H.E. Juma Al Majid stands as a towering figure in the Middle East‘s business landscape. He founded the Juma Al Majid Holding Group in 1950, transforming it into a powerhouse conglomerate that spans multiple industries. Today, the group employs over 7,500 people across more than 35 companies, with a strong presence in the UAE and the GCC. While the group excels in automotive, real estate, consumer goods, and MEP services, it delivers innovative solutions for complex construction projects. Juma Al Majid’s journey inspires many, blending sharp business acumen with a deep commitment to community upliftment.
H.E. Juma Al Majid grew up in a modest neighborhood in Dubai during a time when the region relied heavily on pearling and trade. As a young boy, he joined his father on summer diving expeditions, learning the values of hard work and resilience from the sea. By his early twenties, Juma Al Majid spotted opportunities in the emerging UAE economy. In 1950, he launched his first trading company, starting small but dreaming big. He focused on importing goods and building reliable partnerships, always putting customers first.
His early ventures laid the groundwork for diversification. By 1958, he expanded into tires and batteries, distributing brands like Yokohama. In 1962, he entered the fast-moving consumer goods sector with Gulf Trading & Refrigerating Co. LLC. These steps reflected his knack for adapting to market needs. Juma Al Majid’s hands-on approach—visiting sites, negotiating deals, and mentoring employees—fueled steady growth. He held key roles, such as Vice Chairman of the UAE Central Bank and Director of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, which honed his leadership skills and connected him to influential networks.
Building a Business Empire
H.E. Juma Al Majid propelled his group forward by embracing innovation and global alliances. The conglomerate now operates in automotive, heavy equipment, travel, real estate, and contracting. He established General Navigation & Commerce Co. (GENAVCO) in 1967 to supply construction equipment, marking an entry into infrastructure support. Over the decades, the group grew to include 150 branches across the region, partnering with giants like Hyundai, Kia, and Trane.
Juma Al Majid’s vision emphasized sustainability and excellence. He invested in employee training and modern technology, ensuring the group stayed ahead in a competitive market. Today, under his chairmanship and the guidance of leaders like Vice Chairman Khalid Al Majid and CEO Tarig Shalabi, the group continues to thrive. It recently implemented cloud-based systems like Oracle Fusion ERP to streamline operations, showing Juma Al Majid’s forward-thinking mindset even in his nineties.
Pioneering MEP Services in the Middle East
H.E. Juma Al Majid recognized the booming construction sector in the UAE and positioned his group as a leader in MEP services. In 1971, he founded Al Arabia Electro Mechanical LLC, a cornerstone of the group’s contracting division. This company offers end-to-end MEP solutions, from design and supply to installation, testing, commissioning, and maintenance. Al Arabia handles everything: HVAC systems, electrical wiring, plumbing, fire protection, and integrated building management.
The firm stands out for its commitment to quality and safety. It holds ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 certifications, ensuring projects meet international standards. Juma Al Majid’s team collaborates with top consultants and contractors, delivering reliable services for diverse sectors like healthcare, hospitality, and education. Another key entity, Leader Electromechanical Works LLC, complements Al Arabia by specializing in interior fit-outs and joinery alongside MEP works. Together, they tackle large-scale projects, emphasizing efficiency and innovation. Juma Al Majid’s oversight ensures these divisions uphold his values, fostering long-term client relationships and contributing to the UAE’s skyline.
Notable Projects and Achievements
H.E. Juma Al Majid’s MEP expertise shines through in landmark projects that define modern Dubai. Leader Electromechanical, for instance, secured contracts for SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, a 75-storey marvel at Marasi Drive. Here, the team installed advanced MEP systems and joinery, creating luxurious branded apartments with stunning views.
In the Opera District, Act One | Act Two towers feature premium apartments inspired by the Dubai Fountain. Juma Al Majid’s engineers handled MEP installations, ensuring seamless luxury living. The Opera Grand Tower, a 71-storey icon, benefited from their joinery and electrical works, housing 882 upscale residences.
Downtown Views II, adjacent to the Dubai Mall, showcases the group’s prowess in high-rise MEP. They integrated smart plumbing and HVAC for energy efficiency. The Royal Atlantis Dubai, with its dramatic architecture and ocean vistas, relied on comprehensive MEP services for its 46 floors of opulence.
Seven Palm’s dual towers—a luxury hotel and residences—saw Juma Al Majid’s team manage interior fit-outs, including furniture and fixtures, alongside MEP. Finally, Marsa Al Arab, a 408-room five-star hotel on a reclaimed peninsula near Burj Al Arab, featured their joinery and ID packages, elevating Dubai’s tourism.
These projects, all progressing on schedule, highlight the group’s ability to deliver complex, high-profile works. Juma Al Majid’s companies have executed MEP for hospitals, malls, and schools, earning nominations from global clients and boosting the region’s infrastructure.
Philanthropic Endeavors and Legacy
Beyond business, Juma Al Majid dedicates himself to giving back. He founded the College of Islamic and Arabic Studies and the National Charity School, providing free education to thousands. In 1989, he established the Juma Al Majid Centre for Culture & Heritage, a world-class repository preserving Middle Eastern artifacts.
His awards reflect this impact: from the King Faisal International Prize for Service to Islam in 1999 to the Mohammed bin Rashid Knowledge Award in 2024. As Chairman of Beit Al Khair Society, he supports humanitarian causes globally. Juma Al Majid’s legacy endures through his family’s involvement and the group’s ongoing contributions.
H.E. Juma Al Majid embodies the spirit of perseverance and innovation. From humble beginnings to leading a MEP powerhouse, he has shaped the Middle East’s future while touching countless lives. His story reminds us that true success lies in building not just companies, but communities.
