Home Integrator
A VISION BUILT ON DETAIL
Exclusive Interview with Mr. Ravi Menon, Chairman of Sobha Group and Mr. Anuj Jain, Chief Executive Officer, Sobha Furniture.
Ravi, as the chairman of Sobha Group and the titan in the real estate market, can you share your journey and experience with us and how has it been for you so far?
For me, the journey has been both deeply personal and professionally gratifying. Although I relocated to Dubai only three years back, Sobha Group’s foundation in the UAE was laid long before my move. Since then, particularly post-2020, it has been nothing short of exceptional. Year on year, our business has seen sustained growth and our sales performance is tracking ahead well, cementing our vision of becoming a global benchmark for world-class real estate.
We also recently expanded into Umm Al Quwain with two new projects and are preparing to enter the Abu Dhabi market as part of our long-term strategy to build a diversified UAE-wide portfolio valued at approximately USD8 billion. Overall, it has been an extraordinary journey, but for Sobha Group, this is just the beginning.
How are you competing with other brands in the market, especially when it comes to UAE? And what makes you one step ahead?
At Sobha, we stand out in the market because of our ‘Backward Integration’ model. Our model is fundamentally distinct because we are one of the very few developers globally who have a fully backward integrated model, which is extremely rare in our industry, where most developers limit themselves to land acquisition, sales, and outsourced execution. This means that from concept to design to final delivery, every stage is managed in-house, ensuring that all projects are integrated with the highest standards of quality that Sobha Group is known for. This also helps us reduce dependencies on external suppliers, providing us with stronger control over quality, delivery timelines, and execution.
What also makes us unique is the culture we have built over the decades. The Group is driven by my father’s legacy and passion for design, passion for construction, and passion for continuous improvement. The moment we complete a project; we are already thinking about how we can raise the benchmark for the next one. That mindset keeps the entire organization’s future focused.
Now with Sobha Furniture, this entire project marks a new milestone. What does this launch mean for the brand? And for Sobha Realty as a whole?
Sobha Furniture is not the beginning of something new; it is the return to where it all began. In fact, 50 years ago, when my father started his entrepreneurial journey, it started with interior decoration. For him, he has always been extremely passionate about the art of details and accuracy, within a millimetre precision.
From the outset, our philosophy has always been simple – to invest in the best of machinery, technology, and talent. This mix has allowed us to maintain a standard of quality that is non-negotiable in our business. We understand that a home is a very personal space and when we decided to launch Sobha Furniture, we were very mindful of the pinch points that customers face and wanted to create a business that sets a new benchmark for large-scale, design-led furniture manufacturing — Made in the UAE, for the world.
There has long been a gap between design ambition and furniture manufacturing capability in this region, and Sobha Furniture shall be bridging that gap. What this launch ultimately signifies is the formalization of something that has always been intrinsic to Sobha Group: design excellence, engineering precision, and a culture of co-creation. With ‘The Gallery’ and our expanded manufacturing capabilities, we now have a space where clients can experience our craft firsthand, collaborate with our teams, and shape pieces that reflect their exact vision.
Our business approach follows the same philosophy to build a unique fully integrated ecosystem that is capable of handling everything under one roof. And furniture is also part of that. When I say furniture, the cabinets, the kitchen cabinets, the wardrobes, the bathrooms, everything. So, every apartment that we have delivered in this market reflects these capabilities.
Mr. Anuj Jain, Chief Executive Officer, Sobha Furniture Insights:

Furniture has always been part of the game, and we’re just giving light to the vision of what Mr. PNC Menon has. So right now, this is a B2B co-creating space. We’ll soon be catering to B2C audience as well.
We will have a lot of offerings for the end customer as well as the B2B partners and developers and designers in the upcoming coming years.
So Mr. Anuj, how does The Gallery embody the direction and the future of Sobha Furniture as a brand, especially when it comes to showcasing the replica projects here that is showcased, the walk-in closets and materials and finishings?
The Gallery is a preview into what our vision for Sobha Furniture is. We did not want to create a traditional setup, which is why we have designed this as a working space for architects, interior designers, developers, and project partners rather than just a retail showroom. Every space has been thoughtfully curated to embody our outlook to connect, collaborate, and co-create with the community and showcases our passion for being partners from start to finish.
Designed as fully functional spaces, each of our mock-up areas serve a specific purpose and gives customers a deep insight into our design concepts, materials, finishes, and overall approach to furniture manufacturing. This is the first step to fulfilling our mission to set the foundation of a new standard and deliver projects that will showcase the precision and exceptional quality that Sobha is known for.
Mr. Ravi, looking towards the future, let’s say in the next 20 years ahead, what plans are looking forward to?
The industry we work in is very dynamic; it pushes us every day to ensure that our long-term direction is clear. Sobha Furniture is a brand rooted in legacy – one that we envision to be Made in the UAE for the world. Setting up our foundation here has given us unparalleled access to infrastructure, connectivity, talent, and an overall ecosystem that has set us up for success on the scale we are aiming for.
