Explore every episode of the podcast Real Talk Dubai

In Episode 23 of Real Talk Dubai, Rizwan Kassim, Founder & CEO of RIKAS Hospitality Group, sits down with George Hojeige, Group CEO of Virtuzone, for an in-depth conversation on Dubai’s fast-growing hospitality industry and what it takes to build successful restaurant concepts in one of the world’s most competitive markets.

From building standout dining destinations to creating memorable guest experiences, Rizwan shares the strategy, vision and leadership approach behind RIKAS Hospitality Group’s growth. He discusses how Dubai’s hospitality scene has evolved, what makes a restaurant concept truly successful, and why design, service, consistency and brand identity all play a major role in building long-term success.

The conversation also explores the business side of hospitality, including expansion, acquisitions, market positioning, team building and understanding customer expectations in a city known for world-class dining, lifestyle and luxury experiences.

Whether you are an entrepreneur, restaurant owner, investor, hospitality professional or someone interested in Dubai’s business landscape, this episode offers valuable insights into the mindset, strategy and execution needed to grow in the UAE’s hospitality sector.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:20 Rizwan Kassim’s journey into hospitality
• 05:10 Building RIKAS Hospitality Group
• 10:35 Dubai’s evolving restaurant and dining scene
• 16:20 What makes a restaurant concept successful
• 22:45 The role of design, service and guest experience
• 29:30 Scaling hospitality brands in Dubai
• 36:15 Leadership, teams and business growth
• 43:40 Acquisitions and market positioning
• 50:25 Lessons from Dubai’s competitive hospitality market
• 57:10 Future trends shaping Dubai’s dining scene
• 1:03:20 Final thoughts and advice for entrepreneurs

Guest: Rizwan Kassim, Founder & CEO, RIKAS Hospitality Group

Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO of Virtuzone

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In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, Maria Morris, Founder of Maria Morris Global, sits down with host George Hojeige to share her journey in Dubai’s real estate industry. She discusses building a boutique, female-founded luxury brokerage in the UAE and the vision behind creating a client-focused approach to high-end property.

Maria also shares insights into how the Dubai property market is evolving, what differentiates the luxury segment, and the importance of positioning in a highly competitive industry. The conversation highlights the realities of entrepreneurship in real estate and the opportunities emerging in Dubai’s ultra-prime market.

If you’re interested in real estate, entrepreneurship, or the Dubai property landscape, this is an episode you should not miss.

Guest: Maria Morris, Founder, Maria Morris Global Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone, an Ascentium Company

In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, Jad Antoun, Co‑Founder and CEO of Huspy, sits down with host George Hojeige to share his journey from launching a startup to leading one of the region’s fastest-growing proptech companies. Jad reflects on key turning points in his career, the most difficult challenges in scaling a business, and lessons learned along the way.

He also talks about common misconceptions in the real estate and mortgage sector, the pressures of technology adoption and international expansion, and shares insights into emerging trends shaping Dubai’s property market.

If you’re interested in proptech, real estate innovation, or entrepreneurship in Dubai, this is an episode you should not miss.

Guest: Jad Antoun, Co‑Founder & CEO, Huspy Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone, an Ascentium Company

 In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, Omar Chaoui, Founder of Magana, sits down with host George Hojeige to discuss the inspiration and ambition behind creating limited edition mechanical timepieces that make a statement that matters.

Omar shares the journey of launching Magana, the philosophy behind designing watches that reflect meaning and style, and the challenges of building a brand from the UAE. He discusses the art of mechanical watchmaking, the importance of precision, and the strategy behind creating exclusivity in today’s market.

From brand positioning and craftsmanship to future growth plans, this conversation offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs, design enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by fine watches.

If you are interested in product development, design, or entrepreneurship in Dubai, this episode is a must watch.

Guest: Omar Chaoui, Founder, Magana Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone, an Ascentium Company

Dubai’s contracting industry is evolving rapidly, but leading a contracting business requires more than technical expertise. Every project comes with tight deadlines, cashflow pressures, and complex execution challenges.

In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, Rafael Khanoyan, CEO of Al RYUM Group, sits down with host George Hojeige to share his journey from his first project to building a successful contracting company. Rafael reflects on key turning points in his career and the most difficult aspects of managing projects that clients rarely see.

