Latest news with #ImranFarooq
Arabian Business
a day ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Imran Farooq on building communities with Samana Developers
Imran Farooq represents a different kind of real estate disruptor. Measured, deliberate, and sharply focused, his leadership is rooted in strategy, conviction, and deep market intelligence. Spend time with him – as we did during this cover feature – and the source of Samana Developers' extraordinary momentum quickly becomes clear. It's not noise that drives him. It's vision. That vision is anchored in belief – belief in integrity, belief in innovation, and above all, belief in delivering what he calls 'holistic living experiences' to homeowners who want more than marble lobbies and glossy renders. It's an approach rooted in substance over spectacle, where consistency, trust, and execution speak louder than hype. A legacy that shaped a leader Farooq's story doesn't begin in Dubai's skyline, but in a modest office. It was where he witnessed his father shake hands on a land deal and honour it, even as the market soared. 'There was no extensive contract, just a simple agreement. When the market shifted and he could have easily renegotiated for a much higher price, he honoured his original word,' Farooq recalls. 'Our name is our bond,' he told me, 'and that simple principle became the most important lesson I ever learned. That story taught me that true wealth is not measured in currency, but in the trust you build.' It wasn't just a childhood memory; it was a lesson that would go on to shape Farooq's entire business philosophy. 'Real estate isn't about quick gains,' he says. 'It's about building for future generations.' That ethos now runs through everything Samana does. With a consolidated portfolio of over AED 17 billion and a 4.4 per cent market share in Dubai's off-plan segment in 2024, the company has grown into one of the city's top five developers. 'We're moving beyond standalone buildings to create comprehensive districts that include residential towers, retail, and specialised housing,' Farooq says. 'These communities will improve quality of life and address Dubai's rapid growth.' Farooq's vision is not just about crafting a business empire but also the future of the communities they build for. 'We don't see sustainability as a requirement; it's an essential component of modern luxury, providing healthier and more efficient living spaces.' From branch manager to master developer Farooq's trajectory is equally compelling. Starting as a branch manager in 1996, he launched a computer distribution firm, followed by Premiers International – a market-leading immigration consultancy – and ultimately the Samana Group in 2003. The group has since expanded into property, second citizenship and business centres. 'A pivotal moment in my journey was the bold decision to commit to vertical integration by creating our own contracting arm,' he says. 'The pace of our growth and our vision for innovative projects were being limited by external contractors.' He continues: 'The choice to champion 'resort-style living' as our signature offering… this was a deliberate move to trust our market insights and differentiate aggressively. The overwhelming market response validated this risk and created a culture of audacious innovation within Samana.' Samana is now planning 18 projects by the end of 2025, supported by an internal infrastructure that allows for agile delivery. 'We're launching 18 projects by the end of 2025 to ensure a continuous pipeline of opportunities,' he says. 'Our long-term vision involves transitioning from a developer of individual buildings to a master developer, creating entire, integrated communities.' Innovation with purpose The idea of innovation, for Farooq, is grounded in people. 'We begin with meticulous market research to understand what people truly aspire to in their lifestyle,' he explains. 'We realised that while luxury was desired, it also had to be accessible.' This insight led to the now-signature 'private pool apartment' concept, which was met with scepticism at first. But, Farooq says, 'we saw a yearning among residents for more privacy and a sense of escape right at home.' The company's next move? 'Our next major concept is creating 'climate-resilient living spaces.' This goes beyond basic sustainability,' he says. 'We're designing homes that are inherently more comfortable and healthier, with advanced climate control systems that actively purify the air.' He adds: 'We believe the future of Dubai's real estate lies in these holistic living experiences, where convenience, wellness, and environmental consciousness converge.' Redefining luxury through sustainability For Farooq, sustainability starts with the design process, where it's woven into the very fabric of their projects from the initial concept. 'Our architectural focus on maximising natural light and passive ventilation serves a dual purpose: it dramatically reduces energy consumption while simultaneously creating more airy, aesthetically pleasing, and luxurious living spaces'. Farooq is blunt in his assessment of outdated assumptions. 'The conventional notion of sustainability and luxury as conflicting values is one we've completely redefined,' he says. 'Our philosophy isn't to reconcile these concepts, but to prove that they are, in fact, mutually enhancing.' 'We meticulously select durable, high-quality materials not just for their premium feel, but for their longevity and reduced environmental impact,' he explains. 'Our developments feature high-efficiency HVAC systems and smart home technologies that empower residents to manage energy consumption effortlessly.' 'Even a signature luxury feature like our private pools is designed responsibly, utilising advanced filtration and recycling systems to minimise water usage,' he adds. Going global with Dubai roots Samana's rise has been fuelled by investor confidence – 86 per cent of sales are to international buyers. 