Ashraf Samy Botros leads Al Shafar United (ASU) as its managing director, steering one of Dubai’s top electro-mechanical engineering firms toward new heights. With over 40 years in the industry, Botros shapes the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) sector across the UAE and the GCC. He drives ASU’s growth, focusing on quality, innovation, and timely delivery. Under his guidance, the company completes landmark projects that define Dubai’s skyline and infrastructure. Botros’s vision aligns with the region’s rapid development, making him a key figure in the construction world.
Rise in the Industry
Ashraf Samy Botros began his journey in the construction field decades ago, building expertise in MEP services. He joined the Al Shafar Group, where he quickly rose through the ranks. By the time ASU became an independent entity in 2007—evolving from a department established in 1989 within Al Shafar General Contracting—Botros was ready to take the helm.
He navigated the challenges of a competitive market, emphasizing teamwork and ethical practices. Botros often credits his success to a strong team and a commitment to excellence. “I have good staff who support me and the company,” he once said in an interview, highlighting how he fosters a collaborative environment. His approach blends technical know-how with strategic planning, allowing ASU to expand beyond Dubai into projects in Egypt and other GCC areas.
Leadership at Al Shafar United
As managing director, Botros transforms ASU into a powerhouse. The company now employs over 2,700 people, including 398 MEP engineers—32 of whom are women—reflecting his push for diversity and inclusion. He prioritizes safety, aiming for a “Zero Accident” workplace, and upholds values like openness, flexibility, and innovation.
Botros guides ASU through economic shifts, such as the oil price fluctuations, by diversifying services. In 2013, he secured Dubai Civil Defence approval for firefighting installations, which cut costs and boosted efficiency—firefighting makes up about 25% of MEP expenses. This move helped ASU handle more in-house work, reducing reliance on subcontractors.
Financially, Ashraf Samy Botros ensures stability. In 2016, ASU generated $108.9 million in revenue, with projections in 2019 showing growth from $218 million to $245 million. He balances work with the parent company Al Shafar General Contracting—aiming for a 50-50 split with external clients—and expands maintenance services for steady income. Botros’s leadership earns recognition: in 2022, Construction Business News Middle East ranked him number one in the MEP Power 25, celebrating his impact on the sector.
Notable Projects
Ashraf Samy Botros leads ASU’s involvement in landmark projects reflecting Dubai’s ambitions. Highlights include the LEED-certified Expo 2020 Sustainability Pavilion, where ASU provided advanced energy-efficient MEP systems, and the Expo Link Route 2020 for enhanced connectivity. In healthcare, ASU completed Mediclinic Parkview Hospital with cutting-edge electrical and plumbing systems and upgraded Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 1 MEP infrastructure for high passenger capacity.
Cultural and educational sites like the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library and Etihad Museum benefited from ASU’s precise electromechanical work. Entertainment projects such as Dubai Arena and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi showcase ASU’s sustainable lighting, HVAC, and safety systems. Educational expansions at Sabis International School underline ASU’s focus on future generations.
Residential and mixed-use developments, including Emaar’s Boulevard Point and Meraas’ Bluewaters, feature luxurious, efficient installations by ASU. Botros also extends ASU’s expertise to Egypt through partnerships with Emaar and Majid Al Futtaim. Under his leadership, ASU has successfully completed over 100 projects emphasizing quality and budget control.
Contributions and Achievements
Botros contributes beyond projects, advocating for sustainability and quality in the MEP field. He pushes for LEED certifications, aligning with the UAE’s green building goals. His focus on training labour forces ensures skilled execution, while timely payments to suppliers build trust.
Industry accolades affirm his status. Besides the 2022 top ranking, Botros appeared in MEP Middle East’s Power Lists and Construction Week’s Power 100, recognizing his influence. He shares insights in outlets like Construction Business News, predicting steady growth fueled by infrastructure investments. “The construction industry will provide better opportunities,” he forecasted in 2017, a view that proved accurate.
Ashraf Samy Botros envisions ASU as a top-five MEP contractor in Dubai, expanding across the GCC. He balances ambition with ethics, rewarding creativity and maintaining competitiveness.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Botros remains optimistic. He sees opportunities in maintenance contracts and collaborations, even amid regional slowdowns. Dubai’s diversification, he believes, shields the sector: “The economy will rise 2.8 to 4%, fueled by construction growth.” His plan includes hiring more talent—up to 700 additional workers—and bidding on mega-events.
Personally, Botros embodies dedication, often working closely with teams to solve challenges. While he keeps his private life low-key, his professional passion shines through.
Ashraf Samy Botros exemplifies leadership in the Middle East’s construction landscape. Through Al Shafar United, he delivers projects that elevate standards and drive progress. From sustainable pavilions to bustling airports, his work leaves a lasting mark on Dubai and beyond. As the region evolves, Botros continues to innovate, ensuring ASU thrives in a dynamic market. His story inspires aspiring engineers, proving that vision, teamwork, and perseverance build enduring success.
