Azizi Developments has positioned itself as a leading player in Dubai’s dynamic real estate market, delivering thousands of homes to a diverse range of investors and end-users.
In this interview, Mr. Afzaal Hussain, Chief Operating Officer at Azizi Developments, shares the company’s ambitious strategies for growth and expansion, both locally and internationally. He highlights Azizi’s construction-driven approach, its commitment to sustainability and innovation, and how its projects align with the visionary goals of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
Additionally, Mr. Hussain provides insights into the company’s expansion into the hospitality sector and its focus on developing investor-friendly properties that promise high returns.
Azizi Developments has made significant strides in Dubai’s real estate market. Can you share your vision for the company over the next upcoming years?
Azizi Developments is a leading developer based in Dubai, UAE. With tens of thousands of homes successfully delivered to local and international investors and end users of over 100 nationalities, we pride ourselves on our extensive portfolio of modern luxury developments across Dubai’s most sought-after residential and commercial destinations, our construction-driven approach, and our commitment to transparency and customer-centricity. Azizi’s residential and commercial properties are investor-friendly, catering to all lifestyles. We have made it our mission to develop lifestyles and enrich the lives of our residents with a focus on catalyzing the vision and development of the markets that we operate in.
We currently have around 40,000 units under construction that are projected to be delivered by 2027, worth several billion US dollars. We are also renowned for developing the world’s second tallest skyscraper, Burj Azizi on Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road, and have a strong track record and sizeable project pipeline through our extensive land bank and strategic partnerships with Dubai’s key master developers. We are developing world-class properties in MBR City, Palm Jumeirah, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai South, Al Furjan, Studio City, Sports City and Downtown Jebel Ali.
We have an ambitious and carefully-planned strategy for the next five years and beyond, centered on extensive construction with a strong emphasis on quality and timely completion. Our plan also includes further expansion in Dubai, with the launch of new communities scheduled in due course.
Moreover, within the next five years, we plan to launch approximately 50 high-end hotels in Dubai, adding around 20,000 keys to the city’s hospitality sector. This expansion is part of our strategy to invest AED 60 billion, primarily through our own capital, allowing us to venture into the hospitality sector.
![](https://kanebridgenewsme.com/application/assets/2024/09/Riviera-in-MBR-City-Community-Shot-Render-scaled.jpeg)
With plans to expand into multiple international markets, what strategies are Azizi Developments employing to adapt to the different market dynamics in Europe, the USA, and Australia?
Expanding our business verticals internationally is a strategic objective for Azizi Developments. While Dubai has been a key driver of our success and will always be our home, we acknowledge the significance of looking beyond the UAE and are always on the lookout for promising projects worldwide.
We plan to expand further geographically, with the wider GCC region being considered due to the remarkable growth and dynamic nature of its real estate markets. The fast-paced development and increasing demand in the Gulf make it a promising area for our continuation. Plans in these neighboring markets will be announced in due course.
Regarding the future stages of our growth plan, we aim to extend the reach of our hospitality brand to a global scale, much like our development business, which is already present in other markets. We have plans to purchase and develop plots in major metropolitan cities such as Singapore, Hong Kong, Frankfurt, London, and Paris, among others.
Azizi Developments prides itself on its construction-driven approach. Could you elaborate on how this approach has contributed to the company’s success and how it influences your project timelines and quality standards?
Our pursuit of excellence is ingrained in our organizational DNA and has its roots in our construction-driven approach. In off-plan sales, trust is the most pivotal factor: our stakeholders entrust us with their hard-earned money, and it is our duty to ensure that we meet and exceed their expectations at handover.
Being construction-driven is key in this. We have to ensure not only the adherence to pre-set construction timelines and safeguard the swift completion of our projects, but also, and perhaps even more importantly, the quality of the homes that we deliver.
Our reputation is constructed steadily, brick by brick, project by project. Upholding and continuously building upon our reputation is what leads to positive word-of-mouth and repeat purchases, which in turn is reflected in our sales. This is how define our success: true customer satisfaction.
To ensure unmatched quality across our projects, we employ a multi-faceted strategy. Strategic partnerships are fundamental to our success. Through a rigorous procurement strategy, we have built strong collaborations with globally acclaimed suppliers and subcontractors. These partnerships, combined with our robust in-house expertise, ensure our projects provide an exceptional living experience. Our developments go beyond architectural grandeur; they are thoughtfully designed spaces that align with the aspirations of the families who reside in them, contributing significantly to our enduring legacy.
