Digital payments firm says it has appointed Sweid & Sweid to build its new Dubai headquarters Visa, the global digital payments firm, has appointed international property developer Sweid & Sweid to build its new Dubai headquarters. The building to cater for operations
Strategic Advisor – Abu Dhabi
Bachar Gebran is an entrepreneur, investor, and business leader with over two decades of experience spanning construction, luxury interior fit-out, industrial manufacturing, and real estate development. His career is defined by a consistent ability to identify opportunities across the full spectrum of the built environment and to translate that vision into successful enterprises.
Bachar is the Founder and Managing Director of WalkThru Contracting, a specialised turnkey construction and fit-out platform for ultra-luxury residential, hospitality, and commercial projects across the UAE. Under his leadership, WalkThru Contracting has delivered an extensive portfolio, earning recognition for its build quality, commitment to sustainability, and deployment of innovative construction methodologies.
Bachar is also the Chairman and co-founder of ALUCAD, an Abu Dhabi-based aluminium manufacturing facility producing bespoke aluminium and glass solutions. He is actively engaged in residential real estate development, where he applies his execution capabilities alongside a keen understanding of market demand to extract value across every dimension of the built environment.
As a Strategic Advisor to Sweid & Sweid, Bachar brings deep sector-specific insight and an intimate knowledge of the Abu Dhabi market, where he supports the firm’s strategic expansion into the emirate.
Director of Leasing
In his role as Director of Leasing, Henry operates across Sweid & Sweid’s live and upcoming project portfolio in the UAE, covering office, retail, and logistics assets. He is responsible for shaping and executing leasing strategies, engaging with tenants, and supporting the commercial performance of projects from early planning through to full occupancy.
Henry brings over a decade of real estate experience across the UK and the UAE. Prior to joining Sweid & Sweid, he served as Director of Leasing for a major government developer, overseeing the leasing strategy for a flagship Grade A mixed-use project in Dubai.
Henry holds a Bachelor of Science in Geography from the University of Nottingham and a Master of Science in Real Estate from Northumbria University.
Design Manager
As Design Manager, Djordje oversees every stage of the design process, from early concept development through to successful project completion. With over a decade of international experience, he has led high-profile architectural projects across Europe and the UAE, ensuring quality and design integrity at every step.
Holding a Master of Architecture from the University of Novi Sad in Serbia, Djordje brings a deep understanding of both creative and technical aspects of the built environment. Passionate about good design, he leverages research and development to deliver solutions that drive meaningful change.
Project Manager
With a strong foundation in both pre- and post-contract realms, Johnny plays a pivotal role as Project Manager in delivering Sweid & Sweid’s assets under construction. He ensures that projects are executed safely, on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards throughout the project lifecycle.
Johnny has a proven track record in managing high profile developments across the Middle East and the United Kingdom. His extensive experience in overseeing complex construction programmes provides Sweid & Sweid’s clients and stakeholders with the assurance that each project will be executed with precision, discipline, and attention to detail.
He holds a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Construction Management from Nottingham Trent University in the United Kingdom.
Head of Legal
Emilio Galvan works closely with management in overseeing legal strategy, corporate governance, and transaction execution across Sweid & Sweid’s investment portfolio. He plays a key role in optimizing transaction frameworks and mitigating risk to support long-term growth and operational excellence.
With over a decade of experience in corporate and commercial transactions, Emilio has worked at leading international law firms, including Allen & Overy, DWF, and Baker McKenzie, advising on high-value, complex deals. Before joining Sweid & Sweid, he served as Legal Counsel at Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, where he advised on strategic projects, economic acceleration initiatives, and regulatory matters shaping the Emirate’s global positioning.
Emilio holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Law and a Diploma in International Legal Studies from Universidad Pontificia Comillas (ICADE) in Madrid as well as a Master’s Degree in Law and Legal Practice from UNED. Emilio is a qualified lawyer.
Senior Designer
In his role as Senior Designer at Sweid & Sweid, Adarsh is responsible for shaping the company’s visual identity and creative direction. With a Master’s Degree in Graphic Design from Florence Design Academy and over a decade of industry experience, he brings a solid foundation of knowledge and expertise to his position. Adarsh focuses on developing and implementing visual strategies that align with and enhance the Sweid & Sweid brand, ensuring consistency across all channels.
Development Manager
In her role as Development Manager, Elena is responsible for overseeing the entire development process, from concept design to handover. Her role encompasses managing consultants, guiding the design process, evaluating tenders and technical data, resolving constraints, and ensuring program alignment. She also manages budgets and tenant requirements.
With over 12 years of experience in the UAE, Elena brings specialized expertise in contracting, particularly in interiors, architectural envelopes, MEP, and structural coordination. She is a qualified architect with an Honours Degree in Architectural Science from Dublin University of Technology.