One of our immediate priorities is the launch of our flagship factory in Dubai Industrial City. It is an enormous, 53,000 sqm facility that will house the best-in-class full automated machinery and will bring an integrated approach to furniture manufacturing with everything from foaming to cutting, stitching, framing and upholstery.
As part of our strategic expansion, we are looking to establish our presence in key international markets. In fact, we have already shortlisted three potential properties in the US market and are also exploring the potential of entering the Australian market. 20 years is a long time, but we are steadfast in our commitment of building on a scale with exceptional quality that has not been seen in the region before.
Home Integrator
PALAZZO TISSOLI PHASE 1 SOLD OUT; TISSOLI LAUNCHES PHASE 2 SALES AND APPOINTS GRID AS STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Tissoli, the luxury real estate collective renowned for crafting world-class living environments, has announced three major milestones for its AED 1.2 billion flagship development, Palazzo Tissoli. Following the rapid 100% sell-out of Phase 1, Tissoli has officially opened sales for Phase 2 and appointed GRID Properties as its Strategic Development Manager, reinforcing its commitment to delivering an architectural landmark of international calibre.
Palazzo Tissoli, the first residential development in Ras Al Khaimah to be designed by the iconic Italian design house Pininfarina, has quickly established itself as one of the most coveted addresses in the Northern Emirates. The rapid sell-out of Phase 1 underscores the massive demand for branded, high-design residences on Al Marjan Island’s prime waterfront.
Ensuring the project’s execution lives up to its ambitious vision, GRID has been appointed to oversee the delivery of Palazzo Tissoli with a focused and shared dedication to detail and quality as envisaged by Tissoli. Founded in 2019, GRID has rapidly grown into a powerhouse in the sector, with a portfolio exceeding $2.2 billion across 6.8 million square feet in the UAE and UK. Known for their philosophy of blending functionality with purpose, GRID’s appointment guarantees that the intricate Pininfarina design is translated seamlessly into reality, with a targeted completion by Q2 2028.
Pooja Rathore, COO of Tissoli, commented,“As we enter the execution phase and launch Phase 2, we’ve partnered with GRID, whose proven track record aligns perfectly with our commitment to excellence. The response from investors confirms that residents are seeking curated, meaningful living experiences. This collaboration is strategically planned to ensure Pininfarina’s ‘Italian DNA’ and Tissoli’s promise to create an elevated residential masterpiece is perfectly delivered from concept to completion. With GRID’s expertise in ideation, efficient and timely delivery, we are confident that this partnership will support us strategically in bringing this masterpiece to life.”
To accommodate the high demand from global buyers seeking an Italian-crafted lifestyle, Phase 2 offers a limited collection of fully furnished studios, and one- bedroom apartments featuring sweeping sea views and signature Pininfarina interiors. GRID views this partnership as a testament to their growing influence in the luxury sector.
Shreen R Gupta, Founder & CEO stated: “At GRID, we view ourselves as builders of legacies. Our philosophy is rooted in creating spaces where functionality and purpose merge to enhance the lives of residents. We are honored to be appointed as the Development Manager for Palazzo Tissoli. To work alongside Tissoli and a design legend like Pininfarina is a privilege, and we are committed to applying our expertise to ensure this project becomes a reality and is delivered in line with the vision set out by Tissoli and that sets a new benchmark for quality in Ras Al Khaimah.”
The project draws inspiration from the natural mosaic of Ras Al Khaimah’s dunes and sea, requiring a high level of technical expertise to execute Pininfarina’s signature aesthetic. Palazzo Tissoli features resort-style amenities including the Serenity Spa, Vitality Studio, a 24-hour Café, the sunset-facing Skyline Lounge, and the signature Casa del Sigaro. With Phase 1 sold out and Phase 2 now launched, the project is firmly on track to redefine the skyline of the emirate.
Home Integrator
NKEY ARCHITECTS ESTABLISHES GLOBAL HEADQUARTERS IN DUBAI FOLLOWING RAPID GROWTH IN THE MENA REGION
NKEY Architects, an international full-cycle architecture and design company, behind more than 500 residential and commercial projects across over 45 countries, has announced the relocation of its global headquarters to Dubai, marking a significant milestone in the firm’s next phase of growth. The move reflects the company’s expanding footprint across international markets and reinforces the UAE’s role as a strategic hub for global design, development, and innovation, at a time when the global architecture services market is projected to exceed $605 billion by 2033.
Founded in 2018, NKEY Architects provides architecture, interior design, and turnkey solutions across residential and commercial sectors. The company operates from offices in Dubai, the United States, Canada, and Ukraine, with projects spanning more than 45 countries.
