Mark Phoenix is the CEO of Sankari Properties. SUPPLIED

Mark Phoenix has shaped some of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks. As CEO of Sankari Properties, he has built a reputation for combining artistry with functionality in real estate, ensuring that every project is as practical as it is beautiful. With a career spanning over 30 years and a First-Class Honours degree from the UK, Mark’s journey has been defined by innovation and collaboration. “The development sector is challenging anywhere,” he explains. “That’s probably why the rewards are high.” His portfolio includes standout projects like The Opus, One Palm, and The Lana, all of which reflect his obsession with detail and craftsmanship. Mark’s career began in the UK, where he worked on community projects for retirees before moving into luxury real estate. His practical knowledge and leadership acumen eventually led him to the UAE, where he served as CEO at Omniyat and Chief Procurement Officer at Emaar Development. At Omniyat, he oversaw iconic developments like The Opus, a Zaha Hadid-designed architectural marvel. “Art is very important to us,” he explains. “You should provide something that enhances someone’s lifestyle rather than just building boxes.” This philosophy guided his work, ensuring that each project was not only visually stunning but also functional. While many developers focus solely on aesthetics, Mark believes in balancing beauty with practicality. “No point in building a twisty building that nobody can use,” he remarks. At Sankari Properties, this balance is achieved through early integration of facilities management into design briefs. “It’s a no-brainer,” he says. “You can’t expect people to pay for something that’s expensive to maintain.” Mark’s ability to bridge creative vision with engineering expertise is a hallmark of his leadership. He’s collaborated with global architectural legends like Zaha Hadid and Norman Foster, as well as leading hospitality brands such as Dorchester and Melia. His hands-on approach ensures seamless coordination across teams, fostering innovation.

Vision for Dubai

Mark’s long-term perspective is key to his success. “If you have a monthly approach—or worse, a weekly one—you’ll drive yourself crazy,” he advises. By focusing on business plans and market growth over five years, he ensures stability and resilience in an ever-changing industry. Looking ahead, Mark is eager to expand Sankari Properties’ footprint, exploring master-planned communities and new opportunities to elevate real estate design. “It’s about finding the right balance between creativity, functionality, and sustainability,” he says. ICA/Expat Media
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