Khalid Fagih, Samer A. Samad, Sameer Daoud, Jamal N. Al-Houti, Listed by Worlds Leaders Magazine under Worlds Most Influential Construction Leaders in Middle East, 2023

1. www.worldsleaders.com Vol. 07 | Issue 07 | JULY 2023
Khalid
Khalid
Khalid Fagih
Fagih
Fagih

4. World's Most Inuential Construction
Leaders in Middle East, 2023
As we look around, we see that construction is constantly
adapting to keep up with the rest of the world. The modern
construction landscape is vastly different from the one I first
entered nearly ten years ago. Numerous changes have left
their mark, resulting in both positive and negative
outcomes. Nonetheless, there have been notable
developments that have significantly improved the industry.
Environmentally aware construction practices, increased
diversity, and the nurturing of communal ties are major
changes among these transformative shifts. These three
areas are expected to see the most significant innovative
changes.
Every day, visionary construction leaders are working to
creating an impact that push the limits of imagination. The
year 2023 has provided a excess of promising future
indicators so the World's Leaders “World's Most Influential
Construction Leaders in Middle East, 2023” has featured
extraordinary leaders who have reached new heights thanks
to their astute leadership, unwavering determination, and
exceptional talent.
The cover has Khalid Fagih from Saudi Arabia, a highly
skilled professional with extensive expertise in the field of
Financial Services. With a rich background spanning
decades, Khalid has amassed valuable experience in
Banking, Risk Management, Investment Banking, Project
Finance, and International Business Development.
Throughout his career, he has successfully executed
numerous projects, leading transformation programs,
engaging in multinational negotiations, and driving skill
development initiatives. Khalid actively participates in the
business community, holding memberships in the Chamber
of Commerce, as well as multiple innovation forums and
sustainability initiatives.
With a strong passion for innovation, disruption, and, above
all, environmental concerns, Khalid considers himself a
staunch advocate for constructing a better, safer future
through intelligent practices that prioritize the needs of
tomorrow. In terms of education, Khalid holds a degree in
Statistics & Computer Science and has received training
from prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business
School, INSEAD, Stanford Business School, and London
Business School. Additionally, during his financial services
career, he has also taken on the role of training young
aspiring bankers many times at the esteemed SAMA
Institute of Banking in Saudi Arabia.
Also, while you flip through the pages, don't forget to read
the articles created by our in-house editorial staff and
industry experts.
Creating a Better Tomorrow
Have a lovely read!

5. Copyright 2023 WORLD’S LEADERS, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine
should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from WORLD’S LEADERS Reprint rights
remain solely with WORLD’S LEADERS.
3296 Westerville Rd #250, Columbus, OH 43224, USA
Follow us on :
Editor-in-Chief Steve Sanchez
Managing Editor Jagdish Chincholikar
Executive Editor Nicole Williams
Assistant Editor Gayatri Bhujbal
Art & Design Director Jack Anderson
Business Development Manager Kyle Adams
Business Development Executive Natalie, Jerrey
Associate Designer Kevin Rust
Digital Marketing Manager Victor Clarke
Sales Manager Megan Morgan, Irfan Shekh
Marketing Manager Tom Swann
Technical Specialist Barry Jones
Circulation Manager Danny Parker
CREDIT PAGE
JULY 2023

6. KHALID FAGIH
Fostering Transformation and Sustainability
08

7. Jamal N. Al-Houti
Matt Squires
The Resilience of
Real Estate
Samer Samad
William Haddad
Sameer Daoud
Rizwan Sajan
Kerem Cengiz
The Evolving Role of a
Realtor in a Changing
Real Estate Landscape
46
44
38
36
32
28
24
20
16