'International investors choose us because we consistently deliver on our promises,' Farooq says. 'Our commitment to quality and timely handovers turns every completed project into a powerful brand ambassador.' 'Our expansion strategy is focused on identifying regions with a strong demand for Dubai's value proposition – a mix of luxury, stability, and high returns,' he says. 'We've established offices in key international hubs, including China and Europe.' A flagship move in this expansion is the launch of Samana Ocean Views Interiors by Elie Saab in the Maldives: 'The move to develop a private island in the Maldives is a clear sign of our intent to explore super-premium segments in new international locations.' Leading with empathy Despite the scale of the business, Farooq's tone remains grounded. 'Another vital element is empowering my team. I've learned not to carry every burden myself,' he says. 'Building a strong leadership team allows me to delegate and focus on strategic vision.' He also credits his team's alignment and culture. 'We've collaborated with the Dubai Land Department on their 'She Pioneers' initiative, which aims to empower women in the real estate sector through mentorship, networking, and specialised training,' he says. 'This commitment isn't just corporate social responsibility; it's a personal conviction that guides how I live and lead.' Beyond the bottom line Farooq speaks with most pride about his philanthropic work. 'Beyond my business career, I'm most proud of my philanthropic initiatives. I believe true success is measured by the positive impact we create in society,' he says. 'A significant point of pride is our pledge to develop an AED 40 million endowment building for the Fathers' Endowment campaign, which will provide sustainable healthcare for the poor and needy in Dubai,' he says. 'This goes beyond traditional charity; it's an investment in a self-sustaining source of funding for a critical cause.' A CEO with clarity During our photoshoot, Farooq made small but deliberate adjustments – a tie knot here, a sleeve there – more out of discipline than display, reflecting the same attention to detail that underpins his approach to business. 'Running a multi-billion-dirham enterprise is incredibly demanding, but I've learned that long-term success requires a sustainable balance,' he says. 'The key for me is ruthless prioritisation. I treat personal commitments with the same importance as professional ones.' 'My family is a non-negotiable anchor, and those moments are essential for recharging and gaining perspective,' he adds. 'These pursuits are crucial for maintaining mental clarity, fostering creativity, and preventing burnout.' In an industry built on façades, Farooq's consistency and values-led approach might just be the rarest form of luxury there is.
Gulf Today
15-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Samana Developers Ascends to 5th Highest Off-Plan Seller in Dubai, Bolstered by Record-Breaking Sales and Ambitious Expansion
Samana Developers, an award-winning real estate developer based in Dubai, is proud to announce its ranking as the 5th highest off-plan seller in volume for the first half of 2025, according to Property Monitor and Oqood. This impressive achievement reflects a period of unprecedented growth, record-breaking sales, and a robust pipeline of new projects, firmly establishing Samana Developers as a leading force in Dubai's thriving real estate market. Ascending the Ranks: Rapid Growth and Market Share Samana Developers has demonstrated an extraordinary trajectory in recent years. The company achieved a staggering 600% growth in 2023 and secured a 2.8% market share in off-plan sales during the same year. This rapid expansion propelled Samana into the esteemed ranks of Dubai's top seven developers in 2024, where it now commands a noteworthy 4.4% market share in off-plan sales and manages a substantial portfolio valued at over AED 17 billion . Record-Breaking Sales Performance June 2025 marked a historic milestone for Samana Developers, with best-ever monthly sales reaching an unprecedented AED 1.1 billion . This outstanding performance contributes to a robust 40% growth in sales for the first half of the year compared to the previous year, solidifying Samana's position as the 5th among top property developers in off-plan sales for H1 2025 in Dubai. A significant factor in this success is the strong international demand, with 86% of Samana Developers' sales attributed to foreign investors , further highlighting Dubai's enduring appeal as a secure and high-growth investment destination. Ambitious Project Pipeline and Timely Deliveries Samana Developers launched 12 new projects in 2024 alone . Building on this momentum, the company has set an ambitious target to launch 18 projects by the end of 2025 , adding 8 more than their target for 2024. Samana Developers has already delivered four projects to date and plans to hand over an additional four by the close of 2025, further solidifying its reputation for timely delivery and quality construction. Commenting on this achievement, Imran Farooq, CEO of Samana Developers , stated: "Our exceptional growth, including a 40% increase in sales in H1 2025, is a direct reflection of Dubai's robust and expanding real estate market. The latest data indicates that the overall Dubai residential sales, combining villas and apartments, have risen by 38% in value in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year, reaching AED 262.7 billion. This strong market performance, fuelled by sustained investor confidence and a growing population, provides an ideal environment for our strategic expansion and commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative projects." Resort-Style Living: A Differentiating Factor Samana Developers has become widely regarded for its pioneering approach to "resort-style living." Their developments consistently feature an array of luxurious amenities, including private swimming pools in many units, expansive green spaces, state-of-the-art fitness centres, and tranquil terraces. This focus on creating immersive, vacation-like residential experiences sets Samana apart, offering residents an unparalleled blend of comfort, wellness, and sophistication within an urban setting. About SAMANA Developers SAMANA Developers, an award-winning real estate developer based in Dubai with growing international portfolio. With a focus on creating sustainable and elegant living spaces, SAMANA Developers has seamlessly delivered a wide range of residential and commercial projects climbing to the top seven highest off-plan sellers in 2024. Known for their innovative designs, premium amenities, and prime locations, SAMANA Developers' projects have set new standards in the UAE real estate market. The company's dedication to excellence has earned them a reputation for delivering exceptional value and investment opportunities with more than 1,300 units handed over and 10,000 units under construction. SAMANA has scooped multiple esteemed awards for pioneering concepts, innovative designs, and sustainability. For more information, please visit . For Media inquiries, please contact: Mohammad Al Sharu Senior Manager PR & Media Relations T: +971 55 667 2342 | E: [email protected]
Entrepreneur
10-07-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Building Bigger, Smarter, Bolder: Imran Farooq on Samana's Innovation-First Mindset
An exclusive conversation with Samana Developers' founder Imran Farooq on pioneering private pool apartments, building a construction empire, and leading with vision in Dubai's competitive real estate market. Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Entrepreneur Middle East sits down with Samana Developers founder and CEO Imran Farooq to explore how he's reshaping Dubai's real estate game with bold leadership, innovative design, and a construction-first mindset. Imran Farooq didn't need to get into real estate. By the time he launched Samana Developers, his broader SAMANA Group had already grown into a multi-billion-dollar business spanning immigration, IT, and corporate services. But a persistent dissatisfaction with how the property sector treated buyers—and a knack for spotting market gaps—pulled him in. Today, Farooq's name is synonymous with architectural ambition, on-time delivery, and one of Dubai's most headline-grabbing innovations: the launch of the first private pool apartments in the emirate. "'On Time, Every Time' isn't just a slogan—it's a philosophy," Farooq tells us. "It means we deliver when we say we will, every time." That principle has guided Samana's exponential growth, including 12 project launches in 2024 alone and a development portfolio exceeding AED 16 billion. Samana has become the seventh-largest developer in Dubai—and is now setting its sights globally with branded luxury ventures like Samana Ocean Views by ELIE SAAB in the Maldives. What sets Farooq apart isn't just scale—it's strategic foresight. Anticipating construction bottlenecks, Samana recently invested $41 million to launch its own contracting arm and form exclusive joint ventures with two major contractors. "We saw the resource crunch coming. We locked in capacity and supply early so we wouldn't be held hostage by the market." At the heart of Samana's brand is its lifestyle-first approach to real estate. It was among the first in Dubai to introduce private pools as a standard feature in apartment units—an idea Farooq says was born out of watching consumer expectations shift. "People don't just want homes anymore; they want experiences," he explains. "We pioneered private pools because we understood that buyers crave exclusivity, even in vertical living." That focus on resort-style amenities has helped Samana developments stand out in a saturated market, with units regularly selling out within days. But innovation isn't limited to the final product. "We invest in architectural individuality. No two projects look alike," Farooq adds. "It takes longer and costs more, but it's what defines us." Samana is now pivoting toward becoming a master developer—creating entire communities with townhouses, villas, retail, serviced apartments, and student housing. Farooq says this shift is about long-term resilience. "Dubai is maturing. Investors are looking for complete ecosystems, not just units. That's the future we're building toward." Sustainability, too, is approached from a business-first perspective. "For us, sustainability means financial health and project longevity. It's about ensuring cash flow, timely contractor payments, and investor trust. That's how you build for the long haul." After 27 years at the helm of SAMANA Group, what keeps Farooq going? "Success is the best motivator," he says with a grin. "But so is evolution. We revisit our goals every few years and set the bar higher." His advice to young entrepreneurs? Think big, act smart. "Hard work is essential. But so is differentiation. You can't copy your way to greatness. Find a global problem, solve it with tech, and scale fast. That's how you create real impact." And if you ask him what every leader must master? "Empowerment. If you can't delegate, you can't scale. Trust your team, and let go of the small stuff." With an IPO under consideration and Samana's footprint now extending beyond the UAE, Farooq's trajectory reflects a rare mix of operational precision and creative disruption—a combination that's not just shaping buildings, but the future of real estate in the region.
