Rabih Fakhreddine, Founder & Group CEO of 7 Management

 

As the pioneering force behind 7 Management, Rabih Fakhreddine discusses the evolution of luxury experiences and the dynamic prospects in the UAE's thriving hospitality sector.

 

Mr. Fakhreddine, as the founder and Group CEO of 7 Management, known for its innovative hospitality concepts, what excites you most about the UAE's hospitality market currently?

The UAE’s hospitality market is one of the most dynamic in the world, constantly evolving and setting new global benchmarks. What excites me most is the growing demand for immersive, high-quality experiences. With the country's strong focus on tourism and luxury, there’s a continuous opportunity to introduce fresh concepts that redefine dining and entertainment. At 7 Management, we aim to create destinations that merges gastronomy, ambiance, and world-class entertainment offering something truly unique to both residents and global travelers.

With your extensive experience in creating unique hospitality venues, how do you assess the current dynamics of this market in the UAE?

The UAE’s hospitality market is thriving, driven by a strong tourism sector, a diverse international audience, and an increasing demand for high-energy dining and entertainment experiences. Guests today seek more than just a meal, they want a fully immersive atmosphere that combines exceptional cuisine, design, and live entertainment. The market is highly competitive, but that also fuels creativity, pushing brands to constantly refine their offerings. At 7 Management, we focus on crafting venues that stand out by delivering exceptional experiences, ensuring each concept has its own distinct identity while resonating with the evolving preferences of our guests.

Given the innovative concepts you've successfully launched, what trends do you see as pivotal in shaping the hospitality industry in 2025?

In 2025, hospitality will continue evolving beyond traditional dining, with experiences becoming more immersive, personalized, and entertainment driven. Guests are looking for destinations that blend exceptional cuisine with engaging atmospheres, live performances, and seamless service. Sustainability is also becoming a key factor, with venues expected to incorporate eco-conscious practices without compromising on luxury. Additionally, the integration of technology whether through AI-driven personalization, seamless digital reservations, or enhanced guest engagement will redefine how we connect with our audience. At 7 Management, we are constantly adapting to these shifts, ensuring our concepts remain at the forefront of this dynamic industry.

7 Management has pioneered distinctive venues across the Middle East. Which segments of the UAE's hospitality market do you see holding the most potential for growth?

The UAE's hospitality market is constantly evolving, with several segments showing strong potential for growth. High-energy dining concepts that effortlessly combine gastronomy with entertainment continue to thrive, as guests seek engaging and multi-sensory experiences beyond just a meal. The demand for ultra-luxury hospitality is also expanding, with travelers and residents looking for bespoke, high-end experiences that offer exclusivity and personalization. Additionally, beach and lifestyle destinations are gaining momentum, as the market shifts towards venues that provide a complete day-to-night experience. At the same time, there is a growing appetite for intimate, boutique-style concepts that offer a more curated and personal touch. The key to success lies in understanding these shifts and delivering concepts that resonate with the region’s dynamic and diverse audience.

From your expansions, have you seen a change in the origin or interests of international investors in the UAE’s hospitality sector? What are they particularly attracted to in the current market?

The UAE has always been a magnet for international investors, but in recent years, we've seen a shift in both their origins and interests. Investors from Europe, Asia, and North America are showing increased interest in the region, drawn by its economic stability, strategic location, and progressive vision for hospitality and entertainment. They are particularly attracted to high-energy lifestyle venues, experiential dining, and ultra-luxury destinations that cater to a discerning clientele. Additionally, there is a growing focus on multi-concept developments that offer a mix of dining, entertainment, and leisure in a single destination. The UAE’s commitment to tourism, its ability to host world-class events, and the continuous influx of high-net-worth individuals further reinforce its position as a prime hospitality investment hub.

Considering your pioneering use of thematic and immersive experiences in your venues, how do you foresee technologies like AI, blockchain, proptech playing a role in hospitality management and guest experiences?

