Talal Al Dhiyebi: A Visionary Leader Driving the Future of Real Estate Development
Talal Al Dhiyebi is the Group Chief Executive Officer of Aldar Properties, the UAE’s leading real estate developer, investor, and manager. Under his visionary leadership, Aldar has emerged as a regional powerhouse in the real estate sector, renowned for its ability to balance innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. Talal’s strategic approach has steered Aldar through an era of rapid growth and diversification, securing its position as one of the most influential property companies in the Middle East.
Aldar’s Expansion and Growth under Talal’s Leadership
Aldar Properties boasts a diversified and highly profitable recurring income portfolio worth over USD 10 billion, with an impressive development backlog of over USD 20 billion. This portfolio includes a wide array of owned and managed projects that span residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. In addition to its significant assets in Abu Dhabi, Aldar holds a strategic landbank of 69 million sqm, providing the company with the flexibility to continue expanding and developing new projects in the region for years to come.
Under Talal’s leadership, Aldar has successfully extended its operations beyond Abu Dhabi, reaching into neighboring emirates such as Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. The company has also made strategic international moves, including a majority stake in SODIC, one of Egypt’s leading real estate companies. Additionally, Aldar expanded into Europe through its acquisition of London Square, a UK-based real estate developer, and formed a logistics partnership with global investment firm Carlyle. In 2022, Aldar secured a landmark USD 1.4 billion investment from Apollo Global Management, marking one of the largest foreign direct investments into Abu Dhabi’s private sector.
Commitment to Sustainability and ESG Leadership
Aldar Properties is recognized as a regional leader in sustainability. Under Talal’s stewardship, the company launched its comprehensive Net Zero Action Plan, committing to becoming net zero in Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions by 2050. This bold commitment aligns with Aldar’s long-term vision to create a more sustainable future and underscores the company’s role in leading the transition to green building practices and sustainable urban development. The company has set high standards across various Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) metrics, addressing issues such as worker welfare, youth development, diversity and inclusion, and Emiratisation.
Talal’s leadership in sustainability extends to Aldar’s wider corporate responsibilities, and the company continues to work on building communities that are not only profitable but also socially responsible. The company’s strategic approach to ESG metrics helps to ensure that Aldar’s development projects benefit not just the business but also the wider UAE society.
Board Roles and Industry Influence
Talal Al Dhiyebi holds several key leadership positions, further solidifying his influence in the regional and international real estate landscape. He chairs the boards of various Aldar subsidiaries, including Aldar Estates, SODIC, and London Square, and serves as the Vice-Chairman of Aldar Education. Talal’s experience spans various sectors, and his extensive involvement in board roles reflects his broad influence. He sits on the boards of Abu Dhabi Transport Company, Ethara, Miral Asset Management, National Projects Office, and Sandooq Al Watan, the UAE’s national fund focused on social contribution.
His board positions also extend to NMDC Energy, Edamah (the real estate arm of Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company), and the Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches. In addition, Talal is a member of the executive committee of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, underscoring his commitment to education and fostering the growth of human capital in the region.
Educational Background and Personal Leadership
Talal Al Dhiyebi holds a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Melbourne, Australia. His technical background has provided him with a unique perspective on the intersection of real estate development and modern technology, which has been integral to Aldar’s success in innovating and implementing cutting-edge solutions in urban planning and development.
As a highly respected leader, Talal is known for his strategic vision, exceptional leadership, and commitment to advancing the real estate industry. His ability to combine financial acumen with a passion for sustainability and community development has driven Aldar’s success and positioned him as a key figure in shaping the future of the UAE’s real estate sector.
Legacy and Future Vision
Talal Al Dhiyebi’s leadership is characterized by visionary thinking and a focus on sustainable growth. His commitment to innovation, community, and the environment has not only transformed Aldar Properties but also the real estate landscape in the UAE and beyond. As Aldar continues to expand its operations, Talal’s legacy will be defined by his ability to redefine the future of urban living while staying true to the principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and responsible development.
Under his guidance, Aldar Properties is poised to continue its journey of transformation and growth, contributing to the wider economic and social development of the UAE while also making an impact on the global real estate stage.
