As the leading light behind the Abu Dhabi Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC), Lee Tabler is responsible for the landmark projects that will bring tourists flocking into the emirate.

And with added tourism a vital plank of Abu Dhabi’s Plan 2030 vision, the TDIC chief executive has a tough job ahead of him as he structures some of the biggest hospitality and entertainment projects in the Gulf.

Among the developments TDIC has already completed are Anantara’s Desert Islands on Sir Bani Yas Island and Qasr Al Sarab, deep in the deserts of the empty quarter. Elsewhere, Tabler’s team is hard at work reshaping Saadiyat Island, which is set to become the new cultural centre of the UAE.

With more than 27 years experience in international real estate development, Tabler’s career has seen him undertake a series of large-scale projects around the world, following a Masters Degree in urban and regional planning from the American School of Architecture, Fontainebleau, France and another Masters degree in real estate finance.

He was also a founder member and former chairman of the Middle East Council of the Urban Land Institute.