1. Please briefly introduce yourself and your current professional role.

I’m the Founder of Kept Business Consultants, based in Dubai. I work directly with founders, corporates and investors to originate and structure deals across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. My focus is simple: connecting capital to real opportunities and making things happen. I come from a 20-year background in data and financial services, but today I operate very much on the execution side.

2. What motivated you to join the Portuguese Business Council in Dubai as a Board Advisor?

I joined because I believe the Council can be much more than a networking platform. There is real potential to position it as a serious bridge between capital in the UAE and opportunities in Portugal. I was motivated by the opportunity to help move from conversation to execution.

3. From your perspective, what are the biggest opportunities for Portuguese businesses in the UAE and the wider region?

The UAE is not just a market. it’s a platform. It gives access to capital, partnerships and regional expansion. Portuguese companies have strong positioning in areas like construction, real estate, hospitality, services, pharma and healthcare. The opportunity is to use the UAE as a base to scale, not just to operate locally.

4. What advice would you give to Portuguese entrepreneurs or companies looking to expand into the UAE?

Come prepared and be clear on your value. This is a fast market and it rewards people who move with purpose and build trust quickly. The biggest mistake is to arrive without the right positioning or partners. If you get those two right from the start, everything else becomes easier.

5. In your view, what role can the Portuguese Business Council play in strengthening business relations between Portugal and Dubai?

The Council can become a true gateway, but only if it focuses on quality and execution. It should be known for bringing real opportunities, connecting the right people, and helping deals actually close. If it earns that trust, it becomes a reference point for both investors and companies.

6. Looking ahead, what trends or sectors do you believe will shape the future of business between Portugal and the Middle East?

I see strong growth in real estate, hospitality, infrastructure, renewable energy and technology-enabled services. Pharma and healthcare will also play a bigger role, especially in innovation, distribution and cross-border partnerships. At the same time, there is increasing interest in lifestyle-driven investments, where Portugal is very well positioned.

7. Finally, could you share one piece of advice for professionals who want to build an international career?

Be relevant, not just present. International careers are built on trust and consistency, not titles. Learn how to operate across cultures, deliver value, and build relationships that last. That’s what opens doors.