When Ahmed Subhani transitioned from his stable role as a college lecturer to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship, the odds seemed stacked against him. Today, as the Founder and CEO of Falcon Eye Group, he reflects on a journey marked by resilience, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of purpose. In an interview with the Observer, Ahmed shared the challenges he overcame, the milestones he achieved, and the vision that continues to drive his business forward.
A LEAP OF FAITH
Ahmed's entrepreneurial journey began with a bold decision to leave academia. "Transitioning from teaching to running a business was daunting," he recalled. "There were fears—of failure, of stepping into uncharted territory—but I believed that growth lies outside our comfort zones." With the unwavering support of his family, he ventured into waste management in Al Dhahirah Governorate, a modest start that would eventually lead to a diversified conglomerate operating across Oman and the GCC.
His decision to embrace the unknown paid off, as he discovered leadership qualities he hadn’t realised he possessed. "Overcoming obstacles wasn’t easy, but every challenge taught me resilience and adaptability," he said.
MILESTONES THAT MATTER
Falcon Eye Group's growth reflects Ahmed's strategic vision and commitment to innovation. From its beginnings in waste management, the group expanded into sectors such as healthcare, fashion, retail, human resource consultancy, and real estate. Each venture was a calculated step toward fulfilling unmet needs in the market.
One achievement Ahmed holds especially dear is the establishment of Care24, a rehabilitation centre. "Care24 is more than a business—it’s a mission to contribute to humanity’s well-being. Seeing the positive impact it has made on people’s lives is profoundly fulfilling," he said.
Another defining moment in Ahmed’s career was his election as an expat to the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry committee. "Serving in the chamber was a validation of the trust and respect I earned within the community. It was a milestone that symbolised collaboration and progress," he added.
CHALLENGES AND LESSONS
For Ahmed, leadership has been a constant learning curve. "Building the business from scratch in Al Dhahirah with limited resources was one of the toughest challenges," he admitted. Expanding to Muscat and beyond required strategic planning and the ability to navigate competitive markets.
Diversifying into multiple sectors posed its own complexities. "Understanding different markets while ensuring each venture aligned with our core values was no small task," Ahmed said. Yet, these challenges taught him valuable lessons about perseverance and staying true to his vision.
He emphasised the role of teamwork in overcoming obstacles. "The resilience of my team and the support of my family have been instrumental. Leadership is not just about making decisions; it’s about inspiring people to move toward a shared goal," he remarked.
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION
Ahmed views his role as a leader as an opportunity to shape a positive company culture. "Every day is a new opportunity to learn and grow, not just for me but for the entire team," he said. By promoting open communication and fostering autonomy, he has cultivated an environment of trust and collaboration within Falcon Eye Group.
To aspiring CEOs, Ahmed offered this advice: "There are no shortcuts to success. Empower your team to take ownership of their roles, and lead with patience and integrity. The journey may be long, but the lessons are invaluable."
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
Looking ahead, Ahmed’s vision for Falcon Eye Group revolves around innovation, sustainability, and creating lasting value. "We aim to lead in quality and customer satisfaction while contributing to society, especially through initiatives like Care24," he shared.
For the industry as a whole, Ahmed sees technology and sustainability as key drivers of future growth. "We want to be at the forefront of these changes, leading with purpose and ensuring we make a meaningful impact," he said.
BALANCING ACT
Amid the demands of leadership, Ahmed prioritises personal growth and well-being. He finds inspiration in reading, traveling, and attending exhibitions, which broaden his perspective and fuel his creativity. "Balancing professional responsibilities with personal well-being is essential for effective leadership," he noted.
As Falcon Eye Group continues to grow, Ahmed Subhani’s story serves as a testament to the power of resilience, vision, and purpose. From a classroom in academia to the helm of a diversified business empire, Ahmed’s journey inspires others to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the challenges that come their way.
(QUOTE: The resilience of my team and the support of my family have been instrumental. Leadership is not just about making decisions; it’s about inspiring people to move toward a shared goal. - Ahmed Subhani, Founder and CEO of Falcon Eye Group)
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
