We continue to introduce DOMLive readers to companies in Cyprus specializing in the construction of modern residential properties.
Today we talk to Mr. Elie Sejaan, President of Abraj, one of the youngest and most talented developers between Beirut and Cyprus, with a dedicated team whose projects are well represented in the Larnaca area.
Abraj is one of the leading development companies in Cyprus, providing its clients with modern and innovative buildings with cozy landscaped gardens and parking for residents. Since 2009, Elie Sejaan, President of Abraj, has been able to meet the demands of the most demanding clients through increased brand responsibility in construction, quality project management and clear executive leadership.
ABRAJ DEVELOPMENTS started its operations in Lebanon 15 years ago. They have delivered more than 200 apartments in Lebanon, with all ownership documents. Today they have offices in Beirut, downtown Dubai and coastal Larnaca.
Abraj Larnaca’s modest office is located a couple of blocks from the Finikoudes promenade, closer to the Agios Nikolaos neighborhood, on Ermou Larnaca’s main shopping street. Around 9am, the team is already at the office, ready to discuss the development of projects.
– Elie, tell us a little bit about how you entered the construction business.
My whole family, including my father and grandfather, were active in engineering and development. I worked my way all the way up. Started with daily site visits to learn how the site process worked from begining till the end. I also participated in construction work and saw projects grow and develop. At the same time, I graduated from the Lebanese-American University. In 2009, I was still very young, but I already felt ready to head the company in Beirut and lead its projects. After the success in Beirut, we also opened an office in Larnaca in 2017, and at the end of 2021 our first residential project was ready to be delivered.
– Why did you choose coastal Larnaca?
We didn’t have to think for too long. With the onset of the crisis, many Lebanese have been actively looking for a safe place suitable as a second home in recent years. Larnaca is conveniently located, a half-hour flight from Beirut and a short drive from the airport to the center. At the same time, the city has incredible potential for investment growth, magnificent blue flag beaches, and distances are so comfortable that after traffic jams and the hustle and bustle of big cities, people can finally take a deep breath and relax. And the Cypriot mentality is very close to our, we understand each other very well. I am sure that in 5 years Larnaca will become even more interesting. The city has a huge potential for growth. At the moment we are concentrating on the New Marina area and the land near Livadia village, but we are also interested in developing the central areas of the city, which are far from the coast and have important qualities such as proximity to educational institutions, new parks and other infrastructure for permanent residents.
– Who else is buying your projects today? How accessible are they to clients?
Of course, clients of different nationalities come to our office. According to Cypriot law, real estate is available to every European adult and anyone who has made an agreement with the Council of Ministers. In this case, payment must be made online through the Bank of Cyprus. For our part, we help to make the transaction within the country in all possible ways. It should be noted that most of our clients are looking for 1 and 2 bedroom apartments and are seeking a high return on investment. Our company maintains a trusting relationship with its loyal clients throughout the mission.
– When it comes to new construction, most often buyers have to wait, sometimes for years. What is your timeline?
On average, the wait takes one to two years. Buyers receive detailed video reports on the progress of the construction. For our part, we guarantee the use of the best materials and quality of work, a minimum set of furniture, a beautiful adjacent territory and, of course, a comfortable parking space. The guarantee after handing over the project is 1 year, according to the legislation of Cyprus.
– Name the buildings in Cyprus and around the world that inspire you the most.
In Cyprus it is of course our buildings, we strive to create projects of the highest quality that fit seamlessly into the landscape of the city but, as you may have noticed, always have a special design twist. And speaking of the world, there’s the Sydney Opera House building with its magnificent white sails.
Hard work and dedication are two words that describe the commitment to Abraj’s work. The team’s vision is to find innovative ways to respond to clients’ needs during the construction and after-sales phases. I must admit, it was very interesting to get to know Abraj’s kitchen from inside, to understand how this super machine works. We wish further development and success with the projects!