Engineer Husein Salem, CEO of Ohana Development, shares insights into the company’s vision, growth and strategies
- Can you discuss the role of sustainability and eco-friendly practices in your real estate developments?
Sustainability is central to Ohana Development’s philosophy, shaping every aspect of our projects. Today’s real estate goes beyond design and location—it must be environmentally responsible, adaptable to modern living, and built for longevity. At ELIE SAAB Waterfront by Ohana, we are incorporating energy-efficient technologies, solar power solutions, and electric vehicle charging stations to promote cleaner energy use. Expansive landscaped gardens and carefully curated green spaces enhance biodiversity, creating a setting that encourages well-being and a deeper connection to nature.
Our dedication to eco-conscious living is also reflected in Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana, where the project was thoughtfully designed to complement its surroundings, embracing the presence of a natural reserve that supports local wildlife and a thriving ecosystem. This unique setting enhances the residential experience, offering a seamless blend of luxury and nature. We are committed to embedding responsible building practices into every development, reinforcing the balance between sustainability and attainability.
2. How do you plan to position Ohana under the top five luxury real estate developers in the Middle East and globally?
Ohana Development is committed to establishing itself as a leading name in attainable luxury by crafting refined, elegant, and functionally designed homes. Each project is conceived to blend sophistication, comfort, and accessibility, ensuring that remarkable craftsmanship and thoughtful layouts are within reach of a broader audience.
Strategic partnerships play an essential role in our journey. ELIE SAAB Waterfront by Ohana in Abu Dhabi showcases globally recognised architectural excellence and curated interiors, and Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana offers an exclusive branded residence experience defined by meticulous attention to detail. These collaborations reinforce our commitment to delivering projects that reflect individuality and artistic expression.
Expanding into high-growth markets is key to our long-term strategy. By selecting locations that align with contemporary lifestyle preferences, we ensure that each development integrates seamlessly into its surroundings. A client-focused approach, continuous refinement, and a distinct brand identity drive our progress, positioning Ohana as a leader in creating exceptional residential experiences.
3. How does Ohana identify market gaps and develop luxurious projects that can compete in the global real estate market?
Understanding evolving trends is fundamental to Ohana Development’s vision. We create homes that extend beyond architecture, enriching lives and forming legacies meant to be cherished by future generations. Each development is designed with lasting value in mind, ensuring that residents experience more than just a place to live—it becomes part of their family’s journey. Through extensive research, we assess shifts in demand and identify areas where attainable luxury can flourish.
One emerging trend is the growing interest in branded residences that offer exclusivity and prestige while remaining accessible to a wider segment of homeowners. ELIE SAAB Waterfront by Ohana and Jacob & Co. Beachfront Living by Ohana exemplify this vision, bringing internationally acclaimed design and craftsmanship to residences that embody excellence.
Another key insight is the rising preference for developments that foster a sense of community while integrating wellness, smart technology, and sustainable living. Our projects are thoughtfully planned to encourage meaningful connections, featuring intelligent home systems, dedicated wellness spaces, and environmentally responsible features. By prioritising quality, innovation, and long-term investment appeal, Ohana ensures that its developments stand out in an evolving global real estate landscape.
4. What inspired you to envision a global Ohana community and how do you plan to achieve it?
Ohana embodies the essence of family, and our vision extends that sense of belonging across borders. The inspiration behind creating a global Ohana community stem from the belief that a home should offer more than a physical space—it should provide an experience, a deep-rooted connection, and a reflection of personal aspirations. Our goal is to craft seamless living environments where residents feel at home no matter where they are.
To bring this vision to life, we are developing interconnected lifestyle destinations in prime international markets, each infused with the signature Ohana touch. Whether in the UAE or Lebanon, our communities maintain a consistent standard of design, service, and experience. Additionally, we are leveraging technology to foster a digital ecosystem that allows residents to access exclusive amenities, services, and engagement opportunities across all Ohana properties. This vision is about more than just building residences—it is about nurturing a way of life that transcends geography.
5. What future trends do you think will be implemented in the real estate market of the MENA region?
The MENA real estate sector is evolving rapidly, influenced by changing buyer preferences, technological advancements, and a shift toward more sustainable urban environments. Eco-friendly initiatives are playing an increasingly significant role, with developments incorporating energy-efficient solutions, smart city infrastructure, and environmentally responsible materials. Buyers are prioritising residences that contribute to a healthier planet while offering long-term sustainability.
Branded residences are also gaining momentum, becoming a sought-after investment choice among homeowners and investors. The appeal of properties that integrate signature design elements from globally recognised brands is growing, as buyers seek homes that offer distinctive aesthetics, curated interiors, and a lifestyle beyond traditional real estate. This trend aligns with Ohana’s vision, as we continue to collaborate with world-class names to craft exclusive residential experiences.
Additionally, mixed-use developments are becoming more prevalent, blending residential, commercial, and entertainment components to create dynamic living spaces. The focus on wellness is also intensifying, with more communities prioritising open-air environments, and fitness-centric amenities. Ohana is aligning its projects with these trends, ensuring that its developments reflect contemporary lifestyle demands and remain forward-thinking in an evolving market.
6. How did Ohana’s company value quadruple under your leadership? Please share some insights into this remarkable achievement.
Ohana Development’s remarkable growth has been driven by a clear vision, operational excellence, and a commitment to long-term value creation. Upon taking leadership, my goal was to build a high-performance real estate company capable of thriving in a competitive market. This required streamlining operations, strengthening brand identity, and expanding into strategically selected markets.
A key contributor to this growth has been our ability to introduce a distinct approach to attainable luxury. By offering residences that feature world-class design and craftsmanship without compromising accessibility, we have resonated with a broader audience seeking premium living spaces. Our partnerships with internationally renowned designers and lifestyle brands have further enhanced our developments, making them highly desirable investment opportunities.
Additionally, our emphasis on customer experience, tailored services, and long-term value creation has cultivated strong relationships with buyers, resulting in brand loyalty and continued demand. Through strategic planning, carefully curated investments, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Ohana has significantly increased its market value while establishing itself as a forward-thinking real estate developer.