8. Khalid
Fagih
Fostering
Transformation
and Sustainability
COVER STORY
08 | JULY 2023

9. worldsleaders.com | 09
worldsleaders.com | 09

10. he role of a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) holds immense
Timportance in any organization, as it entails significant
leadership responsibilities. CEOs bear the crucial task of
making strategic decisions, overseeing the overall operations of the
company, and propelling its growth and triumph. While the position
of a CEO offers fulfilling experiences, it also presents a multitude of
challenges and obligations. Khalid Fagih, the CEO of Red Sea
International Company, is one exemplary individual who embodies
these responsibilities.
Khalid Fagih from Saudi Arabia, is a highly skilled professional with
extensive expertise in the field of Financial Services. With a rich
background spanning decades, Khalid has amassed valuable
experience in Banking, Risk Management, Investment Banking,
Project Finance, and International Business Development.
Throughout his career, he has successfully executed numerous
projects, leading transformation programs, engaging in
multinational negotiations, and driving skill development initiatives.
Khalid actively participates in the business community, holding
memberships in the Chamber of Commerce, as well as multiple
innovation forums and sustainability initiatives.
With a strong passion for innovation, disruption, and, above all,
environmental concerns, Khalid considers himself a staunch
advocate for constructing a better, safer future through intelligent
practices that prioritize the needs of tomorrow. In terms of
education, Khalid holds a degree in Statistics & Computer Science
and has received training from prestigious institutions such as
Harvard Business School, INSEAD, Stanford Business School, and
London Business School. Additionally, during his financial services
career, he has also taken on the role of training young aspiring
bankers many times at the esteemed SAMA Institute of Banking in
Saudi Arabia.
10 | JULY 2023

11. worldsleaders.com | 11

12. Accepting New Challenges
Transitioning from a lifelong career in
banking to a new industry at RSI has
been the most significant decision in
Khalid's professional life. This switch
entailed navigating a completely
different landscape in terms of nature,
processes, applications, operations,
business development, and market risk.
Undoubtedly, it posed a significant
challenge, one that continues to be an
ongoing journey. However, it is
precisely this challenge that adds to the
intrigue and fuels Khalid's
determination and commitment.
In today's fast-paced business world,
the notion of planning for the "next
five years" has become outdated.
Technologies, market dynamics,
delivery speed, collaborations,
partnerships, and ever-evolving
technological advancements constantly
present new opportunities and shorten
the path to success. Each day brings
forth opportunities for growth,
performance, and achievement. The
choice of how to navigate and seize
these opportunities lies in one's hands.
About RED SEA
INTERNATIONAL
In a rapidly evolving world
characterized by development, change,
challenges, and opportunities,
businesses and organizations must
embrace continuous learning, evolve
with maturity, and adopt a clear vision
for the future, accompanied by a
practical roadmap. Success in the
future will be achieved by offering
solutions that are comprehensive,
effective, and simple. It is crucial for
businesses to envision and build
processes that are streamlined,
efficient, and environmentally
conscious, utilizing renewable ideas
and elements.
As a Saudi Arabian business entity, this
is an opportune time for growth and
development, with numerous
opportunities presented to existing and
innovative ideas. Khalid recognizes
Saudi Arabia as a nation under
visionary leadership, transforming its
landscape and global position through
the historic blueprint of "Vision 2030."
This ambitious transformation plan
provides an expansive platform for
growth, particularly for those who are
intuitive and adaptive. Therefore, any
strategy adopted must be focused on
readiness to capitalize on the vast
landscape of opportunities offered by
Vision 2030. RSI, as a company, is
positioning itself with determination to
seek out ideas for growth within this
vast canvas. However, this requires a
strong sense of readiness, capability,
and commitment.
Just as individuals evolve and
strengthen over time through learning
and assimilation, companies and
corporations also undergo a similar
process. RSI is no exception to this
reality. Over the past two years, the
company has reimagined its business
nature and repositioned itself to
address the opportunities that are
ahead. RSI has embraced a broader
vision, offering a wider range of
solutions to its international customer
base. It is still a long road ahead but
with the right focus on re-organization
and re-prioritization based on the fast
eveolving market scenario, it will be
imperative to make the right decisions
assessing risks and planning principles.
RSI, a Saudi Arabian company with a
global presence spanning several
decades, has built a reputable brand by
designing, planning, producing,
managing, and operating housing
solutions and facilities management
services across 65 countries. In today's
global business landscape, the ability
to provide multi-faceted solutions is
critical. This outlook expands the
market universe and provides a larger
platform for customer growth. In
addition to the traditional oil and gas
markets, RSI is diversifying its product
portfolio into new sectors such as
health, hospitality, education, and
residential, where there is a growing
demand for its solutions.
RSI is now investing in the real estate
spectrum to support and collaborate
with successful ventures in real estate
investment, a rapidly developing field
of hospitality projects, and various
entities across the commercial sector.
This expanded positioning offers
strong growth potential and
consolidates RSI's capabilities to
provide multiple solutions under its
established brand. Additionally,
diversifying revenue streams through
increased rental and leasing options
will be an area of opportunity and
growth as RSI moves away from a
manufacturing-focused business
model. Facilities management is also a
critically important segment, and RSI
aims to grow its presence and become
a regional and international leader in
this field. The company's innovative
solutions are reflected in its diverse
product portfolio and successful track
record across industry sectors, firmly
establishing its reputation as a
successful player in the field of
imaginative engineering. Most recently
under Khalid's leadership RSI also
announced the acquisition of 51% of
the share capital of The Fundamental
Installation for Electric Work Company
Ltd - better known as 'First Fix' and
valued at Saudi Riyals 1.06 billion.
This acquisition strengthens the
framework of RSI which synergizes
with First Fix as an internal group
entity that will further augment the
speed of project delivery and quality
excellence
Conscious Leadership
In Khalid's pursuit of personal growth
and leadership development, he
12 | JULY 2023

