Abdullah Al-Maksour’s story is one of ambition, resilience, and innovation. The Syrian-born entrepreneur, now the CEO of Capstone, has built a remarkable career in blockchain, AI, and game development. His journey from a serene countryside in Syria to the dynamic tech world of the UAE is as inspiring as it is transformative.
Early Roots: A Foundation of Values
Abdullah grew up in the picturesque Syrian countryside, surrounded by a supportive and educated family. His upbringing instilled the values of hard work, learning, and ambition, which would later shape his professional journey. Reflecting on his early years, he credits his family for providing the foundation to pursue innovation and excellence.
Choosing the Right Path
With a passion for technology, Abdullah gravitated towards fields that align with the future—blockchain, artificial intelligence, and financing solutions for startups. The UAE, with its innovative environment, offered the perfect setting to explore these areas. Abdullah remarks, “These fields are vital for shaping the future and perfectly align with my passion for technology and innovation.”
Transformative Achievements
Among Abdullah’s numerous accomplishments, co-launching the GAYA Blockchain Project stands out. This groundbreaking initiative, in collaboration with Syrian businessman Aws Kaddour, combines games, decentralized finance (DeFi), and real-world assets. Powered by GayaCoin, the first Layer 1 Blockchain in the UAE, GAYA emphasizes sustainability and youth financing, making it a trailblazer in the tech ecosystem.
A Challenging Start
Abdullah’s entrepreneurial journey began at just 17, when he founded a company specializing in website and application development. Establishing credibility and adapting to the fast-changing tech landscape were early hurdles. However, moving to the UAE provided him with the resources and opportunities to scale his ventures, including launching City Crafters and Capstone TG.
Current Endeavors
Today, Abdullah is steering Capstone TG towards becoming a leader in digital transformation. His focus is on integrating blockchain, AI, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) solutions to create sustainable growth. This aligns perfectly with his long-term vision of driving innovation across industries.
Inspired by a Mentor
Behind every successful individual is a guiding force, and for Abdullah, that person is Ms. Rama Chakaki. Her encouragement and mentorship sparked his interest in technology and pushed him to pursue it as a career path. Abdullah credits her influence as pivotal in shaping his trajectory.
Staying Motivated Through Challenges
Challenges are inevitable in any career, and Abdullah is no stranger to setbacks. He maintains his motivation by focusing on the bigger picture and the impact of his work. A supportive team and reflecting on past successes keep him grounded and optimistic even during tough times.
Learning from Failures
One of Abdullah’s most valuable lessons came early in his career when he underestimated the importance of market research. This oversight highlighted the need to understand customer needs and market dynamics—a principle that now guides his strategic decisions.
Redefining Success
For Abdullah, the definition of success has evolved over time. Initially, he associated success with financial growth and recognition. Now, he views success as creating meaningful impact, fostering innovation, and empowering others to grow. “Success is about leaving a lasting, positive legacy,” he explains.
Advice to His Younger Self
If Abdullah could offer advice to his younger self, it would be to start small and take the first step, even without the perfect conditions. “Don’t wait for the perfect time, funding, or partner,” he says. “With perseverance, opportunities will align in your favor.”
Building a Legacy
Abdullah’s aspirations extend beyond his professional achievements. He hopes to leave a legacy of innovation, sustainability, and empowerment in the tech industry. His vision is to inspire future generations to dream big and harness the power of technology to create transformative change.
The Adventurer in Abdullah Al-Maksour
Beyond his professional life, Abdullah is a city dweller with an adventurous spirit. He loves to travel and discover new experiences, balancing his tech-savvy career with a zest for exploration.
Final Thoughts
Abdullah Al-Maksour’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of innovation. From his humble beginnings in Syria to becoming a pioneering entrepreneur in the UAE, his story inspires countless others to pursue their dreams. By combining passion with purpose, Abdullah is not only shaping industries but also building a brighter, more sustainable future.
