EXPERIENCE. IMAGINATION. RESPONSIBILITY.

With Mulchandani at the helm, FIVE Holdings delivered outstanding Q2 2025 financial performance, driven by exceptional high-double-digit hospitality growth. For the three-month period ended 30 June 2025, revenue soared to AED 597 million (+9%) with EBITDA up 13%, as Hospitality delivers AED 548 million in revenue (+22%) and an EBITDA jump to AED 207m (+31%), reflecting the Company’s successful strategy in expanding its operations and strengthening market positioning.

With FIVE Holdings’ emphasis on digital innovation, which accounts for 50% of bookings through its proprietary website and reservations teams, FIVE Jumeirah Village emerges as the most reviewed hotel on Booking.com, boasting over 35,795 reviews and an impressive 9.1/10 rating. Similarly, FIVE Palm Jumeirah achieved a stellar rating of 9.2/10 and FIVE LUXE has a 9.4/10 rating on Booking.com.

A GLOBAL VISION

Mulchandani has taken his homegrown success to Europe, with the opening of FIVE Zurich in 2022. This destination hotel in the Swiss city is driven by the same qualities that Mulchandani worked to instill in it’s Dubai properties: an obsession with luxury customer service, immersive entertainment and world-class global cuisine. Mulchandani’s ambition is to develop FIVE’s presence in continental Europe, the UK, and beyond.

In October 2023, FIVE Holdings acquired legendary Spanish nightlife brand, The Pacha Group in a landmark deal, led by Mulchandani’s visionary leadership. With this acquisition, that includes a range of assets from Pacha Ibiza nightclub, Destino Five Ibiza, Pacha Hotel, Toy Room Clubs, and WooMoon Storytellers, FIVE Holdings’ vision and commitment to fuse world-class hospitality with sensational, cutting-edge entertainment experiences continues to expand worldwide.

DOMINATING DIGITAL MEDIA

Recognized as globally famed lifestyle destinations, FIVE has welcomed over 7.6 million guests from 179 nationalities since 2017 to its award-winning, entertainment-driven venues and over 5000 musically driven events across 30 venues with over 500 top DJs.

With a highly engaged, online social media community of over 1.7 million followers across social media profiles on YouTube, Spotify, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and LinkedIn, FIVE garnered over 547 million views for FIVE Holdings and The Pacha Group’s hashtags on TikTok in 2024. All of this has led FIVE to be 410% more googled than other comparative luxury hotel brands in the UAE, while The Pacha Group is190% more googled than comparative entertainment brands.

PEOPLE-FIRST GROWTH

Mulchandani has built a people-first culture across FIVE. A culture, as he puts it, “Based on hiring people who love people. Where we constantly ask the question, ‘What do we, as consumers, want to feel’. Because once you are providing value, there is money to be made. Guests will keep coming back.”

Acknowledged as a Great Place to Work, FIVE Hotels and Resorts ranked #13 on the Best Workplaces in the UAE ‘Large Category’ 2025, and in 2024, ranked #12 for Best Workplaces for Hospitality in GCC, #13 in the Best Workplaces for Millennials ‘Large Category’, #8 in the Best Workplaces ‘Large Category in the UAE’ and #16 in the Best Workplaces ‘Large Category in the Middle East’. Additionally, FIVE Hotels and Resorts also earned a prestigious spot in Fast Company Middle East’s Best Workplaces for Women in the Middle East 2024 list, distinguishing itself as the only hospitality group.

The company’s distinction as a large-sized organization is evident, ranking #97 in the Great Place to Work Best Workplaces in Asia 2025. Additionally, FIVE Hotels and Resorts stood #6 for the Happiest Employees in the Region (ahead of Coca Cola and Deloitte) and #3 in UAE’s Workplace for Women in 2021.

SUSTAINABLE LEADERSHIP

With FIVE Holdings’ Sustainable Indulgence ethos of guilt-free luxury lifestyle and immersive entertainment experiences, Mulchandani pioneers a no compromise model of sustainable hospitality. Achieving 100% solar power for the group’s Dubai hotels and 100% wind power for Zurich, and 100% renewable electricity across The Pacha Group. With LEED Platinum certified hotels in Dubai, Zurich and Ibiza, Mulchandani’s company is the world’s first company to receive an ‘A’ rating for ESG by ISS Global Rating Agency, proving his conviction in sustainability runs in equal force with the rest of FIVE Holdings’ success. Mulchandani has developed a Net Zero ‘Build Tech’ Luxury Building Design Concept, that stands ready for development.

FIVE Holdings debuted its $350 million Green Bond on Nasdaq Dubai in October 2023, securing the High Yield Debt Deal of the Year accolade at the Bonds, Loans and Sukuk Middle East Awards 2024. Through this deal, Mulchandani acquired Ibiza’s The Pacha Group and is working with the Balearic Government to achieve its Net Zero 2050 goals through LEED Gold or Higher renovations, integrating 100% renewable power and implementing innovative water reduction and recycling systems. In July 2025, Pacha Hotel received LEED Platinum certification, becoming Ibiza’s first and only Hotel to earn this highest sustainability building rating by the US Green Building Council, and in October 2025, Pacha Ibiza nightclub achieved a groundbreaking milestone as the world’s first and only LEED Platinum-certified nightclub, earning an impressive 81 points. 