13. Vision for RSI's Global Success
From Khalid's personal standpoint, he envisions RSI as a globally esteemed
corporation, highly regarded for its qualities of Quality, Integrity, Innovation,
Reliability, Imagination, and Service. By embodying these attributes, RSI can attain
an unbeatable position in the market, which is exactly where Khalid aspires the
company to be. To achieve this, Khalid emphasizes the importance of fostering
innovation and imagination within the team to complement RSI's core capabilities.
This approach is essential for expanding RSI's footprint and maintaining its
leadership position within the industry.
worldsleaders.com | 13

14. identifies with the concept of a
"conscious leader." While many
individuals strive for performance,
success, leadership, and personal
identity, Khalid emphasizes the
significance of building and leading a
team. For him, the happiness and well-
being of the team members hold great
importance. Khalid is particularly
dedicated to the development of youth
throughout the Kingdom, aiming to
inspire them to broaden their horizons
and adopt a global perspective. His
aspiration is to galvanize the youth by
encouraging them to strive for better,
safer practices that focus on
tomorrow's needs.
Khalid perceives leadership as a
multifaceted quality that requires
authenticity, understanding, support,
inspiration, and collaboration. He
recognizes the importance of these
qualities and their impact on
individuals and teams. Khalid believes
that effective leadership should never
be underestimated, as it plays a pivotal
role in creating a positive and
empowering environment for growth
and success.
Commitment to Sustainability and
Quality
According to Khalid, RSI's core focus
lies in creating better living
environments by constructing vibrant
and multi-use communities in high-
performing settings. This approach
aims to positively impact people's lives
while also contributing to sustainability
objectives. The RSI team possesses a
wealth of experience accumulated over
40 years, and the company's success
has been built upon its unwavering
commitment to delivering high-quality
products and personalized service.
RSI's global vision revolves around
creating meaningful impact and
scalability for the greater good through
the principles of Giving, Earning, and
Sustaining.
What sets RSI apart is its dedication to
integrity, quality products, and service.
Moreover, the company's technology
and practices are designed to support
and facilitate "Net Zero" and "Circular
Economy" initiatives. By adopting
responsible business practices, RSI
aims to make a significant difference in
promoting sustainability and
environmental responsibility.
Navigating the Path to Leadership
Khalid firmly believes that companies
should not simply earn money; they
must also innovate and take risks to
truly claim leadership in their
respective industries. In his view, as
the CEO, he holds the ultimate
decision-making authority and is
responsible for setting the company's
vision. To be an effective CEO, Khalid
understands the importance of leading
by example and guiding the workforce
like the captain of a ship. His aim is to
educate and develop the minds of the
younger generation who will become
the leaders of tomorrow.
When formulating a business outlook,
Khalid considers various factors,
including the mandates and
expectations from the board, investors,
employees, and other stakeholders. He
also takes into account the company's
strengths, purpose, and understanding
of what creates value. Furthermore,
Khalid stays attuned to the
opportunities and trends in the
marketplace while aligning with his
personal aspirations and values. By
reframing the perspective, he
recognizes that his company competes
not just within its industry but also for
talent, capital, and influence on a
broader stage. This mindset shift
allows for a collective sense of
ownership within the team and brings
clarity to the overall intent, with key
performance measures like
organizational health taking on new
significance.
Investing in People
Khalid strongly believes that every
decision made by a CEO should
involve an investment. This includes
investing in initiatives, allocating time,
and, most importantly, investing in
people.
According to Khalid, investing in
people is the most valuable use of
financial resources. As a responsible
CEO, he recognizes the importance of
nurturing a management team that is
happy, motivated, determined, and
capable of working cohesively. Khalid
understands that a united team working
towards a shared vision is more likely
to achieve exceptional performance. In
order to achieve this, he emphasizes
the need to evaluate and optimize team
composition, considering factors such
as size, diversity, and capability. This
may involve making difficult decisions,
such as parting ways with
underperforming individuals or
promoting those with high potential,
even if they may be challenging to
work with.
Khalid stresses the significance of
maintaining a balanced approach in
individual relationships, striking a
balance between objectivity and
building trust and loyalty. Additionally,
he emphasizes the need to
continuously assess and improve the
team's operating rhythm, meeting
protocols, interaction quality, and
dynamics to ensure maximum
productivity. When hiring new team
members, Khalid focuses on finding
individuals who fit well within the
existing team and contribute to its
overall success.
Significance of Innovation and
Sustainability
According to Khalid, the construction
industry has undergone significant
changes in the past decade, with two
crucial factors for success being
14 | JULY 2023

