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W hen discussing the UAE’s remarkable evolution from a modest desert nation to a global powerhouse of modern infrastructure, one name stands out: Hussain Abdulrahman Khansaheb. His family’s contributions have not only shaped the country’s skyline but have also played a pivotal role in intertwining business, philanthropy, and leadership to promote national growth. As a prominent figure in the Khansaheb Group, one of the oldest and most esteemed construction firms in the UAE, Hussain has upheld a legacy of excellence, innovation, and community service rooted in over a century of history. Hussain’s pioneering influence on the construction industry in the UAE began in his early years, growing up in a family recognized for its leadership in business since the 1930s. His grandfather, Nakhuda Khansaheb Hussain bin Hassan, established one of the UAE’s earliest companies in 1935. The next phase of the company’s evolution came when Hussain Abdulrahman Khansaheb joined the firm in 1957 after leaving his position at the British Bank of the Middle East. Under his leadership, the company significantly expanded its construction and contracting operations, achieving notable milestones that contributed to the region’s development. The Title of Khansaheb The name “Khansaheb” itself carries deep significance, denoting a title of honour and respect. Historically, this title was granted by the British Empire to individuals of high standing. According to historian Hussain Al Badi, the title is similar to other honorary titles like “Sarkal”, which was used for respected leaders in the region, often serving as local agents for the British government. The Khansaheb family’s history dates back over 150 years when their ancestors were appointed as agents by the British in the UAE coastal region due to their social standing and English language skills. Khansaheb Hussain bin Hassan, the grandfather of Hussain Abdulrahman Khansaheb, played a crucial role in the modernisation and cultural development of the region. He was also a significant figure in opening the first road between Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah in 1934 and participated in promoting education and cultural awareness in the area. Early Life and Influence of the Khansaheb Family To understand the full scope of Hussain Abdulrahman Khansaheb’s impact, one must first delve into the history of the Khansaheb family, whose roots are deeply intertwined with the early development of the UAE. The family patriarch, Nakhuda Khansaheb, was a pioneering maritime figure and businessman. His entrepreneurial spirit and vision helped build vital trade routes across the Arabian Gulf, which would later provide a foundation for the family’s future business endeavours. Through resilience and hard work, the Khansaheb name became synonymous with trust, commitment, and development—values that Hussain Abdulrahman Khansaheb continues to uphold today. Hussain Abdulrahman Khansaheb was born into a family steeped in tradition and history. Growing up, he was influenced by his forefathers’ dedication to the country’s growth, especially during the time when the UAE, then a group of Trucial States under British protection, was transitioning toward unity and modernisation. He learned the importance of balancing tradition with modernity, and from an early age, he was committed to continuing his family’s legacy of contributing to the UAE’s infrastructure and social development. Preserving a Legacy Documenting Khansaheb’s journey is not just a matter of history; it is an invaluable learning experience for future generations. His story provides insight into the foundational years of the UAE and serves as a blueprint for future growth and development. The lessons of hard work, innovation, and community service that his life embodies should be shared and celebrated as part of the UAE’s national narrative. His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan once said, “Hussain Khansaheb is distinguished and successful in his business endeavours, having taken over the company before the 1960s. However, his distinction also lies in his humanitarian efforts, which he carried out quietly, without seeking recognition, purely for the service of his country.” Issa Hamad Bushhab added, “Hussain Khansaheb is a man who truly understood the meaning of life through his struggles and efforts to build his own legacy, overcoming many hardships along the way.” Mansour Abdulrahman Al Sarkal stated, “Life was tough in those days, and Khansaheb’s company, which was inherited from his father, was modest at best. Through his hard work and dedication, he developed it into a name and reputation that stands strong today.” Building a Construction Legacy The Khansaheb family’s first significant foray into construction came in 1935, when they established Khansaheb Civil Engineering. Over the decades, the company has grown into one of the largest and most respected groups in the region, responsible for building some of the UAE’s most iconic structures. The company has evolved into a multifaceted organization, encompassing various divisions: Khansaheb Civil Engineering, Khansaheb Bespoke Contracting, Khansaheb Facilities Management, Khansaheb Industries, Khansaheb Properties, Khansaheb Property Management, and Khansaheb Lifestyle Division. Each division is dedicated to delivering quality and specialised services tailored to meet the diverse needs of clients. Alongside these, Dynamic Advanced Training Hussain Abdulrahman Khansaheb A Visionary Leader Shaping the UAE’s Future Simply Influential by Kerry Smith Simply Abu Dhabi | 113