Rizwan Kassim is a testament to the UAE's spirit of entrepreneurship. Having started with the long-established La Cantine du Faubourg in Paris over ten years ago, the young Parisian saw a vision for the brand in Dubai and has since gone on to create the RIKAS Group, which is now one of the leading creators and operators in the Middle East dining scene.

In just nine years, he has opened a staggering 16 restaurant and Beach Club concepts in Dubai and have a total of 19 operations at the moment, many of which are now gracing the pages of the inaugural Michelin Guide and Gault Millau. With expansion underway to countries including Saudi Arabia, Greece, Europe, US and India, the ambitious young entrepreneur is no stopping as he takes the RIKAS Group - home to top-name dining destinations.

Aside from the 16 concepts, five more are under development which will hit the UAE market in 2024.