Entrepreneur Middle East April 1, 2025 | The Transformer
UNMASKING
BRILLIANCE/ Ebraheem Alsamadi, Founder, Forever Rose P.14
TIMELESS CRAFT/ Abdulrahman
Khansaheb, Managing Director, Khansaheb Group P.32
ENDURING ROOTS/ Abdulla Ajmal, CEO, Ajmal Perfumes P.38
→ Ebraheem Alsamadi is the founder and owner of Forever Rose London and Forever Rose Café, and also a recurring cast member of Netflix’s hit reality show Dubai Bling.
The Long and Winding Road to Success
P.44
Champion Mindset
Indian cricket star KL RAHUL on what it takes to navigate (and overcome) self doubt
P.47
Market Momentum
ABDULRAHMAN KHANSAHEB on how sustainability-centric strategies have defined the company’s 90 years so far. P.22
In conversation with EGOR MASLENNIKOV, CEO and Founder of Object 1
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Timeless
Craft
Samana Developers’ founder IMRAN FAROOQ explains his company’s remarkable 22-year journey, and why, with an IPO under consideration, the best is yet to come. P.38
Khansaheb Group Managing Director
/April 1, 2025 P.14
Unmasking Brilliance
How EBRAHEEM ALSAMADI’S entrepreneurial instincts led to him becoming one of the most known cast members of Netflix’s Dubai Bling
Enduring Roots
How Ajmal Perfumes CEO ABDULLA AJMAL is leading the brand he inherited from his late grandfather towards bigger milestones.
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→ Amina Bahari and Hadeel Ismail are the cofounders of Stay Flawless Beauty Lounge..
‘TREPONOMICS
P.51 Message Mastery
Five lessons from the world of broadcasting that could boost your communication in business.
P.54 Cyber Shield
A look at how to create cyber immunity in the era of interconnected technologies
P.56 Mastering The Tax Game
Proven strategies for businesses in the UAE and GCC
P.60 The Hidden Epidemic of Social Contagion
How workplace stress spreads— and what leaders can do about it.
P.64 Emotional Mastery
A 10-year-old entrepreneur’s journey in learning emotional intelligence
P.66 This is My Story
Seven women share their journeys of passion, resilience, and purpose
STARTUP SPOTLIGHT
P.73 Redefining Standards
How AMINA BAHARI and HADEEL ISMAIL have created a community-focused beauty and wellness haven for women with Stay Flawless.
P.78 Sprinkle Magic
How MUNA RAHIM went from birthday party organiser to business star.
P.80 Redefining Real Estate Excellence
Swank Development – Managing Director and Board Member MOUSTAFA ELSAID
IN THE LOOP
P.82 #ICYMI Dubai AI Festival Returns
CEO Wissam Younane wissam@bncpublishing.net
MANAGING DIRECTOR Rabih Najm rabih@bncpublishing.net
ART DIRECTOR Simona El Khoury
EDITOR IN CHIEF Anil Bhoyrul anil@bncpublishing.net
changing world means the sooner you work, the better.
One My 15-year-old son has been dealing in crypto lately. What amazes me is not that he is actually trading (most of his friends are doing the same). It’s the level of trading –short selling coins, price floors, sell off points – you name it, him and his pals have become experts.
And it isn’t just dealing in crypto. With the profits made, they have created a new website for selling water sports equipment, complete with a fully working payment gateway.
When I first saw all this, I told him it was so impressive, he really should think about making a career in business after he finishes university.
“No chance. I am not waiting seven years to earn money,” he swiftly replied.
He has a point, and this takes me back to a conversation I had with GEMS Education founder Sunny Varkey a couple of years ago. He made the very valid point that the prime “learning” years for kids are often in their late teens. Tradition dictates that children must do two years of higher education before heading to university at the age of 18.
But why is this? Are we not just wasting two years? If the best time to learn is between the ages of 16 – 20, why wait two years?
This would of course mean a complete restructuring of the education and jobs model all over the world. Think about – graduates would be hitting the jobs market at the age of 19 or 20. Even doctors, who need to spend more years studying, would be treating patients at the age of 22.
It would also get around the current problem of youngsters avoiding university altogether because they just want to get into the jobs market.
There is another argument here as to whether there is even much point in going to university at all. I wrote about this a couple of months ago, and received literally hundreds of emails saying just this – what is even the point of university in the current world we live in?
It is also worth exploring exactly what teenagers are being taught beyond of the age of 16. It certainly won’t be how to do a business plan, how to short sell, or how to create a payment gateway. I would argue all those three are pretty important right now.
There is no doubt that almost every budding teenage entrepreneur on the planet wants to be the next Elon Musk. But our current education and university systems do little in anything
Anil Bhoyrul Editor-in-Chief
→ Ebraheem Alsamadi is the founder and owner of Forever Rose London and Forever Rose Café, and also a recurring cast member of Netflix’s hit reality show Dubai Bling.
UNMASKING BRILLIANCE
Ebraheem Alsamadi’s appearance on Netflix’s Dubai Bling has given him the one thing he hopes will catapult his entrepreneurial ventures into ever-lasting success- and, no, it isn’t fame.
by AALIA MEHREEN AHMED
When I join Ebraheem Alsamadi over a Zoom call on an overcast afternoon in late February, it starts off as the first interview of my journalism career where I have to momentarily slip out of my seat to allow someone else to speak to my interviewee first. After asking his permission to
“allow me to be unprofessional for just five minutes,” and receiving an animated “Of course!” upon relaying who I want to bring into the call, Alsamadi has a conversation with my motherwho is one among the millions of viewers who’ve watched him on Netflix’s reality show Dubai Bling. Over the next three to four minutes that I observe the two of them converse, Alsamadi’s affable demeanor reminds me of what he had told me just a week prior, at Entrepreneur Middle East’s Legends of Entrepreneurship Awards. “I believe if I have the blessings of mothers, then I will continue to always be
successful,” he’d said. But this is just one side of the serial entrepreneur’s multi-faceted persona. There are many ways to answer the question “Who is Ebraheem AlSamadi?” Entrepreneur. Creative. Netflix’s Dubai Bling star (“antagonist” some would contentiously say). A filial son. And in his own words, “a multitasker and a visionary.” But in the little over 30 minutes I get to interview him, it becomes clear that to attempt to define Alsamadi in a sentence or two wouldn’t do justice to the amalgamation of experiences that have shaped who he is today.
The biggest product of this journey, of course, is his
flagship luxury gifting brand Forever Rose London. Indeed, it was a chance observation during a 2014 trip to China when Alsamadi got introduced to the concept of preserved roses. That eventually led him to Forever Rose London, which at the time was a UK-based family owned artisan florist and events business that supplied lifelong roses to royal palaces in the UK and Belgium. Having already established his own hospitality and retail company Al Samadi Group in the UAE in 2010, Alsamadi saw an opportunity to build Forever Rose London into a luxury concept- a vision that came to fruition when Al Samadi Group acquired the brand in 2014. Today, with stores across the UAE, Qatar and London, Forever Rose London has been transformed into a one-stop boutique concept that offers long lasting roses (reminiscent of the rose enclosed in a glass bell jar in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast), premium chocolates, specially selected fragrances and Ouds, and a collection of jewelry.
“I’m just very observant, and that’s what helped me in my business,” Alsamadi says. “Because as I traveled the world, like Ibn Batuta did, you know, I got things from different places. But I never copy! I always either make it a different concept or I take two concepts and put them together. So the roses I found when I was
in China, I found them there at some random place. The chocolate is obviously in Dubai. The cafe was in London when I went to the cafe for the Fendi pop up. Everything I’ve learned was from my travels. And that’s why what’s amazing in Islam is that our Prophet [peace be upon him] said don’t tell me how much you’re educated, tell me how much you travel, because travel is education.”
The “cafe” Alsamadi refers to is the Forever Rose Café, an extension of the brand that he launched in 2020 in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Built with intricately designed black and white interiors that give the illusion of sitting in a two-dimensional space -much like the illustrations in a story book- the cafe combines all the existing elements of the Forever Rose brand with a high-end all-day dining experience. Its unique ambience and high quality servings earned it the title of being one of the “Most Instagrammable Cafes” from both customers and media outlets alike. And according to the founder, the fanfare surrounding Forever Rose Café has translated into monetary milestones as well. “It’s been five years now and there has not been a drop in revenue,” Alsamadi says. “With F&B in the Middle East, it’s always like there’s… they call it the six month honeymoon period, and then that’s it. But here it’s not like that. It’s always getting new customers, and it’s becoming internationally known as well. It’s just amazing. So I’m super happy about that.”
Now, much before the launch of Forever Rose Café in 2020, Forever Rose London had already raked in the moolah- in May 2018, a press release from online business intelligence platform Zawya revealed that the luxury brand had grown by 1,080% and achieved a revenue growth in excess of 300% per annum since its launch. But by then, once again
“IT’S BEEN FIVE YEARS NOW AND THERE HAS NOT BEEN A DROP IN REVENUE. WITH F&B IN THE MIDDLE EAST, IT’S ALWAYS LIKE THERE’S… THEY CALL IT THE SIX MONTH HONEYMOON PERIOD, AND THEN THAT’S IT. BUT HERE IT’S NOT LIKE THAT. IT’S ALWAYS GETTING NEW CUSTOMERS, AND IT’S BECOMING INTERNATIONALLY KNOWN AS WELL.”
displaying his keen observational skills, Alsamadi had begun to notice signs of the global luxury market slowing down. While multiple factors induced this shift -including economic recessions and currency fluctuationsit was the onset of consumer behaviors that favored online shopping as well as sustainable luxury that Alsamadi was war of. “All of this started to get even worse after
COVID-19 because people started to realize “why should we be spending money?” whereas Gen Z were saying they wanted comfortable, affordable clothing,” he recalls. “At the same time, everyone had also begun to order flowers online, and had a “I don’t have to go to the shop” approach. So we were losing [our brick-and-mortar store] customers to Amazon and all these different places.
I TOOK THAT RESPONSIBILITY AT A VERY EARLY AGE. I DON’T THINK ANY TEENAGER SHOULD HAVE TO GO THROUGH WHAT I WENT THROUGH BUT IT WAS SOMETHING THAT I DID.”
So I said, you know what, they cannot bring an experience to their house! They have to come to the experience. That’s when I thought that if luxury is taking a hit, let me make a cafe for the brand. That way I can attract people to come back to our locations. And I said, let’s do it with the black and white theme. It was a very big risk because it was my first business in F&B -even though I have an extended family business in F&B- but for me it was my first.”
That risk, as we now know, eventually paid off handsomely for Alsamadi. Spurred on by the cafe’s performance, he also launched Forever Oud, a
luxury fragrance brand, in 2022. But profitable achievements aside, the founder shares an anecdote on why Forever Rose Café’s success offered him personal vindication as well. “When I first decided to create the cafe, my brother was like, “I’m not going to help you with this business”, but he has experience in F&B!”
Alsamadi tells me. “I asked him why, and he told me that he didn’t think it was going to succeed. So I told him, ”Shame on you! How can I not do something that succeeds?” And I proved him wrong. I still remember I took my first award for the cafe -the most Instagrammable cafe award- to him and I smirked and walked away.”
That smirk of success still stubbornly positioned on his visage is in many ways a reminder of how personal circumstances have often been the driving force behind Alsamadi’s entrepreneurial pursuits. Indeed, to understand how the 37 year-old has built Forever Rose into the brand that it is today, it is necessary to first get familiar with his 14 year-old self. Those who’ve followed Alsamadi on social media would know that that was his age when his parents divorced- a life-altering event that led to him becoming the sole breadwinner for his mother and sisters. But in a pleasing revelation, Alsamadi shares that he’d possessed business
acumen even before this personal crisis set in. “When I was five or six years old, I used to tell my mom that I would do extra chores in the house to get more money, and I used to create funny businesses for my brother,” he says. “I remember once -I was probably 10 years old- I used to record a menu on a, we had this thing called a boombox back in the day that you can record things on. And this was, like, 26-27 years ago, right? Anyway, I recorded myself speaking a menu on the cassette, because I knew that listening to a menu is better than reading a menu- and that was more lucrative. So I would give it to my brothers, and say something like ‘if you want to order something, I’ll cook this food for you but you have to pay me.’”
However, when Alsamadi turned 14, “it wasn’t a game anymore.” His parents’ divorce meant he had to move out of his father’s wealthy home in Kuwait into a small apartment in the US, which is where Alsamadi’s mother is originally from.
To sustain the household as a teenager, he began selling clothes on American e-commerce platform ebay from his mother’s apartment. His first deal was selling a pair of Levi jeans which he had bought for $10 at a price of $20. That business stint was one among many different
→ Alsamadi with the Forever Rose Café team.
odd jobs Alsamadi worked to support his family. “All of a sudden it was about making something to put my mom in a place where she was before,” he says. “Because when she left my father she left everything behind- the cars, the villa, the jewelry, everything. She started from zero and I thought why should she have to sacrifice everything, because she wants to be alone. You shouldn’t have to…just because you don’t want to be with someone doesn’t mean you have to change your way of life, right? So I was like I need to work. So I began pushing myself and found ways to make money. I was very determined, and…I wasn’t a normal teenager. I wasn’t able to go to the cinema with my friends because I was trying to save money. It was the ultimate struggle even to the extent that I went to go learn karate, to learn martial arts, because I was like I have to defend my mom now if something happens. I need to know how to fight, I have to protect my mom, I have to protect my sister. I’m responsible! So I took that responsibility at a very early age. I don’t think any teenager should have to go through what I went through but it was something that I did.”
Having battled a series of challenges as a teenager rewired his mindset towards life and, by extension, business, notes Alsamadi. “It was challenge after challenge after
challenge, but slowly I started to kind of enjoy them,” he says. “That became kind of crazy. Because if it wasn’t challenging, I didn’t want it. I wouldn’t want a business if it wasn’t challenging for me, which started to become a bit insane. Like, why would I want such a challenge? But I would go looking for it,
thinking, “Wait, what? Why is nothing going wrong?” Sometimes it’s almost like we need problems for us to solve them so we can feel accomplished, you know?”
In many ways, it was this risk-taking mindset that encouraged Alsamadi to take the path of becoming a reality TV star on
Netflix’s hit show Dubai Bling- a role that he swears he took on solely for the sake of his businesses. “I never thought I would be famous nor did I seek it, but I knew I needed to have credibility,” Alsamadi shares. “So initially I had to be on social media for people to trust me and to work with me. So what was amazing when I was
I TOLD THEM I’D DO IT [DUBAI BLING] ON ONE CONDITION: YOU HAVE TO FILM MY BUSINESSES. YOU FILM MY BUSINESSES, WE’RE GOING TO HAVE A SHOW. YOU DON’T FILM MY BUSINESSES, WE’RE NOT GOING TO HAVE A SHOW.”
→
approached for the show is that it was called Dubai Life. And they said, it is going to be a show for successful businessmen. So I thought, “This is it! This is going to be my show!” But then I found out that there’s going to be other people and it’s called Dubai Bling. And I was like, oh my God, what did I get myself into? But I’m a true believer of something my father said, which is to follow the waves to where they take you. Don’t go against it because you get tired. So I said, let me try it but I told them I’d do it on one condition: you have to film my businesses. You film my businesses, we’re going to have a show. You don’t film my businesses, we’re not going to have a show.”
That was in 2022. Today, three successful seasons of the show later, Alsamadi has not only earned himself
Alsamadi became a self-made millionaire in his early twenties through online retail and smart business investments.
a sea of admirers and well-wishers, but garnered the credibility he sought out to get for Forever Rose. “Before, whenever I would go internationally to get a meeting with, let’s say , big companies, I would have to wait for the meeting…one week, two weeks, three weeks,” Alsamadi says.
“But now there’s this attitude of “we’ll do it right now, whenever you want.”
The ball’s in your court. So it gave me more credible opportunities, which is very good. It’s priceless.”
