Khaled Sharbatly, Managing Director of Innovo MEP
Khaled Sharbatly stands out as a dynamic leader in the Middle East‘s construction and engineering sector. As the Managing Director of Innovo MEP, he drives the company forward with a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and technical expertise. Sharbatly’s journey reflects a commitment to sustainability and innovation, making him a key figure in transforming the built environment across the region. His hands-on approach inspires teams to push boundaries, ensuring projects meet and exceed expectations. At a young age, Sharbatly has already built a reputation for turning ambitious ideas into reality, fostering growth in one of the world’s most competitive markets.
Early Career and Entrepreneurial Roots
Sharbatly began his career as an ambitious entrepreneur with a passion for sustainability. He launched several successful start-ups in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt, focusing on renewable energy solutions. In 2018, he joined Desert Technologies as a Managing Partner, where he led business development and capital markets activities. As the founder and CEO of Desert Technologies, a solar energy company, Sharbatly championed clean energy projects that addressed environmental challenges in the Middle East. His work extended to board roles in several renewable energy firms, where he advocated for green practices long before they became industry standards.
This foundation in renewables shaped Sharbatly’s worldview. He saw opportunities where others saw obstacles, using technology to create efficient, eco-friendly systems. Transitioning to Innovo MEP, part of the broader Innovo Group, allowed him to apply these insights on a larger scale. Innovo Group, headquartered in London with offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and beyond, specializes in design, engineering, and construction for major real estate projects. Sharbatly’s early experiences equipped him to lead Innovo MEP, which handles mechanical, electrical, and plumbing services for complex developments.
Leadership at Innovo MEP
Under Sharbatly’s guidance, Innovo MEP has grown into a pioneer in the MEP industry. He emphasizes integrating cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices, redefining how projects operate. The company offers comprehensive services, including HVAC systems, electrical installations, plumbing, drainage, and fire protection. Sharbatly fosters a culture of innovation, investing in digital tools like AI-driven systems and intelligent building solutions to streamline operations and enhance coordination.
His leadership has driven notable financial growth for Innovo MEP, strengthening its position in the market. Sharbatly signed key partnerships, such as the agreement with Siemens for smart infrastructure advancements in the UAE. Another collaboration with Meinhardt MENA and Schneider Electric focuses on sustainable energy practices, promoting green building techniques across projects. These alliances reflect Sharbatly’s proactive style—he actively seeks out partners who share his vision for a greener future.
Notable Projects
Sharbatly has overseen a portfolio of high-profile projects that showcase Innovo MEP’s expertise. One standout is Six Senses The Palm, a luxury resort in Dubai aiming for LEED Silver certification. Here, Innovo MEP integrated sustainable MEP systems, including energy-efficient HVAC and solar-integrated designs, to create an eco-luxury experience. The project highlights Sharbatly’s push for green innovation, blending comfort with environmental responsibility.
Another key endeavor is the Louvre Abu Dhabi Residences, where Innovo MEP handled intricate electrical and plumbing networks for this cultural landmark’s residential component. Sharbatly’s team ensured seamless integration of modern systems while preserving the site’s artistic heritage. In Saadiyat Lagoons, Innovo served as the main contractor for Package 3, delivering MEP solutions for a sustainable community development in Abu Dhabi. This project involved advanced infrastructure, demonstrating the company’s ability to manage large-scale urban transformations.
Jebel Ali Village stands as a testament to safety and efficiency under Sharbatly’s watch. As the project neared completion, Innovo achieved a remarkable 12 million man-hours without incidents, thanks to rigorous safety protocols and innovative planning. Other notable works include St. Regis Residences and ORLA Infinity, both high-rise luxury developments in Dubai where MEP systems enhanced resident comfort and energy savings. Sharbatly’s involvement in these projects underscores his knack for delivering on time and within budget, often exceeding client expectations.
Achievements and Awards
Sharbatly’s efforts have earned widespread recognition. In 2024, he topped the CBNME MEP Powerlist, celebrating his role in redefining the industry through innovation. The following year, he secured the #2 spot, affirming his sustained impact. Innovo MEP, under his direction, won MEP Contractor of the Year in 2023 and 2024 at the Construction Innovation Awards and CBNME MEP Awards. These honors reflect the company’s growth from a rebranded entity—formerly iBuild—in 2023 to a leader in sustainable construction.
Sharbatly also contributes to global initiatives, serving on the G20 Global Land Initiative team, where he advocates for land restoration and sustainability. His work extends beyond business, influencing policy and community development.
Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability lies at the heart of Sharbatly’s philosophy. He integrates eco-friendly practices into every project, from solar PV systems to battery energy storage. At Innovo MEP, he promotes diverse teams and cultural inclusion, celebrating events like World Day for Cultural Diversity to build stronger, more innovative groups. Sharbatly believes that true progress comes from balancing profit with planet, a mindset honed from his renewable energy days.
Future Vision and Legacy
Looking ahead, Sharbatly envisions Innovo MEP leading the charge in smart cities and net-zero buildings. He plans to expand the company’s footprint, tackling more infrastructure projects in emerging markets. His legacy? A Middle East where construction harmonizes with nature, driven by technology and human ingenuity.
In a fast-evolving industry, Khaled Sharbatly remains grounded, always prioritizing people and purpose. His story inspires young professionals, proving that bold vision and hard work can reshape skylines and futures alike.
