, providing accessible funding options and turning the dream of home ownership into reality for aspiring homeowners.

Dubai, a city known for pushing boundaries, jointly holds the record for hosting the highest number of towers with 100 floors, alongside Chicago. Bayz101 is not just a skyscraper; it is a bold statement reflecting Danube Properties’ larger-than-life dreams converted into reality.

Beyond its towering presence, Bayz101 offers residents more than 40 amenities, including a health club, swimming pool, jogging track, sports arena, working space, business centre, meeting place, tennis court, sky bar, and even on-call medical services. Overall, the comprehensive array underscores Danube Properties’ commitment to enhancing the living experience.

Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response to their previous projects. And, he emphasized the city’s role in inspiring bold initiatives. Bayz101, he declared, is not just a dream but a historic moment, symbolizing the realisation of their grand vision.

As Bayz101 takes its place in Dubai’s skyline, it adds to the city’s architectural splendour.  Also, it stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence by Danube Properties.

Source: https://curlytales.com/101-floors-1346-homes-dubai-soon-to-welcome-bayz101-with-units-starting-at-aed1-2m/

Dubai luxury property market to maintain fastest growth rate in H2

Demand for Dubai’s luxury properties will remain strong in the second half of 2023 and will be the fastest growing market among all the major cities around the world on the back of the continued inflow of millionaires, with the market facing a supply shortage of high-end units.

Following an 11.2 per cent increase in capital value during the January-June period, industry analysts project another up to 10 per cent increase in prices of high-end units during the second half, maintaining the fastest growth rate for the whole year.

Importantly, the luxury segment will continue to drive the capital value of the mid and affordable units as well.

In order to cash on unprecedented demand, Rizwan Sajan, founder and chairman of Danube Properties, said more than 15 projects were launched and nearly sold out at launch between June and July.

“It reflects a strong investor appetite, which I believe, will continue not only for the rest of the year but also continue well in 2024. Although the prices are significantly high compared to the lows of the Covid-19 pandemic period, it is still reasonable and in some cases, there is room for further growth. It is also good for property buyers and investors as the increased rental yield makes up for the increased price. So, for a Dh1 million apartment, investors can still count on Dh50,000 – Dh70,000 rent, which is between 5-7 percent annual return on investment,” said Sajan.

Rizwan Sajans journey: From the slums of Ghatkopar to the glitzy world of luxury in Dubai

Is there anything common between Aston Martin, Fashion TV, Tonino Lamborghini Casa and Filmfare on one side, and the slums of Mumbai, one of the largest building materials companies in Dubai, and Danube Group—a diversified business conglomerate which clocked a turnover of $2 billion last year—on the other side? There is only one: Rizwan Sajan. The first-generation entrepreneur was born in the slums of Ghatkopar in Mumbai. After dropping out of school, he landed a job as a salesman in Kuwait, founded a trading firm in Dubai in 1993, went on to buy the rights for Filmfare magazine in the Middle East, and is now building luxury apartments and villas that have a tie-up with brands such as Aston Martin, Fashion TV and Tonino Lamborghini Casa to take care of the interiors of a suite of luxury residential projects.

If you haven’t noticed the Danube Group, you are not watching enough TV, especially the ongoing cricket World Cup matches where the Dubai-based conglomerate with interests in building materials, home décor and real estate has been feverishly advertising, or you have not been flying top Indian airlines where one can spot stickers of ‘The 1% Man’ plastered on the rear side of the headrest of the seats. Over the last few months, Sajan and his Danube Group have been relentlessly wooing Indians to buy high-end and luxury residential properties in Dubai by pitching the country as a great investment destination.

From the slums to luxurious towers, how does one explain the fairytale journey? The entrepreneur starts the conversation by expressing his gratitude. “God has been kind,” smiles Sajan, who ventured into the real estate market of the Middle East in 2014, rolled out 25 residential projects in the UAE over the last nine years, including 10 in the last 19 months, and is trying to make luxuy affordable by launching a 1 percent per month payment plan. “How much of your success is luck, and what would be the share of hard work?” I ask as I try to make sense of his rags-to-riches story. “I would give them equal chances,” he again flashes his endearing smile.