But well before the Netflix fame catapulted Forever Rose’s reputation and brand value, some thrifty decision-making from Alsamadi had already set the course for its future growth. Part of this involved a staunch stance to not have external investors pouring capital into the company. “Every
penny I make, I just reinvest it, and I keep my spending to a minimum,” he says. “I only spend on necessities. Even when I first started doing business, I didn’t mind traveling in economy. I was very smart. Because, with the amount of travels that I do, it’d have been crazy if I traveled first or business class every time. So I sacrificed my own comfort for the company’s success and capital, because I didn’t want to rely on anyone. I didn’t want to get an investor. Imagine you get an investor just so you can have better spending and you travel with your team and you travel business and you spend extra money. But then you have to report to an investor. So I said, no, I would rather sacrifice my comfort. But at least I know that I own the
I ALWAYS WANT TO BE REMEMBERED AS THE BOSS THAT TREATED HIS EMPLOYEES AS FAMILY,” HE SAYS. “I HOPE EVERY TIME PEOPLE REMEMBER ME, THEY SAY “MY BOSS WAS LIKE MY BROTHER.” AND I WANT TO BE REMEMBERED AS THE PERSON WHO IS ALWAYS PUTTING A SMILE ON PEOPLE’S FACES.
company and I don’t have to report to anyone!”
By this stage, I have already asked Alsamadi half the questions I’d prepared for this interview.
And in each of his answers, and the body language that accompany them, there is an excitement and passion that almost oozes out of the screen. So, for someone who has been an entrepre-
→ In 2022, Alsamadi launched Forever Oud, a luxury fragrance brand that complements his other high-end businesses under the Forever Rose umbrella.
neur for over 13 years, has there ever been a moment when Alsamadi felt his creative juices dry out? “Absolutely not!” he replies almost instantaneously. “What’s even crazy is that it multiplies every single day. You know, my vision is actually that I’m building Forever Rose to sell it. So we’ve started franchising. We sold at least 20 franchises in the past month, and we’re going to be selling a lot more franchises internationally. And I want to build like 100 franchises worldwide. And then I want to sell the entire company. I’ve already gotten hints that some people will be willing to pay up to US$200 million for my company. So if I take $200 million, what I’ll do with that… I mean, that’s double my net worth… I’ll keep that money. It’s not going to change who I am. I’m not going to buy anything else other than what I already have. But what I want to do is- I love the art of creating…”
Amid the stunning revelation that he wants to eventually sell the brand he’s owned for over a decade now, Alsamadi then begins describing what his next business venture will look like. “So I want to open a creative business agency where basically people come to me and they’re like, “listen, I have AED100,000- what can I do with it?”, and I’ll tell them what they can do with it,” Alsamadi explains. “And I kind of want to make it [a model] where I’m not going to charge you for my advice until you succeed. Because I think that the world is better when people do what they’re best at doing. You know, if you love to write, then you’re a journalist. If you love to cook, then you are a chef. If you love to take care of people, then you’re in the hospitality industry. So for me, I genuinely love creativity. I love to sit there and to tell someone this is the name of the brand [they’re thinking of creating], and see what they think about it. I love people’s reactions! So when I can sell creativity to people, I will get to sit in an office, meet new people and change their
lives. That way I have a double impact. I have the impact of changing someone’s life, and I’ve also created income for my business and the employees that are working under me. So that way something from this brain has been sold.”
While the dream of owning such a consultancy is perhaps only a distant one for the time being, Alsamadi has already applied his creative prowess to building a brand for the most special person in his life: his mother, Khadejah Dowd. In January this year, to help her battle the listlessness that comes with being all alone at home, Alsamadi launched Call Your Mother Cakes, a boutique cake brand that offers custom-made cakes that encapsulate the concepts of love, family, and honoring mothers. “I always remember my mom making cakes for my siblings and me, and baking, so I asked her, ‘Mom, what if we open a business called Call Your Mother Cakes?’” Alsamadi recalls. “She was like, yeah, sounds good. So we talked about it for a long time, but I didn’t tell her I was doing anything. I just surprised her with it because we talk about a lot of business, but we never do it. But I wanted to make sure that I do it, and it’s going well because it keeps her
busy. She’s not actually making the cakes. We have a team, but she’s actually following up and checking and making sure, you know, the sales and everything is going well.”
Now, at the beginning of this feature, there were four aspects of Alsamadi’s story that I’d outlined (and eventually elaborated upon): entrepreneur, creative, a Dubai Bling star, and a filial son. But all of those titles have become attached to him courtesy the work he’s done hitherto. But what about the Ebraheem Alsamadi of the future? How does the man himself hope he will be remembered decades from now? “I always want to be remembered as the boss that treated his employees as family,” he says. “I hope every time people remember me, they say “my boss was like my brother.” And I want to be remembered as the person who is always putting a smile on people’s faces. You know, I like to see people happy. If someone’s crying in front of me, even if I don’t know them, I get hurt. So I want to be that person, that businessman, the boss that gave back to the community and didn’t only think of himself. I want to be remembered as the person who thought about everyone else before he thought about himself.”
→ Alsamadi with his mother, Khadejah Dowd.
SUCCESS THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD TO
by ANIL BHOYRUL
Imran Farooq didn’t need to get into real estate. The SAMANA Group he founded in 1996 had already become a multi-billion-dollar empire spanning various sectors. But never one to do things small, he founded SAMANA Developers with a mission to take the market. In 2024, he did just that, launching 12 new projects with a portfolio of over AED16 billion. Then this year came the launch of Samana Ocean Views by Elie Saab – a private island designed and run by his company. His next plan, to transform the company into a master developer, is now underway. He explains the company’s remarkable 22-year journey, and why, with an IPO under consideration, the best is yet to come.
→ With Samana Developers, Imran Farooq built up a substantial portfolio exceeding AED16 billion.
} Can you give an overview of the SAMANA Group – the key highlights of its journey since being founded in 1996. Specifically, the main areas of activity. Reflecting on the journey, it’s been a rather long and winding road, truth be told. Starting my first business at the age of just 22 back in 1996, I’ve dabbled in a fair few sectors to get to where we are today with Samana Developers. Plenty of ups and downs along the way, as you’d expect – seen the view from the top during the good times and felt the pinch when global crises have hit. Over the past 27 years in business, I’ve had engaged in various ventures, from IT solutions and real estate underwriting to being an angel investor for other developers. We even ran the third-largest business centre and the largest immigration company helping expats relocate. HVAC solutions were another venture, and now, finally, we have Samana Developers. And what a journey it’s been with Samana. We’ve now built up a substantial portfolio exceeding AED16 billion, which really speaks to the scale of our ambition. Holding a noteworthy 4.4% share of the market, I think it’s fair to say we’ve firmly established ourselves as a key player in Dubai’s competitive real estate scene. Speaking about this remarkable growth, I’d say our commitment has always been to not just meet market demands but to anticipate and shape them. The launch of 12 new projects in 2024 alone is a clear indicator of our agility, our responsiveness, and our unwavering dedication to expansion in this incredibly vibrant market.
HOLDING A NOTEWORTHY 4.4% SHARE OF THE MARKET, I THINK IT’S FAIR TO SAY WE [SAMANA DEVELOPERS] HAVE FIRMLY ESTABLISHED OURSELVES AS A KEY PLAYER IN DUBAI’S COMPETITIVE REAL ESTATE SCENE.”
} What are the long-term plans for the main group, over the coming 5-10 years?
Looking at the 5–10-year plan, Samana’s core aim is to deliver multiple world-class communities both locally and internationally, with most launching from 2026.
Our first full community, Samana Ocean Views by Elie Saab – a private island designed and run by us –launched this year.
Our global expansion is now operational with ‘Samana Ocean Views Interiors by ELIE SAAB’ in the Maldives, a US$600 billion development. This strategic move targets the luxury market with units starting from US$2.3 million, located a short transfer from Hanimaadhoo Airport or Malé.
Spanning over 507,651 sq. ft and comprising 190 keys – including beachfront villas, over-water bungalows, and poolside apartments – the project features ELIE SAAB interiors, attracting discerning international
clientele. This Maldives venture serves as the template for our global expansion into exclusive destinations with branded luxury residences. Having become the seventh-largest developer in Dubai, we aspire to replicate this success in select global markets, starting with the transformative Samana Ocean Views project in the Maldives.
} What made you decide to venture into real estate?
Our entry into the real estate sector is rooted in a multi-generational family history within the industry. Prior to establishing SAMANA Developers, which has since grown to become a prominent developer in the UAE, our involvement included significant activity in underwriting large-scale real estate projects for leading organizations.
During this period, an observation was made regarding potential areas for improvement within the market, particularly concerning the customer experience. This identified opportunity spurred the decision to establish a development company with a distinct approach, prioritizing the customer at its core.
Subsequently, SAMANA has emerged as a notable influence in the market. This is reflected in the increased industry focus on exterior design, where SAMANA projects have consistently offered unique aesthetics. Furthermore, the introduction of concepts such as private pools and a focus on resort-style living have gained significant traction within the market, encouraging a broader adoption of enhanced amenities. SAMANA was also among the early proponents of more flexible payment structures, including options like 0.5%-1% payments and post-handover plans. Ultimately, our venture into real estate development with SAMANA was driven by the identification of a market gap and a commitment to enhancing value for the customer.
SAMANA DEVELOPERS DISTINGUISHES ITSELF THROUGH AN UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE, CENTERED ON THE PRINCIPLE OF “ON TIME, EVERY TIME.” THIS DEDICATION TO PUNCTUALITY PERMEATES EVERY FACET OF OUR OPERATIONS, ENSURING TIMELY PROJECT DELIVERY AND FOSTERING STRONG, RELIABLE PARTNERSHIPS.”
} Similarly, can you give an overview of SAMANA Developers – the number of projects underway, in the pipeline, and the 5–10-year plan?
Regarding the specifics of projects underway and in the pipeline, as we’ve discussed, our ambition is significant. We launched 12 new projects in 2024 alone, demonstrating our current operational capacity. Looking ahead to the 5–10-year plan, as we touched on earlier, the focus is on developing multiple world-class communities, both here in Dubai and internationally. While I might not give you an exact figure for the number of projects in the immediate pipeline at this moment, our recent activity and our stated long-term vision clearly indicate a substantial and growing portfolio. The launch of Samana Ocean Views in the Maldives, for instance, is a prime example of the scale and ambition of our future projects. So, while I can’t give you a precise number off the top of my head for every single project in the works, you can certainly expect a steady stream of innovative and high-quality developments from Samana Developers in the years to come, aligned with our goal of becoming a leading master developer.
} Real estate is an extremely crowded
market – how do you stand out from the competition?
Samana Developers distinguishes itself through an unwavering commitment to excellence, centered on the principle of “On Time, Every Time.” This dedication to punctuality permeates every facet of our operations, ensuring timely project delivery and fostering strong, reliable partnerships.
Our commitment to quality is evident in every detail, from the selection of premium materials to the meticulous execution of each project. We prioritize speed without compromising quality, as demonstrated by our streamlined construction processes, allowing us to complete building superstructures within an exceptional 180 days from raft foundation casting.
Our portfolio of projects showcases a harmonious blend of innovative design and environmental consciousness. Each development is a unique testament to our dedication to creating exceptional resort-style living experiences, tailored to meet the evolving needs of discerning clientele. We strive for architectural distinction, ensuring that each project possesses its own distinct character, reflecting our commitment to innovation.
To further enhance the
client experience, we offer flexible payment plans, designed to facilitate seamless property acquisition. Our seamless booking process ensures a streamlined and efficient journey for our valued customers.
At Samana Developers, we are driven by a relentless pursuit of business excellence and a steadfast commitment to customer satisfaction. We leverage innovative technologies and sustainable practices to create exceptional living spaces that redefine modern luxury.
Product, our internal processes, or the technology we use to connect all aspects of our operations and, crucially, our connections with our customers.
} Can you expand on the “On Time, Every Time” philosophy – how did it come about, and what does it mean in practice?
Our “On Time, Every Time” philosophy is central to Samana, born from a desire to bring greater reliability to the market. “On Time” means delivering properties precisely on the agreed handover date. “Every Time” signifies this consistent commitment across all our projects. This is achieved through meticulous planning and efficient processes, further supported by our in-house
contracting company to ensure timely delivery. Ultimately, it’s about building unwavering trust with our customers and establishing our reputation as a dependable developer. It’s a fundamental promise we stand by.
} Can you expand on the innovation side of the business?
Innovation is absolutely fundamental to Samana Developers; it’s not just a buzzword for us; it’s deeply ingrained in our DNA. We firmly believe that to truly stand out in a competitive market like Dubai, you can’t just follow the crowd – you need to constantly be thinking differently and pushing the boundaries of what’s expected.
One of the most tangible examples of our innovative approach is the fact that each Samana project is intentionally unique in its design. We don’t believe in cookie-cutter developments; each project has its own distinct personality and architectural flair. This requires a significant investment in creative design and a willingness to break away from conventional norms.
Furthermore, we’ve been at the forefront of introducing concepts that have really resonated with buyers. Our private pool concept, for instance, has taken the market by storm and has become a signature feature of many
“In essence, the entrepreneurial landscape is dynamic and ever evolving. To thrive, one needs a potent combination of vision, hard work, resilience, strategic acumen, a strong team, financial prudence, and an unwavering focus on the customer.”
of our developments. That wasn’t something commonly offered before, and it’s a clear example of our commitment to innovative product design.
Beyond the physical attributes of our properties, we also innovate in terms of the lifestyle we offer. Our focus on resort-style living, with an extensive array of high-quality amenities and experiences, goes beyond what many mainstream developers provide. We’re constantly looking at how we can elevate the living experience for our residents.
Innovation also extends to our operational side. We actively embrace technology to streamline our processes, enhance communication with our customers, and improve efficiency across all aspects of our business. As I mentioned before, we’re always looking at how we can leverage technology to connect all functions of our operations and our interactions with our clientele.
Ultimately, for us, innovation is driven by a desire to continuously improve and enhance the value we offer to our customers. We’re not content with the status quo; we’re always exploring new ideas, new technologies, and new ways of creating exceptional properties and experiences. It’s an ongoing process of evolution and a key driver of our success.
} How important is sustainability and what initiatives are you undertaking in this field?
When we talk about sustainability, it’s certainly something we take very seriously at Samana Developers. For us, as a private developer, a crucial aspect of sustainability revolves around ensuring the long-term success and viability of every project we undertake. It’s about building a robust business model that ensures our projects thrive.
Our approach to this is multifaceted. Firstly, we pride ourselves on creating truly unique projects. No two Samana developments look the same; each has its own distinct design and personality. This, coupled with our strong brand reputation and a reach that extends across 55 countries, allows us to achieve typically very rapid sales – we often see around 90% of our product sold within just two to five days. This quick uptake is a key factor in our financial sustainability.
Beyond that, we have a very streamlined process for registering properties (Oqood) and managing our escrow accounts. Our finance team ensures we maintain a healthy forward cash flow within each individual escrow account, typically covering 12 to 15 months. This financial stability means that construction can proceed at a good pace without interruption, and importantly, our contractors are paid on time, fostering strong partnerships and ensuring project momentum. So, for Samana, sustainability is about building a solid foundation for each project’s success, ensuring its financial health and longevity through a strong business model and efficient operations.
} You have stated previously that you want to transform the company into a master developer – can you tell us more about that journey, why you are choosing this path – and as a result, how you see the company evolving in the next ten years?
Samana Developers has achieved AED 5 billion in net sales last year and maintained strong triple-digit growth over five years, is strategically transitioning to a master developer. This evolution from single-plot developments is essential to sustain growth by creating comprehensive communities featuring townhouses, villas (including ‘super villas’), offices, and retail spaces.
This move aligns with Dubai’s maturing real estate market, now attracting significant interest from family offices, institutional investors, and pension funds seeking large-scale, well-planned developments. The next decade will see Samana developing multiple themed master communities, offering diverse lifestyles.
Crucially, this strategy supports Dubai’s broader vision, such as its emergence as a medical tourism hub. In 2023, Dubai welcomed over 691,000 medical tourists, generating over AED 1.03 billion in expenditure, with projections reaching USD 2.3 billion by 2033. This necessitates more serviced apartments. Similarly, Dubai’s growing prominence in higher education, with over 65 colleges and universities and a 25% increase in international student enrolment in private universities during 2023-24 (now one-third of the student body), drives demand for quality student accommodation.
Therefore, Samana is diversifying into serviced apartments and student accommodation to cater to this demand and to provide long-term, stable income streams attractive to institutional investors like REITs and pension funds. In essence, our journey to becoming a master developer is about strategic, large-scale development to play a pivotal role in Dubai’s evolving real estate landscape over the next ten years.
} You have established your own contracting company – can you expand on the reasons for this?
