Latest news with #TheHeartofEurope
India Today
12 hours ago
- Business
- India Today
Field notes from building a billion-dollar luxury brand
When I started my journey in Dubai real estate in 2006, I was often the only woman in the room. Being in this position is not alien to me – after all, I was the only girl in my computer science class in university. I thought I was prepared for what lay ahead. I wasn't entirely wrong, but I also wasn't entirely I've learned over nearly two decades of building Kleindienst Groupand our flagship island project, The Heart of Europe – now part of a $6 billion global portfolio – is that the real estate industry isn't just changing because of market forces. It's changing because of who's driving those forces. Increasingly, that's Rise of the "She-Elite" The numbers tell a compelling story. A recent reportrevealed that seven out of ten Indian women (70%) preferred real estate as an investment asset class compared to other forms of investment. And this trend extends to high-value purchases, with 20% of women homebuyers targeting luxury properties above Rs 1.5 here's what the statistics don't capture: women aren't just buying properties. They're the silent drivers behind luxury real estate decisions, making critical choices about where and how families live. They're becoming what I call the "she-elites" – prosperous women gathering momentum not only in buying, but also in selling and developing big-budget someone who's been on both sides of this equation, as a developer and as a woman navigating a male-dominated industry, I can tell you that this shift represents more than market dynamics. It represents a fundamental change in how we approach luxury Leadership DifferenceWhen we began developing The Heart of Europe on Dubai's World Islands, I brought a different perspective to the table. Not because I'm a woman, but because of how my lens shaped the way we approached everything, from hiring to hospitality our workforce: today, we employ 1,600 people across our island development, and womenwomen make up 30% of the team. Of those, 36% hold leadership positions. This didn't happen by accident – it's the result of a hiring approach that prioritises attitude and invests in developing my role, I've had the privilege of witnessing so many stories of growth. To lead is to become a conduit for your team's highest potential, and not just manage their current Beyond BarriersThe challenges are real. Cultural biases and limited mentorship opportunities still stand in the way of women climbing the corporate ladder. But I've learned that authenticity, i.e., staying true to your North Star while balancing personal and professional ambitions, becomes your greatest career hasn't been defined by a single defining moment but by a constant process of reflection and growth. Especially in environments where leadership is still a billion-dollar brand taught me that leadership isn't about fitting into existing moulds, it's about creating new why at the Heart of Europe, we work differently. We're the only development with a coral research institute that grows reef-building species 50 times faster than in nature, producing over 5,000 coral specimens annually. We created the world's first Floating Villa, complete with submerged bedrooms offering underwater views of tropical sea innovations didn't emerge from traditional thinking. They came from diverse teams with bold ideas, from leadership that values different perspectives, and from believing that thinking different is a strength, not a Collaborative FutureThe strongest way to overcome industry challenges isn't to work against the existing structure, but to work within it collaboratively. Male allyship matters. When men in influential positions use their platforms to advocate for equality and collaborate with female counterparts, we create more balanced, fair workplace real estate industry is at an inflection point. By addressing biases and promoting inclusivity, we're not just benefiting women – we're contributing to the growth and success of the industry as a whole. The rise of women, as both decision-makers and developers, isn't just a trend to observe; it's a force to years in, The Heart of Europe stands as more than a development success story. Its European architecture brings distinct personality to Dubai's luxury landscape. Buddha-Bar Hotel & The Floating Villas have redefined offshore hospitality. Our zero-discharge marine policies set new environmental standards. But what I see is proof of something deeper: when vision meets diverse leadership, you don't just build properties – you build future of luxury real estate won't be shaped by who's been in the room the longest, but by who brings the freshest perspective to the table. And increasingly, that perspective is decidedly female.(The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, Parisa Seif, Managing Partner at Kleindienst Group.)(Disclaimer: The views, opinions, recommendations, and suggestions expressed by experts/brokerages in this article are their own and do not reflect the views of the India Today Group. It is advisable to consult a qualified broker or financial advisor before making any actual investment or trading choices.)- Ends advertisement
Mid East Info
20-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
e& UAE and Kleindienst Group partner to power tech-driven luxury at 'The Heart of Europe' - Middle East Business News and Information
