By Lily Iglehart 
Shaher Awartani: Visionary Leadership Across Business and Philanthropy
In the thriving business landscape of Abu Dhabi, few names stand out as prominently as Shaher Awartani. A distinguished entrepreneur and philanthropist, Awartani’s influence extends across construction, real estate, finance, hospitality, and healthcare. With an entrepreneurial journey spanning nearly three decades, his work reflects a rare blend of vision, resilience, and social responsibility. His story is one of diversification, innovation, and impact—driving both economic growth and community well-being.
Building Foundations: Silver Coast Construction & Boring LLC
Shaher Awartani’s professional path began in 1997 when he co-founded Silver Coast Construction & Boring LLC (SCCB). Today, as Chairman, he oversees a company that has delivered projects valued at over USD 1.35 billion, supported by a workforce of 4,500 employees. Under his leadership, SCCB has become a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s rapid development, contributing to its infrastructure, residential, and commercial growth.
For Awartani, construction is more than a business—it is a way to build the future. His approach emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and quality, ensuring that each project is a long-term asset to the community. This philosophy has allowed SCCB to grow into one of the most trusted and respected firms in the UAE.
Expanding into Real Estate and Finance
Recognizing the opportunities within real estate, Awartani co-founded High Point Real Estate LLC in 2017. The company has developed residential properties in Dubai worth over USD 100 million, showcasing his ability to anticipate trends in the region’s dynamic property market. Beyond providing housing, his real estate ventures aim to create thriving communities that enhance quality of life.
Awartani’s influence also extends deeply into finance. In 2013, he co-founded Equalis Capital Ltd, a proprietary investment firm. Just two years later, he became a shareholder and board member of Global Gate Capital Partners, an investment firm managing more than USD 2 billion in assets. These ventures reflect his adaptability and vision in navigating global financial markets. Most recently, in 2024, he co-founded Yasa Capital, an investment advisory firm dedicated to sustainable financial growth and strategic investment planning.
Diversification: Hospitality and Healthcare
Awartani’s career is marked by a keen ability to diversify into sectors that support both economic growth and social progress. In 2017, he co-founded Café Milano Abu Dhabi, a luxury dining destination that brought an internationally renowned brand to the UAE capital. This hospitality venture highlighted his recognition of Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a cosmopolitan hub for business and culture.
In 2020, his focus shifted to healthcare when he became a substantial shareholder in Reem Hospital Abu Dhabi. This strategic investment was both a business decision and a reflection of his belief in advancing healthcare infrastructure. By supporting world-class medical facilities, Awartani reinforced his commitment to enhancing community health and well-being.
A Commitment to Philanthropy
Beyond business, Shaher Awartani has consistently demonstrated a profound dedication to philanthropy. His private scholarship program empowers students to pursue higher education, opening doors for future leaders across diverse fields. Education, in his view, is the cornerstone of progress and innovation.
His charitable efforts also extend to healthcare, with significant contributions to institutions such as the Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C. These philanthropic initiatives demonstrate his belief that business success must be paired with social responsibility, ensuring his impact extends beyond economic metrics.
Education and Values
Shaher Awartani holds a bachelor’s degree in Management from the University of Toledo, a foundation that has supported his success in navigating multiple industries. However, it is his principles—integrity, foresight, and resilience—that have truly defined his leadership journey. These values inform both his business ventures and his charitable endeavors, reinforcing his reputation as a trusted leader and visionary.
Shaping Abu Dhabi’s Future
Awartani’s career mirrors the trajectory of Abu Dhabi itself: bold, diversified, and future-focused. His work across construction, real estate, finance, hospitality, and healthcare embodies the city’s commitment to sustainable growth and global leadership. More importantly, his philanthropic efforts ensure that prosperity is shared, fostering education, healthcare, and opportunity for generations to come.
Looking forward, Shaher Awartani continues to expand his business ventures while deepening his philanthropic reach. His journey underscores a central truth: that true leadership is defined not only by financial achievements but also by the legacies built in communities and lives uplifted along the way