Welcome once again to "It's About Time"

Today I have the great pleasure of introducing you to my dear friend Fabio.

Fabio Grilli is a Real Estate Development & Design Advisor whose career spans large-scale real estate development, masterplanning and architectural design across the Middle East and Europe. Combining a strong design background with extensive experience on the developer side, his work focuses on shaping the vision, development strategy and design direction of complex urban and architectural projects.

Born and raised in Italy, Grilli developed an early sensitivity to architecture, landscape and the quality of urban space—an influence that has remained central throughout his career. His professional path has taken him across Italy, The Netherlands and the Middle East, working with international architecture practices, consultants and leading real estate developers before establishing himself in Dubai.

Over the past decade, he held senior leadership roles at EMAAR Properties, one of the world’s leading real estate developers, where he was responsible for the design and development of major residential, mixed-use and masterplanned projects. His work contributed to some of Dubai’s most prominent destinations, including Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai Hills Estate, Emaar Beachfront and Port Rashid.

At EMAAR, Grilli operated at the intersection of real estate development, design and execution, overseeing projects from their earliest strategic and conceptual stages through design development and delivery. His role involved defining development visions, guiding international consultant teams and ensuring that architectural ambition remained aligned with commercial, functional and long-term urban objectives.

Among the projects that have most shaped his professional experience, Dubai Creek Harbour holds particular significance. Conceived as a major new urban district for Dubai, the development brings together residential neighbourhoods, hospitality, commercial uses, parks, waterfront spaces and cultural destinations at metropolitan scale. Grilli has been closely involved in its evolution over many years, gaining the unusual perspective of seeing masterplanning and architectural decisions move rapidly from concept to construction and, ultimately, into the everyday life of the city.

Today, as Founder of DOMOS, Grilli advises real estate developers, investors and project stakeholders across the Middle East and Europe. Working alongside a network of senior specialists and international design practices, DOMOS provides strategic advice on the vision, development strategy, positioning and design direction of large-scale developments, masterplans and architectural projects.

His approach places design within the wider framework of real estate development. Rather than treating architecture as an isolated discipline, Grilli focuses on the relationship between urban vision, market positioning, product definition, commercial objectives, user experience and long-term value creation. This perspective allows him to bridge the often separate worlds of development strategy and architectural design.

Alongside his professional practice, Grilli is actively involved in academia and the international debate around cities and real estate development. He has lectured and contributed to academic programmes, conferences and professional forums on topics including real estate development, urban transformation, masterplanning, architecture and the future of cities.

His academic engagements include Harvard University, Sciences Po Paris and LUISS Business School. He also holds an academic position at IUAV University of Venice, where he lectures within the Advanced Master “Fare Masterplan”, contributing his experience in large-scale development and contemporary city-making.
Through IUAV, Grilli also serves as Special Advisor to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on initiatives related to the reconstruction of territories affected by crisis, with a focus on post-crisis urban regeneration, infrastructure planning and resilient development.

His ideas and professional experience have been featured in publications, books, podcasts and international industry platforms, addressing subjects ranging from masterplanning and mixed-use development to architectural quality, urban culture and the relationship between beauty and commercial development.
Central to Grilli’s philosophy is the belief that successful real estate development must reconcile economic viability, functional performance and architectural quality. His Italian cultural background continues to inform his conviction that beauty, proportion, landscape and public space are not secondary considerations, but fundamental components of places capable of generating lasting social and economic value.

Now dividing his time between Italy and Dubai, he continues to work across the UAE, the wider MENA region and Europe.

If you want to know more about Fabio you can follow him on linkedin:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/grillifabio/

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Meta Description

Fabio Grilli is Head of Design & Development at Emaar Properties in Dubai, UAE. Overseeing landmark projects like Dubai Creek Harbour, Emaar Beachfront & more. 25+ years experience.

About Fabio Grilli — Leading UAE Architect & Design Director

Fabio Grilli is a renowned senior architect and design executive based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. With over 25 years of luxury architecture and landmark concept design experience, he currently serves as Head of Design & Development at Emaar Properties, one of the world's most prestigious real estate developers.