Financial Controller
With over 15 years of experience in the GCC in both the finance and real estate sectors, Soumya oversees the organization’s accounting and financial operations. Her responsibilities include budgeting, forecasting, taxation, financial reporting in compliance with IFRS standards, and auditing. She also manages relationships with government authorities and banking institutions, ensuring full compliance. A key aspect of her role is leading the company’s digitization initiatives, focusing on automation to increase efficiency.
Soumya is a Chartered Accountant and a licensed member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. She also holds certifications from the Institute of Internal Auditors (CIA) and the Corporate Finance Institute (FMVA).
Financial Controller
With over 15 years of experience in the GCC in both the finance and real estate sectors, Soumya oversees the organization’s accounting and financial operations. Her responsibilities include budgeting, forecasting, taxation, financial reporting in compliance with IFRS standards, and auditing. She also manages relationships with government authorities and banking institutions, ensuring full compliance. A key aspect of her role is leading the company’s digitization initiatives, focusing on automation to increase efficiency.
Soumya is a Chartered Accountant and a licensed member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. She also holds certifications from the Institute of Internal Auditors (CIA) and the Corporate Finance Institute (FMVA).
Strategic Advisor
Hisham Farouk is the CEO of Grant Thornton UAE and has been part of the profession for over 20 years. Through his exemplary leadership, he played a key role in transforming Grant Thornton into one of the leading professional service firms in the UAE. Hisham has completed a two-term period as a member of the Board of Governors at Grant Thornton International and was a founding member of Technology and Innovation Committee at Grant Thornton International.
He is well-known across the region for leading high-profile advisory engagements for some of the largest international conglomerates and local groups across varied sectors. As a passionate advocate of innovation, entrepreneurship and female empowerment, Hisham has played a pivotal role in shaping the future talent in the region as well as supported some of the path-breaking start-up ventures in the Middle East region by way of multiple Board memberships and mentorships.
Hisham is a Harvard Business School alumni and holds the globally accredited FT Non-Executive Director Diploma covering all aspects of the role of a non-executive director to maximise shareholder value. Hisham Farouk brings his extensive expertise to Sweid & Sweid as a Strategic Advisor, offering critical industry-specific insights that help drive the company’s strategic planning and decisions.
Strategic Advisor
Abdulla Saeed Juma Al Naboodah is a distinguished figure in the UAE business community, serving as a Board Member at the Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group and Chairman of Al Naboodah Investments. The Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group, one of the UAE’s oldest family conglomerates, has a rich history spanning over 60 years and boasts a diverse portfolio of products and services. Abdulla Al Naboodah is also the Chairman of TALG (The Arabian Luxury Group), a premier lifestyle luxury retail group.
In 2007, Abdulla Al Naboodah founded Phoenix Capital, a private investment vehicle established as a multi-asset class investment company, with interests ranging from private equity and venture capital to real estate and sports investments. His extensive experience also includes serving on the boards of prestigious organizations such as the Dubai Chamber, Commercial Bank of Dubai, Al Rawabi, Oman Insurance, Takaful Insurance, and Mawarid Finance. As a strategic advisor to Sweid & Sweid, Abdulla Al Naboodah brings invaluable insights, leveraging his vast experience to drive strategic growth for the company.
Assistant Development Manager
In her role as Assistant Development Manager, Adeline Hooper is tasked with managing the development process from initial concept design to final handover. Her duties encompass overseeing the day-to-day management of design processes, coordinating with consultants, and streamlining tendering procedures across Sweid & Sweid’s extensive portfolio.
With a Masters in Property Development from the University of Technology Sydney, and a wealth of experience, Adeline brings a strong foundation to her new position. Transitioning from a background in design management, she now immerses herself in the intricacies of real estate development, finding fulfillment in actively participating in the entire lifecycle of building and managing development projects.
Senior Graphic Designer
In her role as Senior Graphic Designer, Valonia plays a pivotal role in driving the marketing and communication initiatives at Sweid & Sweid. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication and an eight-year track record, Valonia excels in creative design and strategic social content planning. She is also responsible for designing and producing all corporate communication and collateral and ensuring they are consistent with Sweid & Sweid’s brand guidelines.
Valonia’s blend of creativity and digital marketing expertise is pivotal in crafting visually compelling and effective communication.
Design Manager
Souad is a valuable member of the Sweid & Sweid Development team, serving as a skilled Design Manager. With over 19 years of experience in managing architectural projects in the UAE and wider Middle East region, she has established herself as an accomplished Architect. Souad’s expertise spans across all stages of design, ranging from Pre-Concept through to Detailed Design and Tendering. Her diverse portfolio includes successful projects in the residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors, where she has played a pivotal role in delivering numerous high-end developments.
