The 100: Naim Maadad, Founder and Chief Executive, Gates Hospitality In an industry defined by constant change, his steady, values-driven approach has positioned him as one of the region's most respected hospitality leaders.
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This article forms part of The 100, Entrepreneur Middle East's annual guide spotlighting the most influential people across the GCC.
Naim Maadad is a defining force in the Middle East's hospitality landscape, a founder-leader whose career has been shaped by an instinct for people, places, and purposeful growth. As Founder and Chief Executive of Gates Hospitality, Maadad has built a company recognized for its distinctive concepts, operational depth, and ability to translate global hospitality standards into experiences that feel authentic to their setting.
Born into a family with deep roots in hospitality, Maadad's path into the industry was both natural and intentional. He began his career on the operational front lines, gaining hands-on experience that would later shape his leadership style. This early grounding instilled a belief that successful hospitality is built from the inside out — through strong teams, rigorous systems, and an unwavering focus on guest experience.
In 2011, Maadad founded Gates Hospitality in Dubai with a clear vision: to create a diversified hospitality group capable of developing, owning, and operating a broad portfolio of food and beverage and lifestyle brands. Under his stewardship, the company has grown into a respected regional player, with concepts that range from refined dining destinations to vibrant neighbourhood venues. What unites them is a clear sense of place, thoughtful design, and consistent delivery.
Maadad is known for balancing creativity with commercial discipline. While Gates Hospitality is celebrated for its originality and design-led approach, its growth has been underpinned by careful market analysis, scalable operating models, and long-term partnerships. This dual focus has enabled the group to expand steadily while maintaining quality and brand integrity — a challenge many hospitality businesses struggle to manage at scale.
Leadership, for Maadad, is inseparable from culture. He places strong emphasis on talent development, empowerment, and diversity, believing that motivated teams are the cornerstone of sustainable success. His management style is often described as hands-on yet strategic, combining close involvement in concept development with a clear delegation of responsibility to trusted leaders.
Beyond business growth, Maadad is an advocate for the evolution of the region's hospitality sector. He has consistently championed innovation, local talent, and the idea that Middle Eastern hospitality can set global benchmarks rather than follow them. His work reflects a broader ambition to contribute to the region's economic and cultural fabric through meaningful, well-executed hospitality experiences.
Today, as Gates Hospitality continues to expand its footprint and portfolio, Maadad remains focused on the fundamentals that have guided his career from the start: authenticity, excellence, and people. In an industry defined by constant change, his steady, values-driven approach has positioned him as one of the region's most respected hospitality leaders.