He also talks about misconceptions in contracting, the pressures of cashflow and deadlines, and shares insights into emerging trends in the industry.

If you’re interested in construction, project management, or entrepreneurship in Dubai, this is an episode you should not miss.

Guest: Rafael Khanoyan, CEO, Al RYUM Group Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone, an Ascentium Company

Dubai’s legal profession is evolving rapidly, but leading a law firm requires more than legal expertise. Every decision comes with responsibility, pressure, and the need to uphold strong values.

In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, Charles DerSahakian, Managing Partner at CVML, sits down with host George Hojeige to share his journey from his legal background to managing a successful law firm. Charles reflects on a career-defining mistake and the most difficult aspects of managing lawyers.

He also talks about staying true to his values under pressure and shares insights into the future plans for CVML.

If you’re interested in law, leadership, or building a values-driven career, this is an episode you should not miss.

Guest: Charles DerSahakian, Managing Partner, CVML Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone, an Ascentium Company

Dubai’s high-end fit-out sector is booming, but creating exceptional spaces requires more than materials and design. Every project comes with tight deadlines, discerning clients, and complex execution challenges.

In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, Aziz Zacca, Founder & Managing Partner of Indoors High End Finishing, sits down with host George Hojeige to share his journey and expertise in Dubai’s premium fit-out industry. Aziz discusses his engineering background, career progression, and the lessons learned while building a company delivering high-quality residential and commercial projects.

He shares the most stressful aspects of the industry, the challenges of starting a fit-out business, behind-the-scenes insights clients rarely see, and strategies for planning projects effectively. Aziz also reflects on his most intense projects and the trends shaping the future of luxury interiors.

If you’re interested in interior design, project management, or entrepreneurship in Dubai, this is an episode you should not miss.

Guest: Aziz Zacca, Founder & Managing Partner, Indoors High End Finishing Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone, an Ascentium Company

Dubai’s venture capital ecosystem is growing rapidly, but investing in startups is about far more than capital and connections. Behind every decision are uncertainty, pressure, and long-term responsibility.

In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, Zafer Younis, Founder of Silicon Valley Venture & Innovation (SVVI), sits down with host George Hojeige to unpack how the venture capital industry really works. Zafer shares his background, career progression, and the realities of building judgment in a high-stakes investment environment.

He discusses the scariest moments in venture capital, the biggest risks investors take, and the most common mistakes made when backing early-stage companies. The conversation offers an honest look at how decisions are made, what separates disciplined investors from reactive ones, and the lessons learned through experience.

If you're interested in venture capital, startups, investing, or understanding how major funding decisions are made, this is an episode you should not miss.

Guest: Zafer Younis, Founder, Silicon Valley Venture & Innovation (SVVI)

 Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone, an Ascentium Company

Dubai’s content creator scene is growing rapidly, but building a real career takes more than viral moments and trending formats. Behind every successful creator are consistency, strategy, and a willingness to make sacrifices.

In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, Denisa Alexe, comedian and content creator, sits down with host George Hojeige to share her journey from a background in marketing to building a full-time career in content creation. Denisa breaks down how she found her voice through comedy, transitioned into digital storytelling, and turned creativity into a sustainable career.

She discusses monetising comedy content, choosing brand partnerships without losing authenticity, and managing the pressure of being constantly online. Denisa also opens up about burnout, the biggest mistakes creators make, and the type of content that helps creators grow long-term.

If you're interested in content creation, personal branding, or turning creativity into a career, this is an episode you should not miss.

• Guest: Denisa Alexe, Comedian & Content Creator
• Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone an Ascentium Company

• 00:00 Intro and Denise’s background in marketing
• 04:30 Transition into content creation and comedy
• 12:38 Monetizing comedy and content
• 15:31 The sacrifices behind being a full-time creator
• 20:56 What content creators should focus on
• 25:35 The biggest mistakes creators make
• 30:12 Staying authentic with brand deals
• 37:00 Dealing with burnout
• 40:45 Advice for aspiring creators

• Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: virtuzone.com
• Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and industry leaders shaping the UAE

In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, host George Hojeige speaks with Gosia Golda, founder of the MMG Group, about the evolution of Dubai’s creative industry and the business behind building a global talent ecosystem from the ground up.

