Mohamed Alabbar: Architect of Dreams and Owner of Burj Khalifa
In the heart of Dubai’s iconic skyline stands a symbol of human achievement and architectural brilliance – the Burj Khalifa. Standing at a towering height of 828 meters (2,717 feet), it is the tallest structure in the world and a testament to the ambitious spirit of Dubai. Behind this marvel of engineering is the visionary leader, Mohamed Alabbar, the Chairman of Emaar Properties, the real estate development company that brought the Burj Khalifa to life.
The Visionary Mind behind Emaar Properties:
orn on November 8, 1956, Mohamed Alabbar is a prominent Emirati businessman and entrepreneur. His journey to success is marked by a strong commitment to transforming the landscape of Dubai and contributing to its rapid growth. Alabbar earned a degree in Finance and Business Administration from Seattle University in the United States, laying the foundation for his future endeavors.
In 1997, Alabbar founded Emaar Properties, a company that would go on to become one of the world’s leading real estate development firms. Under his leadership, Emaar has been responsible for shaping Dubai’s skyline with a diverse portfolio of projects, ranging from residential communities to commercial and retail spaces.
The Birth of Burj Khalifa:
One of Mohamed Alabbar’s most notable achievements is the development of Burj Khalifa. Conceived as part of the larger Downtown Dubai project, this megastructure was designed by the renowned architect Adrian Smith from the architectural firm of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. Alabbar’s vision for the Burj Khalifa was not just to create a towering skyscraper, but to build a global icon that would put Dubai on the world map.
Construction of the Burj Khalifa commenced in 2004 and was completed in 2010. The process involved overcoming numerous engineering challenges, and Alabbar’s unwavering determination played a crucial role in overcoming these obstacles. The Burj Khalifa has since become a symbol of Dubai’s transformation into a global business and tourism hub.
Emaar's Diverse Portfolio:
Under Mohamed Alabbar’s guidance, Emaar Properties has expanded its reach beyond the Burj Khalifa. The company has developed numerous residential and commercial projects, including the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the world, and the Dubai Fountain, a captivating musical fountain display located at the base of the Burj Khalifa.
Alabbar’s leadership has extended beyond real estate development. In 2019, he launched Noon.com, an e-commerce platform aimed at transforming the digital retail landscape in the Middle East.
Mohamed Alabbar’s entrepreneurial spirit and vision have left an indelible mark on Dubai’s skyline and its global standing. The Burj Khalifa stands tall as a testament to his commitment to excellence and his role in shaping the future of Dubai. As the Chairman of Emaar Properties, Alabbar continues to lead the way in innovative and transformative projects, contributing to the ongoing evolution of Dubai as a global city.