Abu Dhabi has grown into a global hub of commerce, culture, and innovation, powered by the leadership of entrepreneurs who blend vision with responsibility. Among these leaders, Shaher Awartani stands out as a distinguished businessman and philanthropist whose ventures span construction, real estate, finance, hospitality, and healthcare. His career embodies the principles of diversification, sustainability, and social impact, positioning him as one of the UAE’s most influential figures.
Early Foundations in Construction
Shaher Awartani’s professional journey began in 1997 with the co-founding of Silver Coast Construction & Boring LLC (SCCB). As Chairman, he has steered the company to deliver projects worth more than USD 1.35 billion, supported by a workforce of 4,500 employees. SCCB’s portfolio covers large-scale infrastructure, residential, and commercial developments, playing a vital role in shaping the modern identity of Abu Dhabi.
For Awartani, construction is not just about building structures—it is about laying foundations for the future. By emphasizing sustainability, efficiency, and innovation, he has ensured that SCCB consistently meets the demands of a rapidly evolving urban landscape while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
Expanding into Real Estate
Recognizing the dynamic opportunities in property development, Awartani co-founded High Point Real Estate LLC in 2017. The company has since developed residential properties in Dubai valued at over USD 100 million. His entry into real estate reflects a forward-looking vision: to create modern, livable spaces that foster community growth and enhance quality of life.
Strategic Moves in Finance
Beyond construction and real estate, Awartani has made significant strides in finance. In 2013, he co-founded Equalis Capital Ltd, a proprietary investment firm, marking his entry into financial services. By 2015, he joined Global Gate Capital Partners as a shareholder and board member. The firm now manages assets exceeding USD 2 billion, underscoring his influence in global investment markets.
Most recently, in 2024, Awartani co-founded Yasa Capital, an investment advisory firm. This latest venture highlights his commitment to guiding sustainable financial growth and reflects his adaptability in responding to shifting global economic trends.
Ventures in Hospitality and Healthcare
Awartani’s entrepreneurial portfolio extends into industries that directly impact people’s everyday lives. In 2017, he co-founded Café Milano Abu Dhabi, bringing a world-class culinary experience to the UAE capital. This hospitality venture symbolizes Abu Dhabi’s rising global appeal as a destination for both business and leisure.
In 2020, Awartani took a bold step into healthcare with his investment in Reem Hospital Abu Dhabi. As a substantial shareholder, he supported the expansion of healthcare infrastructure to meet the growing needs of the community. His role in healthcare illustrates a balance between business growth and social responsibility, ensuring access to advanced medical care.
A Deep Commitment to Philanthropy
Parallel to his professional achievements, Shaher Awartani has made philanthropy a central pillar of his legacy. Through his private scholarship program, he has provided countless students with opportunities to pursue higher education. His vision for education stems from the belief that empowering young minds is the surest way to create lasting progress.
His generosity extends internationally, with significant donations to healthcare institutions such as the Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C. These contributions highlight his global outlook and commitment to improving lives beyond geographical borders.
Educational Background and Core Values
Awartani holds a bachelor’s degree in Management from the University of Toledo. His academic training has equipped him with the foundation to navigate complex industries, but it is his values—integrity, foresight, and resilience—that have truly defined his leadership. Whether in boardrooms or through philanthropic initiatives, Awartani has consistently demonstrated an ability to combine ambition with responsibility.
A Legacy in Progress
Shaher Awartani’s career reflects the broader transformation of Abu Dhabi: bold, diversified, and future-focused. His ventures across construction, real estate, finance, hospitality, and healthcare mirror the emirate’s evolution into a global center of opportunity. More importantly, his philanthropic work ensures that growth is shared, touching the lives of individuals and communities in meaningful ways.
As Abu Dhabi continues to expand its role on the world stage, leaders like Shaher Awartani remain central to shaping its future. His story is not just about entrepreneurial success but also about the responsibility that comes with it—a responsibility to uplift others, invest in communities, and build legacies that endure beyond business.
In a world where progress is often measured in numbers, Shaher Awartani offers a different model of leadership: one that balances wealth creation with human impact. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that true success is not only about what we build, but also about the lives we change along the way.
