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India Today
02-07-2025
- Business
- India Today
The Dubai property boom among Indians: Is cheap real estate the reason?
For millions of Indians today, buying a house in a premium location feels like a distant dream. There was a time when owning a home was considered a basic, non-negotiable life goal. But now, even with a budget of Rs 1 crore, finding a decent property in a metro city feels like an uphill does that mean Indians' unachievable housing dreams in their own country is pushing them to look for properties in Dubai for better gains in the future?Cheaper than Mumbai, with a side of tax-freeadvertisementLet's bust the myth first: Dubai isn't always 'cheap'. As Morgan Owen, managing director of ANAROCK MENA, puts it, "Dubai's average price, around AED 1,600 per sq ft, is roughly Rs 37,500. That's on par with premium micro-markets in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru." So no, it's not about rock-bottom pricing. But averages don't tell the full story. As Anis Sajan, Vice Chairman of Danube Group, explains, homes in prime suburbs like Jumeirah Village Circle can go for as low as Rs 11,000–22,000 per sq ft, rates you'd be hard-pressed to find in Bandra or South Delhi. Add to that zero property tax, no capital gains tax, and rental yields of 7–11% (versus India's 2–4%), and the value proposition becomes Arpit Bansal, CEO of Sea Breeze Villas, agrees: 'For the same budget, buyers often get larger, fully finished homes in Dubai—with better amenities and infrastructure.'advertisementSo, is it cheaper? Not exactly. But it feels more rewarding, especially when the paperwork doesn't come with layers of grey areas and surprise stamp Indians are flockingIt's not just the ultra-rich buying Burj-view penthouses. A very different kind of Indian buyer is now in the families from Pune, business owners from Surat, and tech bros from Bengaluru are now eyeing Dubai not just for its skyline, but for its passport-adjacent perks.'The Golden Visa has been a game-changer,' says Sajan. 'Property over AED 2 million? You qualify. That means long-term residency and global mobility, no extra paperwork, no citizenship hustle.'Owen adds, 'Dubai's stable currency, no tax on rental income, and ease of doing business make it ideal for middle-class investors looking to diversify their portfolio.'For NRIs and Tier 2/3 Indians who have already maxed out on local property dreams, or been burned by them, Dubai offers something else: credibility, speed, and home? Rental goldmine? Lifestyle flex?There is not just one reason that can explain Indians' inclination towards Dubai want second homes, a luxury pad for that occasional getaway with shopping sprees and Michelin meals. Some want solid rental income. And others? They're making the full seeing everything, from end users buying suburban villas to investors flipping studio apartments,' says Sajan. 'There's demand at every level.'Owen agrees: 'Many buyers are driven by rental yields and capital appreciation. But we're also seeing lifestyle migration, especially among professionals relocating for work.'In short, it's no longer just about bragging rights. It's about practical returns, emotional comfort, and long-term Dubai is selling itself digitallyDubai isn't holding back in marketing itself as the most viable investment destination, and it's making the dream of homeownership feel easier than ever.'WhatsApp pitches, YouTube walk-throughs, influencer-led reels, they're all doing the heavy lifting,' says Bansal. 'Most of the initial interest now comes from these digital touchpoints.'Sajan says many clients have bought homes after watching just one virtual walkthrough. 'No site visit. No in-person agent meeting. Just clear, flashy, mobile-first content.'Owen adds that digital marketing has opened doors for buyers beyond metros. Thanks to webinars, 3D virtual tours, and fast-paced WhatsApp engagement, 'People in Tier-II and III cities are buying homes they've never physically stepped into, and doing it confidently.'Therefore, the ease of buying real estate chaos vs Dubai's clean gameadvertisementThis doesn't come from a point of maligning India and its real estate scene, but navigating Indian property deals can feel like a Game of Thrones subplot. Delays, hidden charges, shady title deeds, it's enough to make anyone consider renting forever. Not to mention how builders sometimes even compromise on the quality of raw materials, resulting in substandard that's not really the case in Dubai.'The Dubai Land Department's digitised systems, clear title deeds, and transparent pricing structures eliminate most of the anxiety,' says Owen. 