For Jigar Sagar, success in Dubai means solving real problems, not chasing trends.
Jigar Sagar has founded and scaled over 31 ventures with a combined valuation exceeding $350m. He is founder of Triliv Holdings, a dedicated family office and investment group.
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I believe the recipe for success in Dubai isn’t complicated, but it does require specific ingredients that many entrepreneurs overlook. Through building multiple businesses here over the past 15 years, I’ve learned that success in Dubai comes down to a few core elements.
First, you need to understand Dubai’s unique business ecosystem. The government’s vision for diversification has created an environment ripe with opportunity, but you need to align your business with this vision. Look at how your venture can contribute to Dubai’s growth story, whether through technology, trade, or talent development. Research government initiatives and understand where the country is headed.
Second, focus on solving real problems rather than chasing trends. Sustainable business success comes from addressing genuine market needs. Today, too many entrepreneurs here get caught up in copying what’s working elsewhere instead of identifying gaps in our local market. Dubai doesn’t need another copy of a successful foreign business model – it needs innovative solutions tailored to our unique environment.
A third critical factor is understanding that Dubai is a relationship-driven market. Your network is a fundamental pillar of business success. I always tell new entrepreneurs: spend as much time building relationships as you do building your product. The connections you forge today could become your biggest business catalysts tomorrow.
What sets Dubai apart is its unparalleled speed of execution. While other markets might take years to implement changes, Dubai moves at lightning pace. This means entrepreneurs need to be equally agile – ready to pivot when opportunities arise and scale rapidly when the market responds. I’ve seen countless businesses fail not because their idea was wrong, but because they couldn’t keep up with Dubai’s pace of evolution.
In Dubai, the infrastructure is here and the support systems are in place. The market is constantly growing. But success isn’t automatic – it requires a deep understanding of the local business culture, genuine value creation, and strong relationship building.