60 SECONDS WITH...

booking artists like Solomun, Sven Vath, Nicky Romero and Steve Aoki this year, I think it definitely raises the bar for nightlife in the region and puts UAE on the world stage. This, in turn, makes the rest of the market try to bring the highest quality of artists to UAE, which also helps the nightlife scene to expand.

3. Why did you downsize Lebanon? Any plans to bring the heat back?

We saw an opportunity in the Dubai market and created a new path with new objectives to lunch certain concepts here. At the same time, the political instability and restlessness in Lebanon was reflected in tourism figures and, as a result, affecting the hospitality industry there. Having said that, we are set to bring the heat back, starting with 40 Kong in Beirut in 2016!

4. Any new partnerships?

We've recently signed a contract with a very high-end, internationally renowned café brand which we're planning to bring to UAE in the near future. Aside from that, we're looking closely at the London market with plans to expand the Em Sherif franchise there also, so it's a very exciting time for The Crystal Group.