'There's predictability, something Indian buyers crave.'Sajan backs that up, 'No stamp duty shocks. No ambiguous builder promises. Just fast possession timelines and regulated escrow systems.'Indians' inclination towards Dubai a phase?We can sometimes go big on trends, but this one doesn't seem like a fad.'This is a strategic lifestyle and financial move, not a knee-jerk reaction,' says Bansal. 'Unless there's a major policy shift, the demand is here to stay.'Owen calls it a structural shift. 'With Dubai evolving as a global hub and India liberalising its foreign exchange rules, this is part of a long-term investment trend,' he is more blunt, he says, 'Dubai's safe, tax-free, and high-return. Why wouldn't people invest?'- Ends advertisement
Mint
30-06-2025
- Business
- Mint
From Mumbai's alleys to Dubai's heights: The incredible rise of entrepreneur Anis Sajan
The vice-chairman of the Danube Group, is a shining example of the 'UAE dream', which has come to fruition because of three decades of hard work. From the cramped bylanes of a Ghatkopar chawl in Mumbai to the towering skyline of Dubai, Anis Sajan's journey is a testament to resilience, foresight, and an unwavering belief in building trust, one brick at a time. Today, as vice chairman of the Danube Group, Sajan leads one of the most recognised names in the Middle East's building materials and real estate sectors. But his beginnings were humble. 'I started selling decorative lights during Diwali in our neighbourhood. Earning ₹ 300 at the time felt like a fortune,' he recalls with a smile. His early years were shaped by struggle and sacrifice. After their father passed away in 1979, his elder brother Rizwan dropped out of college to support the family. He began by making box files and eventually became a salesman in Kuwait. After the Gulf War, he moved to Dubai in 1993 and laid the foundation for the Danube Group with a small trading business focussed on Building Materials. 'My brother is my mentor and my biggest inspiration,' says Sajan. 'But he didn't hand me anything on a plate. I had to earn every bit of my place.' And he did. Sajan quickly distinguished himself with a sharp instinct for spotting market gaps. One pivotal moment came with the introduction of shattaf (jet sprays) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is a basic necessity in the Arab and Asian cultures. Every household in these countries ensures that the first thing they install is a shattaf. 'I saw an opportunity and I capitalized on it,' he explains. This Shattaf gave wings to the brand Milano, which is now the heart of Danube Building Materials. Today, Danube sells over 100,000 jet sprays a month. It was a turning point that marked Sajan not just as a salesman but as a problem-solver. Today the company has evolved into a diversified empire, spanning sanitaryware, hardware, electricals, furniture, and real estate. This expansion mirrors the broader transformation of the UAE, where Danube has become a trusted name. For Sajan, however, success isn't just about scale. It's about relationships. 'In construction, things can go wrong. But when customers call, we pick up. Even if there's no immediate solution, we respond. That's how trust is built and maintained,' he explains. This is more than a philosophy. It is a personal ethic. 'My brother still visits project sites every Saturday, even in the 50-degree heat. That's the kind of leadership we believe in—hands-on and transparent.' The real estate market experienced major booms from 2001 to 2007 and again in the past five years, during which the building materials sector remained Sajan's stronghold, capturing 25% of the Middle East market. Danube, now the leading brand in building materials, has thrived in Dubai's free port environment, attracting global buyers with the flexibility of mixed container shipments. Danube Properties, the Group's real estate arm, has seen consistent growth, and India is becoming a core part of its strategy. Offices have opened in Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Gurugram, and Kochi. 'We've seen a sharp increase in Indian investors looking to Dubai not just as a holiday destination but as a second home and a smart investment hub,' says Sajan. The Group's standout 1% monthly payment plan has made luxury real estate accessible to thousands. 