Dubai’s VR Visionary: Salman Yusuf

Salman Yusuf is the story of ceaseless innovation and technological brilliance. Born in India and with a fascination for gadgets since the age of five, Salman’s aspirations went beyond the conventional outlook at marketing. From experimenting with robotics to mastering visual effects (VFX) and revolutionary augmented reality and virtual solutions, Salman’s journey has not only revolutionized the marketing landscape in Dubai but brought him acclaim worldwide. As the founder and managing director of Takeleap, the passion for futuristic technology makes his venture a powerhouse, as both government bodies and multinational corporations have taken notice.

From an early age, Salman Yusuf was fascinated with technology, even within his childhood in India, when he was involved in several research projects revolved around robotics. His eagerness to discover the unexplored brought him to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Effects at the University of Wales, equipping him with the technical skills to create breath-taking visual experiences. Salman has been working in early career roles creating special effects for films, video games, and commercial campaigns throughout his formative years. He developed his craft through these projects but also fostered a vision for bringing cutting-edge technologies into marketing.

Salman moved to Dubai in 2010 to capture what was then a growing, less crowded reputation as a global tech and innovation hub. Convinced augmented and virtual reality would upend industries, in 2013, Salman founded Takeleap-which, beginning from two employees, has ballooned into a powerhouse of over 60 professionals who share Salman’s passion for immersive technology. Synonymous with innovation, solutions offered by Takeleap redefine the way brands talk to their audiences.

The company has made strides in virtual reality that have earned it reputable awards, such as the Most Innovative Technology Award from the Dubai and Abu Dhabi governments. Takeleap’s ability to seamlessly blend cutting-edge technology with practical applications makes it a trusted partner for multinational brands. It partnered with companies such as Samsung, Ford, Henkel, Mastercard, and Marvel Comics to create unforgettable virtual and augmented reality experiences. Salman’s work places him in high regard due to the standardized virtual reality campaigning promoted by Takeleap. Imagine exploring properties from the comfort of your home through these immersive tours that have been facilitated by real estate companies to interested buyers. Such innovations prove that Salman has foreseen the revolution coming due to technology advancements within the industry and enhanced user experiences.

Takeleap’s influence doesn’t stop with real estate alone. Customized augmented and virtual reality solutioning by the company has enhanced the brand storytelling of clients across various industries. From interactivities presented at corporate events to interactive modules for training, Takeleap’s projects are examples of the limitless scope of immersive technology. Being on one’s toes has kept Salman and his team abreast of boundless innovations.

The recognition Salman has received demonstrates the impact he has left in the tech and marketing landscapes. His inclusion in the DUBAI 100, celebrating top innovators shaping the emirate’s future, places him in the league of visionary leaders of this emirate. It would be through Salman’s inspiration that technology seamlessly merges with creativity-a very perfect manifestation of the Dubai innovation-driven economy.

Salman Yusuf is a constant leader at the front end of the rise in virtual and augmented reality technology. What started out as a young boy tampering with robotics in India has now blossomed into a lucrative success for Takeleap, which has recently won entrepreneurial award in Dubai. His road is a great tale of passion, perseverance, and ingenious technological advancement in the fields of immersive technologies.