![](https://kanebridgenewsme.com/application/assets/2024/09/Mina-by-Azizi-Developments-Palm-Jumeirah.jpg)
How is Azizi integrating sustainable practices and innovative technologies into its ongoing and future projects?
Dubai’s leadership consistently exemplifies the importance of innovation in sustainability in our rapidly evolving landscape. At Azizi, we are committed to embracing the latest technologies and trends, continuously innovating to maintain our status as the leading private developer in the UAE.
We have doubled down on our sustainability efforts. By incorporating green infrastructure, passive design strategies, and sustainable transportation options into our designs, we are demonstrating that sustainability is achievable even in challenging climates.
We have also enhanced our operational efficiency by implementing several innovative tech/IT solutions, and deployed several new cutting-edge tools, with more currently in development. The use of digital technologies in construction has already drastically transformed the industry in recent years and is expected to continue to evolve and grow.
We have adopted a focus on smart cities, with our new properties all being digitally augmented. Our latest projects all feature smart home systems that allow residents to control and monitor every aspect of their home, granting not only convenience and comfort, but also consumption savings and security.
Moreover, we employ highly advanced artificial intelligence modeling tools, drones for on-site surveillance, and several other profoundly impactful innovations. Leveraging the latest technologies is crucial to our success, as it enhances the efficiency, safety, quality, and sustainability of our work, while more closely aligning with our clients’ rapidly evolving desires and requirements.
Building Information modelling (BIM) software and other digital design tools can help create more accurate and detailed building plans, resulting in identifying and mitigating potential issues early on in the construction process. This can reduce the need for costly rework and change orders later in the project.
Sustainability and energy efficiency are increasingly valued by buyers and investors, becoming a critical aspect of our development process. We now standardly incorporate innovative, energy-efficient concepts and designs into both residential and commercial properties. These include the use of solar panels and LED lighting to reduce electricity use, the construction of green walls, better insulation to lower air conditioning costs, and various other green initiatives that enhance the city’s sustainability.
Future luxury homes in the UAE will feature adaptive and responsive architecture, biophilic design integrating natural elements, and technologically integrated spaces with advanced smart home systems. Sustainable and eco-friendly features like green roofs, rainwater harvesting, and high-performance materials such as self-healing concrete and transparent solar panels enhance both aesthetics and functionality. Advanced insulation, phase-change materials, and modular construction techniques improve energy efficiency and construction precision. Moving forward, 3D printing and robotics will allow for greater customization and complexity in design. These advancements will lead to modern, sleek designs, enhanced comfort, convenience, and flexibility, aligning with the UAE’s commitment to innovation and luxury.
![](https://kanebridgenewsme.com/application/assets/2024/09/Burj-Azizi-The-Second-Tallest-Tower-in-The-World-Sheikh-Zayed-Road-scaled-e1725518144681.jpeg)
With Dubai’s competitive hospitality market, what will set Azizi’s hotels apart in terms of luxury, service, and customer experience?
A key project in our pipeline, which is expected to elevate our hospitality division, is the 7-star hotel planned for the world’s second tallest tower, Burj Azizi. Strategically located on a prime plot just opposite the World Trade Center on Sheikh Zayed Road, this ultra-luxury hotel will occupy the top thirty floors of the tower.
Currently, we are developing five-star and four-star hotels within the Azizi Venice development in Dubai South, which will feature over 700 rooms and serviced apartments and a range of extensive amenities and F&B offerings. Additionally, we will build a 5-star hotel on the Dubai Islands development, which features 196 rooms across 13 floors, incorporating king and deluxe rooms, as well as executive suites, and a 5-star hotel at Riviera, one of Azizi’s flagship developments located in Meydan at the heart of MBR City, which features over 160 rooms, and serviced apartments across 15 floors.
Further information on the hotel’s amenities and unique value propositions will be announced in due course.
How does Azizi ensure that customer needs and expectations are met across such a diverse range of projects and locations?
Our residential and commercial properties are investor-friendly and cater to all lifestyles. We make it our international mission to develop lifestyles and enrich the lives of those who invest and reside in our properties, and are proud to serve as a catalyst to the vision and development of the markets that we operate in.
Prioritizing our customers’ best interests and keeping these at the forefront is essential to our growth and success. By closely listening to their wants and needs and incorporating these into every decision we make, we are able to provide homes that exceed expectations and deliver some of the best ROIs. We are dedicated to continuously enhancing our offerings to stay aligned with market trends. This involves a continuous process where every development choice—whether it is the location, amenities, design, layout, or construction materials, is carefully assessed and augmented.
How do you navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing real estate market to achieve this goal?
