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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 Subscribe to Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with entrepreneurs, founders, CEOs and industry leaders shaping the future of business in the UAE.

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 Timestamps 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 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, 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 Chapters 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 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 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