15. "Innovation" and "Sustainability."
Sustainability is a constant
responsibility at both the individual
and corporate levels, while innovation
offers numerous possibilities.
Innovation can be achieved through
strategic positioning and realignment
of existing processes and ideas to cater
to multiple needs simultaneously, such
as platform-based ideas. Additionally,
innovation can also stem from thinking
outside the box and can emerge from
seemingly simple ideas.
The combination of innovation and
sustainability has the potential to
uncover new market opportunities and
even give rise to entirely new
industries. When considering
innovation from a technological
standpoint within the construction
industry, Khalid highlights five main
areas that have emerged and become
imperative for companies to embrace.
Ÿ Construction Software and Full
Integration - One of the elements
that have made construction
software so indispensable has to do
with the fact that it allows for the
real-time exchange of information
between the various project agents.
This means a significant decrease
of budget miscalculations and task
delays.
Ÿ Augmented and Virtual Reality -
AR and VR can truly take the
construction processes to the next
level. Thanks to this technology,
construction managers can now
have a detailed overview of the
whole project and plan ahead. The
price of this modern equipment is
currently cost-prohibitive, but the
technology for this type of work is
already in existence today.
Ÿ Next Generation Tools - We have
to keep in mind that emerging
technology takes the form of
software and hardware. There are
always going to be better and more
powerful tools. But the next
generation of tools are different.
These devices and robots come
with their own software, and
eventually machine learning.
Ÿ New Workforce Type -
Construction has a unique
opportunity to attract skillful and
educated young professionals. The
advent of new technologies in
combination with the extensive use
of software has started transforming
construction to a promising career
field. There is a younger generation
that's more comfortable with
technology coming along and when
this generation gets into leadership
roles in the top construction
companies, there will be an
expedited shift towards futuristic
solutions.
Ÿ Green Construction - The ultimate
goal, in this case, is the
establishment of sustainable
building as the prevailing
construction procedure. Green
construction can have some great
benefits not only for our industry
but for our environment and
everyday lives. It can help in
reducing energy waste, increasing
productivity and establishing higher
living and aesthetic standards.
worldsleaders.com | 15

16. 16 | JULY 2023

17. The Evolving Role of
a Realtor in a Changing
Real Estate
Real Estate
Real Estate
Landscape
Landscape
Landscape
T
he real estate industry has
witnessed significant changes
in recent years, fueled by
technological advancements, shifting
market dynamics, and changing
consumer preferences. Amidst this
transformation, the role of a realtor has
also evolved, adapting to meet the
needs and demands of today's buyers
and sellers. This article explores the
changing landscape of the real estate
market and highlights the key aspects
of a realtor's role in the modern era.
worldsleaders.com | 17

18. Embracing Technology
Technology has become a game-
changer in the real estate industry,
empowering realtors to streamline
their processes, enhance customer
experiences, and reach a wider
audience. Realtors now leverage
advanced tools and pla orms for
property lis ngs, virtual tours, and
online marke ng. This sec on
discusses how realtors are leveraging
technology to stay compe ve and
provide value-added services to their
clients.
Naviga ng Market Trends
Market trends and condi ons play a
crucial role in real estate transac ons.
Realtors are expected to possess up-
to-date knowledge of local market
trends, property values, and emerging
opportuni es. The ar cle delves into
how realtors analyze market data,
interpret trends, and guide their
clients to make informed decisions
based on current market condi ons.
Providing Personalized Guidance
Despite the availability of online
resources, many buyers and sellers s ll
rely on realtors for their exper se and
personalized guidance throughout the
real estate process. This sec on
explores the various aspects of a
realtor's role in providing tailored
advice, nego a ng deals, and
facilita ng smooth transac ons. It also
emphasizes the importance of strong
communica on and interpersonal
skills for realtors in building trust with
their clients.
Adap ng to Changing Consumer
Expecta ons
Today's consumers have higher
expecta ons when it comes to the real
estate experience. They seek realtors
who understand their needs,
communicate effec vely, and offer
personalized services. The ar cle
examines how realtors are adap ng to
these changing expecta ons by
providing excep onal customer
service, embracing transparency, and
priori zing client sa sfac on.
Niche Specializa ons
In a compe ve real estate market,
realtors o en specialize in specific
property types, geographical areas, or
customer segments. This sec on
explores the benefits of niche
specializa ons for realtors and how it
allows them to establish themselves as
experts in their chosen fields. It also
highlights the importance of ongoing
educa on and professional
development for realtors to stay
relevant and informed within their
niche.
Building a Strong Online Presence
In today's digital age, having a robust
online presence is crucial for realtors
to a ract clients and stay ahead of the
compe on. This sec on discusses the
importance of a well-designed
website, ac ve social media presence,
and posi ve online reviews. It also
explores the use of content marke ng
and digital adver sing strategies that
realtors can employ to enhance their
visibility and reach.
The role of a realtor has transformed
significantly in response to the
changing real estate landscape. By
embracing technology, staying
informed about market trends,
providing personalized guidance,
adap ng to consumer expecta ons,
specializing in niche markets, and
building a strong online presence,
realtors can thrive in the modern real
estate industry. As the market
con nues to evolve, realtors must
con nue to adapt and innovate to
meet the needs of buyers and sellers
in an ever-changing environment.
18 | JULY 2023