Given our diversified business model, we are well-equipped to navigate any challenges. It fill us with pride to consistently be able to distinguish ourselves through our commitment to delivering high-quality projects that meet and exceed our customers’ expectations. The importance we assign to quality in every sense allows us to continuously be among the top 3 highest-selling developers in Dubai.
Our close collaboration with contractors also accelerates construction timelines and ensures enhanced quality. What also sets us apart from other developers is our unique approach to operations. One key strategy has been the direct sourcing and procuring of construction materials, rather than relying on our contractors doing so.
![](https://kanebridgenewsme.com/application/assets/2024/09/Azizi-Venice-in-Dubai-South-Opera-View-scaled.jpg)
Azizi Developments has been noted for creating investor-friendly properties. What specific factors do you consider to ensure that your developments provide high yields and return on investment?
We place a strong emphasis on ensuring that our projects are in strategically located, easily accessible, and growth-inclined communities, have world-class build quality, are delivered within specific timelines, have well-thought-through layouts, are distinguished by modern, aesthetic and unique designs, have a wide and comprehensive range of lifestyle enriching amenities, foster a true sense of belonging through social and livable spaces, and offer convenience through various business, leisure and retail hubs in their vicinity. These aspects are key to ensuring customer satisfaction and delivering some of the most outstanding ROIs.
Given the current global economic climate, how do you see the real estate market evolving in the UAE and internationally, and what impact will this have on Azizi’s future projects?
Dubai is at the very forefront of global real estate. The UAE government’s relentless efforts have positioned the country as a premier destination for investors, residents, and tourists alike. Key factors such as the absence of property taxes, high rental yields, competitive pricing per square meter, and the introduction of residency and golden visa programs have solidified its reputation as one of the most attractive cities to live, work, and visit. This upward trajectory, in terms of both investment and as such in property values, we are confident will continue exponentially.
Several pivotal initiatives have been announced to propel Dubai to new heights. Among them, the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, unveiled by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which aims to enhance the quality of life for residents and set the stage for major residential and economic advancements in the city. This visionary plan seeks to foster a more sustainable, livable, and inclusive urban environment, necessitating fundamental changes in real estate development and utilization.
The Dubai real estate market is projected to sustain and even accelerate its growth in the coming years. Numerous factors contribute to this, including a robust economy spurring investment, business, job creation, tourism, and housing demand. Due to Dubai’s solid reputation as a secure and stable investment environment, foreign investment remains strong, largely resulting from the many opportunities the emirate holds.
According to urban planners and real estate experts, new communities on the city’s outskirts and more tenants becoming buyers are all on the horizon. We will likely see more residential skyscrapers and premium communities as the population rises from 3.6 million today to a government-projected 5.8 million by 2040.
Furthermore, high rental yields, affordability, relaxed visa policies, and long-term sustainable development plans have made the UAE emerge as a favorite among international investors. These factors have attracted a diverse spectrum of investors, from high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors to sovereign wealth funds, all seeking a steady income stream and significant potential for capital appreciation.
From a return standpoint, Dubai offers a competitive edge with an annual ROI of 8.4% and above, outshining many global cities. Its position as an investment destination, with relatively low square foot prices compared to the world’s other top 25 cities enhances its appeal, especially when paired with the strength of the Emirati Dirham (AED) — a boon for investors from nations with weaker currencies.
![](https://kanebridgenewsme.com/application/assets/2024/09/Azizi-Venice-in-Dubai-South-Community-Shot-Render-scaled.jpg)
Azizi has consistently supported the vision of Dubai’s leaders. How do your projects align with the broader goals of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan?
The UAE stands out as a beacon of rapid progress, propelled by its leadership’s decisive actions. The agility demonstrated in the nation’s advancement, combined with its robust regulatory and legal framework, is truly commendable and a cornerstone of its success. This dynamic environment fosters a fertile ground for business, attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from across the globe.
The Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, unveiled by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, aims to enhance the quality of life for residents and set the stage for major residential and economic advancements in the city. This visionary plan seeks to foster a more sustainable, livable, and inclusive urban environment, necessitating fundamental changes in real estate development and utilization.
Azizi’s projects prioritize sustainability, incorporating green building practices, energy-efficient technologies, and open spaces with an abundance of unique features, including some of the world’s largest swimmable crystal lagoons, a vast amount of recreational and leisure activities, and even an opera, such as in Azizi Venice, that promote community well-being. Our developments are designed to integrate seamlessly into the city’s evolving landscape, yet setting them apart, contributing to Dubai’s goal of becoming the best city to visit, live and work. By focusing on mixed-use developments that combine residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, we foster communities that align with the broader urban vision.