Emirati conglomerate has shaped the landscape of the UAE for six decades

Dubai, UAE, 19 February 2018 –   Established in 1958 by brothers Saeed and Mohammed Al Naboodah as a modest trading venture with a capital investment of only 2,000 rupees, Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group comprise one of the UAE’s oldest and most respected Emirati conglomerates with a diverse portfolio of businesses, today. This year, the Group is commemorating its 60th anniversary milestone with a year-long celebration, themed ’60 Years of Excellence’. 

Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group’s 60th anniversary coincides with the Year of Zayed, underscoring the vision and foresight of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. In setting the foundations of modernity, the late Sheikh Zayed also instilled the importance of cultural preservation; a belief deeply rooted in the vision of the company today.  

Abdullah Mohammed Juma Al Naboodah, Group Chairman of the Saeed & Mohammad Al Naboodah Group, commented: “Over the past six decades, Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group, has embraced the values of the late Sheikh Zayed. His vision has paved the path for our success, and his desire to preserve the roots of our heritage remain deeply embedded in the fabric of our organisation today. As the Al Naboodah brand celebrates 60 years of operations, 60 years of heritage and 60 years of excellence, it is with great pride that we mark this significant milestone during the ‘Year of Zayed’, and continue his legacy in shaping the nation and working towards a sustainable future.” 

The Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group has played an integral role in shaping the physical and socio-economic landscape of the UAE. The Group’s expanding portfolio supports the UAE Vision 2021’s shift towards a diversified economy, and with a robust governance and sustainability framework, they are ensuring its success for another 60 years and beyond.  

Today, three generations of the Al Naboodah family are heavily integrated in the business, playing a vital role in ensuring that the values of its forefathers are upheld, while embracing change to ensure a future for both the business and future Al Naboodah generations.  

60 Years of Excellence: A Timeline of Milestones 

1950s-60s

In 1958, the Saeed and Mohammed Al Naboodah Group began trading in agricultural machines in a small shop in Deira. In the late 1960s, the business expanded into construction with the launch of Al Naboodah Contracting. Initially focused on residential and commercial building projects, the company soon diversified into major road and civil works while building the reputation for trust and excellence the Al Naboodah brand is known for today. 

1970s

The 1970s witnessed further diversification into new, emerging sectors. Al Naboodah Travel was formed in 1973 and is today the General Sales Agent representing 10 major international airlines. Two years later, the Group added real estate to its growing portfolio with the launch of Al Naboodah Real Estate. In the late 70s, SMKA Electric was formed as a distributor of electrical goods, and by 1979 Swaidan Trading was established as Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group’s main trading arm. It has since become a successful distributor of a portfolio of global brands in the commercial vehicle, heavy equipment, automotive, motorcycle and agriculture sectors.  

1980s-90s

Over the next two decades in the 1980s and 1990s, the Group was focused on growing its diverse business streams, firmly establishing the Al Naboodah brand both within the UAE and regionally, as well as tapping into international markets. A rubber business was formed due to an exclusive partnership with Goodyear tyres, and in the mid-80s Al Naboodah Cargo Centre was introduced to meet the demands of growing trade in the region. By then, the Group’s approach to self-delivery and self-supply was also being practiced across its various businesses, and in 1994, ARCON (Al Naboodah Ready-Mix Concrete) was launched to support its own construction needs. 

2000s

With the turn of the new millennium, the 2000s also welcomed a refreshed brand image introducing the now well-recognised sun-wheel logo depicting Al Naboodah’s diverse businesses. The 2000s also saw a boom in construction, and Al Naboodah Construction Group witnessed significant growth, securing projects for some of the UAE’s most iconic developments. In 2006, National Plant & Equipment was set up to self-deliver on the Group’s heavy equipment requirements, and the MEP and Specialist Services businesses were established. In 2008, the Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group ushered in its 50th year of operations. 

2010s – present 

By 2016, Al Naboodah Group Enterprises (ANGE) was established to undertake the management of the Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group’s operating businesses, with most functions relocated to the new corporate headquarters in Al Awir. The exception was only Al Naboodah Real Esate, which remains under the leadership of Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Holding LLC. 

Under a new executive leadership team, ANGE formalised its approach to corporate governance and created a sustainability framework. That same year, ANGE issued its first Sustainability Report, and this year it has been prepared in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards: Core option and for the first time conducts the GRI Content Index Service.

In the past year, ANGE has continued its path of growth and diversification, adding to its brand portfolio and launching new businesses, including Al Naboodah Design Spaces, specialising in design and fit-out. In 2018, we have already launched two new set ups, our new facilities management company and a renewable energy business stream too.

Through continued diversification, innovation and a strong commitment to sustainability, Al Naboodah Group Enterprises is working to ensure another 60 years of excellence and beyond.  

Awards and Recognition

In 2017, Al Naboodah Group Enterprises became the first company in the UAE to be awarded the UAE’s Happiest Workplace by the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation, in addition to being recognised for its excellence in labour relations with a 4-star Taqdeer Award by the Government of Dubai. 

Also in 2017, the brothers Saeed and Mohammed Al Naboodah were honoured with the UAE Pioneer Award, presented by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai.