In this episode of Success Saudi, we sit down with Sara Batterjee,
Founder and General Manager of Focal Building Solutions.
FBS is an award-winning interior design firm and fit-out contractor, founded in 2006. With main offices in Jeddah and Riyadh and a team of over 100 employees, FBS handles everything from conceptualization to design, fit-out, and furnishing.
In this episode, expect to learn:
• Why local knowledge is essential in Saudi interior design
• Advice on building a thriving company and a fulfilling life
• Sara’s non-negotiable requirement for clients
• Tips on designing an effective workspace
• Why going to an office was important, even when it was just her
This conversation will be especially valuable for anyone designing a commercial space in Saudi or starting up a business locally.
Special thanks to the beautiful Dur Al Hada Compound for hosting our podcast today.
In this episode of Success Saudi, we sit down with Wafa Al Obaidat, Founder and CEO of PLAYBOOK, a fast-growing digital platform designed to support and connect women and executive leaders. Originally launched in Bahrain, PLAYBOOK now has a global presence, including a growing footprint in Saudi Arabia.Wafa shares the lessons learned from building PLAYBOOK after bootstrapping her first company, Obai & Hill, to multimillion-dollar revenue. We explore the mindset shifts required for growth, the challenges women face in scaling, and her perspective on balancing entrepreneurship and motherhood.🔹 Why she chose to seek funding after growing her first company without outside capital🔹 Tips for women to secure funding🔹 How PLAYBOOK sold memberships even before launching🔹 Her take on balancing ambition, motherhood, and building at your own pace🔹 Why women founders must think beyond starting and focus on scalingWhether you’re starting from scratch or looking to grow, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration for building something meaningful in Saudi and beyond.
What does it really take to launch a business in Saudi Arabia, especially as a newcomer to the ecosystem?
In this episode of Success Saudi, we sit down with tech entrepreneur and business consultant Ahmad Mushtaq, founder of Ibtdara, to unpack the practical side of building a company in the Kingdom.
From content creation and licensing to community building and tech tools, Ahmad shares hard-earned insights and hands-on tips for anyone looking to start strong in Saudi.
🔹 The biggest takeaway from his MBA at Prince Mohammed Bin Salman College
🔹 How creating content helped grow his brand and business
🔹 What every founder should know about the licensing process
🔹 How to “test the waters” before registering your company
🔹 The power of webinars
Whether you’re based in Saudi or just exploring the market, this episode will help you navigate the startup landscape with clarity and confidence.
Thank you to the team at the beautiful Dur Al Hada Compound for hosting us.
We’re kicking off Season 2 of Success Saudi with Lulwah Al Juraiban, the founder of Treehouse, a homegrown concept that’s redefining healthy, sustainable dining in Riyadh.
In this episode, we dive into:
• How a childhood memory sparked her entrepreneurial journey
• The challenges of starting and scaling a restaurant business in KSA
• How Treehouse controls food waste
• Common mistakes made in F&B
• Her favorite resources, habits, and Saudi brands
Whether you’re in F&B, dreaming of launching your own venture, or love a good founder story, this one’s for you.
Hosted at the beautiful Vivienda Hotel and Villas in the Diplomatic Quarter.
In this episode, we sit down with Nezar Al-Tuwaijri, founder and CEO of Race Arabia, the trailblazing organization creating world-class endurance events in Saudi Arabia. Nezar shares his journey from building a small running community to establishing a leading endurance event firm shaping the kingdom’s fitness culture.
Key highlights from our conversation:
In this episode, we sit down with Hussein Attar, CEO of Tech Invest Com, a leading PE/VC firm with 1B SAR invested in regional tech startups. Hussein shares his journey from co-founding Sawerly, a former top MENA photography booking platform that was named one of the Top 50 Arab Startups by Forbes Middle East in 2015, to his current work supporting the regional ecosystem through investments and mentorship.
Key highlights from our conversation:
• Entrepreneurial Lessons: Hussein reflects on his early experiences with Sawerly and the key lessons learned that shaped his current approach to investing.
• Foundational Steps for Startups: Practical advice for new entrepreneurs on how to lay a strong foundation for success, including building the right team.
• Investment Insights: What Hussein looks for when investing in startups and how his approach differs from other VC firms.
• Government Engagement: Advice on working with Saudi government entities and how to successfully collaborate with them.
• Cultural Factors: Essential cultural considerations for entrepreneurs starting or scaling their businesses in Saudi Arabia.
• Building Resilience: Hussein shares strategies for maintaining resilience during tough times and how to know when it’s time to move on from a business idea.
• Marketing on a Budget: Effective, low-cost marketing strategies for startups to maximize growth.
• Health & Wellness: We also discuss the growing importance of prioritizing health for entrepreneurs.
Hussein’s passion for the startup ecosystem shines through in this episode, and his insights are invaluable for anyone looking to grow in the MENA region. Tune in for expert advice on entrepreneurship, investment, and navigating the challenges of building a successful business.
In this episode of Success Saudi, we sit down with Kholoud Attar, the CEO and Founder of DRB KSA and KAAPH Marketing Agency, and the Founder of Design Magazine. Kholoud shares her inspiring journey of breaking boundaries and leading change across creative industries.
In this conversation, we discuss:
🤝 Her work empowering local designers and creatives
🌐 The significance of the networks and groups that have shaped her success
🚐 Her journey of creating a mobile gift caravan to deliver cultural experiences
✨ Valuable lessons on self-belief and staying inspired
Get ready for an empowering conversation filled with fresh insights and the wisdom of a true creative leader. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or simply seeking motivation, this episode is packed with gems!
🔗 Tune in now to hear Kholoud’s story and follow her journey.
Faisal Shaker is a visionary entrepreneur, restaurateur and co-founder and CEO of Modern Food Company or MFC.
The MFC portfolio of brands includes many of Riyadh’s finest including San Carlo Cicchetti, Urth Cafe, Billionaire, the award-winning Peruvian-Japanese restaurant COYA, Signor Sassi, the homegrown and award-winning Japanese concept MYAZU, and many others.
Prior to founding MFC Group, Faisal was in the banking and investment industry for over 15 years, at firms such as Merrill Lynch, SABB, Barclays and Audi Capital. Moreover, Faisal also sits on various boards and committees, including publicly listed companies.
In this interview we cover:
- Faisal’s early career ambitions
- The decision to leave banking and run MFC
- Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to enter the F&B industry
- Lessons learned from opening MFC’s first restaurant
- The evolution of Saudi’s F&B industry
- The ways international brands must adapt to local preferences
- What it takes to be successful in F&B
- Why Faisal is excited about Saudi Arabia’s future
Mirna Al Ali is a leader in women’s empowerment, a keynote speaker, and was recognized as a Top Arab LinkedIn Creator. She hosts a LinkedIn show called Her Story providing inspiration and wisdom to thousands of followers.
In this episode, we discuss:
And more!
Episode 12 of Success Saudi Podcast features Brandie Janow, a Design Strategist and Community Lead.
Brandie is the founder of Kingdom Creatives, a think tank and social enterprise bringing together over 700 individuals, businesses, and government organizations involved in the creative sectors.
She is also the Head of Community at Al Mashtal Community House and a recognized voice in the Saudi business and design community.
In this interview, Brandie shares:
▪ Tips on connecting with like-minded people in Riyadh
▪ Mistakes she sees newcomers make in the Saudi market
▪ Lessons learned from her mentor, Princess Nourah AlFaisal
▪ Who can join Kingdom Creatives
▪ Current challenges in the freelancing industry in KSA
▪ Why entrepreneurship isn’t for everyone
▪ Upcoming events at Al Mashtal Creative Incubator and Community House
The full episode is now live on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, & Spotify!
Join us in Episode 11 of the Success Saudi podcast as we delve into the fascinating journey of Cecilia Pueyo, the co-founder of Bonjour Saudi.
Bonjour Saudi is a travel and experience design house in Riyadh that connects locals and visitors with authentic Saudi experiences, such as the art of Sadu weaving and the culinary delights of Cooking Kabsa.
If you are considering starting a business in the Saudi tourism sector, don’t miss this insightful episode.
Success Saudi Podcast Episode 10 features Sir Alain Edene. Sir Alain is a Health and Wellness Leader, Founder of Fit-In International, and a motivational speaker.
In this episode, we discuss:
00:00 - Intro
12:38 - Have you always known how to master your emotion or did you have to learn it?
16:41 - How did your journey in KSA begin?
24:04 - What was your vision?
26:54 - How do you build strong teams?
29:06 - Where do other businesses go wrong when building strong teams?
31:17 - How do you balance being empathetic and being a firm leader?
33:20 - What have you learned about creating a product or a service for a high-end market?
34:40 - What have you learned about customer preferences?
37:17 - What are your future plans?
38:25 - Do you envision yourself staying in the fitness industry?
39:36 - What other health & fitness developments in KSA excite you?
41:03 - Do you have any nutrition tips?
42:59 - Rapid fire questions
#entrepreneurship #saudiarabia #success #business #fitness
Episode 9 of the Success Saudi podcast features Emon Shakoor. Emon is an entrepreneur, a venture capitalist, an angel investor, and an advisor. She founded Blossom Accelerator, Saudi Arabia's First Tech-Inclusion Accelerator in 2017. Emon is a venture partner at Oryx Fund Hambro Perks and serves on the investment committee of OQAL, Saudi Arabia’s largest Angel Investment Network. She is a Ted-X speaker and has been featured on the cover of Harper's Bazaar and Entrepreneur Middle East. In this episode, we talk about: 0:00 - Introduction 2:46 - Where did you grow up and what were you like as a kid? 5:51- How was your family life? 7:08- Were your parents role models for you? 12:09 - Who are you today? Personally & professionally? 13:59 - Are you able to balance your hobbies and entrepreneurship? 15:40 - Tell us about Blossom, who does it serve and how do you help them? 19:46 - How do you establish an international presence for your business? 23:23 - Tell us about the work you are doing with Oryx 24:34 - What is an angel investor? 31:15 - How do you help aspiring entrepreneurs go from idea to action and overcome the fear of failure? 36:00 Do you have any advice for anyone who is fundraising or looking for mentors? 44:30 - What are the best places to network in Riyadh? 58: 07 - Do you have any advice for parents with children with disabilities? 1:00:37 - What has helped you the most in your own entrepreneurial journey? 1:01:58 - Rapid fire questions Special thanks to the beautiful Marriott Hotel located in the heart of Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter for hosting us today. Thank you also to Saudi Gift Gallery, providing locally-made cultural gifts for businesses and events. You can find them on Instagram @saudigiftgallery.
Ahsan Abdullah believes now is the time for investors and entrepreneurs to enter the Saudi market. As an entrepreneur himself whose firm advises hundreds of companies in over 7 countries, when Ahsan speaks, investors listen. Episode 8 of Success Saudi Podcast features Ahsan Abdullah, co-founder and director of Tass and Hamjit, a a multi-service firm offering a broad range of services in financial consultings, audit, tax and compliances, data analytics and legal domains. In this wide-ranging interview, we cover frequently asked questions by entrepreneurs and investors in KSA, including: - Different ways to set up a business in Saudi - Benefits for foreign companies - Common investor concerns - Current incentives for the manufacturing sector - Clarification on the Regional Headquarters Program Tax Holiday - Why multinational companies doing business in KSA should be concerned if they don't have an RHQ License at this point - Ahsan's key to success in Saudi and other markets Ahsan Abdullah has a talent for articulating industry jargon in layman's terms. I learned a lot from this interview, and it's apparent why Tass and Hamjit's services are highly sought after, and the firm is growing so quickly. ------------- Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro 01:34 - What are the ways for foreigners to start a business in KSA? 03:31 - What is the "Entrepreneurial License" and how to get one? 06:38 - Can you start a business in KSA if you don't have one established in a different country? 08:00 - What are the benefits for foreign investors? 11:28 - What are some common concerns you hear from potential investors? 13:06 - What are the nuances of doing business in KSA? 14:57 - Can you hold an Iqama & a foreign investment license at the same time? 16:28 - Updates about the regional headquarters program 19:51 - How will Saudi incentivize the manufacturing center to promote Saudi-made products? 22:16 - What does Saudization mean for business in KSA? 24:20 - How are companies finding local talent? 25:13 - What are the advantages of a joint venture in KSA? 28:05 - How good is the payment cycle for KSA in business? 29:27 - What are the compliances that need to be taken care of when doing business in KSA? 31:20 - Can you touch on the economic growth in terms of Riyadh Expo 2030 & the Fifa World Cup in 2034? 32:52 - What has helped you to be a successful entrepreneur in general and in KSA? 35:22 - Do you have any advice about collaboration with either government or private entities? 39:13 - What is Tass & Hamjits' competitive advantage? 41:09 - What message do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs in KSA? ---------- Find out more about Tass & Hamjit here: https://www.tasshamjit.com/ Special thanks to Fairmont Riyadh for hosting this episode of Success Saudi.
