Syed Fakruddin Albeez

Senior Director, Ex-Emaar Economic City | 30+ Years in Digital Transformation

With over three decades of experience in digital transformation across real estate, construction, and infrastructure, Syed Fakruddin Albeez is a seasoned technology leader who has consistently bridged the gap between business and technology.

Starting his journey in 1992 as a programmer in India, Syed went on to design one of the earliest large-scale automation systems in healthcare outsourcing—processing 50,000 insurance claims daily without human intervention. His career has since spanned across Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, where he held leadership roles at organizations like Dar Al Riyadh, Dar Al Arqam, and Emaar Economic City.

A true believer in scalable architecture, compliance, and business-aligned technology, Syed has pioneered digitization projects in real estate—from property leasing automation to integrated platforms combining CRM, finance, and facilities management.

Beyond his professional journey, Syed draws inspiration from computer science, lifelong learning, and his three children. He holds multiple master’s degrees, 20+ global certifications, and is currently pursuing a doctorate—embodying his philosophy of never stop learning.

As a mentor, leader, and innovator, Syed envisions a future where AI, IoT, SaaS, and hybrid platforms converge to deliver unified PropTech solutions for the Middle East and beyond.

Experience

30+ years

Global certifications

20+

Listen to our Spotify podcast

Can you tell us about your journey from India to the Middle East in digital transformation?

I began my career in 1992 as a programmer, later building an RPA system for U.S. insurance claims. My path took me to Jordan, back to India for higher studies, and finally Saudi Arabia in 2008, where I worked with Dar Al Riyadh, Dar Al Arqam, and Emaar Economic City.

Who or what inspired you most during these 30 years?

Computer games initially sparked my interest in tech, and my three kids continue to inspire me today. I’ve also drawn motivation from visionary CEOs and business teams I’ve worked with.

Why did you choose real estate as your primary sector?

My first programming project in 1991 digitized a real estate firm’s property management. Since then, real estate has consistently offered opportunities to innovate at scale, which keeps me engaged.

How is technology reshaping real estate today?

The future lies in unified platforms that manage everything from sales to post-sales. AI, IoT, SaaS, and cloud services are key, but success depends on scalable, affordable architectures.

What challenges have you faced in digital transformation?

The biggest challenges are business buy-in, clean data, and integration across systems like CRM, finance, and facility management. A strong, questioning team makes all the difference.

Which technologies will disrupt real estate in the coming years?

A hybrid approach—mixing on-prem ERP, cloud, AI, and IoT—is the way forward. Scalability, security, and seamless integrations should always be top priorities.

What advice would you give to young professionals in PropTech?

Understand the business first—tech comes after. Focus on compliance, scalability, and change management. Keep learning; I’ve pursued 20+ certifications, 2 master’s, and now a doctorate.

How do you see UAE and Saudi Arabia in the PropTech space?

UAE has already attracted global investments, while Saudi is pushing mega-projects and innovation. Both will produce strong homegrown solutions in the coming years.