'It's not just a catchy idea—it's a serious financial solution. People don't just dream of owning property in Dubai now; they actually can,' he explains. Their projects reflect this vision: fully furnished, centrally located homes with over 50 lifestyle amenities, including doctor-on-call and nanny services. 'Our goal is to create value—emotional, functional, and financial. And this model has struck a real chord, especially with Indian professionals, NRIs, and entrepreneurs.' Danube's growth has also been driven by keen market insight. Sajan notes that today's buyers seek smart layouts, flexible payment models, and community-centric living spaces. The end-user segment is expanding, particularly among families. As new supply stabilises prices, the Dubai real estate market is expected to remain strong until at least Q4 of 2026. 'We're also seeing growing interest from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities in India. There's a sense of aspiration, and Dubai meets those aspirations with returns, security, and lifestyle.' Marketing has also been a cornerstone in Danube's success. 'We believe in visibility. From hoardings across Mumbai to branding on flights and major cricket events—if you're not seen, you're not sold,' Sajan says plainly. He adds, 'The campaign with Kartik Aaryan wasn't just marketing. Danube Hai Na was our way of telling Indian buyers: we've got you covered.' This bold marketing approach, combined with reliable execution, has created a brand that resonates across borders. Even with decades of experience behind him, Sajan shows no signs of slowing down. With both his sons now actively involved in the sanitary business—Azhar Sajan, founder of Casa Milano, catering to the luxury and elite segment, and Sahil Sajan, Director of Milano, focused on offering premium sanitary solutions to the masses, Danube is preparing for its next chapter. 'The journey is far from over,' he says. 'In fact, it's just beginning. The most important thing is to stay grounded, learn from every experience, and never, ever break the client's trust. That's how you build something that truly lasts.' 'We are also seeing growing interest from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities in India. There's a sense of aspiration, and Dubai meets those aspirations with returns, security, and lifestyle," said Anis Sajan, vice chairman of the Danube Group
News18
28-06-2025
- Business
- News18
Once A Milk Seller In Mumbai, Now Runs A Rs 10,000 Crore Empire: Rizwan Sajan's Journey
Last Updated: Starting small, Danube Group grew rapidly under Rizwan Sajan's vision, now posting $1.3B revenue with ventures in real estate, decor, and major projects across the Middle East The story of Rizwan Sajan—a teenager who once sold milk and stationery in the narrow lanes of Mumbai—is now a global source of inspiration. Today, he stands as the richest Indian-origin businessman in the UAE, with a net worth of around Rs 18,000 crore. He is the founder of the Danube Group, a global brand in building materials, real estate, and home décor. Born into a lower-middle-class family in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, Rizwan's journey was anything but easy. His father, a supervisor at Nathani Steel Private Limited, earned just Rs 7,000 a month, struggling to support four children. As the eldest, Rizwan walked 7–8 kilometres daily to attend school in Vidya Vihar. Life took a harsh turn when his father passed away when Rizwan was just 16, forcing him to take on the responsibility of supporting his family at a young age. Undeterred, Rizwan began selling books, stationery, and even delivering milk door-to-door. He recounted in an interview with Gulf News how challenging it was to manage school fees and household expenses. His relentless efforts and his uncle's support led to a job opportunity in Kuwait in 1981, where he started as a sales trainee earning Rs 18,000 monthly. How The Gulf War Changed His Life After eight years of hard work, Rizwan became a sales manager, but the Gulf War in 1990 disrupted his life again. Returning to Mumbai empty-handed, his resilience did not falter. He soon found work in a Dubai brokerage dealing in construction materials, where he gained crucial market insights. In 1993, he founded the Danube Group. Starting small, Danube Group quickly became a key supplier to the UAE's construction industry thanks to Rizwan's vision and business acumen. Today, the company's turnover exceeds $1.3 billion (around Rs 10,800 crore), with ventures spanning real estate, home decor, kitchen solutions, and infrastructure, including luxurious