THE STRATEGIST INSPIRING GROWTH
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reat leaders often stand out not because of their titles, but because of the way they approach challenges and opportunities. They focus on clarity, persistence, and creating an environment where people feel motivated to contribute their best. Leadership is not only about making decisions but also about guiding others in a way that creates lasting impact. Many leaders gain recognition for their results, but the truly remarkable ones earn respect for the process they follow. They listen carefully, consider perspectives, and plan strategically. They balance long-term vision with day-to-day execution, ensuring that goals are met while keeping teams engaged and aligned. Over time, their approach builds trust and encourages collaboration, allowing teams to achieve outcomes that are bigger than any individual effort. Challenges are an inevitable part of any journey. Leaders who succeed understand that setbacks are opportunities to learn and improve. They adapt without losing sight of their goals and use their experiences to inspire others. Their ability to combine discipline with empathy allows them to lead with both authority and understanding, setting standards that others can follow. Innovation and consistent effort often go hand in hand. Leaders who make a real difference focus on building processes that work, supporting people who can contribute meaningfully, and staying open to new ideas. Their influence extends beyond immediate results, shaping the culture, values, and long-term growth of the teams and organizations they work with. In this edition, The Visionary Leader Inspiring the World to Watch 2025, we highlight Umair Dhex, whose leadership style, vision, and dedication continue to make a mark. Through clarity, focus, and a commitment to meaningful impact, Umair exemplifies how leadership can shape teams, drive innovation, and inspire others to achieve more than they thought possible. Have an inspiring read ahead!
EDITOR'S NOTE
Amelia James Johncy Michael Andrea Glasgow Robert Smith Kiran Kamble Andrea Clarke Akshay Dokh Adam Taylor Teresa Mills June Stewart Hazel Smith
© 2025 CIO Prime Media and PR. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without prior written permission of the publisher. office No, Prime Square Properties, 125/5, 402 A, Pimple Saudagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411017 USA - 1161 Gahanna Parkway, Columbus, Ohio 43230-6616, United States, Phone: +1 5139517955
10 Umair Dhex
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How to Save Costs Without Sacrificing Quality in Construction Projects
The Role of Drones: Transforming Surveying & Inspections in Construction
UMAIR
KHAN DHEX REDEFINING LUXURY LIVING: GRIFFITH CONSTRUCTION BY DHEX
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riffith Construction Dubai is recognized as a premier firm specializing in premium interior fitouts and refurbishments for the luxury sector in the UAE. The company stands as a testament to the belief that resilience and rigorous discipline are the foundation of excellence. Its success is intrinsically linked to the foundational philosophy of its CEO and Founder, Umair K. Dhex, also known as Dhex. For Dhex, the drive to deliver bespoke quality stems from a profound personal understanding of overcoming challenges. Growing up in a modest neighbourhood meant learning the vital lesson that resilience isn't an option; it's a way of life. Financial struggles shaped his childhood, but they also forged an unshakeable determination to change his circumstances and build something lasting. From a young age, Dhex undertook small ventures to support himself. These weren't merely acts of survival; they were fundamental lessons in resourcefulness, discipline, and perseverance that continue to define his leadership style today. He learned the true value of a committed team and the necessity of meticulous planning long before he managed a multi-billions-dirham portfolio. This grounding in practical necessity is what sets his approach apart in the often-abstract world of luxury fit-outs and renovation. Now, as a titan in the high-end renovation sector, Dhex carries those values forward. His work reflects more than business acumen; it's a deep understanding of people, their needs, and their potential. For him, success isn't tallied by profit alone, but by the lasting impact he creates. Dhex's journey is proof that vision is not built-in comfort, but in the courage to transform challenges into opportunities. His personal story provides a powerful narrative that underpins the trust and integrity that Griffith Construction Dubai offers its elite clientele. The Construction Legacy: Mastering Luxury Renovation Dhex's story in the Gulf began in 2004, a journey focused intensely on Dubai's dynamic luxury market, culminating in the establishment of Griffith Construction by 2017. What started as a modest property refurbishment and design firm swiftly became synonymous with quality, trust, and a deeper sense of purpose. The growth wasn't instantaneous;