As a Design Manager, Souad demonstrates a keen understanding of cost control, drawing production, and project coordination. She works closely with the Director of Development, Director of Construction, and Managing Partner to uphold Sweid &Sweid’s distinctive design principles, ensuring that projects align with the company’s vision.
Construction Manager
Moayad assists in managing projects for Sweid & Sweid, providing oversight on the development schedules and budgets, while ensuring the Sweid & Sweid quality and standards are constantly maintained.
With more than 10 years’ experience as a site engineer, Moayad has helped deliver numerous projects across the region. He has a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, and a Master of Science in Construction Project Management from Heriot University in Dubai.
Investment and Development Associate – Americas
Juan is responsible for analyzing development and investment opportunities in the United States. He works closely with the senior management by providing detailed market research, financial analysis, reporting, and continuously offers valuable insight for strategic and investment decisions. Juan has a Master’s of Science in Real Estate Development from Columbia University and a degree in Architecture from Monterrey Institute of Technology.
Director of Human Capital and Administration
Alaa is the Director of Human Capital & Administration at Sweid & Sweid, where he leads the firm’s human capital strategies, government relations, and policies & procedures. He works closely with senior leadership to ensure these functions are strictly with the vision and mission of the business, focusing on strategic talent development, performance management, and the executive hiring process. Alaa has an International Diploma in Business Administration from Oxford International Academy. Additionally, he holds a Certified Human Resource Management Professional (CHRMP) certification, issued by the UAE Knowledge and Human Development Authority and the globally recognized London Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This certification equips him with advanced skills in HR management, strategic HR planning, and best practices in the industry.
Accounts Manager
Prashant is the Accounts Manager at Sweid & Sweid, overseeing and managing all areas of Sweid & Sweid’s finances, in addition to providing strategic analysis for the senior management team to help determine project success, company profitability and future development opportunities.
He has more than 20 years’ experience in the world of finance and accounting, and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce from the University of Mumbai in India.
Director of Business Development
In his role as Director of Business Development, Arjun provides market research, financial modeling, reporting, and other support functions for all Sweid & Sweid projects and investments. He takes responsibility for underwriting, structuring, and managing real estate investments in the UAE and the US and provides valuable insight for strategic and investment decisions.
He works closely with the senior management to provide due diligence and key market data relating to prospective investment and development opportunities, playing a vital role in the effective structuring of projects – conducting pre-development exercises such as due diligence, planning, budgeting, reporting, financial analysis, consultant oversight, and coordination. Arjun has a Masters of Science in Real Estate Development from Columbia University.
Director of Marketing and CSR
In her role as Marketing and CSR Director, Rawa oversees the development, implementation and execution of marketing plans for the organization. In addition, she is also responsible for raising awareness of the organization’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility and mapping out current and future programs in line with this commitment. Rawa has a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from McGill University in Montreal.
Director of Property Management
Anastasia oversees the performance quality of all Sweid & Sweid-owned properties under management. Reporting directly to the Managing Partner, she establishes and directs all sales and leasing procedures, facilities management functions, including all required activities to ensure Sweid & Sweid properties retain their long-term value and performance.
Key elements of her role include conducting feasibility studies, business plans and market research to support the business by making recommendations for future property solutions in line with Sweid & Sweid’s overall strategy.
Director Of Legal
In her role as the Director of Legal at Sweid & Sweid, Shahrzad is responsible for the company’s legal, regulatory, and corporate governance affairs. As a seasoned common law qualified lawyer with over fifteen years of combined in-house and private practice experience, she specializes in private equity, projects, banking and finance, and financial services.
Prior to joining Sweid & Sweid, Shahrzad was Head of Legal for a financial services firm operating in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of British Columbia, complemented by a Juris Doctor degree and a Bachelor of Civil Law degree from McGill University – Faculty of Law. She is duly admitted to practice in the State of New York and in the Canadian province of Ontario.
Director Of Construction
As Sweid & Sweid’s Director of Construction, David is tasked with overseeing and managing all facets of construction and delivery on site – ensuring Sweid & Sweid standards are continued to be upheld. Integral components of this role include cost management, contractor and consultant management, and client representation. Drawing on his contracting background, David is able to drive projects forward, making certain that all parties have the information, support and motivation to achieve the quality demanded by Sweid & Sweid.
David has extensive experience in the delivery of high-end projects throughout Europe, the Middle East and Asia, including a series of five-star hospitality developments, a university campus, medical facility and a number of embassies. His outstanding track record and knowledge provides Sweid & Sweid’s clients and investors with the reassurance that the finished product will be delivered to the quality and standard expected.
