Meet Rizwan Sajan: Danube’s famous 1% Man

Rizwan Sajan (Credit: Supplied)

In the bustling metropolis of Dubai, where skyscrapers touch the clouds and innovation shapes the cityscape, one man has played a pivotal role in transforming the real estate market. Rizwan Sajan, the founder and chairman of Danube Group, is not just a business tycoon; he is a real estate mogul who has left an indelible mark on the landscape of the UAE. Famously known as the “1 per cent man”, his journey to success is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and determination.

Born in Mumbai, India, Sajan moved to the UAE in the early 1990s with a dream to build his own business empire. In 1993, he founded Danube Group, starting with a small trading business focused on building materials. Under Sajan’s leadership, Danube Group expanded its horizons, becoming a diversified conglomerate with several verticals. The group’s flagship company, Danube Building Materials, stands tall in providing construction materials across the region, offering over 50,000 products under one roof.

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Danube Group’s diversification into various sectors, including home furnishings, hospitality solutions, and media, showcases Sajan’s business acumen. The group’s real estate arm, Danube Properties, has also been a game-changer in the affordable luxury segment of property development in the UAE. “We realized that 80 to 90 per cent of expats were still renting, and I wanted to convert them into buying their own properties,” he says of the genesis of the plan. “Now I am democratizing luxury,” he adds.

With a development portfolio of 16,234 units and a combined value exceeding Dhs18bn, Danube Properties has become synonymous with owning a home in Dubai. His company’s innovation with the 1 per cent payment plan has also helped thousands of residents afford the homes of their dreams. The company’s commitment to timely delivery and unparalleled quality has also earned it a prominent place in the competitive real estate market.

Sajan’s approach and strategic initiatives have propelled Danube Group to an annual turnover of above $2bn, making it a conglomerate with a presence in over 75 locations across the MENA region.

Beyond business, he also believes in giving back to society and has actively contributed to various charitable organizations and social causes. His recent donation of Dhs5m towards the UAE government’s ‘1 Billion Meals Endowment Initiative’ is a testament to his commitment to community welfare. Sajan’s philanthropic endeavors extend to the construction of a mosque in Dubai’s Dubai Studio City, ensuring a place of worship for the community. The Danube Welfare Centre, the company’s philanthropic arm, undertakes initiatives to improve the lives of underprivileged communities, focusing on education and healthcare.

His success story is not just about business; it’s about determination and a commitment to community welfare. He attributes his rise to the visionary rulers of Dubai, and he believes in aligning Danube Group’s efforts with Dubai’s sustainability goals. As a real estate mogul, Sajan continues to shape the skyline of Dubai, contributing to the city’s growth and development. His journey from humble beginnings to leading a conglomerate is a source of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, proving that with hard work, passion, and a vision, one can truly make a mark in the world of business. “People are making Dubai their second home because of the trust and confidence they have in the city,” he says.