it was the result of a deliberate, focused commitment to delivering refurbishment and interior fit-out projects on time, on budget, and to a standard that consistently exceeded client expectations within the UAE's competitive luxury sector. For Dhex, every project transcends mere structural work. It is an opportunity to create something enduring, not only in technical execution but in the elevated experience of those who inhabit the spaces. He views the finished interior as a canvas for human connection and well-being. This perspective means that even the smallest details, from the choice of Porcelain in a high-end bathroom revamp to the finish on custom joinery, are considered part of the overall mission to enhance luxury living through bespoke renovation across Dubai's most exclusive districts. From the outset, Dhex championed three non-negotiable guiding principles: integrity, accountability, and excellence. These principles aren't just corporate jargon; they form the operational DNA of the company. Under his leadership, Griffith Construction has completed renovation and fit-out projects valued close to a billion Dirhams. Every venture reflects these values: executed with perfection, built to last, and inherently rooted in client needs. The sheer scale and complexity of these UAE projects—often demanding bespoke engineering for nonstructural changes and custom material expertise—underscores the firm's capacity and reliability in the specialized renovation field. Griffith Construction is now recognized for delivering more than simple construction; it has become a statement: refurbishment can be purposeful, spaces can foster genuine connection, and every finished project can tell a story of trust, transparency, and perfection. The Purpose-Driven Portfolio: Mastering the Details For Dhex, Griffith Construction was merely the foundation. He saw boundless opportunities to bring his vision to life across multiple, interconnected ventures, combining his flair for creativity with purposeful development, all rooted in serving the UAE interior and exterior enhancement market's unique requirements: •
Griffith Construction: Redefining renovation with innovative approaches, covering everything from
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complex MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing), structural block work, ceiling work and steel work to immaculate tiling and SPC/LVT flooring. They specialize in taking technically challenging refurbishments and delivering flawless, turn-key solutions for high-end hospitality and private residences across Dubai. Griffith + Partners: Providing luxury design and architecture solutions, turning creative ideas into bespoke, render-perfect works of art for clients globally. This design arm ensures that every renovation project, whether residential or commercial, starts with an innovative and executable vision tailored to regional aesthetic demands.
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Join & Kitch: Modern kitchen concepts and bespoke joinery (wardrobes, walk-in closets, media units) that blend elite functionality with stunning elegance. This venture focuses on customizing every element to the client's exact lifestyle, understanding that joinery is the critical interface between design and daily living, particularly in the custom-built villa refurbishment market.
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Griffith Scape: Transforming outdoor spaces into thoughtfully designed landscapes, featuring pools, BBQ stations, and pergolas that balance beauty and practicality. They treat exterior spaces as extensions of the luxury interior, ensuring seamless flow and maximal use of the Gulf's climate for leisure and entertaining, a key component of complete luxury property renovation.
Each expansion reflects Dhex's core belief: that creativity must have purpose. Building this diverse portfolio required relentless resourcefulness and resilience, adapting strategies to navigate shifting market demands and secure essential funding within the region. Yet, for Dhex, every challenge simply became a lesson, and every obstacle, a fresh opportunity. This adaptability has cemented Griffith's status as a dependable partner in Dubai's dynamic luxury renovation market. The Art of Discipline and Global Ambition For Dhex, growth is never accidental; it is a deliberate
process guided by meticulous planning and clear perspective. This strategic approach ensures that expansion is sustainable and that quality is never compromised in the execution of complex refurbishments. Each morning begins with focused strategy sessions with his leadership team, aligning priorities with the core vision. Afternoons are then spent on the ground—visiting sites across Dubai, seeing the renovation work come to life, and exploring new possibilities for the future. This hands-on leadership ensures accountability at every level, from the boardroom to the construction site, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the business. The firm's success in Dubai set the stage for international reach. In 2024, Griffith Construction marked a significant milestone by expanding business operations into London. This move was strategic, signalling the company's confidence in exporting its specialized standards of quality, efficiency, and bespoke luxury fit-outs to one of the world's most demanding real estate markets. It serves as a benchmark for the maturity and global scalability of the brand Dhex has meticulously built. Today, Griffith Construction is scaling its operations, with sustainability at its core—a response to the global demand for environmentally conscious luxury. Dhex is actively investing in research and development to adopt methods that respect the environment while consistently delivering exceptional value in the UAE's ambitious renovation environment. Dhex's journey is an indelible story of vision, courage, and determination. For aspiring entrepreneurs, his path offers crucial insight: vision alone is not enough. Success requires resilience, unwavering discipline, and the commitment to align every action with a greater goal. Dhex proves that with clarity and commitment, ambition truly transforms into legacy. He is not just completing construction projects; he is building a reputation for excellence in luxury renovation and refurbishment that will endure for generations in Dubai and beyond.
