Instead of searching for traditional graduate jobs like many of his fellow students, Shekaili decided to take the leap into the exciting and sometimes frightening world of becoming an entrepreneur.

Reflecting on the motivations to start his own business, Shekaili noted, 'Regardless of the position or salary, an employee will always be just that; an employee, always governed by the regulations and management of the company despite individual skills and special talents. I was inspired to achieve more in my life and believed in my potential to pursue a career in business leadership.' So, armed with strong confidence in his own abilities, a university degree and most importantly a positive outlook, Shekaili created Royal Development & Investment.

Shekaili also sits on the Board of Directors as chairman. The company, based in Muscat, is involved in property development including both design and construction. Royal Development & Investments created a niche in the market for the construction of luxury wedding halls and venues, and has earned a solid reputation for quality and outstanding service. One of the most high-profile projects carried out by the company in recent years was the development of the Royal Hall for weddings and conferences in Suwayq, one of Oman's most luxurious and renowned venues for weddings and events.

Commenting on Royal Development & Investments activities in the market, Shekaili said, 'We conducted an extensive market study to identify gaps in the market and to determine where to focus our business. It was our hope to contribute to the economic development of the nation, a task that should be handled primarily by the private sector.'

Since its establishment, Royal Development & Investments participated in various local and international competitions and has bagged a number of prestigious awards. Most recently, the company was named as the Best Small Enterprise at the Omantel Business Excellence SME Awards 2015.

Shekaili noted the intense competition amongst the different entrants for the awards, saying, 'Omantel's Business Excellence SME Awards was the largest and toughest competition we have ever taken part in. There was a great number of quality participants, however with God's blessings and the hard work of the entire Royal Development & Investment team, we were able to secure the prize. Omantel's Business Excellence Award means a lot to us and symbolises our efforts and journey to where we are today.'

Commenting on Omantel's support to Royal Development & Investments, Shekaili added, 'Our company has benefited significantly from Omantel's ongoing support and commitment. They worked with us to provide a specialised telecommunications suite tailor made to fit the needs of SMEs. Since partnering with Omantel, we have noticed greater efficiency which has reflected positively on customer service and satisfaction levels.'

According to Shekaili, ongoing support from Omantel also helped Royal Development & Investment to raise awareness for its services via SMS in a cost-effective manner. This outreach tool enabled the company to reach new markets and significantly expand their customer base. 'The fact that a small - but growing - company like ours can partner with one of Oman's most established and trusted brands like Omantel means a lot to us. The Best Small Enterprise Award will always remain a source of pride for everyone at Royal Development & Investments.

'We are extremely thankful to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said - may Allah protect him - the supporter of SME development in Oman.

'The directives of His Majesty the Sultan were the starting point of the meaningful change for this sector.'