Current Role: Head of Design & Development at Emaar Properties

As Design Director at Emaar Properties Dubai, Fabio Grilli manages the complete design process from initial concept through consultant supervision to detailed project execution. His responsibilities encompass the development of large-scale masterplans across the UAE, MENA region, and Europe.

Key projects under his leadership include:

ProjectLocationScaleDubai Creek Harbour | Dubai, UAE | 7.3 million sqm
Emaar Beachfront | Dubai, UAE | Mixed-use waterfront
Dubai Hills Estate | Dubai, UAE | Residential & commercial

Professional Background & Education

Architectural Education

• Master's Degree in Architecture and Urban Planning — University of Ferrara, Italy
• Professional training across international firms in The Netherlands, Italy, and UAE

Years of Experience

• 25+ years in architectural design and real estate development
• Extensive expertise across Middle East and European markets

Key Projects & Achievements

Dubai Creek Harbour — Signature Masterplan

Fabio Grilli identifies Dubai Creek Harbour as his proudest achievement — a transformative district featuring:

• 700,000 sqm dedicated to parks and public spaces
• 60,000 sqm for cultural activities
• 900,000 sqm for commercial uses
• 5,800 residential units
• 24 hotels and mixed-use amenities

This development represents a new urban centre reshaping Dubai's skyline and waterfront landscape.

Thought Leadership & Speaking Engagements

Grilli is a sought-after speaker at industry conferences and universities, addressing topics including:

• Sustainable design principles
• Mixed-use development strategies
• Vertical city concepts
• Large-scale masterplanning impact

Publications & Media Appearances

PublicationDateFocusSecrets of The Construction Industry | April 2024 | Industry insights
Constructing You Podcast | February 2023 | Design leadership
Dubai Italia Experiences | November 2022 | Cultural architecture
Compasses Magazine | July 2022 | Urban regeneration

Awards & Recognition

• Arabian Business Achievement Honoree (2Y)
• Recognized among industry titans for design innovation and project leadership excellence

Fabio Grilli's Design Philosophy

"The real added value is having been raised surrounded by the beauty of our urban, landscape and cultural spaces."

Grilli attributes his design sensibility to his Italian heritage, emphasizing that culture and architecture in Dubai are deeply interconnected. His approach prioritizes:

1. Creating beauty and harmony in contemporary developments
2. Ensuring functional excellence alongside aesthetic ambition
3. Delivering long-term impact through thoughtful masterplanning

Contact & Professional Presence

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
LinkedIn: Fabio Grilli (500+ connections, 5,500+ followers)
Affiliation: Emaar Properties

Related Search Terms

architect Dubai, Emaar Properties design director, Dubai Creek Harbour architect, luxury architecture UAE, masterplanning Dubai, Italian architect UAE, senior architect Middle East, real estate development Dubai, sustainable design expe

Got Questions? Want to know more? Get in Touch!

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@itsabouttimeiat

Welcome to "It's About Time"!

Join me today as I introduce you to Maestro Michele Gelemini!

Michele Gelmini is an Italian composer, entrepreneur, and chief executive based in Dubai.

He honed his craft studying Harmony and Counterpoint at the Conservatorio Luca Marenzio in Darfo Boario Terme, Italy, and went on to build an international career composing for broadcast media and film soundtracks across Europe, the United States, the Middle East, and Asia.

His accolades include the award for Best Original Score at the Feel the Reel International Film Festival (2018) for The Windsor Paradox. His portfolio spans the theme for MTV's MTV Up, the FashionTV track "Trillionaire"—which climbed to the Top 20 on the iTunes Italian Dance chart— years of compositions for the Mediaset music library, and, most recently, an original score for Abu Dhabi's Al Sadeem Observatory documentary Cosmic Odyssey, in which orchestral and electronic textures are woven together against vivid astronomical imagery.