Gosia shares her journey from arriving in Dubai as a young talent in 2003 to launching MMG Models, MMG Artists, and MMG Talent. The group has grown into a global creative powerhouse with operations across Dubai, London, Paris, and Miami. She explains how the city reshaped her ambitions, the early challenges of building a business with no safety net, and the resilience required to grow organically in a competitive and rapidly changing industry.

The conversation explores what it takes to run a specialist creative company in Dubai, from navigating misconceptions and industry pressures to balancing authenticity, leadership, and commercial expectations. Gosia reflects on rebuilding after setbacks, protecting company culture, and staying grounded in a world shaped by social media and constant visibility. The episode closes with honest advice for young women entering the creative and talent industries.

• Guest: Gosia Golda, Founder, MMG Group
• Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone, an Ascentium Company

Timestamps (Chapters)

• 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview
• 02:36 Choosing Dubai and Finding Opportunities
• 05:25 Launching MMG and Building from Scratch
• 07:39 Risks Growth and Global Expansion
• 09:41 Pressure Mindset and Resilience
• 13:11 Authenticity Image and Social Media
• 16:36 What Sets MMG Apart
• 19:06 Leadership Team Culture and Rebuilding
• 24:23 Strategy Partnerships and Scaling
• 30:05 Proudest Projects and Future Vision
• 33:11 What Drives Gosia
• 38:29 Boundaries Values and Saying No
• 40:06 Advice for Young Women and Closing Thoughts

Connect and Next Steps

• Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: virtuzone.com
• Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and industry leaders shaping the UAE

Dubai is a city where success, ambition, and personal style often intersect and few industries reflect this more clearly than luxury watch trading. In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, George Hojeige sits down with Dean Bramley, Founder of Bramley Luxury Goods, for an unfiltered conversation about luxury, risk, reinvention, and what it really takes to build a trusted name in Dubai’s high-value trading market.

Dean shares his journey from growing up in Stoke-on-Trent in the UK to working across Australia, Taiwan, and the Middle East in the automotive industry before making a bold and unexpected pivot into luxury watches. From working with global brands like Audi, Bentley, Bugatti, and McLaren to being made redundant with a family to support, Dean opens up about the turning points that forced him to rethink everything.

The conversation explores how trust can be both the biggest asset and the most expensive mistake in luxury trading, why cash flow—not profit—is the real challenge behind high-value deals, and how the watch market truly works behind the scenes. Dean breaks down common misconceptions around luxury watches as “investments,” explains how pricing and rarity actually drive value, and reveals the realities of scams, misinformation, and ethics in the industry.

From flipping his first watch on his parents’ sofa to building Bramley into a respected luxury goods brand with an upcoming flagship store in Dubai Marina, this episode offers honest insights into resilience, reputation, and building long-term credibility in one of the world’s most competitive luxury markets.

If you’re interested in founder stories, luxury trading, or the realities of entrepreneurship in Dubai, this episode delivers a raw and grounded perspective without the gloss.

Guest: Dean Bramley, Founder, Bramley Luxury Goods Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone, an Ascentium Company

• 00:00 Luxury, status, and why watches matter in Dubai
• 03:10 Dean’s early life in the UK and first ambitions
• 06:20 From automotive engineering to luxury car brands
• 09:40 Moving countries and exposure to global luxury markets
• 13:30 Redundancy in Dubai and hitting reset
• 17:00 Entering the watch trading world
• 20:40 Trust, risk, and the most costly early mistake
• 24:20 Status vs passion: why people really buy luxury watches
• 27:40 How watch value, rarity, and timing really work
• 31:20 Luxury myths and the reality of the watch market
• 34:30 Building Bramley, reputation, and long-term credibility
• 37:00 Final reflections and closing thoughts

• Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: virtuzone.com
• Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and industry leaders shaping the UAE

Dubai is a city where image, confidence, and first impressions matter, and few industries reflect that more than aesthetic dentistry. In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, George Hojeige sits down with Dr. Karim Fekih, Doctor of Dental Medicine and Founder of Smile Design Boutique Dubai, to explore the real business behind premium dentistry in the UAE.