Samana has invested US$41 million in this new arm, a strategic decision driven by the growing challenges we foresaw in the market. Samana Developers had been performing strongly, ranking seventh by the Dubai Land Department for total units sold, and the previous year we were in the top 10 off-plan sellers according to Property Monitor. This success naturally placed significant demands on construction resources.
The core reason for this investment was our belief in an impending resource constraint within the market. We anticipated a shortage of contractors, insufficient machinery, and inadequate labour camps to support the growing workforce, which we believed would become a major limiting factor for developers by late 2025 or certainly by 2026. Consequently, we took a
MY COUNSEL TO YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS IS TO CULTIVATE A STRONG WORK ETHIC, MAINTAIN A POSITIVE OUTLOOK, STRIVE FOR DIFFERENTIATION, EMBRACE INNOVATION, MANAGE RISK PRUDENTLY, AND CONSISTENTLY ADOPT A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE IN THEIR AMBITIONS.”
proactive approach by integrating backward into our supply chain. By investing in our own in-house capabilities, including this new contracting company, we took control of our resources to ensure the continued maintenance of our reputation for on-time delivery – a crucial aspect for us.
Our approach to this new venture was threepronged. Firstly, we established a brand-new contracting company from the ground up, securing the necessary licenses and fulfilling all engineering and operational requirements. Secondly, we finalized negotiations to form a strategic joint venture with two existing contractors. This JV now works exclusively on Samana projects, providing us with dedicated capacity. And thirdly, we adopted a white-label strategy to secure our own supply of essential materials like concrete and steel.
With billions of dirhams
in escrow, we were well-positioned to navigate any market fluctuations. Having successfully weathered the pandemic and now operating within a resourceconstrained environment where securing reliable contractors has become increasingly competitive, we committed to locking in our strategies and resources to ensure the smooth delivery of our projects. This new contracting business and the JV were specifically designed to act as a dedicated supplier to support our core development operations. A specific number of projects are exclusively contracted to the JV, based on their capacity and resources.
} Do you see other mainstream developers facing challenges with the pace of growth?
While I would prefer to refrain from direct commentary on other developers, it is my observation that smaller and mid-sized entities may
encounter significant challenges in the current environment of rapid growth. Securing reliable contractors, subcontractors, and essential supplies is likely to become increasingly difficult for these organizations. Established entities within the contracting and supply chain will tend to prioritize engagements with larger, more stable developers where payment histories are well-established. In a flourishing market such as Dubai’s, the contracting ecosystem generally affords greater priority to assured payments and established clients with multiple ongoing projects. Consequently, smaller developers may find themselves facing increased competition for the necessary resources to maintain the pace of development.
} SAMANA has been a huge success under your leadership – have you ever considered, or would you consider, an IPO to fuel further growth? Regarding an IPO, it’s something we’re actively considering within the next two years, primarily driven by the DFM’s strong performance – it was the top GCC market in 2024 with a 10.9% gain. We see it to raise capital for further expansion, including our AED 2.2 billion investment in the Maldives, and to enhance our public profile. The strong momentum in the DFM’s financial (3.6%) and real estate (3.1% in September) sectors is also encouraging. Given our recent success, aiming for AED 12 billion in launches
by the end of 2024, our total investment value exceeding AED 16 billion, and our rise to 7th in the UAE developer rankings, we’re confident an IPO would position us well to capitalize on the thriving market and fuel future growth.
} On a personal level, what are the key ingredients you believe an entrepreneur needs for success?
From a personal standpoint, I believe there are several key ingredients that are absolutely essential for any aspiring entrepreneur to achieve success. Firstly, it all begins with a compelling vision and a truly innovative idea – something that sets you apart and offers a unique value proposition. As I mentioned earlier, to achieve significant success, you need to develop a novel concept and execute it effectively.
Beyond the initial idea, unwavering hard work and dedication are non-negotiable. The entrepreneurial journey is rarely a smooth one, so resilience and the ability to persevere through challenges and setbacks are also crucial. You must be adaptable and willing to learn and evolve as the market demands.
Strategic planning is another vital component. A clear roadmap, outlining your goals and the steps to achieve them, is essential for navigating the complexities of building a business. This needs to be coupled with sound financial management and a measured approach to risk. While ambition is important, understanding
and mitigating potential risks is equally critical. Furthermore, no entrepreneur can succeed in isolation. Building a strong, capable team and having the wisdom to delegate effectively are paramount. Surrounding yourself with talented individuals who share your vision and empowering them to take ownership is key to scaling any business. Finally, a deep understanding of your customer and a relentless focus on meeting their needs are fundamental. As we saw with the inception of Samana Developers, identifying shortcomings in the market and striving to enhance the customer experience can be a powerful catalyst for success.
In essence, the entrepreneurial landscape is dynamic and ever evolving. To thrive, one needs a potent combination of vision, hard work, resilience, strategic acumen, a strong team, financial prudence, and an unwavering focus on the customer.
} What are the core attributes needed to be a successful leader in any industry?
In my experience, several core attributes are indispensable for successful leadership across any industry. Consistency and meticulous planning form a crucial foundation. Furthermore, a leader must cultivate a decentralized mindset, demonstrating a willingness to empower their team and delegate effectively. It is also vital to foster an environment conducive to
growth, building an organization that possesses robust resources and a positive, dynamic energy.
Regrettably, many leaders encounter challenges in scaling their organizations or sustaining growth due to an inclination towards precipitous decision-making and a reluctance to entrust significant authority to their C-level executives or departmental heads. Effective leadership necessitates a considered approach to decision-making and a confident delegation of responsibilities to senior management.
} You have been running the group for 27 years –how do you stay motivated, and how do you keep your team motivated?
Having led the group for 27 years, maintaining motivation stems primarily from the pursuit of success
within our team.
} Finally, what advice would you give to the many youngsters who want to replicate your success?
To those aspiring to replicate success in business, my advice would be grounded in several key principles. Firstly, diligent effort and a consistently optimistic mindset are fundamental prerequisites. Beyond this, true success necessitates a distinct approach. It is essential to differentiate oneself through a combination of dedicated work ethic, innovative thinking, and a positive disposition, coupled with a measured approach to risk management.
itself. We regularly revisit our strategic objectives, typically every three to five years, to ensure continued momentum. Furthermore, our commitment to philanthropic endeavors and the associated targets provide an additional impetus for achievement. Regarding team motivation, we recognize that our staff are our most valuable asset. To foster a motivated workforce, we prioritize providing clear pathways for professional development within the organization. It is essential that our team members can envision their own aspirations aligning with the company’s strategic direction. We are particularly gratified to have a significant number of long-tenured employees, with service ranging between 15 and 20 years, which we believe reflects positively on the engagement and motivation
To illustrate, while establishing a conventional business within an existing market may yield a degree of prosperity, exceptional success typically stems from the development of novel concepts, strategically implemented at the opportune moment and scaled effectively.
Reflecting on potential future ventures, I would lean towards initiatives that are intrinsically technology-driven, offering original solutions with the potential to address a global market, rather than being confined to a single geographic location.
Therefore, my counsel to young entrepreneurs is to cultivate a strong work ethic, maintain a positive outlook, strive for differentiation, embrace innovation, manage risk prudently, and consistently adopt a global perspective in their ambitions.
CRAFT TIMELESS
As UAE-grown Khansaheb Group celebrates its 90th anniversary, Managing Director Abdulrahman Khansaheb discusses how sustainability -a common factor in the Group’s phases of growth over the years-will define the blueprint for its future success as well.
by AALIA MEHREEN AHMED
← Abdulrahman Khansaheb is the Managing Director of Khansaheb Group and its subsidiary Khansaheb Industries. He is also the Chairman of Clemenceau Medical Centre Dubai. Khansaheb Group is a diversified group of well-established and high-growth core businesses that serve millions of clients and customers each year across multiple industries in the UAE and beyond.
→ Khansaheb’s lifestyle division was established with the launch of Mirdif 35 lifestyle centre.
Catering to the diverse needs of the surrounding community, this concept unites a curated selection of outlets, including food and beverage, fitness and health, and lifestyle and beauty services, all under one roof.
Not many homegrown brands in the UAE can say that its story has been intertwined with the nation’s own tale of growth the way Khansaheb Group can. Indeed, the Group, founded in 1935 [during the Trucial States period which granted Britain control over the region’s foreign affairs and defense while allowing local sheikhs to govern internally] as a contracting company by Khansaheb Hussain bin Hassan Amad, has been a pivotal figure in shaping the UAE’s landscape (quite literally) even before the seven emirates united to form the country as we know it today. The clocktower roundabout Khansaheb Group built in 1969, two years before the UAE’s formation, is today the
KHANSAHEB IS MORE THAN JUST A NAME; IT REPRESENTS A LEGACY BUILT ON TRUST, EXCELLENCE, AND COMMITMENT TO THE UAE’S DEVELOPMENT. THIS YEAR, WE PROUDLY CELEBRATE 90 YEARS OF SHAPING INDUSTRIES, COMMUNITIES, AND CAREERS.”
easily recognizable landmark in Dubai’s Deira area. Other notable constructions from the Group include the iconic dome-roofed Sharjah Airport (built in 1975), the Trade Centre underpass on Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road (built in 1994), as well as Dubai’s first church, St. Mary’s Church (built in 1967).
Over the years, in a bid to innovate across different industries in the UAE, Khansaheb Group’s business verticals expanded into a plethora of markets including civil engineering, bespoke contracting, industries, properties,
facilities management, property management, lifestyle and dynamic advanced training.
“Khansaheb is more than just a name; it represents a legacy built on trust, excellence, and commitment to the UAE’s development,” says Managing Director Abdulrahman Khansaheb.
“This year, we proudly celebrate 90 years of shaping industries, communities, and careers.
At the heart of everything we do is our guiding principle: “Driving Change, Empowering Lives.” This reflects our dedication to innovation, sustainability, and creating lasting positive impact—whether
through our projects, our people, or the communities we serve.”
Notable mentions among the Group’s subsidiaries include Khansaheb Properties’ inaugural project, Mirdif 35 (the ‘35’ in the name honors the company’s founding year), a premier lifestyle center situated in the heart of Mirdif in Dubai; as well as Clemenceau Medical Center, a Dubai-based fully equipped, state-of-the-art medical center. There is also the popular Mall of the Emirates which the Group’s subsidiary Khansaheb Civil Engineering built for Emirati holding group
Majid Al Futtaim in 2005. Within the organization’s lifestyle division is an array of brands across F&B, fitness, and customized luxury furniture, including Trouvaille, a restaurant that offers a fusion of French comfort food and Lebanese flavors; Pizza Ghost, which specializes in authentic Neapolitan pizzas; and Sol Pilates, a ladies-only pilates studio located at the aforementioned Mirdif 35 center.
Here, Khansaheb adds that while monetary milestones have certainly dictated the addition of several business subsidiaries over the years, there’s been a bigger deciding factor. “Revenue generation is a key business objective, but emphasis is on the fact that each business vertical is an essential pillar to provide value add offering,” explains Khansaheb, who is also the Chairman of Clemenceau Medical Centre Dubai. “Our strength lies in diversity, resilience and adaptability in an evolving market. Our subsidiaries contribute collectively to our success, allowing us to provide integrated solutions across industries. As Managing Director of Khansaheb Group, sustaining growth of our diverse business verticals is
one pillar of my strategic directions, yet our vision to excel as dynamic, diversified, and differentiated group must always be served. Our legacy comes with responsibility to continue driving innovation, operational excellence, and long-term value for our stakeholders.”
Our strength lies in diversity, resilience and adaptability in an evolving market. Our subsidiaries contribute collectively to our success, allowing us to provide integrated solutions across industries.” “
↓ The partnership with 75F Middle East will ensure the integration of its cutting-edge IoT and smart automation solutions to further enhance Khansaheb’s (HVAC) systems, focusing on energy savings, comfort, and centralized control.
But being at the helm of a company that has one eye on the future but also carries 90 years of history, brings with it a challenge that is unique to decades-old businesses: teetering between innovation and tradition.
Khansaheb believes the answer to this dilemma actually lies in taking a page out of Khansaheb Group’s past.
“Our success has always stemmed from a combination of heritage, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence,” Khansaheb emphasizes. “Over the past 90 years, we have evolved with the UAE, aligning with its vision for sustainable and innovative growth. By staying true to our values while embracing modernization, we set an example for Emirati businesses to balance tradition with forward-thinking strategies.”
However, one value that has been common between its past achievements, present operations, and future goals is that of sustainability.
“Sustainability has always been a part of our ethos, but in recent years, we have integrated it into every aspect of our operations,” Khansaheb notes. “From our perspective, sustainability means responsible growth, while balancing economic success with environmental and social impact. Whether through green building solutions, energy-efficient systems, or circular economy practices, we continuously add products and services within our portfolio to build a more sustainable future.”
Indeed, over the years Khansaheb Group’s strategies have been deeply rooted in addressing environmental issues and social challenges. Over the years, some key environment, social and governance (ESG) policies have been at the forefront of the Group’s expansion- these include reduction of consumption of natural resources and waste, giving back to the local community the company operates in, improving the wellbeing and skill levels of its staff, as well as creating an effective supply chain that improves overall operations. In keeping up with this tradition, in February this year Khansaheb Industries, a subsidiary of the group which manufactures sustainable, energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) products,
↑ Clemenceau Medical Centre Dubai is a fully equipped, state-of-the-art medical center, designed to offer patients one of the most innovative treatments and technologies available in the region, in a safe, compassionate environment.
partnered with 75F Middle East, a building management system that harnessed the power of internet of things (IoT). Through this collaboration, 75F aims to enhance Khansaheb Industries’ HVAC systems with its advanced IoTdriven technology in a bid to
significantly improve energy efficiency and indoor air quality. “Our partnership with 75F Middle East represents a major step in redefining HVAC efficiency,” Khansaheb says. “We continue to pioneer this area by leveraging IoT-driven smart climate control systems, and we are reducing energy consumption and optimizing indoor air quality and. This aligns with our dedication to creating solutions and services that transform businesses, and to our commitment for a sustainable future for all.
Over the past 90 years, we have evolved with the UAE, aligning with its vision for sustainable and innovative growth. By staying true to our values while embracing modernization, we set an example for Emirati businesses to balance tradition with forward-thinking strategies.”
Unsurprisingly, Khansaheb knows a thing or two about what it takes to imbue impactful ESG regulations into a large-scale organization. “One of the biggest challenges in ESG adoption is achieving the right balance between regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability,” he shares. “At Khansaheb, we tackle this by embedding ESG principles into our business strategy, ensuring alignment with global best practices while maintaining our core values of trust, responsibility, and excellence.”
But for such a strategy to trickle into every branch of a company, it is necessary to upskill the employees first, notes Khansaheb- an approach that falls in line with the Group’s aforementioned ESG tenets. “For us, initially, success was about growth and operational excellence, but today it extends beyond financial performance to include sustainability, technological innovation, and creating long-term value for our employees, clients, and the wider community,” Khansaheb says. “We thus cultivate alignment within our organization through continuous learning, leadership development, and fostering a strong company culture. We invest in team members who are innovative, adaptable, and committed to excellence. Integrity and teamwork are equally important, as we believe our success is built on a foundation of shared values and collaboration.”
So intrinsic has the concept of sustainability been to Khansaheb Group’s growth trajectory, that the Managing Director notes it will define its future paths too. “There are a number of key trends that are shaping the industries we operate in, and the first of those is sustainability and net-zero goals, which have led to an increasing demand for green buildings and energy-
One of the biggest challenges in ESG adoption is achieving the right balance between regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and longterm sustainability. At Khansaheb, we tackle this by embedding ESG principles into our business strategy, ensuring alignment with global best practices while maintaining our core values of trust, responsibility, and excellence.”
↑ Khansaheb Group’s subsidiary Khansaheb Civil Engineering built Mall of the Emirates for Majid Al Futtaim Group in 2005 and added the Fashion Dome extension in 2010.
efficient solutions,” Khansaheb says “The second is smart Infrastructure and IoT, and overall digital transformation in construction and property management. The next trend is the move towards circular economy and waste reduction- a shift that has led to a stronger focus on responsible resource management. Finally, of course, there is artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, which will enhance operational efficiency across industries. As such, all of these trends also align with our longterm vision and will drive the future of our business.”