In 2014, Gelmini founded MM Entertainment (Musica Maestro), a Dubai-based music consultancy providing piano and composition instruction, live entertainment for private and corporate events, and bespoke composition services. To date, the firm has delivered upwards of 70,000 sessions to some 1,800 clients throughout the United Arab Emirates.

Needless to say Michele has achieved a great deal since he venture forth from Italy so come join us because "It's About Time" to get started!

If you want to know more about Michele you can follow him on linkedin:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/musicamaestro/

SEO

Michele Gelmini — Composer, Entrepreneur & CEO in Dubai

Michele Gelmini is an acclaimed Italian composer, entrepreneur, and CEO based in Dubai, specialising in original music for film, broadcast media, and corporate events. With a career spanning Europe, the United States, the Middle East, and Asia, he is the founder of MM Entertainment (Musica Maestro), one of the UAE's leading music consultancies.

Musical Education & Background

Gelmini studied Harmony and Counterpoint at the Conservatorio Luca Marenzio in Darfo Boario Terme, Italy. His formal training laid the groundwork for a versatile composing career encompassing orchestral scoring, electronic music production, and commercial sound design for television, film, and branded media.

Film Scoring & Award-Winning Work

Gelmini received the Best Original Score award at the Feel the Reel International Film Festival in 2018 for The Windsor Paradox. More recently, he composed the original score for Abu Dhabi's Al Sadeem Observatory documentary Cosmic Odyssey, a project that blends orchestral and electronic music with immersive space imagery.

Television & Broadcast Compositions

His extensive portfolio includes the theme for MTV's MTV Up, the track "Trillionaire" for FashionTV — which reached the Top 20 on the iTunes Italian Dance chart — and years of original compositions for the Mediaset music library, one of Italy's largest broadcasting networks.

MM Entertainment — Dubai Music Consultancy

Founded in 2014, MM Entertainment (Musica Maestro) is a Dubai-based music consultancy offering:

• Piano and composition tuition
• Live entertainment for private and corporate events
• Bespoke composition services for media and brands

To date, the firm has delivered over 70,000 sessions to 1,800 clients across the UAE, establishing itself as a trusted name in the region's music and entertainment industry.

Got Questions? Want to know more? Get in Touch!

Follow the podcast on Instagram: 

@itsabouttimeiat

Welcome to "It's About Time"!

Join me today as I introduce you to Cynthia Khabsa.

Cynthia Khabsa, a 33-year-old Lebanese multidisciplinary artist whose creative journey began before she could even read. Painting since childhood, Cynthia was profoundly inspired by her mother, Mona Khabsa—a distinguished visual artist who holds a Master's degree in Visual Arts from ALBA University in Lebanon. Growing up surrounded by brushes, canvases, and her mother's artistic spirit, Cynthia developed an early and unwavering passion for the arts that has only deepened with time.

Her academic path reflects this lifelong dedication. Cynthia holds a Master's degree in Interior Architecture from USEK in Lebanon, a qualification that sharpened her eye for space, composition, and the dialogue between art and environment. With over 20 years of teaching experience, she currently shares her wealth of knowledge as an art teacher at the Antonine Sisters school, shaping young minds and nurturing the next generation of creative thinkers.

Cynthia's visual artwork—where she describes her process as translating rhythm into color and color into emotion—has been showcased in both solo and collective exhibitions across Lebanon and Dubai. Her exhibitions have drawn media attention from outlets such as OTV and Dubai TV, cementing her reputation as a distinctive voice in the regional art scene.

But painting is only part of Cynthia's story. She is also a classically trained violinist whose bow brings melodies to life with breathtaking skill and emotional depth. Her operatic voice is equally compelling—she has studied opera repertoire, including Handel's "Non lo dirò col labbro," under the guidance of Marie-Therese Hobeika at the Lebanese Conservatory. As an entertainer, Cynthia brings all of these disciplines together, moving fluidly between the concert stage, the gallery wall, and the classroom with an ease that speaks to her extraordinary versatility.

Splitting her time between Dubai and Lebanon, Cynthia maintains an active online presence where thousands follow her creative journey across social media, sharing in her violin performances, vocal showcases, painting sessions, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of her artistic life.

