Project RAK Strengthens Leadership Team as Portfolio Expands

As Project RAK’s portfolio continues to grow, so does the leadership team behind it.

We are pleased to welcome three experienced leaders to the Project RAK team, each bringing specialized expertise across finance, business development, and real estate execution.

This growth reflects where Project RAK is today and where we are heading. As we continue to evaluate opportunities in the UAE property market, build relationships with developers, and manage investor-backed real estate assets, having the right team in place is essential.

Our model depends on disciplined decision-making, strong financial oversight, trusted relationships, and local execution. The following additions strengthen each of these areas.

Please join us in welcoming Shakeel Velji, Tony Bishouty, and Anwar Mkayed to the Project RAK team.

Shakeel Velji, CFO

Shakeel Velji joined Project RAK as Chief Financial Officer in May of this year, bringing more than 25 years of strategic financial leadership across global multinational organizations.

His experience spans investment strategy, risk management, operational discipline, and value creation. As CFO, Shakeel supports Project RAK’s long-term capital strategy and financial oversight as the portfolio continues to expand.

Shakeel's background strengthens the company’s ability to assess opportunities with discipline, manage capital responsibly, and support investor confidence through clear financial leadership. He is a part of our Vancouver based team.

Tony Bishouty, VP Business Development

Tony Bishouty joined Project RAK as Vice President of Business Development in February 2025.

With more than 20 years of leadership experience across finance, banking, and private investment, Tony brings a relationship-driven approach to growth. He has built lasting partnerships rooted in trust, integrity, and shared opportunity.

At Project RAK, Tony plays an important role in business development, investor relationships, and strategic partnership growth. His leadership reflects the company’s ongoing focus on security, performance, and long-term investor confidence.

Based out of our Vancouver office, Tony is known for providing clients with thoughtful market insight and a grounded perspective on the evolving UAE real estate landscape. To arrange a meeting with Tony or learn more about Project RAK, please reach out.

Anwar Mkayed, CREO

Anwar Mkayed joined Project RAK as Chief Real Estate Officer in October 2025, bringing more than 12 years of experience in the UAE development market.

With a degree in architecture and a strong understanding of real estate execution, Anwar brings both strategic vision and practical market knowledge to the team. His experience across development, asset optimization, and project execution strengthens Project RAK’s ability to identify and manage high-potential real estate opportunities.

As CREO, Anwar supports the strategic direction and operational execution of Project RAK’s real estate portfolio in the UAE. Based in Dubai, Anwar is an integral member of the Project RAK UAE team and continues to strengthen our on-the-ground presence and influence.

Strengthening the Team Behind the Portfolio

Project RAK was built to give international investors access to real estate in one of the UAE’s most active growth markets. As the company grows, the strength of the team becomes increasingly important.

These new leadership additions bring greater depth to the areas that matter most: financial discipline, partnership development, real estate insight, and execution. Together, Shakeel, Tony, and Anwar add important experience and capability to Project RAK’s leadership bench.

We are excited to welcome them to the team as we continue building strong for long-term growth.