20. 20 | JULY 2023

21. worldsleaders.com | 21

22. 22 | JULY 2023

23. worldsleaders.com | 23

24. Chief Executive Officer
24 | JULY 2023

25. Matt Squires joined SSH in July 2013 and was
promoted to Managing Director for all SSH areas
in early 2014. Matt's assistance with the Oman
office was vital in SSH being named Consultant of
the Year at the Construction Week Oman Awards in
2015.
Matt became SSH's Chief Operating Officer for all
regions the next year, supervising the company's
divisional reporting for the Building, Infrastructure,
and Construction Services divisions. In this
capacity, he oversaw not only the diversification of
income sources throughout SSH's regional and
worldwide markets, but also the growth of the
company's project portfolio across its regions.
Matt was named Chief Executive Officer of SSH in
2017 with the goal of strengthening the company's
reputation as a trusted collaborator to its clients and
key partners while also encouraging new business.
Matt worked with Atkins for 16 years before
joining SSH, eventually becoming the Managing
Director for the Oman office, overseeing master
planning, buildings, infrastructure, and site
operations. Matt was previously the Northern Gulf
Business's Design Solutions Director Designate.
Matt's geographical experience includes the GCC,
Eastern Europe, and the United Kingdom. During
his stint at Atkins Oman, he was named Consultant
of the Year by Construction Week Magazine, as
well as Executive of the Year. Matt's exceptional
leadership and client skills, as well as his ability to
find and nurture young technical and design talent,
were recognized by several accolades.
He has a Bachelor of Civil Engineering degree
from Southampton University in the United
Kingdom and is a chartered member of the UK
Institute of Civil Engineers.
About the Company
SSH has been providing
architectural and engineering
consultation services throughout
the Middle East and North Africa
area since 1961, employing
approximately 800 individuals in
offices in Abu Dhabi, Algeria,
Bahrain, Dubai, Kuwait, London,
Oman, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Sub-
Saharan Africa, and North Africa.
The team of worldwide and
regional talent is committed to
providing excellent quality and
value to the company's clients
while building solid, long-term
relationships with them as well as
our industry partners, workers,
and investors.
worldsleaders.com | 25

28. Rizwan
Sajan
An entrepreneur recognizes a need in
society and creates a business to fill
it. Mr. Rizwan Sajan, backed by the
principle of perpetual evolution, has
been the driving force behind the
Danube Group’s success. His
capacity to be open to change while
also discovering and energizing the
group has led to the company’s
defining success.
Mr. Rizwan Sajan’s imaginative
approach earned him a spot on
Forbes Middle East’s “Top 100
Indian Leaders in the UAE” list.
Below are the highlights of the
interview conducted between World's
Leaders and Rizwan Sajan:
Describe who you are as a person,
inside and outside of the
workplace.
A
I am a simple and humble person. I
started life a bit earlier than others –
at the age of 16, right after the sad
demise of my father, and started to
take care of the family through the
meagre earnings that I could generate
by working side by side with my
classes in college.
In business and management, I am a
very straight forward person. I want
to empower people, take risks, give
responsibilities to people who
deserve them, and hold them
accountable if anything goes wrong.
Transparency and accountability are
very important. I am a transparent
person, and I am accountable for the
A Visionary Entrepreneur and Global Business Thinker
28 | JULY 2023

