Promoting Sustainable Construction Solutions!

With a passion for protecting the environment and sustainable construction, starting with lift and vertical transportation, we are growing into a multifaceted enterprise specializing in sustainable building materials and air filtration systems. Khalid had established himself as a key figure in the building industry.

Khalid Al-Qaqa is the visionary Founder and CEO of EEE Group, recognized as one of the top executives in the Middle East. The organization is UAE-based and uses innovative building technology. Under his influence, the firm is operating in around 13 countries and employing over 600 individuals around the globe.

As a leader, he understands the complexity of leadership and makes a positive impact by being approachable, taking notes, and offering insightful feedback. As a self-motivated leader, he understands the responsibility of the role, and earning trust through actions is crucial.

With a vision that extends beyond his company, he takes initiatives that have substantially benefited the environment and reshaped the culture of sustainable building practices globally. His passion led to the development of  ‘UNIDOME’ technology, which utilizes 100% recycled materials to significantly reduce concrete and steel usage in building projects.

Here are the interview highlights:

Could you please tell us about yourself and what motivated you to embark on this sector?

I’m the founder and CEO of EEE Group, a leading building technology company headquartered in the UAE with operations in 13 countries around the world and more than 600 employees.

I was chosen by Forbes magazine as one of the top executives in the Middle East for four consecutive years, from 2014 to 2018. I hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering and a master’s degree in business administration from the City University of London.

Could you please brief us about your company and its inception story?

We started as a small company focusing on lifts and vertical transportation, operating mainly in the UAE. Over time, we grew the business and specialized in additional lines such as sustainable building materials, air filtration, and more. We have since expanded our operations to various countries and regions around the globe.

What inspired you to become a leader? How do you define influence, and how do you seek to make a positive impact on others?

I believe that leadership is both a natural gift and a characteristic that can be developed and refined. I’ve been in leadership roles since a young age, taking on many responsibilities and initiatives voluntarily.

Influence, to me, is about leading by example and earning trust through actions. I seek to make a positive impact by being approachable, listening actively, and providing constructive feedback.

Could you share some examples of projects or initiatives you have led that have had a significant impact on the region?

Being passionate about protecting the environment and sustainability in construction, I have joined with civil engineering professors from Germany to develop the world’s most sustainable construction technology, ‘UNIDOME,’ where we use 100% recycled material to replace concrete in construction projects to reduce the weight of buildings, leading to a massive reduction of concrete and steel quantities needed for construction while keeping the original characteristics of the building as they are without compromising quality and safety.

This innovation has not only benefited the environment but also helped change the culture around using sustainable building materials for both small and large construction projects.

What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced as a leader in the Middle East, and how have you overcome them?

We have faced various challenges during different stages and phases of the business. These challenges ranged from a lack of resources in the beginning to global issues like the COVID-19 pandemic. We have approached all challenges rationally and strategically, always striving to embrace them as opportunities to grow and innovate.

In your opinion, what are the key qualities or skills that make a leader influential?

A leader must allow space and freedom for employees to take initiative and sometimes watch them make mistakes to learn from. The ability to be patient and observe others as they progress is not an easy task because the urge to step in and make corrections can be difficult to control.

However, a strong and confident leader understands the overall process of developing others into leaders as well.

How do you stay up-to-date with the latest developments and trends in the region, and how does this inform your work?

I regularly read industry reports, subscribe to relevant news sources, and participate in industry conferences and events. Networking with other leaders and engaging with my team across different regions also provides valuable insights.

Can you share any mentors or role models who have influenced your leadership style?

I’ve been influenced by some domestic leaders and some international ones, like Fady Ghandour from Jordan and Richard Branson from the UK. Their leadership styles inspire me, especially as they are both visionaries who lead from the front lines.

What advice would you give to aspiring leaders who want to make a difference?

Take action promptly, learn from mistakes, and persist without giving up. With a clear vision, you’ll eventually reach your destination or get close enough to it.

Please give us a few testimonials from your clients and awards or recognition that accurately highlight your achievements in the corporate niche.

We have just received a certificate of appreciation from one of the biggest developers in the UAE, ‘Danube Properties,’ for their latest project ‘PEARLZ By DANUBE’ appreciation of EEE for helping the project get completed six months ahead of schedule, the certificate was signed by Mr. Rizwan Sajan, the Chairman of DANUBE.