Mirwaiz Azizi’s journey from an economically struggling nation to becoming one of the wealthiest businessmen in the UAE is nothing short of inspiring. Born in Afghanistan, a country ravaged by the Afghan-Soviet war, Azizi was forced to flee in 1988. At the time, the country’s future seemed uncertain, but Mirwaiz’s determination to build a prosperous future for his family led him on a path that would ultimately make him one of the richest individuals in the UAE. Today, Azizi is known as the founder of the Azizi Group and has earned the nickname “Ambani of Afghanistan.”
The Birth of Azizi Group
After leaving Afghanistan, Mirwaiz first settled in Uzbekistan, where he began a textile manufacturing business. His ambition did not stop there. He soon ventured into the tobacco industry, establishing operations in Bulgaria and the Russian Commonwealth. This success eventually led him to the UAE, where he focused on the oil and gas sector and began building his empire.
In 1999, Azizi founded Azizi Bank in Afghanistan, which rapidly became the largest and most robust commercial financial institution in the country. This was a significant milestone for Azizi, who had started with little more than determination and a dream. Azizi Group also acquired Al Bakhtar Bank, another major player in Afghanistan’s growing financial sector.
Real Estate Expansion and Azizi Developments
Mirwaiz’s next major business venture came in 2007 when he founded Azizi Developments. The company began selling off-plan properties in Dubai by 2008, although it initially faced setbacks due to the global financial crisis. However, Azizi Developments made a successful comeback in 2013, resuming construction and achieving remarkable success.
Today, Azizi Developments is a major player in Dubai’s real estate market, with a portfolio valued at USD 12 billion and over 200 ongoing projects. The company has contributed significantly to the UAE’s skyline, offering both residential and commercial spaces.
Philanthropy and Support for Afghanistan
Despite his vast success, Mirwaiz has not forgotten his roots. He remains deeply committed to supporting his homeland, Afghanistan. Through his philanthropic efforts, he has created over 5,000 jobs, contributed to the reconstruction of infrastructure, and helped build 10,000 homes and commercial spaces in the country.
Azizi Group: A Business Empire
Today, Azizi Group spans multiple sectors, including finance, investment, real estate, and hospitality. The group’s various companies include Azizi Bank, Azizi Investment, Azizi Hospitality, and Azizi Foundation, all of which have become integral to the UAE’s economy. Azizi Development, in particular, has grown into one of Dubai’s leading property developers, managing projects worth over Rs. 100,000 crores.
A Billionaire’s Journey
Mirwaiz Azizi’s story is one of incredible transformation. From a refugee with just USD 700 in hand, he has built an empire with a turnover of Rs. 3,400 crores, an extraordinary feat that highlights his resilience and vision. His journey from humble beginnings to billionaire status is a testament to the power of perseverance, ambition, and a relentless pursuit of success.
Mirwaiz Azizi’s journey from a refugee to a business magnate shows that, even in the face of adversity, determination and strategic thinking can lead to extraordinary success. Through his ventures, Mirwaiz has not only become a key player in the UAE’s business landscape but also a philanthropist who continues to give back to his homeland, Afghanistan. His story serves as an inspiration to many, proving that with vision, hard work, and perseverance, anything is possible.
