Rizwan Sajan – How this 1% man is redefining property ownership in Dubai

In a recent exclusive interview with Adgully, Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman, and the driving force behind Danube Properties, shared insights into his journey and the innovative strategies that have propelled Danube to the forefront of Dubai’s real estate market.

"Danube was formed 30 years ago as a small building material company," reminisced Rizwan Sajan as he reflected on the humble beginnings of the company. Since its inception, Sajan’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident, propelling Danube’s journey from a modest trading firm to a powerhouse in Dubai’s real estate sector.

Sajan’s own trajectory within the company mirrors Danube’s evolution. Starting as a building material company, Danube expanded into diverse ventures, including building materials and furnishing solutions. Sajan’s astute understanding of market dynamics and unwavering determination paved the way for Danube’s foray into property development.

The transformational moment came with the launch of Danube Properties, marking a new chapter in the company's history. Sajan's innovative payment plan, offering properties with down payment of 20%, and the remaining amount paid as 1% per month, earned him the moniker "1% Man." This revolutionary approach democratized property ownership in Dubai, making it accessible to a broader spectrum of investors, particularly expatriates.

Despite facing challenges, including Dubai’s real estate crash in 2008-2009, Sajan remained resolute in his commitment to transparency and integrity. “Whatever money any investor invests... goes into the escrow account... it is 100% transparent,” he affirmed. This dedication to financial integrity has earned Danube Properties the trust and confidence of investors, solidifying its reputation as a reliable partner in real estate ventures.

Danube Properties’ entry into the real estate sector marked a significant milestone, driven by a commitment to accessibility and innovation. Sajan outlines the company’s unique approach of offering properties with a flexible payment plan, targeting not only affluent investors, but also expatriates seeking homeownership, particularly from India. “We targeted not only affluent investors, but also expatriates seeking homeownership,” Sajan noted, emphasising on Danube’s inclusive approach to property ownership.

In the age of social media dominance, Sajan recognised its pivotal role in business strategy. “If you are not doing social media, you’re not doing business,” he asserted, underlining the importance of maintaining a strong online presence to engage with consumers effectively. Through platforms like Instagram, Sajan connects directly with customers, fostering a sense of trust and accessibility.

With Dubai’s real estate market poised for growth, he sees immense potential for Danube to expand its footprint. “Dubai is a market that offers tremendous opportunities,” he noted, highlighting the city’s vibrant economy and diverse investor base.

Sajan has positioned Danube Properties as a pioneer in Dubai’s real estate landscape, offering affordable and innovative solutions to a diverse range of customers. As Dubai’s real estate sector continues to evolve, Sajan aims to continue revolutionising Dubai’s real estate landscape. His legacy as the “1% Man” will endure, ensuring that the dream of owning a home remains attainable for all in Dubai’s dynamic market.