In a significant milestone for Dubai real estate, Drake and Scull International (DSI) is venturing into commercial real estate development. With a legacy spanning 135 years, this contracting specialist is embracing a new chapter by exploring innovative opportunities within a booming market. Through this strategic move, DSI aims to diversify its offerings and strengthen its position in the competitive landscape of Dubai real estate.
Dubai’s Majan Project Marks DSI’s Debut
The Majan project signifies DSI’s first foray into property development, a deliberate strategy to broaden its portfolio while capitalizing on the dynamic Dubai real estate sector. This bold initiative follows the acquisition of a prime site in Majan, where DSI plans to construct a comprehensive mixed-use commercial development.
By taking control of every stage of the development process—from land acquisition to final delivery—DSI is positioned to enhance its value proposition. Leveraging decades of construction expertise, the company is committed to creating premium commercial environments that meet modern demands.
Occupying an impressive footprint, the Majan development will encompass over 156,000 square feet of built-up area, including more than 10,000 square feet dedicated to high-end retail space on the ground floor and over 67,000 square feet allocated for office use across nine floors. Additionally, the project will feature a three-level podium for parking, enhancing convenience for tenants and visitors alike.
Muin El Saleh, CEO of DSI, emphasized the importance of this transition by stating, “For years, DSI has been synonymous with engineering excellence and large-scale construction. Today, we take a transformative leap forward by entering the development space, a natural progression that allows us to leverage our deep industry knowledge while creating lasting assets.” He further noted, “This project is more than just a building; it is a testament to our resilience and ambition to evolve with the market.”
El Saleh also remarked on how diversifying into development would enable DSI to secure new revenue streams, fortifying its brand while contributing to Dubai’s ongoing urban evolution. He highlighted the company’s advantage in executing complex projects, referencing their understanding of construction intricacies, cost efficiency, and quality control—factors that will all play crucial roles in distinguishing their developments within the vibrant Dubai real estate environment.
To bring this vision to life, DSI has enlisted the expertise of Bel-Yoahah Architectural and Engineering Consultants for design and supervision. With soil investigations and topographic surveys completed, DSI is in the process of finalizing construction approvals. The development is expected to reach completion by the end of 2026, marking a noteworthy evolution in the company’s trajectory and its impact on the Dubai real estate market.