HOW TO SAVE COSTS WITHOUT SACRIFICING QUALITY IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
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onstruction projects carry an inherent tension between cost and quality. Developers, contractors, and homeowners all feel the pressure to deliver a project within budget while maintaining high standards. According to a report by McKinsey, large construction projects typically run 80% over budget and take 20 months longer than planned. This gap is often the result of inefficient planning, poor resource management, or unnecessary material wastage. The challenge is how to save costs without compromising the integrity and longevity of the structure. It is a delicate balance, but one that is achievable with strategic planning, smart resource allocation, and thoughtful execution. Detailed Planning to Control Construction Costs A thorough plan acts as the foundation for cost control. Projects that lack precise planning frequently encounter budget overruns. Cost savings begin on paper. Creating a realistic budget that accounts for labor, materials, equipment, and unforeseen contingencies ensures clarity for all stakeholders. One effective strategy is to break the project into smaller phases, each with its own budget and timeline. This allows for easier monitoring and immediate adjustments
if costs begin to escalate. Consider material procurement. Planning ahead allows bulk purchases at lower rates, reducing costs without compromising quality. Contractors who fail to forecast material needs often make emergency purchases at higher prices, which inflates the budget. Additionally, detailed planning helps in identifying where labor and equipment are needed most, avoiding underutilization or idle resources. Use of Value Engineering to Optimize Construction CostsValue engineering is a structured approach to improving the value of a project by analyzing its functions. It does not mean cutting corners. Instead, it focuses on finding cost-effective alternatives that deliver the same performance. For example, selecting a locally sourced material that meets the required standards can significantly reduce transportation costs. Substituting traditional concrete with high-performance mixes may have higher upfront costs but reduce longterm maintenance expenses. A practical example comes from residential building projects in India. Builders have adopted modular components such as pre-cast concrete slabs, which reduce labor hours and accelerate construction timelines. This
approach lowers costs without sacrificing structural integrity. When applied correctly, value engineering can improve both efficiency and quality simultaneously. Smart Procurement Practices to Reduce Costs Procurement decisions directly influence construction budgets. Efficient procurement involves more than price comparisons; it requires evaluating supplier reliability, delivery timelines, and quality guarantees. A single delay or substandard batch can inflate costs rapidly. Working with reputable suppliers reduces the risk of rework and material wastage. Consider the example of electrical and plumbing materials. Using certified products ensures durability, avoiding frequent replacements that add to costs in the long run. Bulk ordering and negotiating long-term contracts with suppliers also offer significant cost advantages. Strategic procurement balances upfront expenses with lifecycle benefits, protecting both quality and budget. Technology Integration for Cost Efficiency Technology in construction is not only for design or visualization; it directly impacts cost management. Building