Khansaheb is thus eager for what the future holds for the Group. “As we celebrate 90 years of excellence, we are focused on expanding our portfolio across all business verticals, strengthening sustainability initiatives through innovation and added product and service offering, and leveraging digital transformation to enhance efficiency,” he declares. “We remain committed to shaping a future that is sustainable, technologically advanced, and aligned with the UAE’s growth ambitions. To achieve this, we will
↑ ↓ The Group’s Lifestyle division has Trouvaille, an F&b brand that offers FrenchLebanese cuisine. It is currently located in nine locations across Al Jaddaf, Mercato Mall, CMC Hospital, Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital, Latifa Hospital, Dubai South, Dubai Properties Bay Avenue, Emaar Beach Vista, DIFC, and Nakheel Circle Mall in JVC.extension in 2010.
continue to honor our traditions by staying true to our founding principles of trust, quality, and service while embracing modern technologies, sustainability, and digital transformation. Our approach is to innovate without losing sight of what has made us successful for the last nine decades!”
→ Abdulla Ajmal is the Chief Executive Officer of Ajmal Perfumes, a UAE-based fragrance house with a heritage spanning over seven decades.
ENDURING ROOTS
Over seven decades since Ajmal Perfumes was launched, CEO Abdulla Ajmal today stands at the precipice of catapulting the brand he inherited from his late grandfather towards bigger milestones. by
AALIA MEHREEN AHMED
Ajmal Perfumes, a fragrance house with a portfolio of over 300 scents and perfumes, may have launched in the UAE in 1976, but the brand’s origins date back to 1951 in India’s metropolitan city of Mumbai. Upon learning about the monetary benefits that could be gained through the trade of Oudh (a fragrant and resinous wood, also known as agarwood, used in incense and perfumes), the late Haji Ajmal Ali gave up his family business of rice farming to launch the first Ajmal Perfumes shop in Mumbai’s bustling Crawford Market. It was right around then that the founder decided that the brand would not outsource any aspect of its operations, and instead follow a farm-to-fragrance approach.
But this model isn’t restricted just to sourcing Oudh, Ajmal continues. “Our vertically integrated model extends across the entire value chain, from harvesting raw materials to perfume formulation, production, bottling, distribution, and retail,” he says. “This level of control allows us to create unique fragrances that maintain consistency and authenticity, while also enabling us to innovate faster than many competitors and also maintain an edge in pricing. Having a farm-to-fragrance model isn’t just about controlling raw materials; it also
→
plays a crucial role in how we market our perfumes and connect with our end consumers. Today’s customers, especially the new generation, value transparency, storytelling, and experience. We don’t just sell perfumes—we sell stories of heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation. So will this model change? Not really. If anything, we’re strengthening it further by expanding our duty-free retail presence and exploring new distribution channels to reach untapped markets.”
Indeed, as the thirdgeneration leader of this family business, Ajmal
74 years later, today, his grandson and Ajmal Perfumes’ current CEO Abdulla Ajmal has stayed entirely true to that decision. “Our farm-to-fragrance approach is not just about sourcing ingredients; it’s about maintaining full control over quality, sustainability, and innovation at every stage of perfume creation,” Ajmal declares. “This journey began with my grandfather, the late Haji Ajmal Ali, who understood that to truly create something exceptional, we needed to control our own raw materials. Unlike many perfumers who source oud from third-party suppliers, we own and manage over 10 million agarwood trees in Assam, India, ensuring a sustainable, ethically harvested, and high-quality supply of one of the most prized ingredients in perfumery—oud.”
OUR FARM-TO-FRAGRANCE APPROACH IS NOT JUST ABOUT SOURCING INGREDIENTS; IT’S ABOUT MAINTAINING FULL CONTROL OVER QUALITY, SUSTAINABILITY, AND INNOVATION AT EVERY STAGE OF PERFUME CREATION,”
has already solidified the company’s presence in more than 50 countries with over 300 exclusive retail outlets. However, taking on the mantle of CEO didn’t come without prior C-Suite experience for Ajmal- from 2017 to 2022, he was the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Ajmal Perfumes. “As COO, I used to be more involved in operations, ensuring everything ran smoothly, whereas as CEO, my focus has shifted to vision-building and making decisions that impact not just today, but the next 10, 20, or even 50 years of Ajmal Perfumes,” he notes. “As much as you’d think being CEO means you’re the boss, you are—but not in the way most imagine! The role is less about day-to-day execution and more about ensuring long-term growth, navigating challenges, and keeping the team motivated. My day starts early, often with a moment of gratitude— for the legacy I’ve inherited, the team I work with, and the opportunities ahead. Then it’s straight into meetings, reviewing business performance, exploring new markets, and making strategic decisions. Some decisions, like expansions or partnerships, require deeper deliberation
because they shape the brand’s future. Others, like product innovation, move faster because agility is key in this industry. We have the capacity to manufacture between 65,000 and 85,000 units per day. On exceptional days, we have even exceeded 100,000. Our key target markets at
the moment are Saudi Arabia, the United States, and India. These regions have shown strong demand for our unique fragrance offerings, and we are continuously expanding our presence there while exploring new opportunities globally.”
Perhaps unsurprisingly, this people-centric approach that has shaped Ajmal’s personal leadership pattern is one that has been imbibed from the brand’s heritage. “We’ve been around for over 70 years, and if there’s one thing I can say with certainty, it’s that culture shapes longevity,” Ajmal says. “For starters, what defines us is that whether it’s our team, partners, or customers, relationships come first. Many of our employees have been with us for decades because we invest in people, not just
→ As CEO, Abdulla Ajmal is spearheading the company’s next phase of growth focusing on progressive strategies that integrate artificial intelligence, innovation, and sustainability into the perfume-making process.
roles. We are also committed to ethical business practices. For instance, we are known for being punctual with payments—a trait that might seem minor but has built us a reputation as trustworthy business partners. Finally, while we deeply respect our heritage, we always look to the future. We’ve taken the essence of our traditional perfumes and reimagined them for today’s consumers, which is why we remain relevant across generations.”
The balance between tradition and modernity is thus deeply linked to striking
the right balance between company innovation and customer centricity, notes Ajmal. “Fragrance is deeply personal; what one person adores, another might find overwhelming,” he says. “It’s an art form rooted in tradition but driven by innovation, and for us at Ajmal Perfumes, balancing consumer feedback with our creative vision is a constant, exciting challenge. We approach this in two ways: listening and leading. We listen to our consumers, considering their evolving preferences, cultural inclinations, and purchasing behaviors. Simultaneously, we lead by bringing innovation to the forefront, introducing new scent compositions and experiences they might not have imagined but will fall in love with.”
One manifestation of this approach has been Ajmal Perfumes’ Untold Stories collection: five distinct scents, titled “Chapters”, that were created by five globally renowned perfumers, namely Maxime Exler, Dalia Izem, Benjamin Bélizon, Nathalie Lorson, and Coralie Spicher and Fabrice Pellegrin. As such, at the
'TREP TALK
ABDULLA AJMAL , CEO of Ajmal Perfumes , shares tips for entrepreneurs
}Value your people “Your team, partners, and customers shape your journey. Invest in relationships, not just transactions.”
}Embrace diversity “The UAE thrives on it, and different perspectives drive innovation.”
}Stay open to learning “Build a team that challenges you, not just agrees with you. Success isn’t just about building a business; it’s about building a legacy.”
}Never shoot the messenger “Honest feedback is priceless. Listen, adapt, and grow.”
}Stay rooted but adaptable “Honor your heritage but be willing to evolve. Business isn’t about staying still; it’s about moving forward with purpose.”
heart of this project was a goal to showcase how perfumery can redefine the essence of individuality and creativity. “Our Untold Stories collection is a statement of innovation,” Ajmal says. “We collaborated with five global perfumers and gave them complete creative freedom—no briefs, no restrictions. We wanted them to craft their dream fragrances, unrestricted by commercial constraints. The result is a series of unexpected, boundary-pushing
↑ With a portfolio of over 300 perfumes, and more than 300 exclusive stores, Ajmal Perfumes has expanded to over 50 countries. It is also available in over 30 duty-free locations and international airlines.
Today’s customers, especially the new generation, value transparency, storytelling, and experience. We don’t just sell perfumes—we sell stories of heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation. So will this model change? Not really.”
creations that remain true to Ajmal Perfumes’ DNA. For us, innovation in perfumery is not just about new scent profiles—it’s about creating emotional connections, redefining rituals, and making perfumery more immersive.”
To aid Ajmal Perfumes’ quest for breakthroughs in perfumery and achieve greater customer satisfaction, the brand has also started leveraging artificial intelligence (AI). “One of the ways we’re exploring AI is in helping people find their perfect scent,” Ajmal reveals. “Choosing a perfume is deeply personal, and sometimes, people don’t know what they like until they smell it. AI-driven scent profiling can change that. Imagine walking into a store or shopping online, and instead of testing dozens of perfumes, an AI tool guides you to the one that truly matches your personality, mood, and preferences. It’s a way to make fragrance discovery more intuitive and personal rather than overwhelming. Another exciting space is how AI can change the way people experience perfumes online. Fragrance shopping has always been about physically trying scents, but as e-commerce grows, we need to bridge that gap. AI can help us create a more immersive
AI IS AN INCREDIBLE TOOL, BUT AT AJMAL PERFUMES, IT’S HERE TO ENHANCE WHAT WE DO, NOT REPLACE THE HUMAN TOUCH. AI CAN HELP US ANALYZE TRENDS AND PATTERNS, BUT THE MAGIC OF A GREAT FRAGRANCE WILL ALWAYS COME FROM CREATIVITY AND EXPERIENCE.”
digital experience—one where you can explore scents through interactive mapping, understand the notes in a way that feels sensory, and even discover new preferences without ever spraying a tester.”
The CEO then notes that AI has also been instrumental in creating more effective pathways in scent-making. “Traditionally, perfumery is a long process— fine-tuning formulations, experimenting with ingredients, getting everything just right,” he says. “AI allows us to speed up some of that groundwork by analyzing how ingredients interact, predicting outcomes, and helping us refine compositions faster.”
But with all the benefits that AI provides, none of it will ever be
enough to replace the humancentric operational model that has always been central to Ajmal Perfumes’ legacy, Ajmal assures. “AI is an incredible tool, but at Ajmal Perfumes, it’s here to enhance what we do, not replace the human touch,” he adds. “AI can help us analyze trends and patterns, but the magic of a great fragrance will always come from creativity and experience. At the end of the day, AI isn’t about taking away the craft—it’s about making the experience better, smarter, and more personal for the people who wear our fragrances.”
It is this mindset that Ajmal will hold onto as he prepares for a promising 2025. “This year is about growth, innovation, and expanding our global footprint,”
he says. “We’re bringing new fragrance concepts, deepening our offline presence, and reimagining how consumers experience perfumes. Expect exciting tech-driven innovations that make scent discovery more immersive. We’re also focusing on Western markets, introducing our heritage ingredients like oud to a new audience while adapting to evolving preferences.”
As he embarks on this new journey of growth, Ajmal shares that in the midst of the changes that come within the perfumery landscape, it is his grandfather’s values and legacy that continue to anchor his leadership decisions. “My grandfather, Haji Ajmal Ali, built this brand from nothing, and his lessons continue to guide me,” he says. “He believed in putting family first, creating opportunities, and thinking beyond just trading— he didn’t want to sell perfumes; he wanted to build a lasting legacy. His vision was about craftsmanship, integrity, and making an impact. He saw perfumery as more than a business—it was about storytelling, honouring traditions, and pushing boundaries. I carry that forward by blending heritage with innovation, ensuring Ajmal stays rooted in its origins while evolving for the modern world. Whether it’s expanding into new markets, adopting AI, or fostering collaborations like Untold Stories, the goal remains the same: to not only create fragrances, but experiences that resonate across generations. His ambition shaped Ajmal, and I see my role as continuing that journey while adding my own chapters along the way.”
Champion Mindset
On the night of March 10, 2025, less than 24 hours after having guided his country to a historic ICC Champions Trophy win, India’s national cricket team member KL Rahul walked into Dubai-based financial services provider Al Fardan Exchange’s headquarters for a special Iftar event hosted by the company’s CEO Hasan Fardan Al Fardan.
Indeed, it was his unbeaten quickfire 34 runs just the previous evening at the Dubai Cricket Stadium -the third highest batting score of the Indian innings during the finals- that ended India’s 12-year-long wait to win this particular cricketing tournament. The ardent fans who had tuned in to watch or attended the match would have seen the exuberant displays of emotions
from all the players following the win.
But when Rahul arrived at Al Fardan Exchange’s main office in Dubai, there was a quiet and composed aura about him- a jarring contrast to the loud camera clicks and sea of palpably excited people who followed his every move as soon as he arrived.
“We’re very happy with what we achieved last night, but it’s still sinking in,” Rahul told the room, teeming with journalists, camera crew and fans. “Firstly, I need some sleep and rest, and then probably in a couple of days time when we think back about what we’ve been able to do, it will certainly be something that gives me immense satisfaction and pride. Obviously none of this was possible without the support and blessings of a billion people. We all know how much Indians love cricket, and how obsessed we
are with winning big tournaments. So we’re very happy that we could do it. This is our second big [ICC] tournament that we’ve won, so it gives us as cricketers a lot of joy and I’m sure it gives all Indians a lot of joy too… I see a lot of familiar Indian faces here [in the room] as well!”
As a homegrown Emirati business, Al Fardan Exchange has remained committed to its mission to bridge cultures and connect with the passions of its diverse clientele, hence solidifying its role as a trusted financial partner and a champion of community-driven initiatives. As such, this special Iftar event aligned with the company’s endeavors to better connect with the UAE’s Indian diaspora, which makes up a whopping 37.97% of the UAE’s population.
This ever-increasing faction of the country has also made up a significant percentage of its booming entrepreneurial ecosystem. A 2023 report from Dubai Chambers showed that 30% of Dubai’s startups are owned by Indians. In July 2024, UAE Minister of Economy Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri noted that the landmark Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement that was signed between the UAE and India had not only helped drive bilateral trade growth by 16.41% since 2022, but also strengthened collaboration to promote startups through exchange of best practices between accelerators, incubators, and other such ecosystem stakeholders.
So when Entrepreneur Middle East got the opportunity to ask Rahul a question, we asked him
Indian cricket star KL Rahul on what it takes to navigate (and overcome) self doubt by AALIA MEHREEN AHMED
↓ KL RAHUL at Dubai Cricket Stadium following India's win at the ICC Champions Trophy finals. Image Source: ICC/Getty Images
FOR SOMEONE LIKE ME, OR FOR AN ATHLETE -ESPECIALLY IN A COUNTRY LIKE INDIA WHERE THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE WANT TO PLAY CRICKET AND ACHIEVE WHAT WE ARE DOING, OR BE IN A POSITION LIKE OURS- FEELING LONELY OR FEELING ANXIOUS IS ALMOST A LUXURY.”
what a lot of startup founders and entrepreneurs might want to know from a world-class champion: what does it take to overcome the loneliness and self doubt that often comes with following one’s passion?
“I can only share what I’ve gone through- obviously these [emotions] are things that athletes go through on a daily basis too,” he said. “But I think what makes it easier for us or what makes days go by quicker and easier is the fact that we’re doing something that we love. I was never forced to play cricket. It was always my dream ever since I was a six or seven year old boy. I wanted to play cricket, and there was so much passion…I was ambitious in my aspirations, aims, everything. I gave my entire life to doing this! So every time I find myself in a position where I feel like I am lonely, or I feel anxious or scared or nervous, I go back to remind myself why I am here today. For someone like me, or for an athlete -especially in a country like India where thousands of people want to play cricket and achieve what we are doing, or be in a position like ours- feeling lonely or feeling anxious is almost a luxury. Over time I’ve realized how I can handle
it better. I’m not saying I’ve completely aced it but…you will get lonely, you will get nervous, you will have self doubt; all of that. But I think what works is going back to reminding yourself why you’ve chosen to do what you’re doing. Put your energy into that.”
