Leveraging Local Expertise with Regional Establishment

Along with maintaining a historically strong base of operations in Egypt, theDorra Group of Companies looks to capitalize on its Gulf experience and make a strong homecoming

Mohamed Hassan Dorra, Chief Executive Officer of the Dorra Group, heads an organization that is uniquely placed to meet the growing demands of the real estate market in Egypt. With more than 60 years of experience in the construction industry, the group of companies has seen dramatic changes in the market over the years, and is now delivering on major projects, such as a 551-room complex in Sharm El Sheikh, which was completed earlier this year in collaboration with German and American partners.

The Dorra group has considerable experience on joint ventures with international partners, something which has been a regular occurrence for the company since the 1980's, working on major projects with key players such as British companies John Laing International and Costain, Harpers and Howards from the U.S.A., the Japanese Dia Nepon and the Spanish Cimy.

The current boom in demand for real estate is having a profound effect on Egyptian construction. Dorra observes that while the construction industry is ready and able to react to increasing demand for their services, it is often the real estate itself that is in short supply, especially in key areas. “Land owned by the Government was once valued at 50 EGP per meter. As we speak right now, the same piece of land now costs around 1,200 EGP per meter.” And the boom has an impact on the cost of raw materials too. “Cement price sharply increased, and the price of other construction materials almost tripled,” he explains.

The Dorra Group has a long-standing knowledge and understanding of the Gulf, having been a major investor in Dubai over the last 20 years. This is a particular strength for the group in the current climate, as they can offer both the credibility of a recognized player in the Gulf, as well as the authority of a well-known, long-standing operator in Egypt.

“Using our integrated market experience, we can create our own product in the market and make it attractive to the investor. We also deliver our market products to the standard quality that investors are used to in Dubai, Doha and in other countries from where they come. We have a strong background and experience with investors in these countries and we know how to deal with them when they approach us.”

The Dorra Group certainly has an impressive portfolio of projects to show to prospective clients. Among the most prestigious complexes are: Hadayek El Mohandessen, Zaied 2000, Zaied Heights, Zaied Residence and Greens in El Sheikh Zaied City; Al Shorouk 2000 in Al Shorouk City and The Villa in New Cairo City; Golden Beach Resort in the North Coast of Alexandria; Diar Elrabwa resort and Palma Resort in Sharm El Sheikh. All these complexes offer around 5,000 residential units. Dorra Group also has success stories in other industries, such as tourism, manufacturing and sevices.

Background

Dorra grew up in Cairo, and studied at Cairo's American University, majoring in construction and business administration. He followed his father into the construction business and has developed further the early success of the Dorra Group. He lives in Cairo with his wife and two children.