Information Modeling (BIM) allows teams to visualize the project in detail, detect design conflicts early, and minimize waste. When every element is mapped digitally, unexpected errors are reduced, lowering the likelihood of costly revisions. Drones and site monitoring tools provide real-time insights into construction progress, preventing resource misallocation and identifying inefficiencies early. For instance, a project manager can use drone surveys to track material usage or equipment placement, ensuring resources are used optimally. Technology enables precision, which translates into both cost savings and higher-quality outcomes. Workforce Management to Maintain Quality While Reducing Costs Labor accounts for a significant portion of construction expenses. Efficient workforce management can reduce costs without affecting quality. Hiring skilled labor reduces mistakes, rework, and delays. Training workers for specific tasks increases productivity and decreases errors. Rotating workers efficiently across tasks ensures no one is idle, and subcontractor schedules are coordinated to avoid downtime. For example, scheduling concrete pouring immediately after formwork completion prevents delays and extra labor costs. When the right people are in the right place at the right time, the project runs smoother, stays on budget, and maintains its quality standards. Sustainable Materials and Practices as Cost-Saving Measures Sustainability in construction is often seen as an added expense, but it can yield significant savings. Materials such as recycled steel or fly ash bricks reduce costs while maintaining
structural strength. Efficient insulation and energy-efficient designs lower utility costs for building occupants over the long term. On a larger scale, green construction practices reduce waste. Efficient site planning, reuse of construction debris, and careful inventory management prevent over-ordering and material wastage. Sustainability aligns cost reduction with environmental responsibility, proving that quality and savings can coexist. Maintenance Planning to Preserve Long-Term Quality Saving costs does not end with the completion of the project. Poor maintenance planning can lead to frequent repairs, negating initial cost savings. Incorporating maintenance considerations during construction preserves quality and reduces longterm expenses. Selecting durable finishes, high-quality coatings, and corrosion-resistant materials minimizes the frequency of repairs. For example, using weather-resistant paints on exterior walls prevents repeated painting, saving labor and material costs. Similarly, choosing durable flooring and roofing materials reduces wear and tear over time. Longterm thinking in construction design ensures that cost savings are sustainable and quality is preserved. Strategic Partnerships and Collaboration Strong partnerships between contractors, architects, and suppliers reduce risks and costs. Collaborative approaches promote transparency in budgeting, material selection, and timeline management. When teams work together from the outset, they can identify potential cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality.
Real-world examples include joint procurement initiatives where multiple projects share resources, reducing overhead and ensuring consistent material quality. Collaboration also minimizes errors and rework by aligning expectations across all stakeholders, resulting in a smoother construction process. Clear Takeaways on Cost Management in Construction The key to saving costs without sacrificing quality lies in planning, efficiency, and foresight. Budgeting accurately, applying value engineering, integrating technology, and managing labor strategically all contribute to cost reduction. Choosing sustainable materials, planning for maintenance, and fostering collaboration further protect quality while keeping expenses under control. Construction projects require discipline and foresight. Cutting corners may offer short-term savings, but thoughtful strategies ensure that quality remains intact, costs stay manageable, and projects stand the test of time. Developers and contractors who apply these principles create buildings that are both economical and durable, leaving a lasting impression on clients and communities. Every decision in construction affects the bottom line. Approaching these decisions with clarity, knowledge, and intention turns cost-saving strategies into a natural part of the project workflow. The balance between cost and quality is not a compromise; it is a practice of intelligent planning and execution.