e& UAE has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Kleindienst Group, the developer behind the iconic The Heart of Europe project located on six islands in 'The World', an artificial archipelago off the coast of Dubai, to pioneer a new era of digitally powered luxury hospitality in the UAE. The MoU underscores both organisations' commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability in the region's hospitality sector. The collaboration supports the UAE leadership's vision of integrating smart infrastructure and sustainable practices in world-class developments, setting new standards of luxury living and high-end tourism in the country. Esam Mahmoud, Sr. Vice President, SMB Sales & Marketing, e& UAE, said: 'Our partnership with Kleindienst Group marks a significant milestone in our efforts to redefine smart hospitality. By integrating our advanced digital infrastructure with one of the UAE's most ambitious hospitality developments, we are setting new standards for luxury, connectivity, and sustainability in the tourism sector. We are proud to support visionary projects like The Heart of Europe , where European heritage meets UAE innovation. Through this partnership, we are embedding future-ready technologies that will elevate every aspect of the guest journey, from arrival to check-out, bringing the project's bold vision to life.' Josef Kleindienst, Founder & Chairman of Kleindienst Group, said: 'Innovation is at the core of everything we do at Kleindienst Group. It is not just a principle; it is how we build. Our collaboration with e& UAE is an exciting step forward in our mission to position The Heart of Europe as the global benchmark for tech-driven, sustainable luxury. We are creating more than a destination. We are building an experience that is immersive, intelligent, and environmentally conscious at every level. This partnership strengthens our goal to redefine how people connect, relax, and enjoy life, right here in Dubai.' Through this strategic partnership, e& UAE will deliver a suite of cutting-edge digital solutions to enrich the guest experience, including high-speed internet, IPTV, Guest Room Management Systems (GRMS), connected guest experiences, and sustainability-focused technologies across The Heart of Europe properties located on the World Islands. These solutions will dramatically enhance guest experiences and operational agility across the development. The collaboration will see the deployment of innovations such as a Command Control Centre for streamlined property operations, Drone-as-a-Service for enhanced guest services, and Vessels Internet Connectivity to ensure seamless maritime coverage. Sustainability initiatives under 'Sustainability as a Service' will also be introduced to reduce environmental impact and support eco-conscious tourism. Other key features of the partnership include connected worker solutions for enhanced staff productivity and safety, as well as smart marketing synergies that will allow both brands to co-promote their offerings to a broader global audience. The partnership will deliver a range of transformative capabilities across The Heart of Europe , beginning with advanced connectivity through the deployment of robust wireless networks across the island. Sustainability remains a core focus, with eco-friendly infrastructure designed to minimise environmental impact. Guests will benefit from a significantly enhanced experience, with smart room controls, AI-driven services, and immersive virtual reality features tailored for modern luxury travel. Behind the scenes, operational excellence will be achieved through centralised control systems, dynamic digital signage, and AI-powered automation that streamlines property management. Additionally, e& UAE will provide its CarePlus service as a dedicated, streamlined support system tailored to the needs of The Heart of Europe . This initiative ensures that guest and operational issues are resolved swiftly and seamlessly, guaranteeing that Kleindienst Group maintains the highest standards of reliability and responsiveness. This strategic agreement strengthens e& UAE's position as a partner of choice for digitally transforming large-scale developments, while empowering The Heart of Europe to become one of the most technologically advanced and sustainable hospitality destinations in the region. About The Heart of Europe: The Heart of Europe is a luxury island destination and a flagship project being developed by Kleindienst Group on the World Islands Dubai, just six kilometres off the shores of Dubai. Comprising six unique islands, each designed with a theme inspired by a European country, The Heart of Europe will offer more than 4,000 keys, 20 hotels and resorts, including beachfront villas and palaces, deluxe hotels and an underwater living experience. It offers world-class amenities, such as a climate-controlled raining street and the region's first Coral institute dedicated to protecting and restoring the marine ecosystem and seeks to promote sustainable living using renewable energy sources and innovative technologies. Committed to breaking barriers, the Heart of Europe opened its French Riviera-inspired first adults-only five-star party hotel on an island in Dubai – voco™ Monaco Dubai. With 198 keys, including eight suites, five party suites and four suites with private pools, the hotel pledges an unrivalled night-time atmosphere.
