BUSINESS
Meet man who rose from Mumbai's slums to become a business mogul, founding Danube and transforming it into a global enterprise.
Rizwan Sajan’s journey is a true story of resilience and determination, embodying the Latin phrase "From the ashes to the stars." Today, he is a prominent Indian businessman in the UAE, ranked 12th in Forbes Middle East's list of the ‘Top 100 Indian Leaders in the UAE.’ However, his path to success began in the slums of Mumbai.
Born and raised in Mumbai, Sajan faced adversity from a young age. After losing his father at 16, he took on various jobs to support his family. From delivering milk to selling books and firecrackers, Sajan’s early years were filled with challenges that shaped his work ethic and determination.
In 1981, Sajan moved to Kuwait seeking better opportunities. He started as a trainee salesman at his uncle’s building supply store, where his dedication and hard work helped him rise through the ranks. He gained valuable industry experience but faced a major setback in 1991 when the Gulf War forced him to return to Mumbai.
In 1993, Sajan took a leap of faith and moved to Dubai. He began working at a hardware store but soon started his business with just a few thousand dirhams. Danube's small trading business quickly grew under Sajan’s vision and leadership. Today, Danube generates over AED 5 billion in annual revenue and has a significant presence in the Gulf, Asia, and Africa. The company operates in countries like Bahrain, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, India, and China.
Sajan’s contributions extend beyond business. He founded the Danube Welfare Society to support social initiatives and has been recognized with the prestigious Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Excellence Award.
Now, with a net worth of approximately USD 2.5 billion which is Rs 20750 crore, Rizwan Sajan’s incredible journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.