29. Founder & Chairman
Danube Group
worldsleaders.com | 29

30. success or failure of the entire group.
But I can only be successful if my
team works in tandem.
Describe your background and
what did you do before you
started/joined the company?
I come from a humble family
background – in Mumbai. My father
used to work in a private company.
My mother used to be a homemaker.
We are two brothers and a sister. We
were brought up on strict principles
and ethics – imbibed in our character
by our parents in our early childhood.
Life used to be normal in the
Mumbai neighbourhood where we
grew up and had our schooling.
However, things almost came to a
standstill after the sudden death of
my father. I was 16 and not eligible
to work. However, I was offered a
part-time position in the same
company where my father worked by
his colleagues—to support our
family. So, I used to work at the
company in the evening while
continuing my college studies.
A few years later, one of my uncles
offered me a job in his building
materials shop in Kuwait when I
reached the age of 18 and was
eligible to work. So, I went to
Kuwait and joined his business. I
learned the ins and outs of the
building materials trade in my uncle's
shop and soon helped to expand it
through my knowledge and hard
work.
At one point in time, I was entrusted
by my uncle to make business
decisions for him – and run the
business – till the outbreak of the
Iraq-Kuwait war in 1991. We had to
close the company and return to
India.
Tell us about the inception of the
company. How did it all start?
After the setback in Kuwait, I started
thinking of coming back to the Gulf
to start my career. That’s what I did. I
came to Dubai – the land of
opportunity.
Since I knew the business of building
materials, I joined a company as their
sales person. I used to procure orders
for the company and ensure supplies.
However, the company did not have
30 | JULY 2023

31. all the products, so I had to source
them from other suppliers for the
client, as I didn’t want to say “No” to
the clients.
This way, I had built a strong rapport
with clients and suppliers, who started
to trust me. In 1993, I started Danube
Building Materials as a small supplier
of building materials. Due to my
efficiency and contacts, we started to
get orders in bulk and continued to
supply in large quantities.
As business grew, I hired people to
support me. We took the warehouse,
increased the showroom space, and
then started to import materials in bulk.
This is how it all started from a two-
person company to what it is currently
a large business with a diversified
portfolio.
So, my decision to start a business in
building materials was due to my
experience in Kuwait in this field.
Which are the major services of the
company and how do they the
company to get ahead in the
competition? What value-added
services does the company provide?
As mentioned, we started as a building
materials trading business and later
introduced joinery services. Then we
launched our retail operations under
Danube Home — which is the home
improvement arm of our business.
In 2014, we started our real estate
development arm – Danube Properties
– which has been a major success. We
have so far launched 16 projects and
delivered 11 of them to more than
3,000 happy families.
In 2021, we launched our Hospitality
Solutions Division—for the hotels and
catering sector, which is picking up.
So, we are predominantly into trading,
export, import, wholesale, retail, and
services sectors.
What are the most important aspects
of a company's culture? What
principles do you believe in and how
do you build this culture?
The strength of the business lies in our
core values: integrity, quality services,
transparency, accountability, strong
ethics and sound business practice. You
need to be honest and sincere in your
dealings. If there is a problem with a
product or service, then it is important
to communicate with the customer so
that they are aware of the problem.
What is the significance of
innovative ideas in the company?
The survival of a business will depend
on technology adoption, innovation,
and creativity. A business could
collapse if it fails to change with the
times and if it lacks innovation.
Business is carried out by humans. It is
skill-based. So, you need to develop
human capital across the organisation
and inculcate a strong culture of
productivity, accountability and
transparency. Continuous training,
mentoring, and development of human
resources are critical.
You need to introduce technology and
ensure that the team members keep
abreast of the latest technology.
Give us your opinion on; do
organisations rely heavily on
individual heroics or team
processes?
Business is about teamwork. However,
within team work, you need
heroes—role models for others to
inspire and improve.
What are your responsibilities as the
Founder/CEO of the company?
What is the happiest part of your
daily routine?
As a businessman, I take strategic
development decisions, and the team
runs the business. I assist the team in
running the business in accordance
with my strategic thinking, which is
aligned with the government's vision.
What advice would you give
someone going into a leadership
position for the first time?
Do your homework before venturing
into anything. You need to find a gap in
society and then develop a business
around it. Whatever you do, put your
heart and soul into it.
Business is not about money alone.
Working for a cause The money will
come. Develop a business to fix a
problem and money will pour in. Learn
how to monetise your skills.
Don’t be afraid to fail. Don't lose heart
every time you fail. But try to analyse
why you failed, so that you can rectify
the mistakes. Failure is the pillar of
success.
Be honest, humble and remain
grounded. Result will come. Think
global, act local.
worldsleaders.com | 31