This episode features Zuzana Kalous. Zuzana is the founder of the RWG community, the largest women's fitness community in the Kingdom. Their goal is to make fitness accessible to everyone. The group may not have started with a purpose in mind, but purpose soon followed. This episode explores Zuzana’s journey to Riyadh and the evolution and growth of the RWG community.
Chapters:
0:00 - Intro
01:30 - Can you start by telling us about your life leading up to coming to Riyadh?
03:23 - How did you feel about making the move to Saudi?
05:31 - How does the newcomers' experience of Saudi differ from before?
07:34 - How did you get the idea for RWG?
13:57 - Who can join RWG?
16:00 - What are some popular activities in the RWG community?
18:48 - How do you ensure that the quality of the meetups is consistent even if you aren't present?
24:22 - Do you have any tips regarding social media strategy to optimize community engagement?
29:24 - Are there any organizations in the industry that you were able to partner with?
31:27 - Do you do anything to approach the nutritional element of health in your community?
33:47 - Are there any staple foods or supplements that are important for you?
34:58 - General advice for people considering moving to Saudi Arabia
35:25 - Advice for people trying to get more active
37:55 - Rapid fire questions
If you are keen on building a community, this episode is for you.
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Maha is a certified business consultant, a certified trainer, and an advocate for women’s empowerment through entrepreneurship. She is also a wife and mother of 2 boys.
In 2014 Maha founded SHEWORKS, the first licensed business hub and incubator for women in Saudi Arabia.
She is a former member of the Business Women Committee in Riyadh Chamber, a former member at the Saudi Coordination Council for Women's Labour, and a private consultant to private and public sectors.
In this wide-ranging interview, we discuss Maha's business and life lessons learned and her advice for young entrepreneurs.
We also delve into topics such:
0:00 - Intro
02:28 - How did you choose your fields of study?
06:55 - What inspired you regarding your business concept?
20:53 - Would you go through the experience of being "the first mover" again?
44:37 - Do you see different generations at the incubators and accelerators?
52:36 - What are some major challenges that you faced as an entrepreneur?
56:45 - Have you made any purchases in the past year that made a big difference in your life?
1:00:59 - Rapid-fire questions
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Special thanks to our episode hosts at Darraq Alhada, the new luxury compound located only minutes away from Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter.
For more information about Darraq Al Hada, call 800 1000 700 or email leasing@dur.sa.
https://info.durcommunities.com/darraqalhada
This episode features Wadha Al Rashid, the Founder of Draft Cafe.
Wadha founded Draft Cafe in 2017 before the burgeoning Cafe scene in Riyadh. She now has 9 locations across the city. In this thought-provoking podcast episode, we explore the concept of empowering your team and embracing discomfort for personal and professional growth. Wadha talks about hiring staff, choosing locations, industry challenges, and cafe trends.
Don't miss this inspiring conversation that will empower you to unlock your potential and support the growth of your team.
In this episode, we discuss:
0:00 Intro
1:29 - Can you tell us about your life leading up to finding Draft?
