Latest news with #RizwanSajan
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
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.
Emirates 24/7
24-04-2025
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
Danube Group opens another majestic mosque in National Industries Park
Marking a momentous milestone in its legacy of community service and spiritual development, Danube Group has officially inaugurated a landmark mosque at National Industries Park (NIP) – the first and only mosque in the area. This new religious and communal space reaffirms Danube's unwavering commitment to supporting infrastructure that nurtures unity, faith, and social harmony. Spanning a total area of approximately 7,000 square meters, the newly inaugurated mosque has been meticulously designed to accommodate over 2,000 worshippers, including indoors and in the outdoor prayer area. It also features designated parking for over 50 vehicles, ensuring accessibility and convenience for the community it serves. The inauguration ceremony was held in the honorable presence of His Excellency Eng. Marwan bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Land Department His Excellency Mr. Ahmed darwish al muhairi, General Manager, Islamic Affairs & Charitable Activities, Abdullah al hashmi, COO, Parks & Zones, DP World GCC, Abdulla Belhoul Chief Executive Officer of TECOM Group along with Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group; Adel Sajan, Group Managing Director; senior Danube officials, family members, and respected community figures. The event was a celebration of faith, philanthropy, and forward-thinking leadership. This mosque is the first under Danube Group's AED 50 million commitment to constructing mosques across the UAE—a pledge made in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai. The initiative exemplifies the Group's mission to contribute to the country's spiritual and social well-being. Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, commented: 'The inauguration of this mosque at National Industries Park is a proud and spiritual milestone for us. It's more than a place of worship—it's a testament to our deep-rooted values of inclusivity, unity, and giving back to the community. We aim to create spaces that inspire peace, togetherness, and purpose.' This latest project follows the success of the Majestic Mosque in Dubai Studio City, also developed by Danube Group, which was built at a cost of AED 15.56 million. The Majestic Mosque has since become a vital spiritual and social anchor for its community. The new mosque at NIP is expected to uphold the same standard of excellence, accessibility, and inclusiveness. In addition to spiritual projects, Danube Group continues to lead impactful corporate social responsibility efforts. In 2023 alone, the Group pledged AED 10 million to the Mothers' Endowment Campaign and supported the '1 Billion Meals Endowment' launched by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI). About Danube Group Established in 1993 by UAE-based entrepreneur Rizwan Sajan, Danube Group is a leading diversified conglomerate headquartered in Dubai. With business verticals across building materials, home décor, real estate, and hospitality, the Group reported USD 2 billion in annual turnover in 2022 and employs over 4,500 people across the GCC and India. Its major divisions include Danube Properties, Danube Home, Danube Building Materials, Alucopanel Middle East, and others. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
What's On
21-04-2025
- Business
- What's On
Dubai rental prices could drop by 20% in 2025
The rent drop you've been waiting for is on the way… Dubai's rental scene has been a rollercoaster over the past few years – no pause, no break, just higher numbers at every renewal. But (believe it or not), Dubai rental prices are finally cooling down. With a big wave of new apartments on the horizon, a rental dip – possibly up to 20% – could be coming in 2025. For renters, this could mean some long-overdue breathing room. A much needed correction After a wild four-year run of climbing rents, Dubai could finally be getting a break. Rizwan Sajan, founder of Danube Properties, has predicted a 10–20% correction in rents next year. Why? Because prices shot up fast after the pandemic, and a soft landing is better than a bubble burst. it's exactly what the market needs.'Rentals have gone very high,' Sajan explained. 'A correction will help. It's healthy.' New supply = new opportunities Some areas are already feeling the effects, with reports showing that older properties are seeing a dip in rent prices. This decline is happening due to increased competition among landlords and the rise of newer, more modern units. So if you've been on the hunt for a place in Dubai, keep your eyes peeled for the deals coming up in 2025. The numbers In Q1 2025 alone, 7,848 units were handed over. And it's only getting busier: 71,000+ more units are coming by year-end, with 80,000 in 2026 and nearly 59,000 in 2027. Translation? More choice, more competition, and possibly, more affordable options. What this means for renters and buyers For renters, 2025 could bring a welcome shift – better deals and more options. If you've been priced out of the market in the past, now might be your chance to secure a more affordable rental in a city that's always in demand. If you're a buyer, you'll see more competitive pricing across both rentals and sales, which could mean a better return on your investment in the long run. Also read Mall of the Emirates is getting a Dhs5 billion makeover The luxury Dubai property options worth Dhs25 million+ Dubai set to build the one of the world's thinnest residential towers The bottom line If you're planning on renting or investing in Dubai, 2025 could be the sweet spot. You're likely to see better deals, and the market is primed for some much-needed balance. > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Khaleej Times
21-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Up to 20% drop in rents ‘healthy' for property market, says top developer
A 10-20 per cent drop in rents is healthy for the Dubai property market following a four-year rally, said a top developer. Rizwan Sajan, founder and chairman of Danube Properties, expects a correction in rents next year after a double-digit increase since the Covid-19 pandemic. 'Rental correction might come around 10-20 per cent next year, which is required and healthy because rentals have gone very high. A 10-20 per cent rental correction will help the market as investors are coming here what is happening around the world. Dubai benefits whenever there is uncertainty in the world. But at the same time, prices and rents should not go too high,' Sajan told Khaleej Times in an interview. As reported last week, some properties in Dubai have started to see a decline in rentals due to growing competition among landlords, the impact of the Smart Rental Index on older properties and the supply of new units pressuring rents down. But a wider drop in rents across more communities is expected to be felt next year. Danube Properties chief also attributes a strong pipeline of new supply which will hit the market next year for a drop in rents. According to Property Monitor, Dubai saw 7,848 units handed over in the first quarter of 2025. A total of 71,251 new units are likely to be delivered for the whole of 2025, 80,015 in 2026 and 58,766 in 2027. 'This substantial influx of new supply over the medium term will be a key factor to watch, alongside ongoing demand dynamics, as it may influence both property prices and rental rates,' said Betterhomes in its first quarter report released on Monday. 'We should see some correction in rentals next year when deliveries happen. Prices might also see some correction, but there is nothing to worry about for good developers who offer good quality and amenities,' Sajan said, adding that a lot of investors from the US and Canada are coming to UAE. 'Dubai always benefits whenever there is uncertainty globally,' he said. Shortage of quality contractors Danube Properties is among the top 10 developers in Dubai, delivering thousands of units so far. It delivered three projects ahead of schedule since the first half of 2024. The private developer has launched 34 projects, successfully delivered 18, with another 16 currently in various stages. Last week, it unveiled its latest residential project Sparklz by Danube, a 358-unit tower coming up in Al Furjan. Currently, Danube holds an impressive book value with construction spanning over 25.5 million square feet. Sajan said there is a shortage of quality contractors in Dubai as the emirate has seen a good influx of new foreign developers as well as local ones. 'Finding a good contractor is going to be very, very challenging. Selling properties will not be as big a challenge as finding a contractor because there are too many developers but the number of contractors is the same. Also, contractors like to work with only developers with good reputations because the property market is cyclical and this market has seen its share of ups and downs. And contractor could face a challenge if developer's reputation is good,' said Sajan 'There are not as many new contractors coming here as the number of developers. There is plenty of space for contractors to grow – more space for contractors than developers. More contractors from Oman, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and India should come here because there is a lot of work here in Dubai and UAE,' he said. Danube's chief suggested that developers coming from other countries should bring in contractors as well to meet growing demand. For contractors, he noted, it is very easy to set up a company, hire workers, process visas for labourers and get approvals. 'Dubai is one of the easiest cities in the world to do business and work,' he added.