Dr. Karim shares his journey from studying dentistry in France to building and scaling high end clinics in Dubai, including the early risks, funding challenges, and strategic decisions that shaped his career. He opens up about the realities of running a medical business in a highly competitive market, the psychology behind patient expectations, and why trust and ethics matter more than trends.

The conversation dives into the evolution of veneers and cosmetic dentistry, common misconceptions around pricing and procedures, and how longevity and minimal intervention are shaping the future of aesthetic medicine. From launching clinics during financial crises to redefining what a “perfect smile” really means, this episode offers honest insights into entrepreneurship, resilience, and building a premium healthcare brand in Dubai.

If you’re interested in founder stories, healthcare entrepreneurship, or how niche businesses succeed in the UAE, this episode delivers a thoughtful and unfiltered perspective.

Guest: Dr. Karim Fekih, Founder, Smile Design Boutique Dubai

Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone, an Ascentium Company

Timestamps

00:00 Dubai, confidence and the power of a smile

03:45 Karim’s journey from France to practicing dentistry in Dubai

07:30 Opening clinics during financial crises and early funding challenges

11:40 Building trust, ethics and patient relationships in aesthetic dentistry

15:55 The real cost of opening and scaling a dental clinic in Dubai

19:40 Veneers myths, pricing misconceptions and what patients get wrong

24:30 Psychology, confidence and why dentistry goes beyond teeth

28:10 Mistakes, contractors and lessons learned the hard way

32:20 The future of aesthetic dentistry, longevity and minimal intervention

36:10 What makes a perfect smile and final reflections

Connect and Next Steps

• Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: virtuzone.com

• Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and industry leaders shaping the UAE

Dubai’s cigar culture has grown into a sophisticated, fast-moving niche, and The Leaf Master has become one of the region’s most recognised names in this space. In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, George Hojeige sits down with Ra’ed Saqfelhait to uncover how a former CFO and global finance executive reshaped his life, stepped away from the corporate world and built a thriving cigar brand from the ground up.

Ra’ed shares the story of discovering New World cigars in New York, launching a business with just seven SKUs, the early challenges of entering a highly regulated industry and the persistence required to scale in a market where expectations are high and competition moves fast. He opens up about personal turning points, the realities of entrepreneurship in Dubai, navigating setbacks and the importance of passion, structure and long-term vision.

From corporate boardrooms to boutique cigar lounges, this conversation is a deep look at reinvention, resilience and what it truly takes to build a business in Dubai’s unique landscape. If you enjoy founder stories and honest insights into the industries shaping the UAE, this episode delivers a compelling and unfiltered perspective.

Guest: Ra'ed Saqfelhait, Founder and Managing Partner, The Leaf Master Tobacco Trading LLC

Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone, an Ascentium Company

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction to Dubai’s cigar culture
• 02:10 Ra’ed’s journey from Kuwait to Cairo to Wall Street
• 06:30 Leaving corporate life after major personal challenges
• 09:20 Discovering New World cigars in New York
• 12:05 Launching The Leaf Master with seven SKUs
• 15:40 Navigating excise tax, VAT and tobacco regulations
• 19:25 Scaling to 900 plus SKUs and opening boutiques across the UAE
• 23:10 Recruitment difficulties and the post-COVID shift in workforce mindset
• 28:45 Competition, copycats and staying ahead in Dubai’s fast-paced market
• 31:30 Legacy, family, international recognition and the Dubai World Cigar Show

Connect and Next Steps

• Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: virtuzone.com
• Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and industry leaders shaping the UAE

In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, George Hojeige speaks with Charbel El Hachem about the booming holiday home market and the intricacies of the short-term rental industry in the UAE.

Charbel shares his unconventional journey from a 13-year tenure in the banking sector to the nightlife industry, and finally to hospitality. He discusses how casually renting out a room in his Beirut apartment on Airbnb sparked a passion for interior design and hosting, eventually leading to the creation of Dayf — a guest-centric short-term rental management company.

The conversation explores the transition from operating in Lebanon during economic turmoil to entering the hyper-competitive Dubai market. Charbel breaks down the business model of managing investment properties for ROI-driven owners, the challenges of inventory retention, and the operational intensity required to maintain "Superhost" status across a growing portfolio.