Entrepreneur
03-07-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Samana Developers Clinches AED1.1 Billion in Sales in June 2025
You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Samana Developers, a Dubai-based real estate developer, has recorded its best sales month since its foundation with AED 1.1 billion in June 2025. The announcement of this performance statistics, reflecting the company's rapid growth and market position, follows news that the brand has ranked fifth among top property developers in off-plan sales for the first half of this year in the UAE. This particular market performance is bolstered by international buyers, with 86% of Samana Developers' sales attributed to foreign investors. The surge in activity unfolds amidst a flourishing real estate market in Dubai, with the residential sector having witnessed strong performance in the first quarter of 2025, recording approximately 42,000 sales transactions valued at AED 114.4 billion. This represents a substantial year-on-year increase of 23.1% in volume and 29.6% in value. "June 2025 has been a truly historic month for Samana Developers, with AED 1.1 billion in sales marking our best performance to date," Imran Farooq, CEO of Samana Developers. "This exceptional achievement reflects a 40% growth in H1 sales year-over-year and proving the immense market demand for our diverse portfolio. We are proud to have launched 8 projects in H1, more than any other developer in Dubai this year, including our landmark Samana Ocean Views Interiors by Elie Saab and the incredible 90-minute sell-out of Samana Hills South." Samana Developers is renowned for crafting properties that offer unparalleled lifestyles and operational advantages through thoughtful amenities and prime locations. Projects like Samana Hills South provide residents with over 30 resort-style amenities, including an outdoor cinema, wellness lounge, and aqua gym, ensuring a truly luxurious living experience. "Our strategic expansion into commercial office spaces has also seen pioneering success, contributing to our rise as the No. 5 developer by Oqood at the end of H1. This strong performance is attributed to our innovative approach, robust sales channels, and the trust investors place in Samana Developers," Farooq added. Strategically positioned in key growth corridors like Dubai South, Majan, and Barari, Samana's developments offer residents and businesses exceptional connectivity. Their properties boast direct access to major arterial roads such as Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and are near critical hubs like Al Maktoum International Airport, Global Village, and major retail destinations, ensuring convenience and high potential for capital appreciation. With a portfolio exceeding AED17 billion and a 4.4% market share, Samana Developers clearly demonstrates a strong dedication to growth and innovation. The successful launch of an impressive 12 new projects in 2024, including their latest global launch of Samana Ocean Views Interiors by Elie Saab, highlights their diversified offerings. Their strategically located properties appeal to both end-users and investors, providing compelling opportunities for capital appreciation and healthy rental yields. Related: Samana Developers Partners With Dubai Land Department to Enable Greater Gender Inclusivity in Dubai's Real Estate Market
Zawya
03-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Dubai's Samana sales top $300mln in June as residential demand soars
Dubai-based Samana Developers notched off-plan sales worth 1.1 billion UAE dirhams ($299.48 million) in June 2025, a new high since its inception, amid a surge in demand for residential projects. The company launched eight projects in the first half of 2025, CEO Imran Farooq said in a statement. Almost 86 percent of sales are to foreign investors, he said. Dubai's residential real estate market recorded 42,000 sales transactions valued at AED 114.4 billion in the first quarter of 2025, the statement said. The emirate registered a year-on-year increase of 23.1% in volume and 29.6% in value. 'Our expansion into commercial office spaces has supported our rise as the No. 5 developer by Oqood at the end of the first half,' he added. Samana's property portfolio exceeding 17 billion UAE dirhams spans across Dubai South, Majan, and Barari. The company, which launched 12 projects in 2024, claims a market share of 4.4 percent. (Writing by P Deol; Editing by Anoop Menon) (
