With a Professional Doctorate in Tourism & Hospitality and almost 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry across Australia, Asia, and the Middle East, Dr. Maadad serves as the Chief Executive and Founder of Gates Hospitality. This UAE-based homegrown hospitality group boasts award-winning concepts such as folly, Bistro Des Arts, and Reform Social & Grill.
Throughout his career, Dr. Maadad has held various operational and senior positions. Before establishing Gates Hospitality in 2010, he was Managing Director for both Six Senses and Minor Hotels, gaining significant operational and commercial experience and nurturing key owner and stakeholder relationships.
Having been based in the Middle East for over twenty years, Dr. Maadad has witnessed significant industry growth and developed a profound cultural understanding of the region. This understanding enables him to support businesses and owners and represent a credible and respected voice of authority within the industry.
In addition to his day-to-day role, Dr. Maadad is the Australian Business Council Dubai Chairman and Treasurer for UAE Restaurants Group. Furthermore, he serves on the boards of various hospitality businesses, such as The Middle East Food Forum and Almont Global.
Dr. Maadad is a visionary and a direct, clear leader, deeply passionate about nurturing local and regional talent. He has mentored many hoteliers, chefs, and restaurateurs throughout his career. Currently leading a team of 700 colleagues across Gates Hospitality, he is widely regarded as one of the industry’s most respected spokespeople and a ‘Godfather’ figure, nurturing the careers of many future talents.