First Group has maintained its leading position in the Gulf real estate and construction sector over a journey spanning more than 38 years. Founded in Kuwait in 1987 by entrepreneur Emil Abdullah, the company established a comprehensive development vision to rebuild urban infrastructure in the post-war era, laying a solid foundation of quality, commitment, and excellence in real estate development.
Since its inception, First Group has adopted a fully integrated operational model encompassing all stages of real estate development—from design and construction to technical management. This approach has allowed the company to maintain full control over quality standards and delivery schedules, making it one of the most trusted names in Kuwait and the region.
Over the years, the company has completed more than 100 major projects, including 20 high-rise towers exceeding 44 floors and four integrated cities. First Group holds a top-tier classification in construction in Kuwait and is among the top three developers specializing in commercial and administrative towers in the Gulf. It has also earned six ISO international certifications in recognition of its adherence to the highest standards of quality, management, and safety.
Projects That Build Trust
First Group has successfully executed major strategic projects, including:
Levels Tower
Hessa Al Mubarak Tower
Panasonic Tower
Anjazat Tower
Melaa City
Sabah Al-Ahmad City
American University of Kuwait (AUM) – the largest American university in the Middle East
The company’s portfolio spans governmental, medical, educational, and commercial projects, earning it a reputation for trust, structural strength, and engineering precision.
Urbnlanes Kuwait: The Egyptian Extension of Leading Gulf Expertise
Urbnlanes Developments, the real estate arm of Emeel Abdalla Investments in Egypt, represents a Kuwaiti company with a modern Egyptian vision. Since entering the Egyptian market, Urbnlanes has established itself among the top players in one of the region’s most competitive markets, thanks to its unique “build before sell” strategy and full confidence in the quality of its real estate products.
Urbnlanes leverages operational expertise from First Group while applying Gulf-standard practices in construction and management. It possesses a fully integrated equipment portfolio and large supply capabilities, ensuring consistent quality and durability across all projects.
The company’s investments in Egypt exceed EGP 50 billion, with a record of delivering projects ahead of schedule, establishing Urbnlanes as a leading name in both the New Administrative Capital and New Cairo.
A Distinctive Presence in New Cairo and the Administrative Capital
To date, the company has launched six major projects, marking milestones in the Egyptian real estate market. These projects combine modern design, high-quality execution, and strategic prime locations:
NOI Residence – Egypt’s First Tropical Community
Located in Golden Square, Fifth Settlement, on 46 acres, the project features a nature-inspired design based on the Voronoi philosophy. Ökoplan handled master planning, Hany Saad designed the landscape, and Jadar provided integrated management.
Amenities include walking and cycling paths, natural lakes, a luxury clubhouse, tennis and paddle courts, a full wellness center, and a luxury hotel operated by Story Hospitality (Abu Dhabi Capital), aligning with Egypt’s plan to double hotel capacity by 2028 and reach 30 million tourists by 2030.Midlane – Modern Business Hub in Fifth Settlement
Located at North 90th Street and Mohamed Naguib Axis, covering 15,000 m² with a total built-up area of 85,000 m². It includes commercial, medical, and administrative spaces fully equipped with integrated work-leisure experiences and advanced hotel and office services. Delivered in two phases over 1–4 years.Levels Business Tower – A New Administrative Capital Icon
One of the tallest towers in the Downtown area, 41 floors with 15,000 m², overlooking the Green River and North Mohamed bin Zayed Axis. The tower includes commercial, administrative, and hotel areas managed by Crowne Plaza, with a pedestrian bridge connecting the Green River to the business district—a unique feature among tourist towers. Design partners include Ökoplan, Mohamed Hafez Consultancy, Jadar, WSA, and e&.Yellow Residence – Balanced Lifestyle in New Cairo
Located on Cairo-Suez Road, 100,800 m², with a 35% construction ratio. It includes residential and hotel apartments (Crown Residence), offices, clinics, a hospital, a hotel, shops, and restaurants. All units sold within 24 hours. Designers include WSA, Hafez Consultants, and Ökoplan.Yellow Lane – Integrated Work and Living
Located on Cairo-Suez Road, 24 acres, featuring 16 administrative buildings, 3 clinic buildings, a hospital, hotel, serviced apartments, and commercial rental areas. Façade: 700 m, 15% construction ratio. Design by Tahseen Amin, consulting by Hafez Consultants. Delivered over 3 years.Eastlane Mall – Integrated Retail and Living Experience
Located on South 90th Street, Fifth Settlement, combining shopping, dining, and modern lifestyle. All administrative units sold within 4 hours and delivered ahead of schedule. Includes shops, cafés, restaurants, supermarket, and offices, offering a premium development environment blending comfort, functionality, and quality.
Leaders of Vision and Innovation
The expansion and leadership journey is driven by Emil Abdullah, alongside his sons:
Eng. Fadi Abdullah, CEO of Urbnlanes Kuwait
Eng. Shady Abdullah, CEO of Urbnlanes (jointly)
Eng. Mina Abdullah, CEO of First Group and Board Member of Urbnlanes Kuwait
Their combined expertise and oversight of architectural design, planning, aesthetics, and functionality ensure that each Urbnlanes project carries a distinctive architectural identity, reinforcing the group’s position among the leading Gulf development companies.
Source: https://www.shorouknews.com/news/view.aspx?cdate=04112025&id=19249d99-a0a2-4695-be57-38ae7688edb5
