Entrepreneurs
Global Investments, Local Roots: The Story of Istithmar World

Istithmar World is a private equity company with alternative investment opportunities. The group offers an investment portfolio across North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. It focuses on investments in consumer goods and financial services, real estate, and industrials. With majority and minority stakes in companies, joint ventures, and fund investments, Istithmar World aims at improving value creation and growth.
The firm incurred significant losses when the global financial crisis hit hard in 2008. This affected a few of its high-profile investments. However, Istithmar World proved determined to go by the international growth and value creation way.
Istithmar World operates its business through three divisions in business. They are specialized in key sectors of international investment. First, Istithmar World Capital is focused solely on private equity and alternative investments and has executed over 35 transactions to date. Its investment strategy is centered across sectors such as finance, hospitality, and real estate while following a strict approach to value-driven growth. Istithmar World Aviation, the company’s second division, focuses on investments in the aviation sector, such as airlines, aircraft leasing, and aerospace manufacturing. It looks at exploiting the growth of the global aviation industry, investing in both the engineering and operational sectors. Last is Istithmar World Ventures, the company’s venture capital arm that supports start-ups and Greenfield ventures. This business line provides not only financial support but also managerial resources to new companies with innovative business models, making them grow and develop in competitive markets.
Put together, the verticals allow Istithmar World to invest in opportunities in various markets across multiple sectors and geographies. Key personalities in the Dubai financial landscape head the company’s board of directors, including Chairman Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and other board members with experiences spanning considerable periods in finance and governance. A few significant leadership changes occurred with the company, especially during and after the financial crisis. Such changes included restructuring in 2009 and 2010 when some big names, including those from Istithmar World Capital, left the organization, but still, the organization continued to transform itself toward an even stronger global presence.
Many investment companies suffered blows from the financial crisis. Istithmar World faced a series of problems with its parent company, Dubai World having to live with high levels of debt that have been followed by major financial restructuring activities going toward late 2009. Istithmar World avoided overt inclusion in the restructuring processes, which were mainly focused on property-related subsidiaries such as Nakheel, but it faced problems managing its investments and had several asset sales and some of its major loss-making businesses.
But Istithmar World continues to invest globally even today. The company focuses on alternative investments, private equity, and asset management as it continues to seek new markets and emerging trends for investment opportunities. Meanwhile, headquartered in Dubai with offices in New York and London among the major financial hubs, Istithmar World is well-positioned against its peers to bank on the global network it enjoys as well as the experience to nurture future growth. Its future course is very likely to be deeply influenced by its strategy to create value through strategic partnerships and active portfolio management.
Istithmar World’s profile is characterized by the visibility of opportunities and risks of global investing. With a diversified approach that has been well supported by adaptive strategies, it seems to have drawn strength from its ability to navigate the changing investment landscape despite earlier challenges.
Entrepreneurs
Hell’s Kitchen: A Taste of TV Stardom at Gordon Ramsay’s Iconic Restaurants

Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen is more than a good restaurant; it is an expression of the foodie reality world for those who admire the million-dollar culinary show. Infused with fiery energy, special dishes and experience, the restaurant brings to its diners in several locations in the US the same level of scorching experience while being within Ramsay’s kitchen. Whether you are looking to dine at his famous Beef Wellington or simply want a throng of exploding excitement over the combinations of reality TV and fine dining, Hell’s Kitchen delivers more than just a meal; you get an experience that combines entertainment and flavour.
Conceptualized from the hit reality show, Hell’s Kitchen, this unique restaurant concept brings high energy to cooking and gourmet experiences. The first one opened last year in Las Vegas, by then having swiftly spread throughout the country. The restaurant chain stretches across landmark cities: from Lake Tahoe to Atlantic City, Southern California to Washington D.C., and the newest of which opened its doors in Miami. Every one of the restaurants has distinguished elements directly inspired by the show, full of red and blue team motifs and exclusive Hell’s Kitchen branding. Hell’s Kitchen is more than just a fine dining restaurant because its menu offers selections that closely resemble dishes prepared on the popular TV show. Some of Ramsay’s signature dishes will be served, such as pan-seared scallops, lobster risotto, and Beef Wellington, all meticulously prepared to meet standards reportedly seen on the show. The theme of fun extends into imaginative cocktails named after some of the fiery stunts of the show, such as the “Notes from Gordon,” light-hearted insults á la Ramsay’s on-screen persona.
