Life
In January Issue’s , Amira Sajwani, founder and CEO of PRYPCO, discusses bringing optimism to the housing market.
What has been the vision and purpose form the outset?
PRYPCO was founded with a clear vision: to revolutionise the real estate landscape by making property ownership accessible to everyone, as well as transparent and efficient. Our vision is to democratise real estate investment, breaking down barriers to entry and making it possible for a larger profile of individuals to engage in the market with unprecedented ease and flexibility, combining buyers, sellers, investors and brokers, in one platform.
You think outside the box – have you always been able to do this, and how has it served you?
Innovative thinking has been a core strength throughout my career. It’s the basis of my approach which is honed by observing market inefficiencies and identifying opportunities where others see challenges. This ability to think outside the box led to the foundational concept behind PRYPCO Blocks, or fractional ownership, recognising a target audience in the market to be tapped. This approach has allowed me to pioneer new ways of thinking, enabling the company to remain at the forefront of innovation. It has also served as a guiding principle in evaluating startups on Shark Tank, where creative thinking and resilience are key indicators of success.
Have you ever had moments when you have been under great pressure and in those moments, what sustains your drive?
Pressure is an inevitable part of leadership, especially when building a business from the ground up. What kept me motivated was my unwavering belief in the vision and the tangible impact we could make. My drive is sustained by the knowledge that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and the understanding that perseverance is the bedrock of success.
What have been your proudest achievements in your career so far?
One of my proudest achievements has been positioning PRYPCO as a disruptor in the real estate sector, offering cutting-edge solutions that have redefined market norms, from PRYPCO Mortgage, Golden Visa Services, to PRYPCO Blocks. Another milestone was the recognition as a judge on Shark Tank, where I have had the privilege to mentor and invest in transformative ideas. On a personal level, it is gratifying seeing PRYPCO truly making a significant difference in how a large spectrum of individuals achieve their real estate investment goals.
Alternatively, what is the greatest risk you’ve faced in growing your business?
The greatest risk we faced in growing our business was launching PRYPCO Blocks, a concept that challenged traditional norms and beliefs in real estate ownership. When we introduced the idea, many skeptics questioned its feasibility: Who would want to own a fraction of a property? How will ownership of fractions be proven? Countless an other concerns arose. However, we believed in the power of innovation and the demand for more accessible property investment solutions. Today, we’ve proven the success of PRYPCO Blocks by fully funding nine properties, with each investor receiving a certificate of ownership. Moreover, the service is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), ensuring transparency and trust. This bold step not only validated the concept but also demonstrated our ability to redefine real estate investment.
Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are?
I am deeply grateful to my father, Hussain Sajwani, whose vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering determination have been a constant source of inspiration. Growing up, I had the unique privilege of observing his ability to overcome challenges and transform DAMAC into a global powerhouse. His mentorship instilled in me the core values of perseverance, innovation, and strategic thinking. From engaging conversations around the dining table to hands-on summer internships across various departments at DAMAC, I gained invaluable insights into leadership, management, and the intricacies of the real estate industry. These formative experiences not only sparked my passion for the field but also equipped me with a comprehensive and nuanced perspective that continues to guide my approach to business today.
Have you seen a positive investor mindset change in the real estate space since you founded PRYPCO?
Absolutely. You know what they say: the numbers speak for themselves. We announced the largest single retail disbursal in the history of United Arab Bank and PRYPCO’s partnership, amounting to AED 48,000,000. In addition, over AED 500,000,000 in mortgages were disbursed in the month of August alone. On top of that, we successfully raised $10 million in a seed funding round led by Shorooq Partners, Apparel Group, and other key investors. PRYPCO has proven to be a formidable force in the industry, and we will continue to build on our clients’ trust and confidence to achieve even greater milestones.
How does PYRPCO aim to make a positive difference in the real estate market?
PRYPCO’s mission is to transform the real estate market by making real estate investment accessible to a wider audience. Through PRYPCO Blocks, we’ve introduced fractional ownership, allowing individuals to invest in high-value properties with as little as AED 500, enabling them to generate passive income. Our platform also ensures greater transparency and trust, as PRYPCO Blocks is regulated by DESA.
What piece of advice can you give to those looking to build a similar career path and venture on their own – and how was it relevant to you in your life?
My advice is to embrace resilience and remain adaptable to change. Challenges are inevitable, but the key is to view them as opportunities for growth. Be bold in your vision and don’t shy away from taking calculated risks. This mindset has been PRYPCO to exploring innovative approaches in the real estate industry. Surround yourself with people who share your passion, and never stop learning.
This is The Optimism Issue – how do you aim to have a positive influence for the future generations?
I believe in creating a legacy that inspires innovation and empowerment through PRYPCO and beyond. Through PRYPCO, my aim is to pave the way for a more inclusive and technology-driven real estate market. Beyond that, I am passionate about mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs and fostering a culture of resilience and creativity. By championing sustainable and innovative solutions, we can contribute to a brighter, more equitable future for everyone.