towers in Dubai and major construction projects across the Middle East. At 55, Rizwan Sajan's life is not just a tale of success but a narrative of resilience and integrity. Rising from Mumbai's slums to the billionaires' list in Dubai, he remains a beacon of hope for many aspiring youths with limited resources. Reports from Navbharat Times highlight his relentless hard work and determination that made him the wealthiest Indian businessman in the UAE. Personal Life And Philanthropy Rizwan resides in Dubai with his family and is actively involved in philanthropy. He supports numerous educational and health initiatives, particularly for children facing hardships similar to his own. Despite his immense success, his simplicity and humility remain his defining traits. First Published: June 26, 2025, 14:45 IST
Hindustan Times
28-06-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Anis Sajan: The Shattaf Man—From Mumbai's Chawls to Dubai's Boardrooms
In the glitzy skyline of Dubai, where ambition towers as high as the buildings, Anis Sajan, Vice Chairman, Danube Group, has carved a name out for himself, not just in business, but within the Gulf's cricket community, too. Known as the 'Shattaf Man of Dubai' for revolutionising sanitary fittings, Anis is also called 'Mr Cricket UAE' given his love of the game. His journey from a chawl in Mumbai's Ghatkopar area to the boardroom of one of the UAE's biggest conglomerates reads like a story waiting to be written. Anis Sajan- Vice Chairman, Danube Group Anis, the youngest of three kids and full of mischief, tragedy struck when he lost his dad at the age of eight. 'I did not fully grasp the concept of death, but I knew something big was missing,' he shares. His elder brother Rizwan, only 16 back then, became the man of the house, as their mum battled illness. There was little room for comfort as pocket money was a luxury they couldn't afford. 'I sold Diwali lights for a profit of ₹ 300. It gave me the experience of sales,' Anis says. Anis Sajan (centre) with his sons Azhar Sajan (left) and Sahil Sajan (right) The hustle went on to shape his future. After a stint in Kuwait, Anis worked in India at Eureka Forbes. 'Knocking on doors and hearing 'no' repeatedly built my resilience and confidence' he says. After the Gulf War, Rizwan pushed him to give Dubai another try as Anis was reluctant to come after his experience in Kuwait. After a warm welcome at Dubai Immigration when he was greeted by the officer with 'Kaisa hai', he headed to an Indian restaurant with Rizwan in Al Karama. Seeing Indians all around made it feel like Dubai was home away from home. In the desert, Anis spotted an opportunity. One pivotal moment came with the introduction of shattaf (jet sprays) in the UAE, as it was a basic necessity in the Arab and Asian cultures. Bayz, a 101-storey residential tower in Business Bay, features 1,100 apartment units, and its residents can enjoy stunning views of the iconic Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Canal Every household in these countries ensures that the first thing they install is a shattaf. 'The sight of tissues makes you feel constipated. And with this jet spray you cannot go wrong, because it's the need of every house for hygiene,' says Anis. What started with 300 units a month has now reached more than 1,00,000 units per month. This gave birth to the brand Milano, which is the heart of the Danube Group. Despite scaling big heights, Anis hasn't forgotten where it all began. A visit to his chawl, now a high-rise, left him emotional: 'The building has walls, but my memories are still stuck in the old lanes, where I used to play cricket all day long.' A Second Identity: Mr Cricket UAE Business might be his profession, but cricket is his heartbeat. His love for the game began with the 1983 cricket World Cup, when India won. And the passion never faded. Anis has owned two cricket franchises in the Abu Dhabi T10 League Delhi Bulls. He also employs 30 people to only play local cricket. Former Australian Cricketer Shane Watson with Anis Sajan Anis appears as a sport analyst on TV, writes cricket columns and also supports grassroots talents across India and the UAE. But his proudest moment? Introducing the Danube Test Series and bringing the red ball format to a region that's obsessed with indoor cricket and short formats. 