Khater Massaad is arguably the most influential businessman in the recent history of Ras Al Khaimah.

The driving force behind RAK Ceramics, which he founded, the company is the biggest manufacturer of ceramic products in the world, bringing in revenue of around $1bn from a network of more than 150 countries. Its mega-orders include flooring for Princess Noura bint Abdulrahman University for Women in Riyadh. He is also one of the most academically-qualified individuals in the Power 100, holding a PhD in Geophysics and an MSc in Mathematics from the University of Lausanne, Switzerland. His break came in the 1980s when he was carrying out investigations for clay deposits, dams and water in the GCC and Levant countries.

Spurred by his findings, HH Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qassimi, current Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, together with Massaad envisioned a major plan for a ceramic factory in the emirate, and in 1991 the company was born.

The company was awarded the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Award (MRM Business Award) for industry in 2005. Massaad was presented with the Visionary CEO Award at the Middle East Business Leaders Summit and Awards in Dubai in April 2010.

The company is looking to expand its network further around the world, targeting African and India.

Original article available at Construction Week