Rahul then went on to note the importance of understanding how expectations -both external and within ourselves- can
often create a sense of misplaced self doubt. “As I’ve grown older and wiser, I’ve come to realize that the self doubt and anxiety always kicks in when you’re listening to the outside noise- you’re falling for the traps that the world is setting or your own company or the expectations or all of that,” he continued. “And mostly it’s your own expectations more than anything else. The noise that you think is
outside noise is actually not outside noise at all! No one on the outside cares about what I do, how I play. So you just [need] to block out that noise. Find time. See what helps you switch off when you get into those [negative] zones mentally, and find a way to snap out of it. For me it’s doing weights, watching a movie, or going out with a couple of friends to have a meal. Maybe a long walk, if you have that opportunity, or speaking to a family member. These things somehow seem to help me.”
And for those wondering if such resilience and grit can only be exhibited when it is innate, Rahul had some words of encouragement to conclude his answer. “This is something you can work on and develop and make it a habit,” he assured. “You can achieve such a mindset simply by doing something repetitively and being conscious about what you’re doing. If you’re conscious of it, and find yourself going there, you need to know what helps you snap out of it. If you do it two times, then the third time you automatically know what to do. And then if you do it 10, 15, 20 times,it becomes a habit. It becomes second nature to you. So yeah, it’s practice for everything. For us as athletes, that’s all we’ve ever known. Anything that I want to achieve, I know is through hours and hours of practice and being conscious about what I am doing. So, yes, you or anybody else can achieve that as well.”
↓ Hasan Fardan Al Fardan, CEO of Al Fardan Exchange, and KL Rahul. Image source: Al Fardan Exchange
↓ KL Rahul and Entrepreneur Middle East's Features Editor Aalia Mehreen Ahmed. Image source: BNC Publishing
Market Momentum
In conversation with Egor Maslennikov, CEO and Founder of Object 1, a Dubai-based real estate developer and property development company.
} Your company has experienced an impressive 913% year-over-year growth since entering the market two years ago. What do you consider the key factors behind this success?
Our remarkable growth since entering the market two years ago has been driven by a combination of innovation, sustainability and a deep commitment to meeting our clients’ evolving needs for premium housing.
At Object 1, we leverage cutting-edge technology to enhance every aspect of our developments, ensuring efficiency, quality and seamless experience for our residents. Sustainability remains at the core of our vision, designing eco-conscious communities that align with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, we strive to create a smarter, greener city for the well-being of our residents. What truly sets us apart is
our focus on quality. Every project is designed with a meticulous approach and we thoroughly inspect every aspect of the design process to ensure it meets the highest standards. We don’t cut corners; our materials are selected for durability, aesthetics and long-term value. Every project is tailored to the unique preferences and lifestyle needs of our residents, creating living spaces that are not just functional but also enriching.
This dedication has positioned us as one of the top 20 developers in Dubai and among the top three developers in the Jumeirah Village Circle and Jumeirah Village Triangle districts. As we continue to grow, our commitment to innovation, sustainability and community-driven development will remain our guiding principles.
} The real estate market is known to be highly competitive, especially in the UAE. What is your long-term vision for the company, and what developments can we expect in the future?
Our long-term vision is to redefine urban living through innovative and customer-centric developments. EVERGR1N House 1, a reflection of our
commitment to sustainable living, sold out in just one month. In response to high demand, we are now in the process of developing EVERGR1N House 2.
Looking ahead, we are expanding with projects in Abu Dhabi, along with twelve developments in the pipeline. We have acquired over twenty plots in the region, reinforcing our commitment to delivering high-quality residential communities across the UAE.
In a highly competitive market, Object 1 stands out with its sustainabilitydriven design. As a green-certified developer, we integrate eco-friendly technologies, energy-efficient solutions, and sustainable materials, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers.
Beyond construction, we maintain a customer-first approach, designing spaces that balance comfort, functionality and European sophistication. We also collaborate closely with real estate agencies, providing them with the necessary tools to showcase the unique value of our projects.
} How many active projects do you currently have, and what makes some of them particularly unique?
We currently have around twelve active projects in our portfolio, each designed to push the boundaries of sustainability, smart
living and modern aesthetics. In just two years, we are one of Dubai’s fastest growing developers, driven by strategic foresight and quality execution.
Our approach is built on efficiency and adaptability, ensuring that each project aligns with the evolving needs of investors and homeowners. By integrating smart technology, sustainable materials and modern design, we create developments that are not just functional but future-ready.
Beyond construction, our commitment extends to tailored solutions and a customer-centric approach. Every project is designed with transparency, flexibility and proactive problem-solving, fostering long term relationships and trust.
With a team of over 350 professionals, we oversee every minute detail in our processes, bringing architectural excellence with operational efficiency. This is what makes us stand out in the UAE’s competitive market. As we continue to grow, Object 1 remains focused on building not just structures, but communities that shape the future.
} Sustainability has become a key factor in real estate development. How does Object 1 incorporate sustainable practices into its projects, and how do you see the role of green initiatives in future developments?
Sustainability is integral to Object 1’s mission,
sustainable urban living. Beyond sustainable construction, we prioritize the well-being of residents by incorporating lush green communal spaces, landscaped gardens and biophilic design elements across our developments.
} How do you see smart home technologies and other innovations impacting real estate in the coming years? OR The real estate sector is evolving with smart technology and AI. How is your company integrating these innovations into its projects?
According to Statista’s market reports, the Smart Home market is projected to reach US$122.9 million by 2029. As technology becomes more ingrained in
OUR APPROACH IS BUILT ON EFFICIENCY AND ADAPTABILITY, ENSURING THAT EACH PROJECT ALIGNS WITH THE EVOLVING NEEDS OF INVESTORS AND HOMEOWNERS.“
guiding our approach to real estate development. Our commitment to eco-friendly practices aligns with the UAE’s vision for a greener future and the increasing global demand for sustainable living.
As Dubai prepares for a significant population growth, expected to reach 5.8 million by 2040, sustainability will play a key role in shaping the city’s future. The Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan aims to allocate 60 percent of the emirate’s total area to nature reserves and rural spaces, doubling today’s
green areas. With initiatives such as green corridors and sustainable transit routes in place, real estate developers must contribute to this vision.
Looking ahead, we anticipate the role of green initiatives in real estate will continue to expand. Green initiatives will no longer be optional in this industry and investors and consumers alike will increasingly prioritize sustainability, making it a critical factor in future. Object 1 is committed to leading this transformation, setting new benchmarks in
daily life, smart home innovations and AI-driven solutions are redefining the future of real estate.
Smart home technology is seamlessly integrated across all our developments, enhancing convenience, security and energy efficiency. However, in Dubai’s dynamic market, differentiation goes beyond smart home features. The focus is now on creating holistic living environments that prioritise sustainability, well-being and future-ready urban solutions. This is where technology should now play
S/Expansion
a more significant role. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in the energy-efficient and eco-friendly systems embedded in our developments, ensuring a smarter and greener living experience. With Abu Dhabi and Dubai ranked as the smartest cities in the MENA region, the UAE continues to set benchmarks in smart city initiatives. As a result, convenience, efficiency, and sustainability will be key drivers of future-ready real estate.
} What advice would you give to buyers looking to invest in the UAE property market?
My advice is to focus on long-term value, sustainability and community well-being. The UAE real estate sector is rapidly evolving, and it is crucial to invest in projects that hold long-term benefits. Well-being is going to become the priority for future residents.
Investing in communities aligned with this vision ensures strong appreciation and rental demand.
Compared to other global markets, Dubai stands out for its strong governmentdriven sustainability initiatives like the UAE Green Agenda 2030, a strategic plan aimed to promote sustainable living. Investors should seek communities that align with this vision, as demand for
MY ADVICE IS TO FOCUS ON LONG-TERM VALUE, SUSTAINABILITY AND COMMUNITY WELL-BEING. THE UAE REAL ESTATE SECTOR IS RAPIDLY EVOLVING, AND IT IS CRUCIAL TO INVEST IN PROJECTS THAT HOLD LONG-TERM BENEFITS.”
sustainable, well-integrated urban spaces is set to rise. Additionally, understanding financing options and market trends is key. The UAE offers attractive post-handover payment plans, strong
rental yields, favorable tax policies and investor-friendly regulations, making it an ideal destination for investors.
Finally, partnering with a trusted developer ensures a seamless investment
experience. Choosing projects from established developers with a proven track record guarantees quality, timely delivery and strong return on investment in the dynamic UAE real estate market.
→ A scene from Re:Set’s sessions at New York University Abu Dhabi.
ANANTARA SHARJAH RESIDENCES
A NEW CHAPTER OF LUXURY EXPERIENCES BY THE SEA
Bringing luxury seaside living to Sharjah for the first time, owners at the Anantara Sharjah Residences enjoy access to the Anantara Sharjah Resort’s world-class amenities, including an infinity pool, five distinctive restaurants, an Anantara Spa and a state-of-the-art gym.
As an investment, owners can enjoy the benefits of a rental management scheme operated by Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, allowing them to maximize their returns when they are not resident in the property.
To register your interest, visit arada.com
LIFE IS A JOURNEY.
Message Mastery
Five lessons from the world of broadcasting that could boost your communication in business.
by LUISA BALDINI AND LOUISA PRESTON
/Communication
Clear and confident communication is one of the biggest challenges in business. In a recent report by Bayt.com, poor communication was identified as the primary obstacle to leadership effectiveness. As an expert in a particular field, there is often a tendency to over-complicate a message. But as journalists, we quickly learnt that less is more; the key to success is to do the hard work before you start speaking and distil your information to make it easy for the audience to
absorb. By communicating with impact, it is amazing how much you can convey in just 30 seconds.
Effective communication is not simply about structuring your content in an accessible way, it is also about delivering with confidence and impact. We often hear from women in business that they lack the confidence to speak up, particularly in male-dominated industries, which presents a barrier to female leadership development.
Drawing on our experiences of broadcasting live
in high-stakes moments, there are some practical techniques that can help both women and men to
communicate more effectively in business. Whether you’re delivering an executive presentation,
AN INTRIGUING OPENING WILL ENABLE YOU TO CAPTURE YOUR AUDIENCE STRAIGHT AWAY. START OUT WITH SOMETHING ORIGINAL AND THOUGHTPROVOKING THAT GRABS ATTENTION AND INSPIRES CURIOSITY.
AS BROADCASTERS WE HAVE EXPERIENCED NERVE-WRACKING MOMENTS OF PRESENTING TO MILLIONS OF PEOPLE. THINKING MORE ABOUT YOUR AUDIENCE AND HOW YOU WANT THEM TO FEEL LISTENING TO YOU AND HOW YOUR MESSAGES WOULD LAND BETTER FOR THEM IS THE KEY TO HARNESSING YOUR CONFIDENCE AND BECOMING A BETTER PRESENTER.
pitching a business idea, or talking to the media, what you say and how you say it can make or break the opportunity.
} Create a clear structure
Telling a story is the key to engaging your audience and making your message memorable. Every story needs a beginning, a middle and an end, and this is a good way to structure your presentation. Repeating your core message at each stage will help it stick, and using practical evidence or data to reinforce your ideas will add authenticity to your words.
} Open with a hook
An intriguing opening will enable you to capture your audience straight away. Start out with something original and thoughtprovoking that grabs attention and inspires curiosity. The hook is your first opportunity to win (or lose) an audience.
} Use your body language
Your physical presence and body language play a vital role in confident communication. Use your movements to establish a balance that creates energy in the room, without being distracting, and try to make eye contact across each segment of the audience.
Professionals will often adopt a strong stance with feet shoulder width apart or even create an entire alter-ego to feel more confident and in control.
} Vary your vocals
Vocal variation is also critical to keeping your audience engaged. Adjust your tone, modulate your pace and use pauses for impact at the relevant moments. Make primary points with ‘verbal signposting’ to help the audience identify the important takeaways.
} Close with impact
At the end of a presentation you want to leave the audience with food for
thought. Reiterate your core message and end with an impactful statement or call to action that will encourage a continuation of conversation.
As broadcasters we have experienced nerve-wracking moments of presenting to millions of people. Thinking more about your audience and how you want them to feel listening to you and how your messages would land better for them is the key to harnessing your confidence and becoming a better presenter. Taking control of what you are saying, and getting your message across more effectively, you will find
that you can deliver successfully in those high-stakes moments, irrespective of how you feel internally.
Luisa Baldini and Louisa Preston are founders of Composure Media. Drawing on their decades of experience in live broadcasting, they deliver practical communication and presentation training to help individuals, groups, and businesses communicate with clarity and confidence. www.composure.media
Cyber Shield
by EUGENE KASPERSKY
From the intricacies of interconnectedness to ever-expanding artificial intelligence (AI), the dynamic landscape of technology continues its heady evolution, bringing forth both unprecedented opportunities and challenges. Recent research by our experts has revealed that more than 50% of organizations have already implemented AI and the internet of things (IoT) in their infrastructures. And more than 30% are planning to adopt these interconnected technologies (i.e., devices and systems connected to the internet and each other) within the next two years.
Indeed, such technologies transform organizations, helping them gather more data and automate business processes. But (there’s always a “but” in this imperfect world) as more individual users and businesses invest in or adopt interconnected technologies, the potential exposure to cyberthreats and attacks increases too. On top of that, cybercriminal attacks are growing exponentially in both sophistication and volume: throughout 2024 every day we collected on average around 467,000 new unique malicious files. Moreover, because AI and IoT have become so widespread, this trend has given rise to new vulnerabilities and new vectors of complex cyberattacks – for example, AI-enhanced cyberthreats, which are capable of adapting on the fly. The use of generative adversarial networks (GANs) to create realistic fake identities for social engineering attacks, and the development of AI-driven malware that can mutate to avoid detection, represent just a small glimpse of what the future might hold.
Under such circumstances, and given the scale of change that interconnected technologies are likely to bring, the traditional approach to the
A look at how to create cyber immunity in the era of interconnected technologies
cybersecurity of IT systems becomes less and less effective. And today, to maintain and protect the integrity of infrastructure, a new way to enhance IT security is needed.
As a response to such a challenge, our experts created a fundamentally new approach to IT solutions’ protection – Cyber Immunity. Cyber Immunity is a proactive, secure-bydesign approach, while traditional cybersecurity is more of a reactive measure.
At the heart of Cyber Immunity, lies our own Cyber Immune operating system (KasperskyOS) – a platform for building Cyber Immune products, which was developed from scratch. Its architecture is based on the division of its various elements into many isolated modules.
Such an operating system provides the possibility to build IT-systems where, though cybercriminals (with great diligence) may be able to affect one or more untrusted components, they won’t be able to develop an attack or affect the performance of critical system functions. Affecting the trusted components is highly unlikely given the minimal and well-tested trusted computing base. One doesn’t even need antivirus here!
To achieve Cyber Immunity when building upon KasperskyOS, solution developers need to follow a special methodology: any action not explicitly permitted by the security policy is blocked before it’s performed. This default-deny principle allows the creation of security policies that can meet specific security goals, making sure that potentially dangerous operations are blocked. Thus, Cyber
BY INTEGRATING CYBERSECURITY INTO EACH STAGE OF THE SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT LIFECYCLE, SECURE-BY-DESIGN SOFTWARE AND HARDWARE BECOME RESILIENT AGAINST CYBERATTACKS, CONTRIBUTING TO THE OVERALL SECURITY OF DIGITAL SYSTEMS.”
Immune products have “inherent” protection from most types of cyberattacks. With Cyber Immunity we’ve moved away from the “virus > antivirus” and “vulnerability > patch” paradigms – and this is a true breakthrough.
I cannot overestimate the importance of such an unprecedented level of cybersecurity when it comes to the protection of various critical infrastructure objects – governments and public digital systems containing a huge amount of sensitive data; the healthcare sector, energy plants, transportation systems, oil-and-gas industry installations, etc.
The consequences of a cyberattack targeting these sectors are huge since they can directly affect the functioning of society and even national economies. Their security is a priority and an extremely challenging task at the same time. These sectors need to move away from reacting to cyberattacks and become proactive in their approach. Better yet, they need to invest in systems and solutions where security is built into them right from the design stage.
Thus, in the fast-paced digital world of today, to enjoy the full benefits of complex interconnected technologies, quality protection needs to be assured. And this is where Cyber Immunity comes in. By integrating cybersecurity into each stage of the software development lifecycle, secure-bydesign software and hardware become resilient against cyberattacks, contributing to the overall security of digital systems. Cyber Immunity is all about developing an ecosystem with “innate” protection – where all connected elements are protected.