What sets Hell’s Kitchen apart from its peers is how deeply it immerses visitors in the world of a working kitchen-a theatrical world. Open kitchens at each location allow diners to watch chefs prepare their meals with precision and passion. The restaurants are designed in such a manner that brings in the sport of a live cooking competition into the ambiance. Decorations are mainly fiery, and even team-coloured sections add up to the participation in the contests for cooking led by Ramsay. The brand has prospered since its inception as a combination of culinary expertise and showmanship of Hell’s Kitchen. Even the very popular location at Las Vegas has served more than a million Beef Wellingtons as of date, standing testimony to the legacy of the show. A big draw will be the experience in Hell’s Kitchen that draws fans from all over the world and provides viewers a first-hand experience of what they saw on TV.
Hell’s Kitchen emphasizes quality and global sourcing. Luxury items on the menu include Japanese Wagyu beef, king crab, and fresh seafood all prepared with attention to detail. Every venue strives to implement sustainable practices in pursuit of a larger commitment by Gordon Ramsay Restaurants to be environmentally responsible. Accompanying this is waste less and feature fresh seasonal ingredients.
One is the pride that the restaurant chain has in professional service, so every guest is entertained and appreciated. Helped by sous-chef Christina Wilson, who won a season a few years back, in opening several Hell’s Kitchen locations, she brings her enthusiasm and experience from the show into reality in terms of dining.
Hell’s Kitchen is operated under the networks of the Gordon Ramsay North America and keeps on increasing its chains. U.S. locations: Many cities in the U.S host Hell’s Kitchen. International Locations: Dubai also had the outpost of the restaurant but it appears that the brand has gained a global status. Ramasay, in fact, has hinted the future openings are most probably going to be based on the popularity that the chain enjoys both in the television version and the restaurants.
Entrepreneurs
11 Woodfire: Dubai’s Industrial Chic Eatery Elevating Wood-Grilled Cuisine

Hidden away in Dubai’s hip Jumeirah neighbourhood, 11 Woodfire is a restaurant that goes beyond. It’s a place for experiencing residential conversion and intimacy through industrial styling, laid-back vibes, and soft lighting. It is a modern villa conversion which stands out with its gigantic open kitchen and grill where master chefs work their magic over a range of wood varieties such as oak, hickory, and hay. Whereby, from the flames of the open fire, one is immediately reminded of primal beginnings in cooking, and the dishes demonstrate how simplicity and impeccable ingredients can deliver admirable flavours.
Cooking at 11 Woodfire takes the concept of woodfire grilling a notch higher. Rather than just the appliance of hot heat, art at 11 Woodfire focuses on right wood selection to create unique flavours and smoky undertones. The nature of the ingredient will determine whether it is oak, hickory, or hay; all oak, carefully selected by the kitchen team that helps transfer such a characteristic taste to each final dish. A place that bases its menu around the characteristics of grilled vegetables, succulent seafood, and sometimes the meat being burned to perfection, but that, paradoxically, is a perfect blend between tradition and modernity. The beginning of this creation looks for natural flavours, letting the ingredient take the place of centre stage, without any extra seasoning, but just enough to shine. 11 Woodfire boasts of a globally driven perspective on sourcing ingredients-a culinary influences pulled from around the world. Some of the dishes prepared include: Japanese Wagyu Striploin; French Turbot; Australian Spiny Lobster and King Crab. Every dish showcases the best of top-quality produce, with enhancing expert techniques. Whether it is grilled over hay so that the seafood captures a light, earthy flavour or vegetables in hickory and gives off a little sweetness, the restaurant treats you to a gastronomic journey that appeals to every sense of yours.
A strong commitment towards sustainability can be seen in everything 11 Woodfire does. Zero waste is the buzzword that the restaurant adopts. The kitchen strives to reduce environmental impact by making the right choice at every step. The restaurant is committed to sourcing organic ingredients, reducing and minimising waste in the kitchen, and also paying attention to being environmentally friendly. The correct mix of flavours still stands without compromise in the quality of dining experience. Nowhere does this effort truly feel more than in its beverage menu- homemade kombuchas and botanical drinks standing in the forefront, refreshing sustainable alternatives to traditional beverages.
Resulting from a collaboration between Atelier House Hospitality and renowned local chef Akmal Anuar. These two have come together to produce a dining concept that focuses on atmosphere and service with food. Through each dish, the culinary artistry of Chef Akmal filters in, using classic techniques in modern flair. The celebrated establishments he’s worked for in the past have earned him an exclusive vision for 11 Woodfire – it has transformed into one of Dubai’s most talked-about dining spots.
11 Woodfire has an industrial chic design with the interior featuring exposed beams, polished concrete, and natural wood furnishings, which give a casual luxury feel. It really brings all guests dining out at the restaurant to the skilled chefs behind the open kitchen, which gives dynamism to the area. With intimate lighting and comfortable seating, one would be forced to linger over the food while dining with friends, family, or colleagues.
