Real Talk Dubai

Dubai’s Luxury Real Estate Industry: Market Trends & Insights | Real Talk Dubai Podcast Ep.22

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

Dubai’s Homebuying & Mortgage Industry: Innovation & Leadership | Real Talk Dubai Podcast Ep.21

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

Dubai’s Watch Industry: Crafting Limited Edition Mechanical Timepieces | Real Talk Dubai Ep.20

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: Strategies & Insights | Real Talk Dubai Podcast Ep.19

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 Industry: Leadership & Values | Real Talk Dubai Podcast Ep.18

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