Tariq Hussain Khansaheb, Chairman of Khansaheb Group, stands as a pillar of leadership in the UAE’s construction and infrastructure landscape. With a career spanning decades, he has guided the family-owned business through transformative years, blending tradition with innovation. His journey reflects a commitment to excellence, trust, and the enduring values instilled by his father, His Excellency Hussain Abdulrahman Khansaheb. Under Tariq’s stewardship, Khansaheb Group has built iconic landmarks and fostered a culture of care for its people and communities.
A Foundation Built on Education and Experience
Tariq’s path to leadership began with a strong academic foundation. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Colorado in 1982. Eager to gain practical experience, he spent two years (1983–1984) working as an engineer with R.M. Douglas (later Interserve) in the UK, a partner of Khansaheb Group. This international exposure sharpened his technical skills and broadened his perspective on construction management. In 1985, Tariq returned to the UAE, joining Khansaheb Civil Engineering LLC, where he quickly rose through the ranks. After serving as a board member for six years, he took on the role of Chairman, a position he holds today with unwavering dedication.
Tariq’s hands-on experience in managing major projects has been a cornerstone of his leadership. He doesn’t just oversee operations from afar; he dives into the details, ensuring every project aligns with the company’s core principles of quality, trust, and timely delivery. His ability to balance strategic vision with operational precision has earned him respect across the industry.
Leading Khansaheb Group with Purpose
As Chairman, Tariq Hussain Khansaheb plays a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of Khansaheb Group, a company founded in 1935 by his uncle, Khansaheb Hussain bin Hassan Amad. The group, one of the UAE’s oldest and most respected construction firms, has grown into a diversified powerhouse under Tariq’s guidance. From civil engineering to facilities management, property services, and innovative industries, Khansaheb Group serves millions of clients annually. Tariq ensures the company remains true to its founding values while embracing modern technologies and sustainable practices.
Tariq’s leadership style is deeply rooted in his father’s philosophy: prioritize people over profit. “My father never chased profit; he pursued purpose,” Tariq once said in an interview with Construction Business News Middle East. This belief drives Khansaheb’s commitment to its employees, suppliers, and communities. Tariq fosters a workplace where loyalty is cultivated through care and dignity, ensuring workers are paid promptly and small suppliers are supported. This approach has built a loyal workforce, with many employees returning to Khansaheb after exploring other opportunities, drawn back by its family-like culture.
Iconic Projects That Define a Legacy
Khansaheb Group, under Tariq’s leadership, has delivered some of the UAE’s most iconic landmarks, each a testament to the company’s precision and commitment to excellence. One standout project is the Mall of the Emirates, completed in 2005 for Majid Al Futtaim. Constructed in just 700 days, this massive shopping destination redefined retail in Dubai and showcased Khansaheb’s ability to meet tight deadlines without compromising quality.
Another milestone is the Serenia Living project on Palm Jumeirah, a luxurious beachfront development featuring 226 exclusive apartments and penthouses. Awarded to Khansaheb by Palma Holding and BANIAN FZCO, this project followed the successful completion of Serenia Residences in 2018. Tariq expressed pride in this partnership, stating, “We are delighted to redefine luxury living in Dubai with Serenia Living, surpassing the expectations of its residents.” The project highlights Khansaheb’s expertise in high-end residential construction.
The One Za’abeel Link Bridge, completed recently, is another feather in Tariq’s cap. Spanning 220 meters and standing 100 meters tall, it holds the title of the world’s largest cantilever bridge. The 5,500-square-meter fit-out includes celebrity restaurants, show kitchens, and a pool deck, blending functionality with luxury. This project underscores Tariq’s focus on innovation and delivering world-class developments.
Khansaheb also played a critical role in the IMF Convention Centre, completed in 2003 for the annual IMF and World Bank meetings—the first time these events were held in the Arab world. Tariq emphasized the stakes: “Dubai’s credibility was on the line.” Khansaheb delivered flawlessly, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted contractor for high-stakes projects.
A Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
Tariq has championed sustainability as a core pillar of Khansaheb’s growth. In 2012, the company launched its “SustainAbilities” initiative, targeting reductions in fuel, power, and waste. Under Tariq’s guidance, Khansaheb reduced fuel consumption by 70%, power usage by 60%, and mixed waste by 75% over six years. These efforts align with the UAE’s sustainability agenda and demonstrate Tariq’s forward-thinking approach.
Innovation is another hallmark of Tariq’s leadership. In 2017, Khansaheb Industries acquired the exclusive licence to manufacture Spiralite, an energy-efficient ductwork system, in the UAE. This move strengthened local manufacturing and positioned Khansaheb as a leader in sustainable construction solutions. Tariq’s vision extends beyond construction, with investments in diverse sectors like aviation safety training through Dynamic Advanced Training and healthcare via Clemenceau Medical Centre Dubai.
A Family Legacy of Trust and Excellence
Tariq’s leadership is deeply personal, shaped by the legacy of his father, His Excellency Hussain Abdulrahman Khansaheb, who served as Chairman from 1954 to 2016. Honored with the Abu Dhabi Award in 2021 for his humanitarian contributions, Hussain instilled in Tariq a sense of duty to serve the UAE. Tariq carries this legacy forward, ensuring Khansaheb remains a family-owned business that prioritizes trust and community impact.
In a 2025 interview, Tariq reflected on Khansaheb’s 90-year journey: “When you take care of your people, they build more than projects. They build trust, set new standards, and shape what comes next.” This philosophy has guided Khansaheb through projects like the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City and the Delano Hotel on Bluewaters, each reflecting Tariq’s commitment to precision and purpose.
Looking to the Future
As Khansaheb Group approaches its centennial, Tariq remains focused on driving innovation and sustainability. His strategic acquisition of Interserve’s shares in 2020, making Khansaheb the primary owner of its companies, solidified the group’s independence and resilience. Tariq’s vision ensures Khansaheb continues to contribute to the UAE’s economic growth while upholding its legacy of excellence.
Tariq Hussain Khansaheb is more than a chairman; he is a steward of a legacy that has shaped the UAE for nearly a century. Through iconic projects, a commitment to sustainability, and a people-first approach, he continues to build not just structures but a brighter future for the nation and its people.