11 Woodfire is one of the restaurants in Dubai that stands out from the rest; this place is about focusing on what matters-mostly flavours, atmosphere, and sustainability. Everything about this place is woodfire grilling, availability of global ingredients, and environmentally friendly practices-which promise to make your dining experience tasty and meaningful at the same time. Every moment at 11 Woodfire capturing the essence of culinary artistry-from a perfectly grilled Wagyu Japanese all the way to a house-brewed kombucha.
Entrepreneurs
Leisurecorp’s World-Class Ventures: Where Luxury Meets Sports Excellence

Leisurecorp was founded in 2006 as Dubai World’s bold foray into the global investment landscape of sports and leisure. From its inception, golf has been at the heart of Leisurecorp’s investment strategy, which made it buy and develop the best golf courses and luxury resorts around the world. However, the scope for the company doesn’t stop at golf alone; the company has diversified into numerous other sports and leisure businesses as well as strategic partnerships into the global market.
Leisurecorp’s strategic assets are Pearl Valley Golf Estates in South Africa and the global golfing symbol, Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai. The venue estates are very classy for golfing venues and excellent base locations for international tournaments. Pearl Valley is by far among the best golf courses in South Africa, and the Earth Course is located in Jumeirah Golf Estates, which hosts the Dubai World Championship every year, one of the biggest golf tournaments in the PGA European Tour calendar.
One of Leisurecorp’s most iconic acquisitions was that of the Turnberry Resort in Scotland in 2008. Turnberry, a venue steeped in history and known to have hosted The Open Championship on many an occasion, now makes up part of the ever-growing portfolio of Leisurecorp. The first year following this acquisition, in 2009, the resort was privileged to play host to The Open. 2014 saw Leisurecorp make the news once again with the sale of Turnberry to Donald Trump. The acquisition of the Scottish resort marked a major transaction for the company in rebalancing its portfolio to better pursue its growth agendas, while still maintaining an interest in the global golf market. Turnberry continues to be one of the world’s finest golf destinations, and Leisurecorp’s role in further enriching its heritage speaks volumes of the strategic prowess of the company.
A central part of Leisurecorp’s development in the sports and leisure sector is tied to its relationship with the PGA European Tour. The major deal leisure operator Leisurecorp struck with the PGA European Tour late last year capped a fulfilling year for the company as it entered into a partnership in November 2007 in further establishing Dubai as one of the destinations on the world golfing map. And to commemorate this new tie, the PGA European Tour and Dubai signed an annual agreement – known as the Dubai World Championship – to be held at the Earth Course in Jumeirah Golf Estates. The prize fund was set at $10 million, but what stood this golf tournament as the most luxurious in the world was its ability to attract players from all over the globe in competition for the event. This was the time the European Tour Order of Merit became the Race to Dubai, with the additional $10 million bonus funds spread equally on the players that qualified for the season-ending tournament within the top 60 places.
In 2009, the European Tour’s International Headquarters was shifted to Jumeirah Golf Estates, with a view to intensify synergy between Leisurecorp and the European Tour. In this sense, this step was aimed at solidifying Dubai’s growing stature in the world of professional golf, as major tournaments were done to orbit around this city in terms of excellence.
The portfolio of Leisurecorp consists not only of golf courses and tournaments but also includes significant shareholdings in other most important sectors within the industries of sports and leisure. The company has invested a lot in Island Global Yachting, which is the leading luxury marina management company, while it is also one of the world’s largest golf course management companies, including Troon Golf. Leisurecorp also owns equity in GPS Industries, a technology company specializing in golf course management systems and also in Snowmass, one of the best ski destinations in Colorado.
These individual investments form part of Leisurecorp’s strategy to build an integrated network of luxury leisure assets that would appeal to high-net-worth individuals and sports enthusiasts. Whether on the golf course, within a luxury marina, or through the slopes of a ski resort, Leisurecorp brand presence can be felt in several of the world’s most luxurious leisure destinations. Ambitions for Leisurecorp remain as bold as ever as it expands. One of the company’s long-term ambitions is to bring the prestige Ryder Cup to Dubai, making this city a global sporting capital. Though talks are merely in their infancy, Leisurecorp’s record with world-class events can mean that such a dream might one day be turned into reality.
Dubai offers among the most state-of-the-art facilities, while Leisurecorp has significant experience with event management and investments in sports. This therefore creates a potent combination that stands a good chance to be able to host this highly important world-level event. A successful attempt would thus open a new chapter in Dubai’s ascendancy as an international sporting events destination.
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