32. The Resilience of
Real Estate
Real estate has long been considered a solid investment and an
essential component of wealth creation. However, the industry is not
immune to challenges and market fluctuations. This article explores
the resilience of the real estate market, how it has weathered past
crises, and the opportunities it presents for investors and
homeowners alike.
32 | JULY 2023

33. worldsleaders.com | 33

34. Historical Resilience
The real estate market has demonstrated resilience
throughout history, rebounding from economic downturns,
recessions, and even major crises. This section highlights
notable examples, such as the recovery from the 2008
financial crisis, to emphasize the industry's ability to
withstand challenges and regain momentum.
Adapting to Market Shifts
Real estate is a dynamic sector that adapts to changing
market conditions. This section examines how the industry
has responded to evolving trends, such as the rise of remote
work and the increasing demand for sustainable properties.
It also explores the emergence of new property types, like
co-living spaces and mixed-use developments, that cater to
changing lifestyles and preferences.
Investment Opportunities
Real estate continues to offer a range of investment
opportunities. This section discusses the potential for long-
term appreciation, rental income, and diversification within
a well-structured investment portfolio. It explores different
avenues, including residential, commercial, and real estate
investment trusts (REITs), and provides insights on factors
to consider when evaluating investment options.
Homeownership Advantages
For individuals and families, homeownership remains a
cornerstone of stability and financial security. This section
explores the benefits of owning a home, including building
equity, potential tax advantages, and the sense of
community and pride associated with homeownership. It
also provides tips on navigating the homebuying process
and understanding the local market.
Real Estate Market Challenges
While real estate offers numerous opportunities, it is
essential to acknowledge and address the challenges that
can arise. This section discusses factors such as fluctuating
interest rates, regulatory changes, and market
oversaturation, highlighting the importance of due
diligence, risk management, and strategic decision-making.
Technology and Innovation
Technological advancements have revolutionized the real
estate industry, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and
customer experiences. This section explores how proptech
(property technology) innovations, such as online listing
platforms, virtual tours, and blockchain-based transactions,
are reshaping the way properties are bought, sold, and
managed.
Global and Regional Trends
Real estate markets vary across regions, and it is crucial to
understand local dynamics. This section provides insights
into global and regional trends, such as urbanization,
demographic shifts, and the impact of economic factors,
enabling investors and homeowners to make informed
decisions based on specific market conditions.
What's Ahead!
Despite the challenges it may face, real estate remains a
resilient and rewarding industry. By understanding
historical trends, adapting to market shifts, recognizing
investment opportunities, and leveraging technological
advancements, individuals and investors can navigate the
real estate landscape successfully. Whether as a long-term
investment or a place to call home, real estate continues to
hold substantial value and potential for growth.
34 | JULY 2023

36. Kerem Managing Director
LWK + PARTNERS
Cengiz
36 | JULY 2023

37. LWK + PARTNERS' Managing
Director - MENA is Kerem Cengiz. He
has over 25 years of international
expertise in all elements of design and
real estate development, with a strong
design-led background and technical
and commercial ability.
Through thought, creativity, strong
leadership, and effective management,
Kerem aspires to produce
developments that contribute to
combining high urban design quality
with certain financial success. He has
spoken at and participated in a number
of international conferences, including
MIPIM, Cityscapes, and The Big5
Dubai. Kerem has also given
presentations at universities and
institutes, as well as overseen the
development of national architectural
guidelines and regulatory publications.
Kerem's exceptional work and
leadership has helped obtain numerous
large and high-profile projects in the
UAE, GCC, and broader MENA
Region, as well as overseas, where he
frequently competes with globally
recognized international design
companies. To mention a few, his
mindset has won him and the team he
oversees the "Mohammed Bin Rashid
Al Maktoum Business Award for
Innovation" in 2017, as well as "The
Queen's Award for Enterprise:
International Trade" in 2009.
L
About LWK + PARTNERS
LWK + PARTNERS is a Hong Kong-based architectural and
design firm. Its 850+ creative brains cooperate across a
global network of 11 locations to offer world-class built-
environment solutions. Architecture, planning & urban
design, interiors, landscaping, historical conservation,
building information modeling (BIM), brand experience,
and lighting design are among its many services.
With more than 38 years of experience, the firm has
executed several exceptional projects in a variety of
sectors, including mixed-use, commercial, residential,
education, transit-oriented developments, and leisure and
public amenities developments.
C Cheng Holdings Limited (HKEX stock code: 1486) is the
first listed architectural services company in Hong Kong
and mainland China. Strong synergies and unified
capabilities within the group provide the practice with
unique benefits in spreading top design power over the
world.
worldsleaders.com | 37

