Dubai Investments marks three decades of progress, contributing to the making of the modern UAE

Khaleej Times

30-05-2025

Dubai Investments has grown in tandem with the UAE's own remarkable evolution since its founding in 1995. What began as a bold initiative to diversify the nation's economy beyond oil has today become a reflection of the country's aspirations; dynamic, diversified, and future-facing.
As the Group marks its 30th anniversary this year, it does so not with fanfare, but with a sense of purpose. Three decades on, the company's journey is as much about impact as it is about endurance; navigating shifting economic tides, investing in communities, and building platforms for sustainable growth.
A legacy of diversification and vision
In the mid-1990s, the UAE's economy was already on the cusp of change. Dubai Investments entered the scene with a clear intent: to become a vehicle for value-added investments that could power long-term development across key sectors from real estate and industry to healthcare, education and financial services.
That vision quickly took root. In 1997, the Group launched what would become one of its most defining projects; Dubai Investments Park (DIP). Strategically located and master-planned to support industrial, commercial, and residential functions, DIP grew into a micro-city of its own, attracting thousands of businesses and playing a pivotal role in Dubai's industrial strategy.
This integrated, mixed-use approach became the Group's hallmark - a model it would replicate in the years to come.
Resilience through transformation
Like any legacy institution, Dubai Investments has been tested by time. The early 2000s property boom, the 2008 global financial crisis, and the more recent pandemic all presented periods of uncertainty. Yet, through each cycle, the company found ways to pivot, embracing a measured strategy of reinvestment and diversification.
The Group has maintained a strong governance culture while evolving with the times, introducing digital transformation, ESG practices, and a selective divestment approach that continues to unlock long-term shareholder value.
Bin Kalban said: "Dubai Investments has emerged as a dynamic engine of economic growth, successfully earning the reputation of being a stable organisation, fueling the region's economic performance and diversification strategies."
"We align our strategies and initiatives with the UAE Vision 2031, Dubai Vision 2030, GRI, and DFM indicators, ensuring our commitment to ESG principles," he added.
Danah Bay: A symbol of what's next
Among its newest real estate projects is Danah Bay, a premium beachfront development on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah. With Phase 1 nearing completion, the community features 189 villas, 143 apartments, and a five-star hotel, designed to meet the growing demand for lifestyle-led, nature-integrated living.
But Danah Bay is more than a luxury address. It's emblematic of Dubai Investments ' ability to spot and respond to emerging trends, in this case, the Northern Emirates' growing appeal as a residential, tourism, and investment destination.
The project has already generated robust investor interest, reaffirming confidence in both the Group's brand and its read on market direction.
Growth beyond borders
Dubai Investments has a portfolio worth approx Dh2 billion ($544 million) in building materials and construction sector with plans to add Dh1 billion to the portfolio this year as it plans expansion in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Saudi Arabia, according to Kalban.
In the real estate sector, it has assets worth more than Dh15 billion with projects in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah and its financial portfolio is valued at about Dh5 billion with investments in bonds and equities and private and listed companies.
New projects are underway in Mirdif Hills, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Meydan, and even international markets like Angola. Each is crafted with the Group's core values in mind including sustainability, community integration, and investor value.
Beyond real estate, the company continues to strengthen its position across education, healthcare, and manufacturing beside aligning with national agendas like UAE Vision 2031, Made in UAE, and green economy goals.
"As a group, we are focused on maintaining momentum and delivering consistent performance and our aim is to continue this phenomenal journey by embarking upon new ideas and innovations as the driving force behind emerging as a leading investment company across the region and beyond," adds Bin Kalban. "Dubai Investments is committed to consistently accelerate the transformation of the Group's strategy focused on its people and culture by building a strong and diverse workforce along with continued efforts towards enhancing sustainability and digitisation efforts."
Three decades of trust
At its core, the story of Dubai Investments is one of trust, earned over 30 years through consistent delivery, transparent governance, and partnerships that stand the test of time. Its growth has not only expanded its shareholder base but also supported the UAE's ambition of becoming a regional hub for business, tourism, and innovation.
From shaping large-scale industrial parks to redefining lifestyle experiences with projects like Danah Bay, Dubai Investments has continually evolved without losing sight of its founding mission: to enable inclusive, future-ready development that benefits all stakeholders.
As the company enters its fourth decade, it does so with the confidence of experience and the clarity of a vision still unfolding.