Sweid & Sweid is delighted to announce the arrival of Debbie Erlank as the firm’s new Financial Director. Ms. Erlank has been in Dubai for 14 years, during which time she headed up the finance department of Saffar Holdings. Commenting on
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).
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.
Senior Graphic Designer
In his role as Senior Graphic 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.
Human Capital & Administration Manager
Alaa is responsible for managing the Human Resources department at Sweid & Sweid. Key elements of his role include the development and implementation of Human Capital strategies, government relations, and policies & procedures, ensuring these are well aligned with the vision and mission of the business. Alaa works closely with the senior management team to formulate company training programs and oversees personnel development, performance reviews, and the 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.
Project Engineer
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.
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.
Director Of Development – Sweid & Sweid America
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.
Development Associate – Sweid & Sweid America
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 Finance
Debbie manages the Sweid & Sweid financial and accounts departments, taking responsibility for critical items including cost control, budgetary analysis, and payments. She reports directly to the Managing Partner, providing timely and accurate information, analyses, and reports, while advising on strategic decisions targeted at maximising profitability for the company and its investors.
A key focus for Debbie is the streamlining and optimization of the department in terms of procedure and output. This includes implementing best international practices of standards and procedures geared towards contributing to the long-term financial sustainability of Sweid & Sweid as a best-in-class developer.
Debbie has a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) in Accounting, and is a member of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants.
Director Of Business Development And Investor Relations
In his role as Business Development & Investor Relations Director, Wassim leads Sweid & Sweid’s business development strategy throughout the MENA region. His focus is on sourcing new investors for the firm’s growing real estate portfolio and institutionalising the investor relations process.
Wassim works alongside the existing Sweid & Sweid investor-base, as well as initiating new opportunities for raising capital for future projects. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the Middle East market spanning over twenty-five years with numerous multinational organizations.
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.
Associate Director of Investments
In his role as Associate Director – Investments, Arjun provides market research, financial modelling, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