Arabian Business
20-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai World Islands: e& to power high-speed internet, drone services and AI to Heart of Europe hotels
Hotels in the Dubai World Islands project will have high-speed internet, AI-powered luxury and drone services, following a landmark deal between developer and e&. e& UAE has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Kleindienst Group, the developer behind the iconic The Heart of Europe project located on six islands in 'The World', an artificial archipelago off the coast of Dubai, to pioneer a new era of digitally powered luxury hospitality in the UAE. The MoU underscores both organisations' commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability in the region's hospitality sector. Digital luxury on Dubai World Islands The collaboration supports the UAE leadership's vision of integrating smart infrastructure and sustainable practices in world-class developments, setting new standards of luxury living and high-end tourism in the country. Esam Mahmoud, Sr. Vice President, SMB Sales & Marketing, e& UAE, said: 'Our partnership with Kleindienst Group marks a significant milestone in our efforts to redefine smart hospitality. By integrating our advanced digital infrastructure with one of the UAE's most ambitious hospitality developments, we are setting new standards for luxury, connectivity, and sustainability in the tourism sector. 'We are proud to support visionary projects like The Heart of Europe, where European heritage meets UAE innovation. Through this partnership, we are embedding future-ready technologies that will elevate every aspect of the guest journey, from arrival to check-out, bringing the project's bold vision to life.' Josef Kleindienst, Founder and Chairman of Kleindienst Group, said: 'Innovation is at the core of everything we do at Kleindienst Group. It is not just a principle; it is how we build. Our collaboration with e& UAE is an exciting step forward in our mission to position The Heart of Europe as the global benchmark for tech-driven, sustainable luxury. 'We are creating more than a destination. We are building an experience that is immersive, intelligent, and environmentally conscious at every level. This partnership strengthens our goal to redefine how people connect, relax, and enjoy life, right here in Dubai.' Through this strategic partnership, e& UAE will deliver a suite of cutting-edge digital solutions to enrich the guest experience, including: High-speed internet IPTV Guest Room Management Systems (GRMS) Connected guest experiences Sustainability-focused technologies These solutions will dramatically enhance guest experiences and operational agility across the development. The collaboration will see the deployment of innovations such as a Command Control Centre for streamlined property operations, Drone-as-a-Service for enhanced guest services, and Vessels Internet Connectivity to ensure seamless maritime coverage. Sustainability initiatives under 'Sustainability as a Service' will also be introduced to reduce environmental impact and support eco-conscious tourism. Other key features of the partnership include connected worker solutions for enhanced staff productivity and safety, as well as smart marketing synergies that will allow both brands to co-promote their offerings to a broader global audience. The partnership will deliver a range of transformative capabilities across The Heart of Europe, beginning with advanced connectivity through the deployment of robust wireless networks across the island. Sustainability remains a core focus, with eco-friendly infrastructure designed to minimise environmental impact. Guests will benefit from a significantly enhanced experience, with smart room controls, AI-driven services, and immersive virtual reality features tailored for modern luxury travel. Behind the scenes, operational excellence will be achieved through centralised control systems, dynamic digital signage, and AI-powered automation that streamlines property management. Additionally, e& UAE will provide its CarePlus service as a dedicated, streamlined support system tailored to the needs of The Heart of Europe. This initiative ensures that guest and operational issues are resolved swiftly and seamlessly, guaranteeing that Kleindienst Group maintains the highest standards of reliability and responsiveness. This strategic agreement strengthens e& UAE's position as a partner of choice for digitally transforming large-scale developments, while empowering The Heart of Europe to become one of the most technologically advanced and sustainable hospitality destinations in the region.
Arabian Business
06-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai private island Swedish Beach Palace opens for exclusive bookings
Sweden Beach Palace, an ultra-luxury private island destination developed by Kleindienst Group, has officially opened for bookings. Located within The World Islands project, the venue is now available for exclusive events ranging from weddings and corporate retreats to brand launches and high-profile celebrations. With only nine palatial beachfront homes on the island – each exceeding 21,000 square feet – the property blends Scandinavian architectural elements with Middle Eastern touches. Interiors are furnished by Bentley Home, and each palace includes seven bedrooms, a rooftop terrace, private infinity pool, and panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. Guests can arrive by private yacht or chartered boat, with the venue accommodating up to 300 people across its indoor and outdoor spaces. Amenities include Michelin-level catering, an on-site spa featuring a snow room, and full-service event planning and concierge services. 'We have created something incredibly rare with Sweden Beach Palace,' said Sneden Lobo, Director of Events. 'It's luxurious, yes, but it's also deeply personal. It's for people who want to celebrate life's big moments in a setting that feels entirely their own.' Part of The Heart of Europe development by Kleindienst Group, the venue emphasises sustainability alongside exclusivity. According to the company, its eco-conscious design and commitment to privacy have already made it a preferred choice for celebrities, luxury brands, and ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