George and Charbel also discuss the importance of quality control over quantity, the emotional weight of guest reviews, and the future of the industry in the region, including expansion into Saudi Arabia. The episode closes with a humorous story involving a goat in an apartment and a candid reflection on the relentless pace and rewarding nature of building a business in Dubai.

Guest: Charbel El Hachem, Founder of Dayf Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone, an Ascentium Company

Timestamps (Chapters)

• 00:00 – Introduction and guest overview
• 01:45 – Leaving a 13-year banking career and the search for passion
• 04:35 – The accidental Airbnb host: From one room to a business in Beirut
• 09:00 – Launching "Dayf" in 2021 and the move to Dubai
• 13:18 – Differences between the Beirut and Dubai real estate markets
• 14:01 – Challenges of setting up and operating in Dubai
• 16:41 – The biggest mistake: Not letting go earlier
• 17:55 – Crazy story: The goat in the apartment
• 19:33 – It’s the wild west: Different investor profiles and risk appetites
• 21:40 – Only 20% of short-term rental operators know what they’re doing
• 22:12 – The future of Dayf and the service industry
• 25:49 – Maintaining the “Superhost” title and five-star experience
• 28:07 – Silent killers of an Airbnb business
• 29:34 – Reality of doing business in Dubai: Sink or swim
• 31:50 – The price of chasing success in Dubai

Connect and Next Steps

• Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: virtuzone.com
• Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and industry leaders shaping the UAE

In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, George Hojeige speaks with Jeremy Loisel about the architectural lighting industry and the business behind delivering large-scale projects across the region.

Jeremy shares his journey from studying engineering and finance in France to moving to Dubai at 22 during the subprime crisis. He discusses how his early work in flooring led to the launch and growth of Switch Made Group, now operating across multiple markets and supplying lighting for major infrastructure and commercial developments.

The conversation explores what it takes to build and run a specialist company in Dubai, from operating in a highly competitive environment to balancing creativity, engineering, and commercial pressure. Jeremy reflects on entrepreneurship, leadership lessons, investment risk, and the realities of making decisions without the safety net of large corporate structures.

George and Jeremy also discuss the growing use of AI in lighting design, challenges around product quality and copy-paste solutions, cultural expectations in regional markets, and how Dubai has become a first-choice base for international entrepreneurs. The episode closes with an honest discussion on the personal and professional cost of building a business in the UAE.

Guest: Jeremy Loisel, CEO at Switch Made Group Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone an Ascentium Company

Timestamps (Chapters) 00:00 – Introduction and guest overview 01:30 – Engineering, finance, and entering the workforce during the subprime era 04:30 – Moving to Dubai at 22 and early career decisions 07:00 – From flooring to architectural and LED lighting 10:00 – Major projects and sustainable building milestones 14:00 – Design, creativity, and visible architecture 18:00 – Client culture and market expectations 21:30 – Entrepreneurship and leadership pressures 25:30 – COVID lessons and scaling challenges 29:30 – AI, lighting trends, and the real cost of doing business in Dubai

Connect and Next Steps • Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: virtuzone.com • Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and industry leaders shaping the UAE • Subscribe and hit the bell icon

Dubai’s sports and entertainment ecosystem is shaped by high-profile personalities, major transfers, and the relentless pace of big-ticket negotiations. But behind every headline deal, every intense contract discussion, and every “Dubai dealmaker” narrative lies a deeper story of pressure, resilience, accountability, and ambition.

In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, Saif Rubie, FIFA licensed football agent and Founder and Managing Director of FGSL Consulting, sits down with host George Hojeige to break down the realities of the global football agency industry. From his early hustle in London to building a 27-year career in athlete representation, Saif shares how he navigates Premier League transfers, manages player expectations, and operates under the scrutiny that comes with working at the highest levels of sport.

Saif also discusses the legal challenges that placed him under public spotlight, the false allegations that cost him years of his life, and the emotional strength it took to rebuild and move forward. This episode offers an unfiltered look into resilience, reputation, and the truth behind an industry few truly understand.

If you're interested in entrepreneurship, sports business, or high-stakes negotiations, this is an episode you should not miss.

