< PreviousPARTNER CONTENT 30SEPTEMBER 2024 One of our most signifi cant ongoing projects, DIAMONDZ, exemplifi es our commitment to luxury and quality” successful. “For me, there’s a signifi cant diff erence between being successful and succeeding. Success is what others perceive; succeeding is about overcoming challenges and continuously setting new goals,” he explains. This philosophy drives him to constantly push boundaries, fi nding more satisfaction in achieving goals than in the accolades that come with success. He believes that this mindset, coupled with eff ort, strategic planning, and a strong will, is what continues to fuel his thriving career. LEGACY OF ELEGANCE Maintaining a legacy, however, is as challenging as building one. Sajan’s name has become synonymous with quality and luxury, a reputation that is the result of consistent hard work and strategic thinking. He compares his business approach to the behaviour of ants—resilient, organised, and dedicated to their tasks. “The ‘1% man’ theme is more than just a marketing concept; it’s a refl ection of our commitment to making luxury accessible and staying ahead of the curve through sheer determination and strategic planning,” he says. This theme is central to how the developer operates, with adaptability and responsiveness to market trends, ensuring that the brand remains a leader in the industry. CWPME_Sep2024_28-35_Cover Story-Danube_13372465.indd 30CWPME_Sep2024_28-35_Cover Story-Danube_13372465.indd 3029/08/2024 11:2729/08/2024 11:27COVER STORY 31SEPTEMBER 2024 Left: DIAMONDZ is Danube Group’s latest ongoing luxury project Right: Powder room at Danube’s DIAMONDZ project; Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman, Danube Group In a way it seems that Sajan has honed a sixth sense—an instinctive ability to anticipate market shifts and adapt his strategies accordingly. This intuition, combined with the strength of his team, has been crucial to his success. “Our strategies revolve around precise, targeted marketing and a robust customer support system, which ensures that our clients’ concerns are addressed promptly,” Sajan notes. He emphasises the importance of three core principles—trust, transparency, and timeliness—as the pillars that guide his work ethic and ensure the trust of both his team and clients. Danube has also strategically positioned its growth, focusing on innovative and sustainable developments. “One of our most signifi cant ongoing projects, DIAMONDZ, exemplifi es our commitment to luxury and quality,” Sajan emphasises, pointing out that this project is a testament to Danube’s dedication to staying at the forefront of the market, ensuring that they continue to meet the region’s growing demand with high-quality, sustainable developments. “We are also exploring new markets and segments to expand our footprint in the region,” he adds, highlighting the company’s proactive approach to future growth. CRAFTING CONNECTIONS Partnerships and collaborations are CWPME_Sep2024_28-35_Cover Story-Danube_13372465.indd 31CWPME_Sep2024_28-35_Cover Story-Danube_13372465.indd 3129/08/2024 11:2929/08/2024 11:29PARTNER CONTENT 32SEPTEMBER 2024 Left: DIAMONDZ will be equipped with an aesthetic kitchen Centre: Pool view of the project embodying luxury and quality Right: View of the project’s bedroom central to Sajan’s strategy for maintaining the high standards Danube Group is known for. “By working with the best in the industry—whether architects, contractors, or suppliers—we ensure that every project we undertake is executed to the highest standards,” he says. Collaborations not only bring fresh perspectives but also innovations that enhance the overall value proposition for their customers. A standout example is Danube’s partnership with the Dubai Land Department (DLD), which allows the company to off er clients the convenience of completing property transactions in minutes rather than days. “This approach aligns with our commitment to being at the forefront of every government initiative aimed at enhancing the customer experience,” Sajan explains, underscoring how these strategic partnerships elevate the brand’s service