Director of Investment and Development – Americas
Drawing from a wealth of expertise in the US real estate market, Brook is entrusted with the role of overseeing Sweid & Sweid America’s development pipeline. His responsibilities extend to identifying new project opportunities and managing their progress through construction. Brook also monitors project performance closely and nurtures strong relationships with local operators, ensuring seamless execution.
With a proven track record in both the hospitality and multifamily sectors, Brook is seen as a trusted industry leader. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Cornell School of Hotel Administration and a Master of Professional Studies degree from the Cornell Program in Real Estate. Actively engaged in the professional community, he is a valued member of the Urban Land Institute and the Cornell Real Estate Council, where he contributes to the advancement of industry knowledge and best practices.
Director Of Development
In her role as Director of Development, Vicki takes charge of managing the development process from concept design through to handover. Facets of her role include managing the complete design process, overseeing consultants, tracking budgets, and orchestrating the tendering procedures across numerous projects within the Sweid & Sweid portfolio.
Vicki also takes responsibility for administrating contractual agreements pre and post-handover, which include Agreements for Lease and Lease Agreements for multinational clients. She graduated with honors from Queensland University of Technology in Australia with a double degree in Architecture and the Built Environment.
Director of Finance
Gokul Krishnan brings over 25 years of financial expertise to Sweid & Sweid, where he oversees the company’s financial strategy and operations. As Director of Finance, he ensures compliance with international financial standards (IAS and IFRS), formulates cost optimization strategies, manages budgets, and provides strategic financial insights to support the company’s objectives. His role also includes treasury management, business performance evaluation, and identifying opportunities for acquisitions and joint ventures.
A Chartered Accountant and Cost and Management Accountant, Gokul holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Bharathidasan University, India. His comprehensive financial experience drives Sweid & Sweid’s strategic growth and ensures the implementation of best-in-class practices.
Senior Funds Operations and Accounting Manager
In his role as Senior Funds Operations and Accounting Manager, Bilal Izat is a senior member of the Funds and Investments Operations team, playing a critical role in financial operations and investor relations. With 18 years of experience in fund administration and audit across multiple jurisdictions, Bilal brings deep expertise in fund structures and operational efficiency.
He previously served as Vice President of Fund Services at Maples Group, where he demonstrated a strong understanding of fund structures, regulatory compliance, and client service excellence. Prior to that, he held key roles at Mitsubishi Fund Services, BDO, and Ernst & Young, gaining extensive experience in fund accounting, financial reporting, and audit.
Strategic Advisor
Alistair McMillan has a wealth of experience in both property and business development, investments, entrepreneurship, and, as the Managing Partner and Owner of renowned international architecture firm, Brewer Smith Brewer Group (BSBG), he has a passion for the design and delivery of high-quality buildings.
Working closely with the Managing Partner, Alistair leverages his extensive knowledge of property development and portfolio management, built up over a period of 35 years, to ensure Sweid & Sweid continues to provide value to investors through projects and ventures. In addition, a key area of focus for Alistair is to uncover new opportunities in the U.S., helping to build the brand reputation and contribute to the emergence of Sweid & Sweid as a trusted and respected developer in the market.
Chief Operating Officer
In his role as Chief Operating Officer, Nazareth assists the Managing Partner in the overall direction and strategy of Sweid & Sweid and oversees the operations of the group. Nazareth has extensive experience in P&L management, mergers and acquisitions, and operations management acquired through his role as COO for a prominent Abu Dhabi family office and through his senior level corporate exposure at Fortune 500 corporations including Saint-Gobain and Duravit. Nazareth holds an MBA from London Business School and a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Concordia University in Montreal, Canada.
Chairman
Mohannad Sweid is the founder of DEPA, one of the world’s premier interior contracting companies and a global top-five industry leader. He began his career leading and managing top interior consulting and interior contracting companies in the United States and Middle East. In 1996, Mohanned Sweid established DEPA Interiors, which through numerous acquisitions and partnership became part of DEPA United Group. Under his leadership, DEPA grew to employ over 10,000 people in fifteen countries and is renowned today for excellence in delivering large-scale, landmark projects. With his rich experience and expertise, he plays an integral role in guiding Sweid & Sweid through his position as Chairman.
Founder, Managing Partner
With a passion for structure and design, Maher Sweid laid the foundation for his professional career when he received a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Syracuse University in New York. From there, he joined DEPA, one of the world’s premier interior contracting companies and a global top-five industry leader, honing his skills in all aspects of construction – from the drawing board to site management. In 2006, Maher Sweid graduated with honors from Columbia University, New York, with a Master of Science in Real Estate Development. Having developed both a theoretical and practical understanding of the real estate industry, he founded Sweid & Sweid and has been successfully leading the company as Managing Partner since 2006.