Guest: Saif Rubie, Founder & Managing Director, FGSL Consulting Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Dubai’s football agency landscape 02:10 Saif’s early life in London and Abu Dhabi 04:00 Becoming a FIFA-licensed agent at a young age 06:20 Street-smart beginnings and first business moves 08:45 Misconceptions about his personality and reputation 11:00 Public scrutiny, false allegations and legal challenges 14:20 Emotional toll and the support circle that helped him 17:05 Inside the business: contracts, expectations and negotiations 20:30 Managing young millionaire players and rising egos 23:55 Major career milestones and Premier League transfers 26:40 What separates real dealmakers from pretenders in Dubai 29:10 The future of athlete representation and Saif’s next chapter 31:00 Closing thoughts

Connect and Next Steps

• Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: virtuzone.com
• Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and industry leaders shaping the UAE
• Subscribe and hit the bell icon

In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, we explore how some of Dubai’s biggest food brands were built, from early wins to major failures and the realities of scaling restaurant concepts across the Middle East. Our guest opens up about building multi-brand F&B groups, navigating the toughest moments in the industry, and what it really takes to succeed in one of the most competitive restaurant markets in the world. From franchise growth to consistency challenges, this episode pulls back the curtain on the business behind Dubai’s food scene.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, F&B operator, or someone curious about the restaurant industry in the UAE, this conversation is packed with real insights and lessons.

Guest: Walid Hajj, Founder & CEO, Lavoya Restaurants Group

Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Intro: The evolution of Dubai’s F&B scene
• 02:45 Growing up around entrepreneurship and family business
• 05:20 Entering the food industry, early mindset and education
• 08:10 Building major food brands across the region
• 11:55 The biggest failure and what it taught him
• 15:40 Rebuilding after setbacks, resilience and perspective
• 18:30 Exiting a major F&B group and starting a new chapter
• 22:05 Launching new brands across the GCC
• 27:40 Inside Dubai’s F&B challenges, consistency and competition
• 32:10 Advice for future F&B entrepreneurs and closing thoughts Next Steps:

• Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: virtuzone.com • Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and creators building in the UAE. • New episodes biweekly. Subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay updated.

In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, George Hojeige, Group CEO of Virtuzone, sits down with Nap Estampador, Group Director and Founder at MEA Finance, to uncover the real story behind one of the region’s leading voices in finance and business media.

From humble beginnings in the Philippines to becoming a respected name in Dubai’s financial world, Nap shares his inspiring journey of risk-taking, resilience, and reinvention. He opens up about what it takes to build credibility, navigate rejection, and create a lasting brand in one of the most competitive industries in the UAE.

We dive into Dubai’s finance and business media industry, exploring the human side of entrepreneurship, leadership, and storytelling, and how authenticity and trust continue to drive success in a fast-changing business landscape.

• How Nap built MEA Finance from the ground up with no investors.
• The biggest challenges of running a finance publication in Dubai.
• Why authenticity matters more than ever in business.
• How rejection can fuel long-term success.
• What legacy means in Dubai’s evolving media landscape.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, media professional, or finance enthusiast, this episode is packed with insight, experience, and real talk from someone who’s lived it.

Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO of Virtuzone Guest: Nap Estampador, Group Director at MEA Finance

Real Talk Dubai brings you raw, unfiltered conversations with founders, creators, and leaders who are shaping the UAE’s business future — no filters, no fluff.

• 00:00 – Introduction & Guest Background
• 02:00 – From the Philippines to Dubai: Taking the Leap
• 04:00 – Breaking into Media & Early Career at ITP
• 06:00 – Founding MEA Finance & Taking Risks
• 08:00 – Challenges of Building a Finance Brand
• 10:00 – Standing Out & Building Credibility
• 12:00 – Passion, Purpose & Profit in Media
• 14:00 – The Evolution of Finance & Business Media
• 18:00 – Lessons from Rejection & Resilience in Sales
• 22:00 – Legacy, Leadership & Advice for the Next Generation

• Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: virtuzone.com
• Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and creators building in the UAE.
• New episodes biweekly — subscribe and hit the bell icon.

Dubai’s F&B and nightlife scene has become a global benchmark for innovation, luxury, and experience. But behind every full house, flawless show, and Instagram-perfect venue lies a story of hustle, risk, and resilience.