The Role of Drones Transforming Surveying & Inspec ons in Construc on
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onstruction has always relied on accurate measurements, precise planning, and constant monitoring. For decades, engineers and surveyors depended on manual methods that were often timeconsuming, expensive, and prone to human error. Today, drones are redefining the way surveying and inspections are conducted in the construction industry. These small, unmanned aerial vehicles are now central tools in site management, quality control, and safety monitoring, offering efficiency and insight that traditional methods cannot match. How Drones are Revolutionizing Construction Surveying Surveying forms the foundation of any construction project. Traditionally, it involves teams walking large sites, using tools like theodolites and measuring tapes to gather data. This method consumes days or weeks and still carries the risk of inaccuracies due to human fatigue or environmental challenges. Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and LiDAR sensors can complete the same survey in a fraction of the time, capturing precise data from angles that would be difficult or dangerous for humans to reach. For example, large infrastructure projects such as highways
or bridges require detailed topographical maps. Drones can fly over the entire area and generate 3D models with centimeter-level accuracy. These models help engineers plan drainage, foundation, and material placement efficiently. A study by the American Society of Civil Engineers found that using drones for surveying reduced data collection time by up to 80 percent in large-scale projects. Drones for Inspections: Safer, Faster, and More Accurate Inspections are another area where drones are proving invaluable. Construction sites have multiple risk points: high scaffolding, deep pits, and complex machinery layouts. Traditionally, inspectors climb structures or use cranes to evaluate progress and detect defects. This process carries safety risks and can delay project timelines. Drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras can detect issues such as moisture intrusion, insulation defects, and structural weaknesses without putting human lives at risk. For instance, in high-rise construction, drones can inspect rooftops and facades in minutes, while manual inspection might take hours or even days. This approach also allows
for more frequent inspections, ensuring issues are caught early rather than after damage occurs. Companies working on industrial projects, like power plants or refineries, have adopted drone inspections to monitor equipment and structural integrity. The results are measurable: fewer accidents, lower insurance costs, and improved project timelines. The data captured can be stored digitally, creating an audit trail for quality assurance and regulatory compliance. Drones and Real-Time Data Analysis in Construction One of the most significant advantages of drones is their ability to provide real-time data. Modern drones can transmit high-resolution video and geospatial data instantly to engineers, project managers, and stakeholders. This capability allows for immediate decision-making, reducing delays caused by waiting for survey reports or inspection results. Take, for example, a construction project in a congested urban area. Traffic disruptions, weather conditions, and nearby structures complicate site monitoring. A drone flying over the site can provide live updates to the project team, helping them adjust workflows, reroute machinery, or reschedule tasks. By integrating drones with construction management software, companies can visualize progress on 3D maps, track material usage, and even forecast potential delays. Cost Efficiency: A Clear Advantage of Drones Investing in drones may seem costly initially, but the return on investment becomes apparent quickly. Traditional surveying and inspections require large teams, multiple days of work, and expensive equipment rentals. Drones reduce the need for extensive manpower and speed up tasks that once took weeks. For example, surveying a 50-acre construction site manually could cost tens of thousands of dollars in labor and equipment. A drone survey can cut those costs by half or more while delivering higher precision. Similarly, inspection of structural components can prevent costly errors or rework by catching defects early. Over the lifespan of a construction project, drones save money and improve efficiency in ways that directly affect the bottom line. Environmental and Regulatory Considerations Drones also reduce the environmental impact of construction surveying. Traditional methods often require driving heavy vehicles across sites, which contributes to
soil compaction and emissions. Drones operate on battery power, leaving a much smaller environmental footprint. From a regulatory perspective, drone use in construction is increasingly standardized. Many countries have clear guidelines for drone operation in industrial settings. Licensed operators must comply with altitude restrictions, safety protocols, and privacy regulations. Companies adopting drones ensure compliance while benefiting from improved site management, demonstrating a responsible approach to technology integration. Real-World Examples of Drone Integration in Construction Several high-profile projects illustrate the transformative impact of drones. In the construction of a major airport terminal, drones were used to map the terrain, monitor concrete pouring, and inspect safety barriers. Project managers could access 3D models and thermal imaging reports remotely, saving weeks of manual work. Similarly, a multinational construction firm used drones to inspect wind turbine foundations. Manual inspections would have required specialized climbing teams and scaffolding, but drones completed the task efficiently, identifying micro-cracks and areas needing reinforcement. This application improved safety, reduced downtime, and allowed engineers to make precise repairs before issues escalated. The Human Element: Drones as Tools, Not Replacements While drones offer remarkable benefits, they complement human expertise rather than replace it. Skilled surveyors, engineers, and inspectors remain essential for interpreting data, making decisions, and solving complex problems that machines alone cannot address. Drones handle repetitive, high-risk tasks, freeing human professionals to focus on analysis, strategy, and quality control. Training is another consideration. Construction teams must understand how to operate drones safely, process data accurately, and integrate findings into project management systems. This skill development strengthens the workforce while increasing the overall efficiency and safety of construction operations. The Future of Drones in Construction The role of drones in construction will continue to expand. Advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning will allow drones to detect defects automatically, predict maintenance needs, and even assist in autonomous material transport on sites.