Eugene Kaspersky is the CEO of Kaspersky, a Russia-based cybersecurity and anti-virus company. me-en.kaspersky.com
Mastering the Tax Game
Proven strategies for businesses in the UAE and GCC by
SHAMMA ALFALAHI
In the very active economic landscape of the UAE and GCC, understanding the nuances of tax laws is not just about compliance—it’s about gaining a strategic advantage. As these regions diversify away from traditional oil-based economies, new tax policies and incentives have emerged, shaping a complex but navigable landscape for informed entrepreneurs.
Imagine your business as a character in a larger narrative of the GCC’s economic vision. This character faces challenges—complex tax regulations, international compliance, technological integration—and overcomes them by employing strategic tax planning and innovative solutions. Just as a protagonist grows through their journey, your business evolves by mastering the tax landscape, turning fiscal obligations into strategic advantages and mastering the game !
THE EVOLVING TAX SCENE
Olarger businesses, phased in from 2025.
Across the region, there has been a concerted push toward digitalization of tax services and enhanced international cooperation through the updating of reporting standards and treaty modifications. Oman, for instance, has inked new double taxation avoidance treaties with several countries and has begun discussions on taxing high-income earners.
In Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, updates to VAT regulations include new VAT treatments for various services and revisions to excise tax
rules, ensuring better compliance and precise taxation of certain goods. These developments underscore a unified effort across the GCC to modernize tax systems, bolster regulatory compliance, and foster a transparent and equitable tax environment that supports economic growth and attracts international investment
DECODING TAX INCENTIVES AND RELIEFS
Each GCC country offers a unique set of benefits and tax incentives designed to stimulate specific sectors.
ver the past year, the GCC has made significant strides in reforming its tax landscape to enhance compliance, broaden the tax base, and align with international standards. Notably, the UAE introduced a Corporate Tax in June 2023, it also announced a Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax (DMTT), part of a global tax reform effort to ensure equitable taxation across jurisdictions. Meanwhile, Kuwait revealed plans for a DMTT set to start in 2025, alongside a draft law proposing a 15% business profit tax on
For example, in the UAE small businesses play a crucial role in the ecosystem and to recognize this, Small Business Relief is introduced under the Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 on the Taxation of Corporations and Businesses. This initiative aims to simplify the complexities of tax compliance for small businesses and bolster their growth. It offers a significant reprieve by reducing the administrative and financial burdens associated with tax compliance. To qualify, a business must have a revenue below or equal to AED 3,000,000 in a relevant tax period and all previous tax periods. To benefit from Small Business Relief, businesses must first register for Corporate Tax and make an election in their tax return. This process must be repeated for each tax period in which the business wishes to claim the relief.
Example: Consider A Dubai-based boutique with an annual revenue of AED 2.5 million elected for Small Business Relief. By doing so, the boutique enjoys tax exemptions and reduced compliance costs, allowing it to reinvest the savings into expanding its inventory and marketing efforts.
The UAE remains a pivotal global business hub, drawing enterprises worldwide with its attractive tax framework, particularly for businesses operating within its Free Zones. The UAE Corpo-
ACROSS THE REGION, THERE HAS BEEN A CONCERTED PUSH TOWARD DIGITALIZATION OF TAX SERVICES AND ENHANCED INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION THROUGH THE UPDATING OF REPORTING STANDARDS AND TREATY MODIFICATIONS.
rate Tax Law provides incentives for companies operating in freezones to benefit as Qualifying Free Zone Persons (QFZPs).
A QFZP is a Free Zone incorporated business that meets certain criteria laid out by the UAE Corporate Tax Law. To be designated as a QFZP, a business must adhere to stringent conditions, such as maintaining adequate substance within the Free Zone and deriving qualifying income, which is subject to a favorable 0% corporate tax rate.
Example: Manufacturing Company in Jebel Ali Free Zone produces automotive parts. The company ensures it meets the substance requirements by maintaining its workforce and assets within the Free Zone. Their manufacturing activity qualifies them for the 0% corporate tax rate on all revenue derived from their Qualifying Activity in the Free Zone.
SMART TAX PLANNING
In the GCC, economic strategies are as diverse as the cultures, smart tax planning goes beyond mere compliance. It involves strategic decisions that align with both business goals and regional tax policies.
To effectively plan taxes within the GCC, businesses must gain a deep understanding of both the general tax environment and the specific tax regulations applicable to their industry. This means that the tax planning strategy should be an integral part of the broader business plan, designed to support the company’s growth while ensuring sustainable operations over the long term. For instance, a petroleum company in the UAE or Saudi Arabia would need strategies aligned with the sector-specific taxation regulations.
Engaging with tax professionals
who specialize in GCC regulations is crucial. These experts can help tailor a tax strategy that optimizes benefits while minimizing tax liabilities. For example, a business could benefit from consulting a tax professional to understand how to best structure its operations across multiple GCC countries to leverage lower tax rates or tax incentives offered for certain types of investments.
Regular tax health checks are also vital. These assessments help businesses ensure they are meeting all their tax obligations while taking full advantage of any available tax benefits. Through these regular reviews, companies can adjust their strategies in response to any changes in tax laws or business conditions. For example, a company might find during a tax health check that they are eligible for a new tax exemption due to a change in tax law, which could lead to substantial savings.
Overall, strategic tax planning in the GCC is about creating a robust framework that supports both compliance and growth, adapting as regulations and business environments evolve.
HARNESSING TECHNOLOGY FOR TAX MASTERY
Tax authorities across the GCC are pushing towards digitalization, adopting advanced tax software that can streamline processes from compliance to strategy, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are making significant improvements in their e-invoicing systems to enhance tax compliance and streamline their respective tax administration processes.
Both countries have recently announced important updates and integration phases that will impact taxpayers. The UAE
Ministry of Finance recently issued legislative amendments to support the implementation of e-invoicing. The UAE plans to adopt a decentralized Continuous Transaction Control and Exchange (DCTCE) model via the PEPPOL network, targeting a phased rollout starting with Phase 1 in July 2026.
Alongside, Saudi Arabia’s Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA) has been advancing its e-invoicing system, which began in 2020. ZATCA recently announced the criteria for the 11th wave of Phase 2 integration, targeting taxpayers with a taxable turnover above SAR 15 million for the years 2022 or 2023.
Both countries have amended their tax laws to accommodate e-invoicing.
In the UAE, Federal Decree-Law No. 16 of 2024 and No. 17 of 2024 were enacted to integrate e-invoicing into the VAT and Tax Procedures Laws.
In Saudi Arabia, the rollout has been structured into multiple waves, with the latest focusing on businesses that meet specific turnover thresholds, emphasizing the necessity of integrating their systems with the ZATCA e-invoicing platform, Fatoora.
The move towards e-invoicing in the UAE and Saudi Arabia reflects a broader trend in the Gulf region towards digital transformation and enhanced tax compliance. Businesses operating
within these jurisdictions must stay informed about the latest requirements
facilitate VAT recovery for UAE citizens building new residences. Launched on
THE MOVE TOWARDS E-INVOICING IN THE UAE AND SAUDI ARABIA REFLECTS A BROADER TREND IN THE GULF REGION TOWARDS DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND ENHANCED TAX COMPLIANCE.
and prepare their systems for integration. Proactive engagement with these new e-invoicing systems will be crucial for seamless compliance and taking advantage of the efficiencies these systems are designed to offer.
Additionally, the UAE Federal Tax Authority has recently launched the ‘Maskan’ smart application, a breakthrough initiative designed to
July 16, 2024, Maskan offers 100% digital, paperless processes that allow users to create an account using the unified UAE PASS login, upload tax invoices, and even scan barcodes from registered outlets for automatic data extraction. Developed through extensive consultations and as part of the transformational projects series and the “Zero-Government
Bureaucracy” programme, the application streamlines the refund process, enhances service efficiency, and supports the government’s vision of a modern, digitally advanced housing system aligned with the “We the UAE 2031” vision.
Conclusion:
Tax strategy in the GCC is more than numbers and compliance; it’s a pivotal part of your business story. By staying informed, leveraging incentives, embracing technology, and navigating the international tax maze with expertise, your business doesn’t just comply; it excels. This journey of mastery transforms complex fiscal obligations into powerful strategic advantages, enabling you to author your own success story in this vibrant economic arena. Just like any seasoned character in a story, your business emerges stronger and more capable, ready to seize new opportunities and continue its growth narrative.
Shamma Alfalahi is the Partner – Head of Tax at BSA LAW, a leading full-service law firm with offices throughout the Middle East and France. BSA LAW was named Best Regional Law firm and Best Corporate Practice firm of 2024, and has been shortlisted for 10 LexisNexis Middle East Women in Law Awards 2025.
/Culture
The Hidden Epidemic of Social Contagion
How workplace stress spreads—and what leaders can do about it.
by ANNA AL QASIMI-ROBERTS
Imagine walking into a meeting where you can sense the tension. You can see your manager’s shoulders are rigid and raised, you can hear their voice short and direct,
It’s not your imagination – stress can spread through a team like a virus. In fact, researchers have found that just by observing someone in a stressful situation can trigger the release of cortisol (the stress hormone) in our own bodies.
In today’s workplace, where 80% of us report feeling stressed during the day, this “stress contagion” often feels baked into the culture. We’ve all seen how one shortly written email or a tense Zoom call can put an entire team on edge. But, if it’s not dealt with, that contagious stress isn’t just unpleasant –it can wreak havoc on our well-being and a business’s bottom line.
Chronic workplace stress is more than a personal problem; it’s been deemed a public health concern with serious consequences for organizations. Studies in Europe cite job stress as the second-most reported health issue among workers, contributing to absenteeism, low commitment, poor job performance, and mental and physical health problems. In the U.S., job stress is estimated to cost companies over US$300 billion a year in health expenses, lost productivity, and turnover. In other words, when stress travels through a team, it leaves a trail of burnout, mistakes, and missed opportunities. Leaders aren’t immune either – and importantly,
their stress doesn’t stay with them. Recent research confirms that managers “transmit” stress to their employees, with effects that can be measured even a year later. In a large multi-year study, stressed leaders in a Danish municipality passed their tension on to subordinates, and notably, this impact was detectable twelve months down the line (though it did tend to fade after a couple of years). The authors called managers the “nerve centers” of their teams – when a leader is in distress, the whole team’s well-being is at stake. This domino effect of stress helps explain why a sour mood at the top can trickle down an entire organization. Psychologists often refer to emotional contagion, the process by which people “catch” feelings from one another. It happens most powerfully face-to-face, but studies show emotions spread even through video calls, emails, and other virtual interactions. Importantly, this contagion works for both negative and positive emotions. If a leader is anxious and irritable, their
and before long you notice your own heartbeat speeding up and feeling like you’re on edge, even if you don’t know exactly what situation you’re dealing with.
team will likely absorb that anxiety; if the leader stays calm and optimistic, those feelings can also circulate. Neuroscience gives us sobering insight here: when we’re under acute stress, our
likened to losing 10-15 IQ points temporarily, as our ability to reason and make decisions plummets. Not only does a stressed leader risk clouded judgment for themselves, but their team’s
WE’VE ALL SEEN HOW ONE SHORTLY WRITTEN EMAIL OR A TENSE ZOOM CALL CAN PUT AN ENTIRE TEAM ON EDGE. BUT, IF IT’S NOT DEALT WITH, THAT CONTAGIOUS STRESS ISN’T JUST UNPLEASANT – IT CAN WREAK HAVOC ON OUR WELL-BEING AND A BUSINESS’S BOTTOM LINE.”
brains experience an amygdala hijack – the fight-or-flight center takes over, diverting oxygen from our thinking brain. It’s been
collective decision-making and creativity may suffer as well. In contrast, a positive or relaxed team vibe isn’t just “feel-good” fluff; research
WHEN STRESS TRAVELS THROUGH A TEAM, IT LEAVES A TRAIL OF BURNOUT, MISTAKES, AND MISSED OPPORTUNITIES.”
finds it brings with it better employee attitudes, problem-solving, and performance.
So, what can be done to break the cycle of stress contagion? The encouraging fact is that if stress is
contagious, so is calm. This is where the role of somatics – an awareness of the body and its sensations – comes into play. Our bodies often broadcast stress louder than our words do. (Ever realize you’d been unconsciously clenching your jaw or hunching your shoulders all day?) In leadership, these nonverbal signals matter: over 90% of emotional communication is nonverbal, through body language, facial expression, and tone . Your team can “read” your stress in a jittery pace, a slammed laptop, or a terse tone – and they will often, without thinking, mirror it.
For example, if you as a leader walk into the room with a clenched posture and crossed arms, people may interpret defensiveness or anger and start to feel uneasy themselves. The flip side is powerful: by consciously grounding yourself and projecting more open, calm body language, you create a ripple of ease that others can pick up on. We intuitively take emotional cues from those around us, so a leader who is embodied – present in their body, aware of their state – can set a healthier emotional tone for the whole team.
Somatic awareness starts with tuning into your own physiology. The moment you notice signs of your stress rising (a racing heart, shallow breath, tight chest), instead of pushing through, pause. Techniques from somatic therapy and mindfulness can be surprisingly effective in these moments. Something as simple as taking a few slow, deep breaths can shift you out of panic mode. (In fact, clinical research shows that slow, paced breathing and taking a longer exhale than inhale significantly lowers cortisol levels.) You might plant both feet on the floor and feel the support of the ground or your back on your seat – a simple grounding technique to calm the nervous system. These practices work by telling your body it’s safe, flipping the switch
FORWARD-THINKING BUSINESSES ARE BEGINNING TO RECOGNIZE THAT TRAINING LEADERS IN EMOTIONAL RESILIENCE AND BODY-BASED SELF-REGULATION ISN’T A LUXURY, BUT A STRATEGIC INVESTMENT.”
creates a buffering effect in their teams. Challenges will always arise – tight deadlines, business setbacks, the client from hell – but how you embody the response makes a difference. Do you tighten up and broadcast panic, or take a centering breath and address the issue with composure? Your team is watching, and feeling, your answer. As one CEO put it, “ignoring the power of mood… means losing an important opportunity
from the “fight or flight” response toward the “rest and digest” state. Leadership coaches who specialize in somatics often teach that while you can’t stop the initial jolt of stress (your biology will react –we’re human!), you can recover faster. By using your breath and posture, you effectively shorten the ‘amygdala hijack’ and return to clarity more quickly. Instead of spending all day in a frazzled state that everyone around you catches onto, you regain calm and convey steadiness.
Over time, leaders who cultivate this kind of somatic intelligence find that it
to influence outcomes”. Forward-thinking businesses are beginning to recognize that training leaders in emotional resilience and body-based self-regulation isn’t a luxury, but a strategic investment. Supporting managers’ psychosocial well-being (think coaching, workshops on stress management, somatic leadership training) pays off in more resilient teams. It’s much easier to ride the waves of a tough quarter when your team isn’t also juggling secondhand stress from their boss. And when employees see a leader handle pressure with grace – maybe they take a mindful
pause instead of lashing out – it sends a powerful message that managing stress is part of the culture. That kind of emotional modeling can begin to shift the whole workplace ethos toward healthier norms.
Finally, it’s worth reflecting on your role as a leader in setting the emotional climate. Ask yourself: What vibe do I bring into the office on a Monday morning? When a crisis hits, how do my body and tone respond, and what do my people pick up from me? Do I give my team “permission” to pause and breathe by doing so myself, or am I inadvertently telegraphing that everyone should panic because I am? These aren’t always easy questions, but they’re necessary ones. By developing somatic awareness, you gain a sort of internal “pause button” – a chance to notice your stress, take a breath, and choose a different response before it spreads. The impact of that choice is profound. You break the contagion cycle at its source (in you), and in doing so, you become the kind of leader whose calm is infectious. In a world where stress may be inevitable, contagious calm just might be the best antidote.
Anna Al Qasimi-Roberts is an entrepreneur and certified Somatic CBT coach. She is the co-founder of Achievher and Soma Edge Consulting, specializing in helping leaders and teams harness somatic practices and nervous system regulation to cultivate resilience and authentic leadership. Anna is passionate about empowering businesses to foster healthier, more connected workplace environments from the inside out. Anna has completed post graduate studies at Said Business School, Oxford and SOAS. www.achievher.com
Wellness
Emotional Mastery
In business, we often face situations requiring quick decisions. The challenge lies in determining whether we are responding with the right emotions or not. As an entrepreneur, I’ve faced moments where managing emotions was key to making the right choice. As a founder of a publishing house, I remember when I had to decide to go ahead and publish a story under a very tight deadline, or delay it to make sure it meets the quality standards I value.