'Test cricket is what separates the men from the boys. It tests the temperament of a person,' he says, adding that it is important in everyone's life, be it work or sports. It gave young cricketers in the UAE a chance to embrace the long format and sealed his reputation as not only a fan, but also a cricket visionary. If you think Anis' talks about cricket is just that, his home during the India vs Pakistan cricket matches feels like a mini stadium, complete with food, flags and fervour. 'The India-Pakistan matches and the IPL aren't just cricket, they're our fourth festival after Diwali, Holi and Eid, and as Mr Cricket UAE, it's my duty to host it and live my passion with my friends,' he smiles. Anis Sajan with former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan Through the game, Anis has found a way to connect with people just like he does with his business. In recent years, whenever an ICC tournament is hosted in the UAE, Anis purchases and distributes tickets among the blue-collared people for them to see their heroes play at the stadium. At 53, he has no plans of slowing down and his sons Azhar and Sahil are also part of the Danube Group. Anis believes that his biggest success as a parent is seeing both his sons united and being responsible in their respective fields. While his older son, Azhar, has ventured into luxury home solutions by starting Casa Milano, his younger one, Sahil, has followed in his father's footsteps and is handling Milano. They bring a fresh energy to the family-run empire. 'It's not just about success, it's about building something that lasts,' he says. Danube Oasiz is a contemporary development situated in Dubai Silicon Oasis that offers modern lifestyle From gully cricket to owning cricket franchises in the Gulf, and from selling Diwali lights in Mumbai to selling jet sprays and lighting Dubai's business corridors — Anis' story is one of purpose, perseverance and pure passion. Just like a Test match, he is in it for the long haul.
India.com
25-06-2025
- Business
- India.com
Meet India's most-successful salesman who sold books on footpath for a living, now makes Rs 32 crore daily, his business is..., net worth is Rs...
Rizwan Sajan (File) There are dozens, if not hundreds of inspiring stories of self-made India entrepreneurs who built successful businesses from scratch and changed their station in life. One such heartwarming tale that exemplifies perseverance, hard work and a never-say-die attitude, is that of Rizwan Sajan, a man who once worked as a salesman, sold books on a footpath in Mumbai, and now has a daily income pegged at a whopping Rs 32 crore. Who is Rizwan Sajan? Born in a middle-class home in Mumbai, Maharashtra, Rizwan Sajan spent his childhood and early adult life juggling limited resources, and after his father's untimely demise, moved to Kuwait in 1981, where he worked as a trainee salesman, which helped him acquire crucial skills that would prove of immense help later in life. During his childhood, Rizwan and his sisters walked to school which was located a few kilometers away from their home. The siblings received a total of Rs 15 as pocket money, which wasn't enough to buy much from the school canteen. Rizwan realized that he needed to work to support his family's finances, and lend Rs 1,000 from his father, which he used to set up a small book stall on the roadside. India's most-successful salesman After his father's demise, Rizwan Sajan moved to Kuwait and began working as a trainee salesman. Years later, Sajan founded the Danube Group in 1993, a company which specialized in construction materials, and eventually ventured into the lucrative home decor and real estate development business. Over the years, the Danube Group has emerged as one of the leading conglomerates in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with business operations spread across Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, India, and other countries, and an annual revenue pegged at 10 billion dirhams. Currently, Rizwan Sajan earns a whopping Rs 32 crore per day, and has estimated net worth of $2.5 billion, making him one of the richest Indian-origin individuals in Dubai, according to media reports. Rizwan has often credited his salesman skills for his remarkable success, calling them his greatest asset. In an Instagram reel, Sajan emphasized that wealth is not needed for success but skills and perseverance are what truly matter. 'I am confident that even if I lose all my money, I can rebuild my business empire from scratch. I am the kind of person who can make money even in the jungles of Africa,' Sajan said in an interview. 'Similarly, even if you're lucky but you don't work hard, you are bound to fail,' he added.