delivery. As technology rapidly advances, Sajan sees digital transformation as a powerful force reshaping the real estate industry. “Digital transformation has revolutionised CWPME_Sep2024_28-35_Cover Story-Danube_13372465.indd 32CWPME_Sep2024_28-35_Cover Story-Danube_13372465.indd 3229/08/2024 11:2929/08/2024 11:29COVER STORY 33SEPTEMBER 2024 CWPME_Sep2024_28-35_Cover Story-Danube_13372465.indd 33CWPME_Sep2024_28-35_Cover Story-Danube_13372465.indd 3329/08/2024 11:3029/08/2024 11:30PARTNER CONTENT 34SEPTEMBER 2024 amount of information available today. He also highlights the importance of vigilance in embracing digital transformation, particularly concerning cybersecurity and the potential for market volatility driven by rapid technological changes. To stay ahead of such trends in the luxury real estate sector, Sajan relies on a combination of continuous learning, having a great team, and a commitment to excellence. “I’m excited about innovations that enhance the customer experience, particularly those that integrate technology with personal service,” he says. Innovations like virtual reality tours and data-driven insights are at the forefront of this eff ort, helping to provide a seamless, high-quality experience for the real estate industry, making information more accessible and transactions more effi cient,” he notes. Online platforms now enable buyers to search for properties, view virtual tours, and access property histories with unprecedented ease. For agents, these technologies streamline processes, making it easier to manage listings, schedule viewings, and communicate with clients. Yet, Sajan is keenly aware of the need to balance technological effi ciency with the personal touch that builds trust. “While technology enhances effi ciency, it’s crucial to balance it with the human touch,” he emphasises, pointing out that personal interactions remain essential in guiding clients through the overwhelming Left: Infi nity pool with rain shower and uninterrupted view of the city Right: DIAMONDZ will have 1,219 units equipped with over 40+ luxury amenities CWPME_Sep2024_28-35_Cover Story-Danube_13372465.indd 34CWPME_Sep2024_28-35_Cover Story-Danube_13372465.indd 3429/08/2024 11:3029/08/2024 11:30COVER STORY 35SEPTEMBER 2024 Danube’s clients. Yet, for Sajan, the most important guiding principle remains the pledge of the 1% man—delivering 100% on promises made to clients. Refl ecting on his journey, Sajan off ers sage advice to young entrepreneurs aspiring to make their mark in the real estate market. “Be like the ant: hardworking, persistent, and strategic. Take the long road, not the shortcut, and never compromise your integrity,” he advises. He stresses the importance of standing by clients and honouring commitments, noting that credibility is an entrepreneur’s most valuable asset. “It’s tempting to chase quick profi ts, but these are often short-lived and can damage your reputation,” he warns, advocating instead for a focus on building a solid foundation of knowledge and staying adaptable. “Take calculated risks and market yourself smartly,” he adds, reminding young entrepreneurs that trust, built through honesty, dependability, and professionalism, is what ultimately drives success in the real estate business. When asked about the region’s real estate sector, Sajan says that he sees tremendous potential driven by continuous urbanisation, and new projects and opportunities in the tourism sector, such as the introduction of casinos in the UAE. “The future of real estate in the Middle East is incredibly promising,” he asserts. Looking ahead, Sajan envisions a bright future for Danube Group and the broader real estate market in the Middle East. “Our values will remain constant, no matter how the market evolves,” he asserts, pointing out that as the region continues to grow as a global business hub, Danube aims to strengthen its presence in new markets while maintaining the trust and satisfaction of its clients. “Our goal is to not only meet but exceed expectations, ensuring that Danube Group remains synonymous with quality, innovation, and reliability in the real estate market,” Sajan concludes. He