In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, Rabih Fakhreddine, CEO and Founder of Seven Management, joins George Hojeige to share his journey from Beirut to Dubai and how he built one of the region’s most successful hospitality groups behind some of the city’s most iconic venues including February 30, The Theater, and YUBI.

Rabih opens up about his early beginnings, the challenges of scaling during Lebanon’s economic crisis, and how he bet everything on Dubai, launching six venues in just 18 months during the pandemic. He also discusses why reputation is his greatest investment, the sacrifices behind success, and how homegrown brands from Dubai are now expanding globally.

This episode goes beyond the glamour to reveal the real business behind hospitality in the UAE. If you’re passionate about entrepreneurship, brand building, or the F&B world, this is a must-watch.

Guest: Rabih Fakhreddine, CEO & Founder, Seven Management

Host: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone

Timestamps

1. 00:00 — Introduction to Dubai’s nightlife industry
2. 01:10 — From Beirut roots to building global venues
3. 02:45 — Early struggles, lost investments, and lessons learned
4. 04:20 — Why only 30 percent of venues truly thrive
5. 06:05 — Founding Seven Management and taking the leap
6. 08:15 — Balancing nightlife success with family and values
7. 10:30 — Expanding during COVID and betting on Dubai
8. 12:40 — Homegrown brands competing with global names
9. 14:20 — The business behind reputation and trust in F&B
10. 16:10 — The future of Dubai’s nightlife and hospitality
11. 18:00 — Advice for young entrepreneurs entering the F&B world

Connect & Next Steps

• Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: virtuzone.com
• Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and creators building in the UAE.
• New episodes biweekly. Subscribe and hit the bell icon.

Dubai is obsessed with cars and so is our guest, Thibaut Ruchon, founder of 918 Car Care and Just Drive It. In this Real Talk Dubai episode, we get real about starting and scaling a car business in the UAE: the glamour vs. grind, how pricing pressure really works, the truths of PPF, resale value, and a practical strategy for financing used cars without getting burned.

Thibaut also shares:

• Why he believes EV isn’t the long-term answer, and why e-fuels & hydrogen might be.
• The Dubai vs. Europe buyer mindset (price vs. product).
• The rise of classic cars in the UAE.
• A wild Bugatti Veyron delivery story (yes, really).

If you care about car culture, buying smarter in Dubai, or building a service business that actually lasts — this one’s for you.

Guest: Thibaut Ruchon — 918 Car Care | Just Drive It Host: Real Talk Dubai (Virtuzone)

Timestamps / Chapters:

• 00:00 — Dubai’s car obsession: Why the city’s energy, culture, and lifestyle are built around cars.
• 00:10 — Meet Thibaut Ruchon, founder of 918 Car Care and Just Drive It, and how his passion became a business.
• 01:00 — Early life, first trip in 2005, and what made him fall in love with the city.
• 02:20 — Building his first detailing business, learning from setbacks, and moving to Dubai full-time.
• 04:00 — How he grew from one detailing shop to a car trading and care brand.
• 06:10 — Dubai’s car market: The ongoing battle between quality, price, and customer perception.
• 08:00 — The Bugatti Veyron deal: One of Thibaut’s wildest and most memorable trades.
• 10:00 — Shady truths of the PPF industry: Fake brands, cheap materials, and how customers get misled by “premium” claims.
• 12:30 — EVs, hydrogen, and the future: Why he believes electric cars are overrated and where he sees real innovation happening.
• 15:00 — The cost of entrepreneurship: Balancing two businesses, long hours, and time away from family.

Connect & Next Steps:

• Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: https://virtuzone.com
• Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and creators building in the UAE.
• New episodes biweekly. Subscribe and hit the bell icon.

From the tennis courts of Belgium and the US to launching Dubai’s first pickleball-only club, Patrick Chucri’s story is one of grit, reinvention, and passion turned into purpose.

In this episode, the founder of Picklers and former professional tennis player opens up about his journey from sports to entrepreneurship, what it takes to build a community-driven business in Dubai, and how pickleball became one of the city’s fastest-growing movements.

