Media Release
Abu Dhabi, Mar 28: Benedict Pinto's journey from humble beginnings to becoming a respected entrepreneur and philanthropist is truly inspiring to all. Having personally experienced the hardships of poverty, he has never forgotten his early struggles. This deep-rooted empathy drives him to treat every employee, regardless of rank, as a valued member of his extended family. His leadership is built on inclusivity, respect, and a strong sense of community.
Pinto ensures that he remains closely connected with his employees. Regardless of caste or creed, he actively participates in their festivals and celebrations. For the past 19 years, he has hosted Iftar gatherings during the holy month of Ramadan for his entire staff¬, strengthening unity and a sense of belonging. Even during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, he upheld this tradition while adhering to government regulations. The 20th Iftar gathering was successfully held on March 22 in Abu Dhabi, continuing this cherished tradition.
Unlike many business owners, Pinto maintains an open-door policy, allowing any worker to approach him freely without an appointment if he is available. His employees feel comfortable discussing their concerns with him, knowing he is not just a boss but also a mentor, a guiding force, and a supportive elder. This year, he continued his Iftar tradition, celebrating with esteemed guests, customers, and over 900 workers. As a result, the workforce does not just see Al Khalidiya Group as a workplace; they embrace it as their own organization.
Human thoughts are boundless, and no instrument can measure their depth. However, when such thoughts spark in the heart of a visionary, they take a transformative turn. Benedict Pinto is a prime example of such a visionary leader. He arrived in the United Arab Emirates in January 1996 with just a small suitcase and basic belongings. He began his career as a worker in the glass, aluminium, and steel industry in Abu Dhabi. For a decade, he worked consistently under the intense heat, gaining invaluable knowledge and expertise.
In April 2005, with determination and courage, he took a bold step and established his own business. What started as a small unit of aluminium fabrication has now grown into the renowned Al Khalidiya Group. Today, Pinto is a respected community leader, philanthropist, and supporter of various social initiatives. His unwavering dedication has propelled his company to remarkable heights, expanding from a single unit to a diverse organization with thirteen divisions and over 600+ dedicated employees.
Pinto’s vision extends far beyond a single industry. His business now spans multiple sectors, including aluminium and metals, glass, automobiles, hardware trading, joinery (timber and interiors), and waterproofing. His unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation has led him to recognize that his existing factory space is no longer sufficient to meet the growing demands of his business. This realization reflects his foresight and determination to continue expanding.
During this Holy Month of Ramadan, Benedict Pinto brought exciting news to his workforce: Al Khalidiya Group is expanding its presence to other GCC countries. As the first step, a new glass processing unit specializing in full-glass production is in progress and will soon be established in Muscat, Oman. Spanning an impressive 27,500 square feet, it is set to open shortly. This expansion marks a significant milestone as our 13th branch and reaffirms his commitment to growth and innovation.
Benedict Pinto’s story is one of perseverance, resilience, and compassion. His rise from worker to successful entrepreneur exemplifies the power of hard work and dedication. More importantly, his deep commitment to his employees and his community sets him apart as a true leader. His life and work continue to inspire countless individuals, proving that with vision, determination, and a compassionate heart, anything is possible.