The decision to establish Dubai as the company’s global headquarters follows sustained growth in the Middle East, which now accounts for approximately 80% of NKEY’s active client portfolio. Since 2022, the company has strategically shifted its development focus toward international markets, beginning with the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman, before expanding into the United States with projects delivered in Beverly Hills and Miami. This accelerated geographic growth, combined with more than 500 active projects globally, including over 300 in the UAE, underscored the need for a centralized headquarters capable of managing an increasingly complex, cross-border portfolio.
“For NKEY, architecture is a language through which people can gain a deeper understanding of themselves. Our philosophy, ‘NKEY. Unlock your inner self,’ reflects our mission to help clients — from families to progressive, forward-thinking young people — release internal limitations and unlock their personal and life potential through space. At NKEY, space is seen as an extension of identity — a dialogue between a person’s inner state and the external environment. Each project becomes a tool for transformation, where architecture and design support the lifestyle, values, and aspirations of young people, creating environments that foster growth, freedom, and a sense of authenticity. Importantly, we create unique projects or design solutions – every space is created uniquely to reflect the individual client,” said Natalia Melnyk, Founder of NKEY Architects.
The firm’s portfolio is centered on premium and ultra-luxury residential projects, large residential communities, and apartments, alongside select commercial developments across retail, hospitality, business centres, and mixed-use concepts. One of NKEY’s most ambitious current projects is the development of a large-scale shopping mall in Marrakech, Morocco, conceived as a landmark retail destination and involving parallel work across architecture, interiors, branding, and marketing strategy.
NKEY’s management structure is led by three partners, all members of the same family, reflecting the stability and long-term vision of a family-run business. Natalia Melnyk leads creative direction and brand development; Olexander Melnyk oversees operations, sales, and financial strategy; and Sergii Zholob manages engineering, architecture, procurement, and construction teams across international offices. This family-led structure enables NKEY Architects to maintain consistent standards while confidently expanding across regions.
With a growing team of over 100 professionals, NKEY Architects’ relocation to Dubai positions the firm at the centre of one of the world’s most dynamic real estate and design markets, aligned with the UAE’s long-term vision for sustainable growth.
Home Integrator
AYAT DEVELOPMENT BREAKS GROUND FOR AYAMI RESIDENCE IN WARSAN FIRST

Ayat Development, part of Ayat Group, has officially marked the Groundbreaking of Ayami Residence, a contemporary G+Podium+6 residential development in Warsan First. The ceremony signals the commencement of construction for the 376-unit project, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering thoughtfully designed, lifestyle-focused communities in emerging residential hubs across Dubai.
Scheduled for completion in 2028, Ayami Residence will introduce a curated mix of studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. The project is designed to meet the evolving needs of young professionals, couples and families seeking connectivity, comfort and premium amenities within an accessible and rapidly appreciating location.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Mr. Ahmed Salamah, CEO of Ayat Development, said: “Ayami Residence represents more than a new development, it symbolizes the next chapter in Ayat’s vision for refined community living. With every project, we aim to introduce signature lifestyle experiences in Dubai’s most promising and desirable locations.
Warsan First is a well-established community with strong infrastructure and seamless connectivity to Dubai’s key landmarks, making it an ideal location for sustainable growth. At Ayat Group, our vision has always gone beyond constructing buildings, we create spaces where families can grow, connect, and truly thrive.”
Strategic Location Advantage
Strategically positioned in Warsan First, the development benefits from strong infrastructure and seamless connectivity to Dubai’s key highways, retail hubs and essential services. The area continues to attract both end users and investors due to its affordability, long-term growth trajectory and well-integrated community environment.
Commenting on the significance of the project, Nasser Ali Alsomahi, Chairman of Ayat Group, added: “Ayami Residence is not just a new project launch, it is a reflection of the collective strength and long-term vision of Ayat Group. What truly sets us apart is our fully integrated ecosystem.
From development and construction to properties, trading, investment, and our factories, every entity works in synergy to ensure quality, efficiency, and complete control over standards and timelines. This unified strength allows us to contribute meaningfully to Dubai’s future landscape.”
Lifestyle Amenities
Ayami Residence is distinguished by an extensive range of lifestyle amenities rarely found within mid-rise developments. The project will feature two swimming pools, including a dedicated family and kids’ pool, as well as a rooftop adults-only pool designed as a private retreat with panoramic views. Additional family-focused amenities include a splash pad and a dedicated kids’ play area, creating a safe and engaging environment for younger residents.
Wellness and recreation form a core part of the development’s concept. Two fully equipped gyms will serve residents, complemented by a dedicated yoga room. The property will also include an on-site paddle court, an open-air cinema and designated BBQ areas designed to foster social interaction and strengthen community bonds.
Further details on Sales launches and construction timelines are expected to be announced later.
With construction now officially underway, Ayat Development reinforces its strategic expansion across high-growth districts in Dubai. Ayami Residence stands as a testament to the Group’s commitment to delivering quality-driven, amenity-rich communities that align with Dubai’s long-term urban growth strategy.
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