Recognizing the stress I felt in that moment made me stop, understand and choose the best way that is suitable to my values and vision of my business. But sometimes we find it truly challenging to recognize, understand and manage our own emotions- it requires a deep understanding to gain strength from within ourselves and control our reactions, especially when it is towards others.
Emotional intelligence isn’t just about gaining some knowledge, it’s about how to use it wisely to lead a healthier emotional life.
The first element of emotional intelligence is self-awareness which means being able to identify your emotions as they happen to understand how they affect your behavior. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I often felt frustrated when my sales went down during the international bookfair. But by practicing self-awareness, I was able to acknowledge the frustration and think about its sources instead of letting it lead to impulsive reactions. Being self-aware helps me to stay in control of actions and make decisions that align with my values. So the solution back then was to keep pushing sales through my online platform instead of showing up in person as I realized that people were still in lockdown due to the pandemic.
Self-recognition is another important aspect of emotional intelligence. While self-awareness is about recognizing emotions, self-regulation focuses on managing how you respond to them. Self-regulation doesn’t mean ignoring your emotions but learning to express them in a constructive
A 10-year-old entrepreneur shares how inculcating emotional intelligence training into her life has aided her entrepreneurial success. by ALDHABI ALMHEIRI
way. Imagine a situation where you feel angry after receiving negative feedback. Instead of reacting defensively or shouting, self-recognition allows you to take a step back, consider the feedback calmly, and respond appropriately. In such situations, I found it valuable to reward people for being so honest to improve the work quality.
Empathy is yet another key element of emotional intelligence. Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others. It enables you to connect with people on a deeper level and respond to their emotions with kindness and understanding. For instance, if a friend is upset about failing a test, empathy allows you to put yourself in their shoes, imagine how they’re feeling and provide comfort or encouragement. As such, empathy is especially important in teamwork because it helps people work together and resolve conflicts respectfully.
Social skills are closely related to empathy and are another critical part of emotional intelligence; these skills include communication, active listening and conflict.
People with strong social skills can build positive relationships, inspire others and create a supportive environment wherever they go. For example, during the Frankfurt international bookfair, my ability to actively listen and engage with expert publishers helped me to build a valuable partnership.
Motivation is another component of emotional intelligence and plays a great role in personal and professional success. It’s about staying focused and determined even when challenges occur suddenly. People with high emotional intelligence are often self-motivated, meaning they don’t rely solely on external rewards to stay driven. For example, a motivated entrepreneur who struggles with a startup might keep practicing and learning even after losing a pitch competition because they are committed to improving and succeeding. Motivation helps people overcome setbacks and stay on track
towards their goals.
Improving emotional intelligence takes time and consistent effort, but the results are transformative. To make a serious change, your first step should be to increase your self-awareness by paying attention to your emotions and trying to understand what triggers them. You can journal about your feelings or reflect on your reactionsthis can help you and gain insights into your emotions’ patterns. I often practice this by pausing before reacting to strong emotions and taking a deep breath to think about how I am going to react in a proper way without overreacting to the problem, or even good news!
Self-recognition isn’t about surprising emotions but learning to channel them in ways that benefit you and those around you, especially when building a business. Building empathy involves listening to others without interrupting or judging, showing genuine interest in their experience and trying to imagine how they feel. This can help you as an entrepreneur to keep the conversation flow while discussing your business. While working with a group, your small acts of kindness like offering help or encouragement can strengthen your ability to empathize over time. These efforts can improve your relationships among your group and make you more understanding and compassionate. Enhancing social skills requires working on your communication and teamwork abilities. Practice active listening by paying full attention to the speaker. On the other hand, responding thoughtfully focuses on being clear, respectful and confident when expressing yourself. If conflicts arise, approach them with a problem-solving mindset rather than blaming others.
Emotional intelligence has been a foundation of my entrepreneurial success. By cultivating it, I’ve learned to navigate challenges, build strong relationships, and stay focused on my goals. I believe every entrepreneur should invest in this skill to thrive in their personal and professional lives.
AlDhabi AlMheiri is a young Emirati columnist, entrepreneur, and publisher as well as a Guinness World Records titleholder. As the founder of Rainbow Chimney Bookstore and Publishing House, she is committed to empowering young writers and promoting cultural diversity through the transformative power of storytelling and publishing. AlDhabi firmly believes in the power of stories, providing children with a chance to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through books.
As the author of two books and the publisher of over 52 works by children from diverse backgrounds, AlMheiri’s mission is to promote education, sustainability, financial literacy, and emotional resilience through narrative. Her initiatives, such as “Books from Children to Children,” foster creativity and self-expression among youth while addressing crucial social issues like diversity, inclusion, and emotional well-being.
In addition to her work in literature, AlMheiri is a passionate advocate for children with additional needs, ensuring that their voices are amplified and their unique talents are recognized and nurtured. Her enthusiasm for finance has also driven her entrepreneurial ventures, making her a role model for young aspiring business leaders.
AlMheiri’s commitment to education and personal development is exemplified by her academic achievements. She graduated as a Fellow from Georgetown University’s School of Business in 2024, in collaboration with the US Mission to the UAE, and successfully completed the Entrepreneurship Program offered by Google and the UAE Ministry of Economy. Through her work and vision, AlMheiri is leaving a lasting impact on young people, advocating for a future where education, storytelling, financial literacy, and sustainability are the cornerstones of societal progress. Her initiatives are deeply aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reflecting her dedication to creating a better world for future generations.
This Is My Story
by MINA VUCIC
An International Women’s Day Campaign
Beyond titles, beyond careers—seven extraordinary women share their journeys of passion, resilience, and purpose - this is their story
This Is My Story
What defines a woman? Is it her job title, her career milestones, the accolades she accumulates? Or is it something deeper—something far beyond the roles she plays in the professional world?
Too often, society measures success by the name on a business card, the corner office, or the industry she dominates. But if we look beyond the titles, we find women who are multifaceted, dynamic, and endlessly inspiring— not just because of what they do, but because of who they are.
A woman is a leader, yes—but she is also a mother, a daughter, a friend, a visionary, a protector, and a dreamer. She is the sum of her experiences, the lessons she has learned, and the values she upholds. She is the laughter that fills a home after a long day, the unwavering voice of encouragement for those around her, and the quiet strength in moments of uncertainty.
At Entrepreneur Middle East, we wanted to celebrate women for everything they are—not just the positions they hold. That is how This Is My Story was born.
This campaign is a tribute to seven remarkable women who have
made an impact across industries, generations, and borders. More than their careers, they are storytellers, nurturers, and changemakers, shaping the world in ways that cannot be captured by a simple title. Through an exclusive Entrepreneur TV campaign, they have shared their journeys—the triumphs, the struggles, the defining moments that make them who they are today.
Meet these incredible women, hear their voices, learn their stories, and be reminded that every woman has a narrative worth telling. Because beyond the title, beyond the accolades, there is always more to the story.
SPECIAL THANKS TO:
Aldhabi AlMheiri
Joelle Mardinian Prathana Nandwani
Maria Morris
Alina Valcarce
Racha ElHassan
Jamie Simpson
MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA’S LARGEST CYBERSECURITY EVENT
B/Gear
#TamTalksTech
Gadgets and doodads that you might’ve missed out on, sourced by a tech aficionado. by
TAMARA CLARKE
Tune in → /Dyson OnTrac
Dyson OnTrac headphones offer custom Active Noise Cancellation and up to 55 hours of immersive listening, which basically keeps you tuned in for up to two weeks on a single charge. With 40mm, 16-ohm neodymium speaker drivers and advanced audio signal processing, the headphones deliver every note with precision. The headphones reproduce frequencies from as low as 6 Hertz to as high as 21,000 Hertz, providing deep sub-bass that you can feel, and clear highs at the upper end of the frequency range. Meanwhile, the speaker housing tilted 13˚ towards the ear for a more direct audio response. The MyDyson app, includes real-time sound tracking that monitors in-ear and external volume, alerting you to potentially harmful levels. The
MyDyson app also enables you to choose between three custom EQ modes: Bass Boost, Neutral and Enhanced. Additional features include Head Detect whereby sensors detect when earcups are removed from the ears, to automatically pause your audio. Audio resumes automatically once replaced. As well as Intuitive Joystick, which allows you to easily play, pause, skip, fast forward and rewind tracks, or hold down for voice commands. With over 2,000 customizable color combinations for outer caps and ear cushions, each ear cushion is crafted from ultra-soft microfiber and high-grade foam for superior comfort and acoustic seal. Multi-pivot gimbal arms and a uniquely positioned battery in the headband ensure balanced weight distribution.
Store it ↑
/WD Red Pro
WD Red Pro drives deliver the performance, scalability and dependability your business requires to store, share and collaborate on large amounts of data in multi-bay RAID-optimized NAS systems. The drives are engineered to handle high-intensity workloads in 24×7 multi-user commercial and enterprise NAS environments. WD Red Pro offers flexible storage capacity with 22TB, 24TB and 26TB hard drives featuring Western Digital’s proprietary OptiNAND technology, which leverages integrated iNAND embedded flash to perform key housekeeping functions, freeing up more capacity and improving overall performance. Equipped with Rotation Vibration (RV) sensors, they counteract excessive vibrations to maintain performance, while multi-axis shock sensors and dynamic fly height technology provide added protection. Featuring Western Digital’s OptiNAND technology, they optimize capacity and performance.
Work hard, play harder ←
/Honor Pad V9
The HONOR Pad V9 boasts a stunning 144Hz HONOR Eye Comfort Display, AI Efficiency Productivity features, and an ultra-thin design with a powerful, large battery. With its 11.5-inch LCD display, 2.8K resolution 4 and an impressive 88% screen-to-body ratio, you can comfortably multitask. HONOR Pad V9 runs the latest MagicOS 9.0 Based on Android 15, which comes with a range of AI productive features, delivering a more intelligent and user-friendly experience for users. For example, the
HONOR Notes enhances productivity with features such as Formula Recognition, Handwriting Beautification, and Voice-to-Text capabilities. The device has a robust 10100mAh battery that ensures prolonged usage without frequent recharging. With a single charge, the device can support up to 13.5 hours of online video streaming, 7.2 hours of gaming, 16.7 hours of social media browsing, and 40 hours of music streaming, making it ideal for work and entertainment.
TAMARA CLARKE, a former software development professional, is the tech and lifestyle enthusiast behind The Global Gazette, one of the most active blogs in the Middle East. The Global Gazette has been welcomed and lauded by some of the most influential tech brands in the region. Clarke’s goal is to inform about technology and how it supports our lifestyles. Talk to her on Twitter @TAMARACLARKE theglobalgazette.com
The Executive Selection
From better goods to better wardrobe bests, every issue, we choose a few items that make the approved executive selection list. In this edition, our picks are from Richard Mille and Ferrari, Carolina Herrera, and Milena Aesthetic Clinic.
STALLION LEATHER SUEDE →
By Herrera Confidential Collection
Stallion Leather Suede is one of the most powerful and sensual fragrances in the Herrera Confidential Collection, the brand’s most exclusive and intimate line of personal perfumery. As with all Herrera Confidential fragrances, this new launch is a tribute to the life and universe of Carolina Herrera. And the protagonist is once again Balaclava, the Arabian thoroughbred that the designer rode daily during her adolescence in Caracas. It’s an inspiration that has accompanied her throughout the decades. www.carolinaherrera.com
↓ PERFORMANCE REDEFINED |
By Richard Mille and Ferrari
In 2022, Richard Mille and Ferrari delivered their first masterpiece, the RM UP-01 Ultraflat Ferrari – a watch just 1,75 mm thick, stunned industry observers and fans from both brands.Now, the second creation from this partnership reinvents Richard Mille’s most complex highcomplication format, the tourbillon split-second chronograph, through a dynamic creative exchange between Maranello and Les Breuleux to
create the RM 43-01 Tourbillon Split-Seconds Chronograph Ferrari.
The RM 43-01 Tourbillon SplitSeconds Chronograph Ferrari is limited to 75 pieces in microblasted and polished grade 5 titanium with a Carbon TPT® caseband; and 75 in Carbon TPT®, a lightweight and durable thin-ply composite used exclusively for Richard Mille. www.richardmille.com
EDITOR’S PICK
UNVEILING YOUR BEST SELF MILENA AESTHETIC CLINIC, DUBAI ↓
Milena Aesthetic Clinic helps you write your own beauty and success story. They achieve this by combining innovative technology with a team of highly skilled professionals who are dedicated to your well-being. The clinic offers a comprehensive range of non-surgical aesthetic treatments, catering to diverse needs and goals- from skin rejuvenation, body contouring, to having any aesthetic and health problems, like hair loss or acne, they have a solution for you. Our pick is the popular HydraFacial treatment that cleanses, exfoliates, and infuses the skin with nourishing serums, leaving you with a radiant glow.
The driving force behind Milena Aesthetic Clinic is dermatologist and aesthetic doctor. Dr. Milena Mansuri. But she is not just a leading cosmetic doctor, but also a soughtafter speaker at prestigious international conferences and an official trainer for industry giants like Ellipsis, Cutera, and Endolift.
Ready to embark on your own journey of beauty and self-improvement, visit Milena Aesthetic Clinic, Al Safa 1, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Mardoof building, Block C, Second floor, Office 218. milenaaesthetic.com
THE ART OF ELEVATION
Redefining Standards
With Dubai-based Stay Flawless Beauty Lounge, Amina Bahari and Hadeel Ismail realized a shared dream of creating a community-focused beauty and wellness haven for women. But now, the brand is breaking new ground by moving into the realm of supporting female entrepreneurs. by AALIA MEHREEN AHMED
→ Amina Bahari and Hadeel Ismail are the cofounders of Stay Flawless Beauty Lounge..
S/Wellness
In the world of beauty and wellness for women, achieving a “flawless” look often brings with it the invisible weight of unrealistically high standards and the ensuing dent it can create on self esteem. So when Amina Bahari and Hadeel Ismail came together to launch UAE-based Stay Flawless Beauty Lounge, they did so with the intention of removing the search for perfection that is often synonymous with the word and replacing it with a more purpose-filled and fluid definition instead.
“To us, being flawless is about confidence, self-care, and embracing one’s uniqueness,” the co-founders say. “It’s about feeling comfortable in your own skin, prioritizing your well-being, and recognizing that beauty comes in many forms. At Stay Flawless, we believe that every woman defines her own version of beauty and empowerment, and our role is to support her in that journey—whether through self-care, or simply providing a space where she feels seen, heard, and valued. True flawlessness is not about fitting into a certain beauty standard— it’s about authenticity, self-love, and the freedom to express yourself in the way that makes you feel most confident and empowered.”
Nestled in Town Square, one of Dubai’s newest residential areas, Stay Flawless Beauty Lounge offers a range of beauty treatments for its female customers. “At Stay Flawless, we offer a luxurious head-to-toe experience, specializing in everything from nails, and all kinds of hair services including Curly Styling, and spa-level body treatments,” Bahari explains. “From indulgent massages to rejuvenating facials, our services are designed to provide the ultimate self-care experience. We continuously expand our service menu, staying ahead of the latest trends and catering to the evolving needs of our clients. We continuously expand our service menu, staying ahead of the latest trends and catering to the evolving needs of our clients. Our clients—whom we proudly call our ‘tribe’—are at the heart of everything we do. We welcome women of all ages, ensuring that every visit to Stay Flawless is an experience of beauty, relaxation, and empowerment. Our target market is women of all ages, backgrounds and ethnicities who desire to nurture their mind, body, skin and soul.”
As such, the beauty lounge’s customer base -or “tribe”- has dictated not only some of the more niche services it provides as well. For starters, there’s the recently introduced The Flawless Curl Hub—a dedicated space designed to care
→ Amina Bahari, the co-founder of Stay Flawless Beauty Lounge, has over 15 years of corporate experience managing internationally renowned pharmaceutical and beauty brands across the MENA.
→ Hadeel Ismail,
the co-founder of Stay Flawless Beauty Lounge, is a qualified pharmacist and has over 13 years of experience in the beauty industry.
