Exclusive Interview with Ora Developers Chairman Naguib Sawiris on $15B Portfolio Strategy

Q1: How does Ora Developers maintain growth amid global economic volatility?

"My strategy is fundamentally anti-crisis. When markets crash – like in 2008 or during COVID – we aggressively acquire prime assets. We just secured beachfront land in Cyprus at 40% below pre-pandemic values. Our $15 billion portfolio thrives on converting distress into opportunity while competitors retreat."

Q2: What differentiates your $1.5 billion Greek developments?

"Silversands in Mykonos redefines luxury: 70% of units feature private seawater pools with Aegean views. We pioneered fractional ownership where buyers co-own villas through blockchain-secured digital titles. This model attracted 300% more Middle Eastern investors versus traditional sales. Our Crete project will feature the Mediterranean’s first underwater restaurant residences."

Q3: Why reduce Egyptian investments despite your roots?

"Egypt remains hostage to bureaucracy – it takes 18 months to get construction permits versus 3 weeks in Greece. Currency instability eroded $200 million of our Cairo portfolio’s value. Until Egypt implements real reforms like Dubai’s freehold laws, we’ll limit exposure to 15% of our capital."

Q4: How do you personally manage wealth during market shifts?

"Three iron rules: First, never leverage beyond 30% equity. Second, physical gold always comprises 20% of assets – I bought 5 tons when prices dipped last quarter. Third, geographically diversify: my liquid reserves span Swiss francs (40%), UAE dirhams (30%), and Singapore dollars (30%)."

Q5: What’s next for Ora’s expansion?

"We’re launching Ora Space – luxury orbital residences with Virgin Galactic. Earth-based projects include Dubai’s first climate-controlled beach community (Q4 2025) and a $900 million sustainable city in Oman. Profit isn’t the sole driver; I want developments that outlive me by centuries."

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