Rizwan Sajan's journey: From the slums of Ghatkopar to the glitzy world of luxury in Dubai

Sajan is building luxury apartments and villas that have a tie-up with brands such as Tonino Lamborghini Casa for the interiors

However hard you work, Sajan underlines, if lady luck is not on your side, you will fail. “Similarly, even if you’re lucky but you don’t work hard, you are bound to fail,” he adds. The clichéd mantra—right person, at the right time and at the right place—to a large extent explains the meteoric rise of the man who had a rough childhood.

Sajan takes us back to his rocky early days in Mumbai. There were traces, though, of luck which the young lad couldn’t realise during his hardship years. His father miraculously won a ‘subsidised’ lottery, moved his family into a tiny apartment, and tried his best to look after the family. Though he managed to pay the tuition fees for the kids, it was never enough. Young Sajan, with his sisters, used to walk a few kilometres to reach school. The pocket money—₹15 in total for all the kids—was never sufficient for the young ones who could barely buy anything from the school canteen. The young boy decided to do his bit to earn some money. He implored his dad to lend ₹1,000, and started his early journey into rudimentary trading.

Sajan’s low-lying fruit—call it the catchment area—turned out to be his schoolmates. He bought books in bulk, sold them to his friends at the market rate, and started making some extra bucks. “Now I could buy food from the canteen,” he recalls. The next gig was selling milk in the locality and making the most of a log tail of festivals round the year. From sourcing rakhis to selling firecrackers, he did everything to earn extra money. Then tragedy struck when he was 16. His father died, Sajan had to drop out of school and take care of the family. Using a small kitty that his dad managed to save at the firm where he worked, he got into the business of manufacturing box files.

The business clicked, but making ends meet was still a challenge. Two years later, his uncle offered him a job in Kuwait. “That was my lottery,” recounts Sajan. Back in Mumbai, the young founder was earning ₹6,000. In Dubai, he got a monthly salary of ₹18,000 (150 dinar). He joined as a trainee salesman, and quickly climbed the ladder to become manager. “My salary increased from 150 dinar to 1,500 dinar,” he says. Now when one adds a sales commission of around 50,000 dinar every month, the salary starts to look obscene. “That was a lot of money for me,” he adds. The salesman was living the dream. He bought a Toyota Land Cruiser, purchased a house in Bandra, and got his sister married.

Soon, came a wicked twist in the fairytale. In August 1990, Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait. Sajan’s wonderland came crashing, and he was forced to return to Mumbai. “That was the second turning point in my life,” he says. ‘I was back to zero.”

A few years later, he tried his luck in Dubai. In 1993, Sajan started a trading firm. “It was a brokerage business, where I was making commission,” he says, adding that soon he started a building material business. Over the next decade and a half, he kept diversifying and added more heft to his business. In 2006, he started sanitary solutions’ brand Milano. In 2008, he ventured into the home furnishing business with Danube Home. Four years later, in 2012, came Alucopanel, a business of aluminium composite panels. The real estate entry happened in 2014. “Since then there has been no looking back,” says Sajan.

The founder tells us what led to a turning point in the real estate business, and his fortune. “It was the 1 percent plan,” he says, breaking down the plan. Apart from a small down payment, the buyers had to make a monthly payment of 1 percent, and the balance was collected once the building was ready. “We realised that 80 to 90 percent of expats were still renting, and I wanted to convert them into buying their own properties,” he says of the genesis of the plan, adding that by the time the building was ready, the consumer had already paid 50-60 percent of the amount. The banks now, Sajan avers, saw no risk in lending. “Now I am democratising luxury,” he says beaming

Ask the 1 percent man whether he has made 100 percent plans of entering the Indian market, and he narrates his bitter experience. Though he bought his first apartment, which was on the fourth floor of a multi-storeyed building in Mumbai, he soon realised that the builder got into trouble because he didn’t have permission to build the fifth and sixth floors. The next encounter too was a disaster. “Twelve years ago, I bought an apartment in Parel. Last month I got possession,” he rues. Dubai, he underlines, offers a bigger and massive opportunity in real estate as compared to most of the countries across the world. “People are making Dubai their second home because of the trust and confidence they have in the city,” he says. In spite of a small presence of a furnishing business in India, which he says is in an auto-pilot mode, Sajan is busy expanding his empire in the Middle East, and working with a missionary zeal to democratise luxury.

https://www.forbesindia.com/article/lifes/rizwan-sajans-journey-from-the-slums-of-ghatkopar-to-the-glitzy-world-of-luxury-in-dubai/89795/1

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