Emaar Properties founder Mohamed Alabbar said he values discipline, commitment and strong work ethic over raw intelligence, explaining his preference for hiring Indian professionals during a recent business summit.
Speaking at the Make it in the Emirates event, the Emirati businessman said consistent effort and attention to detail are more important than talent alone in achieving success.
He added that individuals who are willing to put in sustained effort tend to achieve better outcomes, underlining the importance of diligence in professional growth.
Referring to a common saying, he noted that hard work can surpass talent when effort is lacking, and said this quality influences his hiring decisions. He also stated that professionals from the Indian subcontinent demonstrate what he described as a leading work ethic globally.
According to him, effective execution requires continuous monitoring of work, proper assessment of risks and the ability to guide teams towards consistent performance.
He added that building agile and resilient organisations is essential to withstand global disruptions and sustain growth over time.
Speaking at the Make it in the Emirates event, the Emirati businessman said consistent effort and attention to detail are more important than talent alone in achieving success.
Work ethic over intelligence
Alabbar described his personal approach, stating that while his intelligence may be average, his strength lies in hard work. He emphasised that dedication and persistence often outweigh natural ability.He added that individuals who are willing to put in sustained effort tend to achieve better outcomes, underlining the importance of diligence in professional growth.
Praise for Indian professionals
Alabbar highlighted Indian employees for their willingness to go beyond expectations. He said their readiness to respond even at odd hours reflects a high level of commitment.Referring to a common saying, he noted that hard work can surpass talent when effort is lacking, and said this quality influences his hiring decisions. He also stated that professionals from the Indian subcontinent demonstrate what he described as a leading work ethic globally.
Focus on execution and detail
He said long term business success depends not only on working hard but also on maintaining attention to detail, evaluating opportunities carefully and taking calculated risks.According to him, effective execution requires continuous monitoring of work, proper assessment of risks and the ability to guide teams towards consistent performance.
Importance of resilience and adaptability
Alabbar stressed the need for businesses to remain prepared for uncertainty, drawing lessons from events such as the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID 19 pandemic. He said companies that succeed are those that remain alert, reassess risks regularly and adapt to changing conditions.He added that building agile and resilient organisations is essential to withstand global disruptions and sustain growth over time.