is committed to contributing to the region’s development and being an integral part of the Middle East’s ongoing success story. By working with the best in the industry—whether architects, contractors, or suppliers—we ensure that every project we undertake is executed to the highest standards” CWPME_Sep2024_28-35_Cover Story-Danube_13372465.indd 35CWPME_Sep2024_28-35_Cover Story-Danube_13372465.indd 3529/08/2024 11:3029/08/2024 11:3036SEPTEMBER 2024 CRAFTED CONCEPTS Peeking into the world of design and architecture in the Middle East’s real estate scene 36SEPTEMBER 2024 CWPME_Sep2024_36-37_Crafted Concepts Opener_13364515.indd 36CWPME_Sep2024_36-37_Crafted Concepts Opener_13364515.indd 3623/08/2024 14:2723/08/2024 14:2737SEPTEMBER 202437SEPTEMBER 2024 CWPME_Sep2024_36-37_Crafted Concepts Opener_13364515.indd 37CWPME_Sep2024_36-37_Crafted Concepts Opener_13364515.indd 3723/08/2024 14:2823/08/2024 14:28CRAFTED CONCEPTS 38SEPTEMBER 2024 REINVENTING GAME Saudi Arabia has unveiled the stadiums that will host the FIFA World Cup 2034—a truly breathtaking spectacle to behold Words by Mahnoor Bari THE Images supplied by: FIF A/Saudi Arabia 2024 Bid With the release of Saudi Arabia’s offi cial bid book for the FIFA World Cup 2034, we fi nally know where the kingdom’s planned football stadiums will be and what they’ll look like. Saudi Arabia has revealed plans to build 11 new stadiums and extensively refurbish four existing ones over the next decade in order to host the international tournament. REFURBISHED STADIUMS Saudi Arabia’s two largest stadiums right now—King Fahad Sports City Stadium (Riyadh) and King Abdullah Sports City Stadium (Jeddah)—will be refurbished in CWPME_Sep2024_38-43_Crafted Concepts_13371119.indd 38CWPME_Sep2024_38-43_Crafted Concepts_13371119.indd 3826/08/2024 17:5026/08/2024 17:50CRAFTED CONCEPTS 39SEPTEMBER 2024 Left: Aramco Stadium Right: King Abdullah Economic City Stadium; King Fahad Sports City Stadium; King Saud University Stadium order to host the competition. According to the bid book, refurbishment is already underway at Riyadh’s King Fahad Sports City Stadium, ahead of its role as a venue for the AFC Asian Cup 2027. Meanwhile, King Saud University Stadium (Riyadh) and King Khalid University Stadium (Abha) will see temporary increases in capacity for use during the World Cup as well as infrastructure improvements. NEW STADIUMS UNDER CONSTRUCTION Three new stadiums are currently under construction, to be built in line with FIFA requirements. 1) Aramco Stadium (Al Khobar)—to be completed by 2026 2) Prince Faisal bin Fahad Sports City Stadium (Riyadh)—to be completed in 2027 3) Jeddah Central Development Stadium (Jeddah)—to be completed in 2027 PLANNED STADIUMS There are eight more stadiums planned. Three of these will be built by the Ministry of Sport while the remaining fi ve will be built and integrated within their respective master-planned projects. All new stadiums are expected to be completed between 2026 and 2032, according to the bid book 1) King Salman International Stadium (Riyadh)—to be completed in 2029 2) Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium (Riyadh)—to be completed in 2029 3) New Murabba Stadium (Riyadh)—to be completed in 2032 4) ROSHN Stadium (Riyadh)—to be completed in 2032 5) South Riyadh Stadium (Riyadh)—to be completed in 2032 6) Qiddiya Coast Stadium (Jeddah)—to be completed in 2032 7) King Abdullah Economic City Stadium (Jeddah)—to be completed in 2032 8) NEOM Stadium (NEOM)—to be completed in 2032 Here’s what we know about each stadium so far... KING SALMAN INTERNATIONAL STADIUM Work is expected to begin next year for this Riyadh stadium, planned for completion in 2029. It is set to host the opening and fi nal matches and has a total seating capacity of 92,760. The design—by Populous is inspired by mountains and snow, which will double up to provide shading and ventilation. It will be located northeast of Riyadh, near the airport and, once complete, will be the biggest stadium in the kingdom. CWPME_Sep2024_38-43_Crafted Concepts_13371119.indd 39CWPME_Sep2024_38-43_Crafted Concepts_13371119.indd 3926/08/2024 17:5126/08/2024 17:51Next >