
In the ever-evolving landscape of Dubai’s real estate sector, few names resonate as powerfully as Naaman Atallah. As the Group CEO of Nakheel, Atallah’s leadership has been instrumental in steering the company through periods of transformation, innovation, and growth. His journey from a civil engineering graduate to a prominent figure in the Middle East’s real estate industry is a testament to his vision, resilience, and commitment to excellence.
Born with a keen interest in construction and design, Atallah pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Texas. Further honing his expertise, he earned an MBA from Pepperdine University in California. His academic background provided him with a solid foundation in both the technical and managerial aspects of real estate development.
Atallah’s professional journey spans over three decades, during which he has held significant leadership roles in renowned organizations across the Middle East and India. His career includes tenures at Dubai Properties, Emaar, Qatari Diar, and Piramal Realty in India. These experiences equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of diverse markets and the intricacies of large-scale real estate projects.
In November 2020, Atallah was appointed as the Group CEO of Nakheel, a leading master developer in Dubai. Under his leadership, Nakheel embarked on a new phase of growth, focusing on innovation, customer-centricity, and sustainable development. His strategic vision aimed at enhancing Nakheel’s position as a world-leading, customer-focused organization.
Atallah’s vision for Nakheel was clear: to create iconic developments that would redefine Dubai’s skyline and contribute to the city’s growth. His leadership saw the revitalization of key projects, including the Palm Jebel Ali and the Dubai Islands, which added significant value to Nakheel’s portfolio.

Under Atallah’s guidance, Nakheel implemented several strategic initiatives aimed at fostering growth and innovation:
Atallah’s leadership did not go unnoticed. He was recognized among the Most Impactful Real Estate Leaders in the Middle East in 2024 by Forbes, highlighting his significant contributions to the industry. His strategic direction and commitment to excellence have been pivotal in Nakheel’s continued success and growth.
In April 2024, Atallah resigned from his position as Group CEO of Nakheel following a merger with Dubai Holding. His decision marked the end of an era but also paved the way for new leadership to continue Nakheel’s legacy of innovation and excellence.
Naaman Atallah’s tenure at Nakheel left an indelible mark on Dubai’s real estate landscape. His visionary leadership, strategic initiatives, and commitment to excellence have set a high benchmark for future developments in the region. As Nakheel continues to evolve, Atallah’s legacy serves as a guiding light for aspiring leaders in the real estate industry.
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