Mohamad El Kurdi, Co-Founder and Managing Director of FNM Properties, is an experienced investor and marketing professional with over 13 years of experience in Dubai. Born and raised in Saudi Arabia with Lebanese roots, he combines a passion for numbers with a deep commitment to delivering results. Three years ago, Mohamad left corporate life to launch his own marketing agency and real estate business, FNM Properties, where he oversees operations and leads by example to ensure client satisfaction. A dedicated father of two, as well as a football and gym enthusiast, Mohamad is all about fulfilling promises and helping others succeed.

A Defining Moment: Lessons from Home

Mohammad’s early life in Lebanon was marked by a financial roller coaster that deeply influenced his perspective on money and success. Watching his father ascend to the mid/upper class in Saudi Arabia only to return to a more modest lifestyle in Lebanon instilled in him a sense of caution and awareness. “Seeing him go through these drastic changes made me very aware and cautious about my own future,” Mohammad reflects.

This early exposure to the volatility of financial success led him to a pivotal realisation: he didn’t want to experience the same ups and downs. Instead of merely saving, he chose to invest in his future from his very first job. This proactive approach not only shaped his career but also instilled in him an unwavering determination to excel. In his sales roles, he became known for his relentless pursuit of targets, consistently going above and beyond expectations.

Navigating New Waters: The Shift to Real Estate

Transitioning into real estate felt like a natural progression for Mohammad. His personal experience as an investor gave him a unique perspective and the confidence to help others. “After successfully navigating my own investments, I thought, why not share my knowledge and open an investment advising company?” he explains. 

What started as an effort to assist family and friends quickly blossomed into a global clientele. For Mohammad, real estate is more than just a business; it’s a platform to combine his passion for investing with his desire to empower others to secure their financial futures.

Balancing Life’s Triumphs

One of Mohammad’s proudest achievements isn’t measured by financial milestones but rather by the relationships he has nurtured. Building a beautiful family, maintaining his health, and preserving his sanity amidst the demands of entrepreneurship stand out as his true accomplishments. “It’s a reminder that success isn’t just about professional milestones, but also about pursuing what you love while nurturing the relationships and health that matter most,” he shares.

This holistic definition of success reflects his commitment to balance. As he juggles the responsibilities of family life, career, and personal well-being, he finds fulfilment in creating a life that aligns with his values.

Overcoming Challenges: Growing Up Fast

Mohammad’s career journey began as a teenager, working summers and juggling full-time responsibilities during university to finance his education. Early on, he faced a significant challenge: being the youngest person in many roles meant he often had to lead individuals older and more experienced than himself. This situation, while daunting, became a crucial learning experience that honed his leadership skills and taught him how to navigate complex workplace dynamics.

“I had to learn quickly how to manage and lead effectively, which shaped my approach to leadership throughout my career,” he reflects.

From Corporate Life to Real Estate: A New Beginning

Three years ago, Mohammad made a bold decision to step away from his corporate career and start his own marketing agency and real estate business—FNM Properties. Drawing from his experience as an investor, he realized the potential to help others secure their financial futures through real estate. “After successfully managing my own investments, I thought, why not share my knowledge?” he explains. What started as helping family and friends has now grown into a global clientele.

FNM Properties has become a platform where Mohammad blends his expertise in investment and real estate, delivering on promises and ensuring client satisfaction. His hands-on approach to business is one of his defining traits, as he remains involved in operations to guarantee that results are achieved.

A Vision for the Future

Today, Mohammad is focused on cultivating his family, educating his children, and planning for a financially independent retirement. His entrepreneurial spirit remains vibrant as he explores new business opportunities, particularly in areas that align with his passion for sports. “Football and sports are big passions of mine, and I see them as viable areas for investment,” he notes, emphasising his desire to create a fulfilling, balanced life.

Inspiration from Within: The Role of Family

The most significant influence on Mohammad’s career has been his father, whose resilience and patience have inspired him to face challenges head-on. “He made sure that we learned from his mistakes, guiding us to avoid the same pitfalls he faced,” Mohammad shares. This legacy of perseverance has shaped his mindset and approach to both personal and professional growth, reminding him of the importance of learning from experience.

Staying Motivated: A Holistic Approach

Maintaining motivation and positivity is vital for Mohammad, and he achieves this through a combination of sports, faith, and self-reflection. “Sports help me clear my mind and stay physically active, while my faith provides strength during tough times,” he explains. Engaging in self-talk allows him to process challenges and refocus on his goals. This approach is a testament to his commitment to personal development and mental well-being.

Lessons Learned: The Power of Independence

A significant turning point in Mohammad’s career came when he realised that relying too heavily on one person’s decisions for his professional growth was unsustainable. This insight propelled him toward entrepreneurship, allowing him to take control of his future and build something on his own terms. “It motivated me to invest my time and money where I could see the most value,” he reflects.

A Balanced Definition of Success

Over the years, Mohammad’s definition of success has evolved. Initially focused on financial achievements, he now believes that true success encompasses growth in all areas of life—personal, professional, financial, and health. “Success now means finding balance and growth, ensuring that I’m progressing holistically,” he emphasizes.

When asked what advice he would give to his younger self, Mohammad simply replies, “Well done!” He believes that every challenge and decision shaped his current self, and he wouldn’t change a thing about his journey. 

As for the future, Mohammad isn’t overly concerned about leaving a legacy in his industry. His focus is on meaningful work, personal growth, and enjoying the journey. “I don’t feel the need to leave a legacy; it’s more about taking things step by step and focusing on what I’m doing now,” he concludes.

Mohammad El Kurdi’s journey is an inspiring reminder that success is not just about financial gains but also about personal fulfillment, relationships, and the courage to forge one’s path. As he continues to help others build their futures, his story encourages us all to reflect on our definitions of success and the values that guide our journeys.