Cynthia represents something truly rare: a seamless convergence of disciplines where violin, opera, painting, architecture, and teaching don't merely coexist but enrich one another—each feeding into a singular, deeply personal creative vision.

So sit back and relax because "It's About Time" to get started!

If you want to know more about Cynthia you can follow her on:

@cynthiakhabsa.artist

Got Questions? Want to know more? Get in Touch!

Follow the podcast on Instagram: 

@itsabouttimeiat

Welcome to "It's About Time"!

Today we will do something different: I want to have a chat on the ideologies of luxury and the many faces it may have. 

The english language defines luxury as:

luxury /lŭg′zhə-rē, lŭk′shə-/

noun

1. Sumptuous or extremely comfortable living or surroundings.
   "lives in luxury."
2. Something that is desirable but expensive or hard to obtain or do.
   "did not have the luxury of working in an up-to-date laboratory."
3. A free indulgence in costly food, dress, furniture, or anything expensive which gratifies the appetites or tastes.
4. Anything which pleases the senses, is not necessary for life, and is also costly, or difficult to obtain; an expensive rarity; Contrasted to necessity.
   "silks, jewels, and rare fruits are luxuries; in some countries ice is a great luxury."

"From the Merriam Webster Dictionary"

I like the definition, I find it quite extensive... yet I feel it lacks more depth. As we explored this topic while recording this episode, I have come to the realization that Luxury, a concept commonly understood, tends to be quite boundless into what it can include into each single individual's understanding.

To emphasize on this, I decided to query Gemini AI and asked it what luxury was and the answer was quite interesting:

Luxury is defined as a condition of abundance or great ease and comfort. It often involves indulgence in items or experiences that provide pleasure or satisfaction, though they are not essential for survival.

Historical Context

• Origins: The term "luxury" comes from the Latin word luxuria, meaning excess or extravagance. Historically, luxury was associated with the wealthy and powerful, characterized by tangible goods like precious metals, gemstones, and fine fabrics.
• Traditional Luxury: Before the Industrial Revolution, luxury was primarily a status symbol, linked to handcrafted and rare items that distinguished the elite from the general populace.

Evolution of Luxury

• Industrial Revolution Impact: The advent of mass production made luxury goods more accessible, prompting brands to adapt their strategies to attract a broader audience while maintaining an air of exclusivity.
• Modern Interpretations: Today, luxury encompasses not just material possessions but also experiences. There is a growing emphasis on experiential luxury, where unique and memorable experiences are valued over physical items.

Current Trends

• Sustainability and Ethics: Modern luxury increasingly focuses on sustainability, ethical sourcing, and personalization. Consumers are looking for brands that reflect their values and offer unique, high-quality products.
• Experiential Luxury: This includes personalized services, bespoke travel, and wellness experiences, highlighting a shift in consumer priorities towards memorable moments rather than mere ownership of goods.

Luxury continues to evolve, reflecting changes in societal values and consumer preferences.

Again, an interesting answer... but it lacks more depth. it did touch on some interesting concepts such as sustainability and ethics, but as mentioned previously it seems too general.

Not being satisfy by this, I wanted to have a deeper conversation on the topic with two people whom I believe work with luxury as part of their entrepreneurial carriers. 

Dr. Omar Fabbro, an expert in cosmetic dentistry, runs his own practices on Jumeriah Road, one of the most VIP areas in the Dubai, UAE. His perception of esthetics as well as his knowledge of the medical field, makes him a unique speaker with some incredible insights on the topic.

Ksenia Dolgova, a talented Jewelry and fashion designer, runs her practices all over the globe, working for a niche set of customers, creating bespoke pieces of both jewelry and accessories. She has travel the world and attends some of the most exclusive conventions for both Jewelry and Design, this has allowed her to nurture a deep understanding of what luxury means.

Thanks to them, we will try to understand and go deep into what the meaning of Luxury is in todays world as well as what does it mean and represent for each of us.