Technology is set to play an even greater role in hospitality, enhancing both operational efficiency and guest experiences. AI is already transforming customer interactions, from personalized dining recommendations to predictive analytics that optimize service. Blockchain has the potential to revolutionize loyalty programs and secure transactions, ensuring greater transparency and trust. Proptech is also reshaping venue management, streamlining everything from real estate development to energy efficiency. While hospitality is ultimately about human connection, integrating these technologies allows us to refine operations, elevate service standards, and create more seamless and engaging experiences for our guests.

Facing the multifaceted challenges in today’s hospitality market, what specific hurdles has 7 Management encountered, and how have you navigated these?

Navigating the fast-evolving hospitality market comes with its challenges, but at 7 Management, we have always viewed them as opportunities for growth. Expanding across diverse markets requires a deep understanding of local cultures, consumer behaviors, and regulatory landscapes. We’ve successfully overcome these hurdles by building strong local partnerships, conducting thorough market research, and maintaining a flexible yet consistent brand identity.

Even during industry-wide disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic, our ability to adapt quickly, implement strategic financial planning, and embrace innovative solutions allowed us not only to withstand the crisis but to emerge stronger. The resilience of the UAE’s business environment and the proactive support from its government played a crucial role in ensuring continuity.

Ultimately, challenges are a constant in any industry, but our commitment to adaptability, creativity, and excellence has enabled us to turn obstacles into stepping stones for continued success.

For those looking to invest in the UAE's hospitality sector, what insights can you offer based on your experiences of scaling concepts like Seven Sisters and The Theater?

The UAE's hospitality sector continues to offer immense opportunities for investors, but success hinges on understanding the market’s evolving dynamics. From our experience scaling concepts like Seven Sisters and The Theater, we’ve seen that guests today seek more than just exceptional dining they crave venues that offer a full sensory experience, blending entertainment, ambiance, and culinary excellence.

One key insight is the importance of differentiation. The UAE is a competitive market, and standing out requires a clear brand identity, a well-defined audience, and a concept that delivers both consistency and excitement. Additionally, location plays a crucial role, selecting a venue that aligns with the target clientele and lifestyle patterns is essential.

Another crucial factor is adaptability. Consumer preferences shift rapidly, and staying ahead means continuously refining offerings, integrating new trends, and ensuring that every guest experience feels fresh and engaging. Strong partnerships and a deep understanding of regulatory frameworks are also vital for long-term success.

Ultimately, the UAE rewards those who bring creativity, operational excellence, and an commitment to quality. Investors who prioritize these elements will find that the hospitality sector here is not just lucrative but also incredibly rewarding.

As someone who has significantly influenced the hospitality landscape, what developments or trends do you believe we should watch out for in the UAE’s luxury hospitality sector over the next year?

The UAE’s luxury hospitality sector is continuously evolving, and over the next year, we can expect several key developments that will redefine guest expectations. Personalization will be at the forefront, with high-end venues curating bespoke experiences tailored to individual preferences, from dining to entertainment and beyond. Sustainability is another major trend gaining momentum, with luxury establishments incorporating eco-conscious practices. Discerning guests are increasingly valuing brands that align with their ethical and environmental considerations. Additionally, the integration of technology will continue to enhance guest experiences. From AI-driven concierge services to seamless digital interactions, luxury hospitality will focus on creating effortless, hyper-personalized journeys while maintaining a human touch. Finally, exclusivity and privacy are becoming even more sought-after. Whether through members-only concepts, hidden dining experiences, or ultra-personalized service, luxury hospitality in the UAE will cater to guests who seek distinction and discretion. Staying ahead in this landscape requires not just keeping up with these trends but setting new benchmarks that redefine the industry’s standards.

How do you think an event such as RISE can participate in the future of urban development? How do you think investors can benefit from RISE Expo?

RISE offers a unique platform for fostering collaboration among key stakeholders in urban development, creating opportunities for shared learning and idea exchange. The event enables forward-thinking dialogue on topics like sustainability, innovation, and city planning, ultimately influencing how urban landscapes will evolve.

For investors, RISE provides a chance to gain exclusive insights into the latest developments, identify high-potential investment opportunities, and network with influential leaders shaping the future of the industry. It’s a chance to connect with like-minded professionals and be part of impactful discussions that guide strategic investment decisions.

To know more about 7 management, visit www.7management.me/