3:20 - Have you always had that entrepreneurial drive?
4:25 - How did Draft evolve from a concept store to a cafe?
7:31 - Has it been a challenge to find the right people for your business?
9:35 - How did you find your key employees?
11:08 - What have you learned over the years regarding hiring?
14:58 - Do you consider yourself an organized person?
15:22 - Was being a woman challenging when launching Draft?
16:43 - Did your family support play a big role?
16:52 - Where are Draft's branches currently located?
20:18 - How do you stay up to date with developments in your industry?
21:35 - How do you see the future of the cafe industry in KSA?
27:39 - Are there any other significant lessons that you have learned throughout the years?
28:59 - Rapid fire questions
35:45 - How can people follow you?
Connect with Wadha:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wadha-al-rashid-ab3385a0/
Listen to our podcast on your favorite platform:
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/success-saudi/id1708802978
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4hHUSjemaCojDGFir3Ns5L?si=Sype9ivKTQaIRXIb2pxFOA
Follow us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/successsaudi/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SuccessSaudii
For business inquiries or collaboration opportunities, please contact us at successsaudi@gmail.com
Cassandra is the CEO of a private family office in KSA. She practiced as a lawyer specializing in Sports, Entertainment, and Corporate Risk in both Australia and Saudi Arabia. Cassandra is also a seasoned speaker and travels internationally giving keynotes and appearing on panels.
In this interview, Cassandra shares her advice on doing business with family offices, the best places for expats to network, tips for entrepreneurs, where to find an executive coach, and much more!
كاساندرا هي الرئيس التنفيذي لمكتب عائلي خاص في المملكة العربية السعودية. قامت بممارسة مهنة المحاماة متخصصة في مجال الرياضة والترفيه ومخاطر الشركات في كل من أستراليا والمملكة العربية السعودية. كما أن كاساندرا متحدثة مخضرمة وتسافر دولياٍ لتقديم محاضرات رئيسية والمشاركة في الجلسات الخاصة.
في هذه المقابلة، تشارك كاساندرا نصائحها حول التعامل مع المكاتب العائلية في مجال الأعمال، وأفضل الأماكن للمغتربين للتواصل، ونصائح لرجال الأعمال، و أين يمكن العثور على مدرب تنفيذي، والمزيد!
In this episode of the Success Saudi podcast, we are joined by Norah AlRayes, the CEO and co-founder of Masterhat, a center for performing arts, drama, and creative programs in Riyadh. In the conversation, Norah shares her entrepreneurial journey, from identifying a gap in the market to partnering with the Ministry of Cultural Theatre and Performing Arts Commission. Norah teaches us that with the support of a strong network, including co-founders and family, you can achieve both personal fulfillment and entrepreneurial success.
Today's guest on Success Saudi is Hassan Ikram!
Hassan is an entrepreneur, angel investor, venture capitalist, mentor, and advisor. He currently serves as the Founding Partner and CEO at Cotyledon for management consultancy, Founder Chairman of Thriftplan, Co-founder and Chairman of 3ndey, and previously co founded the award-winning Falak Investment Hub.
In this episode Hassan shares valuable insights and advice for entrepreneurs in KSA. He answers key questions such as: - What incentives are available for entrepreneurs in KSA? - Where can you find the best local talent for your business? - Is it necessary for foreign founders to learn Arabic?
This interview is packed with helpful information for aspiring founders looking to succeed in the Saudi Arabian market. Join us for this insightful conversation and gain valuable tips and strategies to turn your passion into profit in KSA.
Don't miss out on this episode! Subscribe to Success Saudi and stay tuned for our latest content. We release new episodes every week on Sunday at 8 PM KSA, providing you with fresh inspiration and knowledge to fuel your entrepreneurial journey.
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Relevant links:
Ministry of investment's website: https://misa.gov.sa/en/
Connect with Hassan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hassanikram1/?originalSubdomain=sa
Hassan’s email: hassan@cotyledon.sa
Cotyledon’s website: https://www.cotyledon.sa/