So sit back and relax because "It's About Time" to get started!

If you want to know more about Dr. Omar Fabbro and Ksenia Dolgova you can follow them on:

@doctorfabbro

@axiniafashion

Got Questions? Want to know more? Get in Touch!

Follow the podcast on Instagram: 

@itsabouttimeiat

Welcome to "It's About Time"!

Today we will do something different: I want to have a chat on the ideologies of luxury and the many faces it may have. 

The english language defines luxury as:

luxury /lŭg′zhə-rē, lŭk′shə-/

noun

1. Sumptuous or extremely comfortable living or surroundings.
   "lives in luxury."
2. Something that is desirable but expensive or hard to obtain or do.
   "did not have the luxury of working in an up-to-date laboratory."
3. A free indulgence in costly food, dress, furniture, or anything expensive which gratifies the appetites or tastes.
4. Anything which pleases the senses, is not necessary for life, and is also costly, or difficult to obtain; an expensive rarity; Contrasted to necessity.
   "silks, jewels, and rare fruits are luxuries; in some countries ice is a great luxury."

"From the Merriam Webster Dictionary"

I like the definition, I find it quite extensive... yet I feel it lacks more depth. As we explored this topic while recording this episode, I have come to the realization that Luxury, a concept commonly understood, tends to be quite boundless into what it can include into each single individual's understanding.

To emphasize on this, I decided to query Gemini AI and asked it what luxury was and the answer was quite interesting:

Luxury is defined as a condition of abundance or great ease and comfort. It often involves indulgence in items or experiences that provide pleasure or satisfaction, though they are not essential for survival.

Historical Context

• Origins: The term "luxury" comes from the Latin word luxuria, meaning excess or extravagance. Historically, luxury was associated with the wealthy and powerful, characterized by tangible goods like precious metals, gemstones, and fine fabrics.
• Traditional Luxury: Before the Industrial Revolution, luxury was primarily a status symbol, linked to handcrafted and rare items that distinguished the elite from the general populace.

Evolution of Luxury

• Industrial Revolution Impact: The advent of mass production made luxury goods more accessible, prompting brands to adapt their strategies to attract a broader audience while maintaining an air of exclusivity.
• Modern Interpretations: Today, luxury encompasses not just material possessions but also experiences. There is a growing emphasis on experiential luxury, where unique and memorable experiences are valued over physical items.

Current Trends

• Sustainability and Ethics: Modern luxury increasingly focuses on sustainability, ethical sourcing, and personalization. Consumers are looking for brands that reflect their values and offer unique, high-quality products.
• Experiential Luxury: This includes personalized services, bespoke travel, and wellness experiences, highlighting a shift in consumer priorities towards memorable moments rather than mere ownership of goods.

Luxury continues to evolve, reflecting changes in societal values and consumer preferences.

Again, an interesting answer... but it lacks more depth. it did touch on some interesting concepts such as sustainability and ethics, but as mentioned previously it seems too general.

Not being satisfy by this, I wanted to have a deeper conversation on the topic with two people whom I believe work with luxury as part of their entrepreneurial carriers. 

Dr. Omar Fabbro, an expert in cosmetic dentistry, runs his own practices on Jumeriah Road, one of the most VIP areas in the Dubai, UAE. His perception of esthetics as well as his knowledge of the medical field, makes him a unique speaker with some incredible insights on the topic.

Ksenia Dolgova, a talented Jewelry and fashion designer, runs her practices all over the globe, working for a niche set of customers, creating bespoke pieces of both jewelry and accessories. She has travel the world and attends some of the most exclusive conventions for both Jewelry and Design, this has allowed her to nurture a deep understanding of what luxury means.

Thanks to them, we will try to understand and go deep into what the meaning of Luxury is in todays world as well as what does it mean and represent for each of us.

So sit back and relax because "It's About Time" to get started!

If you want to know more about Dr. Omar Fabbro and Ksenia Dolgova you can follow them on:

@doctorfabbro

@axiniafashion

Got Questions? Want to know more? Get in Touch!

