The 100 NRIs – 2026: PNC Menon, Founder, Sobha Group
PNC Menon
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This article forms part of The 100 NRIs, a special edition by Entrepreneur Middle East spotlighting the most influential non-resident Indians shaping business, innovation, and investment across the region.
FOUNDER OF SOBHA GROUP, PNC Menon has carved a remarkable legacy in the real estate sector over five decades, transforming humble beginnings into a global empire. His visionary leadership and relentless pursuit of excellence have made him a distinguished figure in the industry, with a reputation for delivering iconic projects and setting new standards in quality and innovation. Motivated by a deep dedication to superior performance, unwavering commitment to quality, and a strong sense of social responsibility, Menon started his entrepreneurial journey in India with modest roots. In 1976, he established interior decoration enterprise in Oman, specialising in prestigious projects including royal palaces and elaborate mosques in Muscat.
His company, Service and Trade Company, quickly expanded its operations across Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE, earning a reputation for excellence and reliability. His contributions to Oman were highlighted when he and his family were honoured with Omani citizenship by the Sultan of Oman. Having resided in the Gulf for 48 years, Menon has made Dubai his home since 2003, further strengthening his influence within the Middle Eastern business landscape. Known for transparency and dedication, he built a reputation for consistent quality in construction and interior design.
Recognising the need for high-quality real estate in India, Menon founded Sobha Developers in 1995, with Bangalore as its headquarters. The company’s portfolio includes numerous signature projects such as Sobha Solis, alongside the landmark Sobha Hartland development in Dubai’s MBR City, Sustainability and people-centric progress continued to be central to Sobha Realty’s strategic agenda in 2025.
Throughout the year, Sobha One became the first building outside of Singapore to attain the Green Mark Platinum Super Low Energy certification. Furthermore, the company achieved a score of 97 in the 2025 GRESB Real Estate Assessment and was awarded a 4-Star Rating, thereby further consolidating its leadership in ESG governance and low-carbon development.
Related: Entrepreneur Middle East Reveals “The 100 NRIs” List
This article forms part of The 100 NRIs, a special edition by Entrepreneur Middle East spotlighting the most influential non-resident Indians shaping business, innovation, and investment across the region.
FOUNDER OF SOBHA GROUP, PNC Menon has carved a remarkable legacy in the real estate sector over five decades, transforming humble beginnings into a global empire. His visionary leadership and relentless pursuit of excellence have made him a distinguished figure in the industry, with a reputation for delivering iconic projects and setting new standards in quality and innovation. Motivated by a deep dedication to superior performance, unwavering commitment to quality, and a strong sense of social responsibility, Menon started his entrepreneurial journey in India with modest roots. In 1976, he established interior decoration enterprise in Oman, specialising in prestigious projects including royal palaces and elaborate mosques in Muscat.
His company, Service and Trade Company, quickly expanded its operations across Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE, earning a reputation for excellence and reliability. His contributions to Oman were highlighted when he and his family were honoured with Omani citizenship by the Sultan of Oman. Having resided in the Gulf for 48 years, Menon has made Dubai his home since 2003, further strengthening his influence within the Middle Eastern business landscape. Known for transparency and dedication, he built a reputation for consistent quality in construction and interior design.