Topics:

• Pickleball in Dubai
• Paddle vs pickleball
• Sports entrepreneurship
• Community building and startup lessons

Chapters:

• 00:00 — Trends vs. movements
• 00:15 — Meet Patrick and Picklers
• 00:40 — Early life and tennis start
• 02:22 — US academy and Ole Miss scholarship
• 03:49 — Pro tour and Davis Cup for Lebanon
• 05:20 — Media career in Dubai
• 08:07 — Launching a touch tennis club
• 13:21 — Why not paddle; turning to pickleball
• 21:47 — Rebrand to Picklers; community and programming
• 24:45 — Global growth: US and Asia; pickleball vs paddle
• 29:50 — Money lessons, founder advice, future of sport

About Patrick Chucri:

Founder of Picklers, former professional tennis player, Davis Cup athlete for Lebanon, and ex-media executive with over 16 years in Dubai’s entertainment industry. Patrick is known for pioneering the pickleball movement in the UAE and transforming his lifelong passion for sport into a community-focused success story.

Connect & Next Steps:

• Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: https://virtuzone.com
• Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and creators building in the UAE.
• New episodes biweekly. Subscribe and hit the bell icon.

Welcome to Real Talk Dubai, the podcast by Virtuzone where we unpack the real stories behind successful entrepreneurs.

In Episode 2, host George Hojeige, Group CEO of Virtuzone, sits down with Tracy Harmoush to explore her journey from a young graduate stepping into Dubai’s finance world to reinventing herself as the founder of Untraceable and co-founder of Mama Booza. Tracy opens up about growth mindset, fulfilment, and the realities of building businesses in Dubai.

Tracy shares how she moved to Dubai at 21, took an assistant role on a Citi trading desk, became a trader, then spent a decade in finance before pivoting into entrepreneurship. We talk growth mindset, fulfilment vs. passion, building a self-optimization brand, launching an ice-cream business without losing authenticity, using a personal platform the right way, and scaling through franchising.

If you’re an aspiring founder in the UAE (or anywhere), this one’s about pressure, pivots, and putting systems in place when life gets loud.

In this episode

• Reinventing yourself (student to trader to founder)
• Why fulfilment beats work–life balance
• What Untraceable actually does (habits, health, productivity)
• Handling image pressure while staying authentic
• Mama Booza’s origin story and the 80/20 lifestyle
• Platforms vs. influencing, and why every operator needs one
• Franchising plans (Lebanon first, GCC next)
• Tough-love advice for young women building in Dubai

Guest: Tracy Harmoush: Founder, Untraceable | Co-Founder, Mama Booza

Welcome to Real Talk Dubai, the podcast by Virtuzone where we unpack the real stories behind the successful entrepreneurs. In Episode 1, host George Hojeige, Group CEO of Virtuzone, sits down with Kris Fade to trace his journey from a struggling student in Sydney to one of the Middle East’s most recognizable media figures and entrepreneurs.

• Falling into radio by accident and building Virgin Radio Dubai from day one
• The truth about the Dubai Dream: opportunity, competition, and what it really takes
• Launching Fade Fit, scaling FMCG with a tiny team, and turning down an early exit
• Handling online trolls, protecting mental health, and setting boundaries
• Routine, family, therapy, and learning to be patient with others and yourself
• Candid advice for anyone planning a move from the UK to Dubai (or anywhere)
• If you’re an entrepreneur, creator, or professional considering Dubai for life and business, this conversation delivers practical insight without the sugar-coating.

• 00:00 — Intro: Why “Real Talk Dubai”
• 02:05 — Kris Fade’s early years & school struggles
• 07:32 — “Accidentally” getting into radio
• 14:50 — Moving to Dubai & launching Virgin Radio
• 22:10 — The reality of trolls and online criticism
• 27:45 — Routine, burnout, therapy & family
• 35:10 — Starting Fade Fit & the FMCG grind
• 45:20 — Product-market fit, patience & team of four
• 52:30 — Offers to buy the company & expansion plans
• 58:15 — Real talk advice for founders in Dubai
• 1:04:40 — Legacy, community, and what’s next

Radio host of Virgin Radio’s The Kris Fade Show, founder of Fade Fit, TV personality (Dubai Bling), and long-time Dubai resident.

• Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: virtuzone.com
• Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and creators building in the UAE.
• New episodes bi-weekly — subscribe and hit the bell icon.