38. 38 | JULY 2023

39. worldsleaders.com | 39

40. 40 | JULY 2023

41. worldsleaders.com | 41

44. William
Haddad
44 | JULY 2023

45. William, drawing upon the knowledge and training he
acquired during his tenure at CCC, ventured into the
establishment of MACE—a specialized company focused
on the development of oil fields and the maintenance of
cross-country pipelines, flow lines, and pump stations. With
his expertise and experience in operating within the
challenging environment of the Libyan Desert, William
aimed to provide exceptional services in the oil and gas
industry.
MACE, under William's leadership, quickly gained
recognition for its expertise and efficiency in handling
complex projects. The company assembled a team of highly
skilled engineers, technicians, and field experts who were
well-versed in the intricacies of oil field development and
pipeline maintenance. Leveraging the latest technologies
and innovative approaches, MACE aimed to deliver cost-
effective solutions while ensuring the highest standards of
safety and environmental sustainability.
Simultaneously, MACE excelled in the maintenance and
management of cross-country pipelines, flow lines, and
pump stations. The company implemented proactive
maintenance strategies, utilizing cutting-edge inspection
techniques and predictive analytics to prevent potential
failures and minimize downtime. MACE's dedicated field
teams worked tirelessly to ensure uninterrupted flow of oil
and gas, implementing rigorous maintenance schedules and
responding promptly to any issues that arose.
The Company
Mechanical and Civil Engineering Contractors Company Limited (MACE) is based in the
United Arab Emirates with its headquarters for the region located in the city of Abu
Dhabi.
MACE established in Libya 1968 and provided a vast range of construction and services
to oil companies in the region encompassing all aspects of oil field development and
maintenance for cross country pipelines, flow line, pump stations and plant turn
around.
MACE gained an excellent reputation for comprehensive maintenance service of
refineries, gas plants, housing and office services to isolated areas over 500 Kms into
the Libyan desert.
Following the successful ventures in Libya, MACE extended its operations into the
Arabian Gulf In 1973 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, MACE's operation duplicated its
Libya operations in the oilfields, serving ARAMCO (Saudi Arabian Oil Company),SCECO
(Now Saudi Electrical Company SEC) and other ministries dealing with the
infrastructure and construction projects on major pipelines for gas, oil and water.
worldsleaders.com | 45

46. Samer A. Samad
Leading Nesma & Partners with Commitment to Safety,
Excellence, and Environmental Responsibility
S
amer A. Samad holds the
esteemed position of President
& CEO at Nesma & Partners, a
leading contracting company in the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In this
capacity, he assumes the crucial role of
ensuring the safety and well-being of
the company's employees while
surpassing the expectations of its
stakeholders. Samer diligently
oversees that all projects undertaken
by the company are completed within
the designated timeline while
upholding the highest standards of
quality.
By leading and supporting Nesma &
Partners employees, Samer strives to
align the company with its corporate
strategy. Valuing the contributions of
every team member, he creates an
atmosphere where they feel esteemed
and recognized as vital assets to the
organization.
Samer also recognizes his
responsibility towards the
environment. He actively endeavors to
integrate environmental, social, and
governance (ESG) considerations into
the company's business strategy. This
commitment entails delivering projects
in a manner that prioritizes safety,
excellence, and efficiency while
adhering to the highest ethical business
practices.
For Samer, the happiest part of his
daily routine lies in collaborative
meetings with various members of his
team. These interactions serve as
opportunities to exchange ideas and
devise comprehensive plans to propel
the growth of the business. It is during
these moments of shared vision and
innovation that Samer derives the
greatest satisfaction.
Below are highlights of the interview
conducted between World's Leaders
and Samer A. Samad:
Describe who you are as a person,
inside and outside of the workplace.
I would describe myself as a friendly,
passionate, empathetic, humble, and
transparent person, who loves to
extend support and aid others.
Describe your background and what
did you do before you started/joined
the company.
I graduated with a Bachelor of Science
in Civil Engineering from New York
University Tandon School of
Engineering (formerly Polytechnic
University) Brooklyn. Followed by
earning my Master's degree in Master
of Science in Civil Engineering from
New York University, Tandon School
of Engineering.
46 | JULY 2023

47. worldsleaders.com | 47

48. 48 | JULY 2023

49. worldsleaders.com | 49