Got Questions? Want to know more? Get in Touch!

Follow the podcast on Instagram: 

@itsabouttimeiat

Welcome to "It's About Time"!

Join me today as I introduce you to Dr. Philip Koshy Panicker.

Dr. Panicker holds a PhD in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington.

From a young age, he was fascinated by flight, a passion that took him across the globe in pursuit of higher education. Thanks to this journey, he discovered not only his passion for what lies beyond the stars but also his deep love of teaching.

Dr. Panicker began teaching while in America, which eventually led him back to the UAE, where he taught at New York University Abu Dhabi. His research and expertise span supersonic engines, rockets, waste-to-energy systems, and the circular economy.

A man who was born in India, raised in the UAE, completed his higher education in the USA, lived in Brazil, and taught at one of the most prestigious universities in the UAE… Dr. Panicker truly has an amazing story!

So sit back and relax because "It's About Time" to get started!

If you want to get in touch with Dr. Philip Panicker you can follow him on:

linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipkpanicker/
e-mail: [email protected]

Got Questions? Want to know more? Get in Touch!

Follow the podcast on Instagram: 

@itsabouttimeiat

Welcome to "It's About Time"!

Today I have the pleasure to introduce you to Ms. Ksenia Dolgova.

Ksenia has lived in the United Arab Emirates for the better part of 21 years. She arrived here looking for a place to get away from cold weather of Russia and found the summer heats of Dubai.

Since a childhood, Ksenia begun toying with the creation of accessories and jewelry. Today she designs leather and crystal accessories and purses/bags from her workshop in St. Petersburg, Russia as well as design prestigious jewelry for her selected customers.

Join me onto this episode to get an insight on the life of Ksenia.

So sit back and relax because "It's About Time" to get started!

If you want to know more about Ksenia you can follow her on:

@axiniafashion

Got Questions? Want to know more? Get in Touch!

Follow the podcast on Instagram: 

@itsabouttimeiat

Welcome to "It's About Time"!

Today I have the pleasure to introduce you to Mr. Georges Calas.

Georges has lived in the UAE for over 24 years and has no intention of moving. He met his lovely wife in Dubai as well as is raising his 2 lovely kids.

I met Georges while I was living in Jumeirah Lakes Towers: we were floor mates as well as, later on, neighbors.

We know each other for over 15 years, but due to one thing or another we never really synced up until after COVID: we decided to have a coffee together.

That Coffee started a friendship which today has grown into a brotherhood. I see Georges as family and my relationship with him has taught me many things about love and friendship.

 Georges is the most stoic person I know: quiet, calm; never speaks for the sake of it, always weight his words and above all he is always respectful when he speaks.

Come and meet the Stoic Georges.

So sit back and relax because "It's About Time" to get started!

If you want to know more about Georges you can follow him on:

@lifesizeplans_dubai

Got Questions? Want to know more? Get in Touch!

Follow the podcast on Instagram: 

@itsabouttimeiat

Welcome to It's About Time! 

On our first episode you will get to know a little bit about my self as well as Dottore, Omar Fabbro.

Doc has been a constant presence through out my time in the United Arab Emirates. He has been an entrepreneur since he begun his adventures in the Emirates, managing his own Dental Clinic in Dubai as well as exploring his other passions, such as dental jewelry and watch making.

Like me, Dottore had to deal with how to handle family business and working with his father as well as siblings.

It is the first time you meet him but for sure it won't be the last.

So sit back and relax because "It's About Time" to get started!

If you want to know more about Doc check him out on his socials:

@doctorfabbro

Got Questions? Want to know more? Get in Touch!

Follow the podcast on Instagram: 

@itsabouttimeiat

Welcome to: "It's About Time!"
I am your host, Cristobal. Join me while we explore the lives and adventures of people whom I have come to see as successful in their lives.

Stay a while and enjoy...

It's About Time we start!

Got Questions? Want to know more? Get in Touch!

Follow the podcast on Instagram: 

@itsabouttimeiat