“AT STAY FLAWLESS, WE BELIEVE THAT EVERY WOMAN DEFINES HER OWN VERSION OF BEAUTY AND EMPOWERMENT, AND OUR ROLE IS TO SUPPORT HER IN THAT JOURNEY—WHETHER THROUGH SELF-CARE, OR SIMPLY PROVIDING A SPACE WHERE SHE FEELS SEEN, HEARD, AND VALUED.”
for and celebrate curly hair. “Recognizing the need for specialized expertise, we spent the past eight months collaborating with global trainers and professionals to bring this service to life,” Ismail explains. “What makes us unique is the
strong relationship we’ve built with our tribe. We listen to their needs, ensuring that our services align with their beauty goals, busy lifestyles, and even the demands of motherhood. Every treatment is carefully
curated to deliver not just exceptional results, but also a luxurious and relaxing experience, allowing our clients to unwind and feel their absolute best.”
But before one can mistake Stay Flawless Beauty Lounge for just another spa or salon, Ismail points out that creating tangible community-oriented connections is at the heart of the brand’s values. “Before starting this business, female empowerment to us meant independence, confidence, and the ability to chase one’s dreams without limitations,” Ismail notes. “It was about women supporting each other, breaking barriers, and making their mark in their respective fields. However, after actively building Stay Flawless and creating a space designed specifically for women, female empowerment has taken on a much deeper meaning. Now, it’s not just about individual success—it’s about community, connection, and uplifting each other in every way possible. It’s about giving women a space where they can prioritize themselves, feel valued, and embrace self-care without guilt. Stay Flawless is more than just a salon—it’s an experience.”
And the co-founding duo have already made some inroads in this regard by breaking beyond the limits of a beauty and wellness brand. “In addition to our core services, we took our commitment to empowerment a step further by
launching The Flawless Collective—an initiative that provides a platform for like-minded female entrepreneurs and women-owned businesses,” Bahari reveals. “Through this initiative, we offer our space free of charge, allowing women to showcase their brands, connect with new audiences, and grow within a supportive community. By creating these opportunities, we are not just redefining beauty but actively contributing to a culture where women succeed together. Through Stay Flawless, we have seen firsthand how empowerment is not just about what we do for ourselves but also how we support other women. Whether it’s through employment, mentorship, or simply providing a space where they can unwind and feel beautiful. True empowerment is collective, and it grows stronger when women come together.”
Now, why bring the bustling world of business into the rejuvenating services of a beauty lounge one might wonder. That answer is deeply seeded in the entrepreneurial journeys of the co-founders themselves. You see, prior to launching Stay Flawless, both Bahari and Ismail had been corporate employees with each of them having spent more than a decade working in the pharmaceutical and beauty industries. “Through our previous careers, we both gained invaluable experience in key
↓ Located in Town Square, Stay Flawless Beauty Lounge is a community-focused beauty center that empowers women to look and feel their best. Beyond its core services, the brand aims to be a space for community, self-expression, self-care and empowerment.
“THROUGH STAY FLAWLESS, WE HAVE SEEN FIRSTHAND HOW EMPOWERMENT IS NOT JUST ABOUT WHAT WE DO FOR OURSELVES BUT ALSO HOW WE SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN. WHETHER IT’S THROUGH EMPLOYMENT, MENTORSHIP, OR SIMPLY PROVIDING A SPACE WHERE THEY CAN UNWIND AND FEEL BEAUTIFUL.”
areas such as delegation, organization, teamwork, accountability, planning, prioritization, and communication—skills that have shaped the way we approach leadership and business today,” Ismail says. “Our journey is truly special. We started as university colleagues, became close friends, and eventually became family. At the time, Amina and I had a combined 20 years of experience in chemistry, beauty, legislation, and business. Recognizing a market gap and a promising business opportunity, we made the bold yet calculated decision to embark on this venture together. What made this partnership seamless was our shared values, vision, and deep understanding of each other. We complement one another in a way that allows us to anticipate each other’s thoughts and decisions, making our collaboration not only strategic but also natural and fulfilling.”
Having relished the sweet success of realizing their own entrepreneurial dreams, the co-founders thus decided to integrate the concept of community-driven initiatives that support female entrepreneurs and business leaders, while also staying committed to the core mission of Stay Flawless Beauty Lounge.
“When customers leave Stay Flawless, we want them to carry more than just a fresh look—we want them to feel confident, valued, and refreshed,” Bahari says. “Our goal is to provide a space where women can prioritize self-care, feel heard, and embrace a moment of luxury without guilt. More than beauty, it’s about leaving with a sense of empowerment and renewal. Whether they’re here for a transformation, to unwind after a long day, or simply to chat, we want them to feel like they’ve finally found a safe space where people genuinely care. Customer loyalty
BEFORE STARTING THIS BUSINESS, FEMALE EMPOWERMENT TO US MEANT INDEPENDENCE, CONFIDENCE, AND THE ABILITY TO CHASE ONE’S DREAMS WITHOUT LIMITATIONS…HOWEVER, AFTER ACTIVELY BUILDING STAY FLAWLESS AND CREATING A SPACE DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR WOMEN, FEMALE EMPOWERMENT HAS TAKEN ON A MUCH DEEPER MEANING. NOW, IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT INDIVIDUAL SUCCESS—IT’S ABOUT COMMUNITY, CONNECTION, AND UPLIFTING EACH OTHER IN EVERY WAY POSSIBLE.”
goes beyond repeat visits—it’s about creating a true sense of belonging. At Stay Flawless, we’re building more than just a beauty destination; we’re cultivating a community, a tribe. Every woman who walks through our doors should leave not just looking incredible, but feeling empowered, refreshed, and ready to take on the world.”
In a pleasant intertwining of values, the co-founders’ personal business journey, particularly when it came to funding the venture, has also been driven by values that honor community and team building. “So far, we have kept Stay Flawless afloat through a combination of strategic financial planning and calculated risk-taking,” Bahari notes. “As co-founders, we believed in our vision so strongly that we were willing to invest in it wholeheartedly—from selecting the perfect location to curating a suite of services that truly cater to our clients’ needs. One of the most challenging aspects of our journey has been finding the right balance between growth and maintaining a team of carefully selected, highly skilled professionals. Slowing down to ensure that we build a strong,
capable team without compromising on quality has required patience and dedication. What we have learned along the way is that resilience, adaptability, and a strong support system are key to navigating the entrepreneurial journey. Our commitment to continuous growth allows us to transform every challenge into an opportunity, ensuring that Stay Flawless continues to evolve and thrive.”
Driven by this sense of purpose, Bahari and Ismail are now gearing up for what promises to be a bright year ahead. “Our long-term vision for Stay Flawless is to establish a beauty academy that not only nurtures talent but also helps elevate industry standards,” Ismail declares.
“We want to contribute to the growth of the beauty sector by providing high-quality education, hands-on training, and a platform for aspiring professionals to develop their skills with excellence. For 2025, our immediate goal is to continue expanding our brand. And of course, stay tuned for Flawless 2—our second branch is coming soon! We’re excited to bring the Stay Flawless experience to more women and further build our Tribe.”
↓ The salon’s mission extends beyond aesthetics, by aiming to foster a supportive environment where women feel valued and celebrated for their individuality.
/Idea
Sprinkle Magic
MMuna Rahim is the founder of CrACKLES, a Dubai-based dessert brand specialising in gourmet hand-crafted rice crispy treats. Launched in April 2021, CrACKLES offers a distinct product made of premium ingredients using creative techniques, catering to the everyday consumer, while also ideal for special occasions, event catering, and corporate gifting. standards I value.
Muna’s journey began when she upgraded traditional rice crispy treats for her daughter’s birthday party, receiving enthusiastic feedback from guests that sparked a wave of demand. Today, the company features a variety of 12 delicious flavours and caters to an array of customers, providing customized and uniquely designed desserts. Operating primarily online across Dubai and the entire UAE, the brand caters to customers through major delivery platforms and pop-up events.
Her entrepreneurial spirit has led to significant achievements, including a long-list nomination for Deliveroo’s restaurant awards and a successful pitch on Shark Tank Dubai, where she secured a deal with three investors. With plans to expand into new markets across the GCC, Muna is committed to growing CrACKLES in the gourmet desserts segment.
With a global corporate background, Muna has worked in major companies, including American Express, and Berlitz Corporation, before embarking on her entrepreneurial journey. She holds a B.A. in Economics and French from the University of Toronto. In an exclusive interview, she explains how the company started and her plans for the future.
Can you give an overview of the size of the company today?
CrACKLES has grown significantly since its launch in 2021, evolving from a home-based concept into a successful brand with a dedicated production facility. We currently operate in the UAE, with Dubai as our primary market and, with the right partner(s), we are exploring expansion into other GCC countries. We have seen exponential growth year over year.
How Muna Rahim went from birthday party organiser to business star. by ENTREPRENEUR MIDDLE EAST STAFF
What do you see as the potential growth?
CrACKLES is more than just a treat. It’s an experience that brings joy, sparks connections and creates smiles for people of all ages. It introduces a unique niche in the region’s dessert market. We’ve tapped into an unmet demand for high-quality, customizable rice crispy treats that blend indulgence with creativity. A first of its kind in the region, the potential for growth is enormous.
Where do you see the company in 5 years’ time?
I want CrACKLES to be synonymous with rice crispy treats. A brand instantly recognized for its quality, creativity and unique take on a nostalgic favourite treat. Key milestones for the next five years would include strengthening our presence in the UAE, expanding in the region, and establishing a retail presence.
What made you decide to leave the corporate world for a life as an entrepreneur?
I had a successful corporate career but I always had an entrepreneurial spirit. The turning point was my daughter’s birthday party, where I made rice crispy treats for the first time since living in Dubai. The overwhelming response from friends and family made me realize that there was an untapped market for gourmet versions of this nostalgic treat. That moment sparked an idea that quickly turned into a business. At that time, I was on a break from the corporate world and while returning to it would have offered stability, my passion and belief in what I was creating drove me to take the leap into entrepreneurship.
What have been the biggest challenges you have faced?
Breaking into the very competitive F&B market in Dubai required more than just a great product. It meant establishing a strong brand identity, differentiating ourselves from well-established players (including global chains) and finding creative ways to capture customer attention in a crowded space. Each of
these challenges has strengthened our foundation and prepared us for even bigger opportunities.
Tell us more about how the company started?
It all started with a simple idea: making rice crispy treats for my daughter’s birthday. The guests loved them so much that I began receiving requests for more, inspiring me to experiment with flavours and designs.
Rice crispy treats have always been a personal favourite since childhood, but beyond that, I’m a creative at heart. What I love most about them is their versatility – they’re like a blank canvas, ready to be transformed and elevated.
It didn’t take long for me to realize that there was a gap in the market for high-quality customizable rice crispy treats. That’s when I decided to turn my passion project into something more. What started as a fun activity quickly transformed into a thriving business!
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs who want to follow in your footsteps?
My top few pieces of advice:
} 1. Love what you do - Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart, it requires resilience, hard work and the ability to navigate challenges and setbacks. There will be sacrifice and uncertainty, but if you truly love what you do, that passion will drive you forward, even in the toughest times. Success comes not just from a great idea but from the dedication and perseverance to see it through.
} 2. Stay adaptable – The business landscape is constantly evolving. Be ready to pivot when needed.
} 3. Embrace challenges – Every setback is an opportunity to refine your business and grow stronger.
} 4. Have confidence in yourself, your product/service and your capabilities. If you believe in these things, others will too.
REDEFINING REAL ESTATE EXCELLENCE SWANK DEVELOPMENT MANAGING DIRECTOR AND BOARD
Moustafa Elsaid
by MINA VUCIC
Paradigm, a podcast by Entrepreneur TV Middle East, brings listeners behind the scenes of industry leaders’ lives and careers, showcasing their inspiring journeys and offering unique insights into the creative and business worlds.
In the fast-paced world of real estate, where trends shift rapidly and competition is fierce, visionary leaders stand out. One such leader is Moustafa Elsaid, Managing Director and Board Member of Swank Development, whose career trajectory reflects a deep understanding of market dynamics, technological integration, and strategic foresight. With over 17 years of experience spanning the MENA region and Southeast Asia, Elsaid has built a reputation for transforming real estate operations and market strategies, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
A Leader in Transformation
From strategic sales to global real estate leadership, Moustafa Elsaid has driven Swank Development to new heights with innovation and adaptability. Under his leadership, the company integrates cutting-edge technology, strategic foresight, and customer-centric experiences, redefining modern real estate. Beyond financial success, Elsaid fosters a culture of learning and agility, empowering teams to embrace change and pioneer new ways to enhance customer experiences and investment value.
Paradigm
Insights for the Future
As a thought leader, Elsaid offers invaluable guidance to entrepreneurs and industry professionals looking to navigate the complexities of real estate. His insights underscore the importance of understanding consumer behavior, staying ahead of economic shifts, and continuously evolving strategies to maintain a competitive edge.
In his episode on Paradigm, he shares his vision for the future of real estate, providing practical takeaways for those eager to innovate and excel. His approach extends beyond traditional industry frameworks, embracing new
paradigms that redefine how real estate is developed, marketed, and experienced.
Shaping the Next Generation
Moustafa Elsaid’s journey is more than just a success story—it’s a blueprint for strategic leadership in real estate. His dedication to innovation, his ability to inspire, and his keen market acumen have positioned him as a pivotal figure in the business world. As he continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, his influence will undoubtedly shape the next generation of industry leaders, leaving a lasting legacy in real estate development.
SCAN THESE QR CODES TO CHECK OUT THE FULL PARADIGM EPISODE.
TOP 5 TAKEAWAYS
} Transformative Leadership Journey: From a strategic sales leader to a key figure in global real estate development, Moustafa Elsaid’s career highlights his expertise and innovative approach.
} Pioneering Advanced Strategies: His leadership transcends conventional real estate methods, positioning Swank Development as a forward-thinking industry leader.
} Commitment to Continuous Learning: Emphasizing adaptability and market intelligence, Elsaid encourages a culture of growth and strategic foresight.
} Invaluable Industry Insights: His expertise in market trends, technology integration, and consumer behavior offers essential guidance for real estate professionals.
} Global Recognition and Influence: As an industry thought leader, Elsaid shares his strategic insights on platforms like Paradigm, inspiring entrepreneurs and professionals worldwide.
Mina Vucic is the Director of Production and Multimedia at BNC Publishing. She hosts Paradigm, an Entrepreneur TV Middle East podcast series that delves into the triumphs and challenges on industry pioneers in the dynamic world of business and entrepreneurship. instagram.com/ entrepreneurtvme
In The Loop/ Dubai AI Festival Returns as Part of the Inaugural Dubai AI Week
The event will take place on April 23-24, 2025 at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai.
Dubai AI Festival returns in 2025 to further demonstrate Dubai’s standing as a global leader in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
Held under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, UAE, the event will take place on April 23-24, 2025 at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai. The Festival is organized by Dubai AI Campus, in partnership with DIFC, Minister of State for
Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications Office to explore AI’s transformative impact across industries.
The festival will be a significant event within Dubai AI Week, an initiative organized by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence, and overseen by the Dubai Future Foundation, to connect AI research with real-world applications –bringing together experts, entrepreneurs, investors, and the public and private sectors to explore AI’s vast opportunities.
Key themes of the Dubai AI Festival include responsible AI deployment, transparency, and the future
of work. Attendees will gain insights into AI’s impact while tackling the ethical challenges of its rapid integration.
His Excellency Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority, said, “DIFC is delighted to be presenting one of the most significant events as part of Dubai AI Week and reflects our commitment to cement the city’s position as a global leader for technology, as well as enable future focused industries to harness the transformative power of AI. As adoption accelerates, the Dubai AI Festival will serve as the key platform for accelerating responsible and effective AI implementation across business, govern-
ment, and society.”
Aligned with Dubai’s vision for innovation and economic growth, Dubai AI Festival will bring together 8,000+ industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators from 100+ countries to drive collaboration and investment in AI and emerging technologies.
The event will also include a dynamic exhibition, featuring cutting-edge AI innovations, alongside a start-up showcase where emerging companies will pitch their solutions to investors. The FutureTech World Cup, will showcase top AI start-ups, connecting innovators with investors seeking the next big breakthrough. Additionally, the Global FutureTech Innovation Program will discover the brightest young minds from around the world harnessing AI to tackle real-world challenges. This combination of exhibitions, discussions, and competitions will drive collaboration and investment in the next wave of AI innovation.
Registrations for Dubai AI Festival are now open. For more details, visit: dubaiaifestival.com