Addressing Ibiza’s water scarcity, The Pacha Group implemented measures reducing water usage by 24% in summer 2024, for Destino Five Ibiza. The Group reduced water consumption 7% in 2024 overall. With 100% renewable power secured and a 15% reduction in carbon emissions in 2024, The Pacha Group’s water and energy optimization measures advance Ibiza’s sustainability goals where less than 1% of its energy is sourced renewably and its groundwater reserves standing only at 36% capacity as of 2024.

Mulchandani is recognised as a Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leader, ranking #8 in 2025 and #9 in 2024 in the Travel and Tourism Sector, and was also nominated for The World Sustainability Awards 2024 in the Sustainability Leader of the Year category, Reuters Events Sustainability Awards 2024 in the Sustainability Trailblazer Award category, 2024 Skift IDEA Awards in the Change Makers – Leadership category and edie Awards 2024 in the Sustainable Leader of the Year category. In 2025, Mulchandani won Visionary Leader of the Year at the Sustainability Innovation Awards.

Mulchandani’s sustainability leadership has also been recognized with FIVE LUXE and FIVE Palm Jumeirah earning Forbes Travel Guide’s Responsible Hospitality Badge Verification in 2025, FIVE Palm Jumeirah and FIVE Jumeirah Village receiving the prestigious (1 percentile) Dubai Sustainable Tourism’s Gold Stamp and FIVE LUXE shortlisted for Sustainability in the 2025 Sleeper AHEAD Awards 2025, FIVE Holdings earning a second place tie in the Global ESG Awards 2024 for Innovations that Foster Sustainability, being listed in Construction Week’s Top Green Developers in the Middle East 2023, and as an Arabian Business Sustainable Company of the Year 2023 finalist.

EFFECTIVE ALTRUISM

Recognized as Philanthropist of the Year by CEO Middle East, Mulchandani’s dedication to making a difference is at the heart of his philanthropic commitments.

Over $2.8 million has been contributed to date across FIVE  Holdings’ diverse portfolio of local and global partnerships and The Pacha Foundation. Of that amount over $200,000 has been committed to support global literacy and girls’ empowerment foundation through Room to Read India’s “Literacy and Gender Equality in Education” program, directly impacting 1,500 girls annually. Furthermore, Mulchandani’s philanthropic efforts have facilitated over 650+ life-saving heart and face operations for children in India through Sir Gangaram Hospital and the New Face Medical Trust while delivering over 1,000 life-enhancing treatments and benefiting over 800 patients a month through digitized healthcare and low-cost orthodontics. As of 2025, over 120+ native trees have been planted in UAE Bee Reserves and over 450,000 Euros donated to over 35 programs in 2024, as part of The Pacha Foundation’s focus on addressing social welfare, cultural arts, sports and environmental conservation in Ibiza. In 2025, The Board approved a 500,000 Euro budget to deepen and expand the Foundation’s reach on the Island; this marks a 430% increase in Foundation budget post FIVE Holding’s 2023 Acquisition

The FIVE Cares program, personally championed by Mulchandani, stands as a beacon of support for the FIVE Tribe members. Offering critical financial aid to employees, their immediate family and dependents during medical crises, FIVE Cares is a catalyst for positive change, delivering life-saving medical grants.

Mulchandani believes in sharing success through equitable wealth distribution, fostering rapid progression that earns both recognition and remuneration, and creating a continuous journey of learning and achievement. As part of this unwavering commitment to equitable wealth distribution, in 2024, Mulchandani announced the implementation of a Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) featuring share-based awards, highlighting his vision of inclusivity. By granting ownership stakes, the programme empowers eligible employees to participate as true partners in the Company’s growth, strategically aligning with long- term financial and organisational goals. Designed to be non-hierarchical, the LTIP ensures equal opportunities for eligible employees to benefit from the company’s success, promoting collaboration and fairness.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

Kabir Mulchandani’s recognition at #1623 in the Forbes World Billionaire List 2024, #20 in the Forbes Middle East’s Richest Billionaire’s List 2024, Forbes Middle East’s prestigious Top 100 Travel and Tourism Leaders list at #11 in 2024 and #16 in 2025, Forbes Middle East’s Most Impactful Real Estate Developers 2024 and 2025, and Forbes Middle East’s Sustainability Leaders List in the Travel and Tourism Sector at #9 in 2024 and 2023, underscores his significant presence as an influential and innovative figure in the industry.

Mulchandani’s leadership has been further acknowledged across prestigious power lists from #2 on Arabian Business Indian Aces 2025 in the Change Makers category, #14 on Arabian Business Dubai 100 List in 2025, #29 in Construction Weeks’ Top 100 GCC Developers in 2025, #10 in Construction Weeks’ Power 150 Top Developers in the Middle East List 2024, #8 in Arabian Business Dubai’s 100 Distinguished Individuals List 2024 to #31 in Arabian Business 100 Most Inspiring Leaders List 2024 and Arabian Business Indian Aces Power List 2024. In 2024, Mulchandani also earned recognition in Gulf Business’ Most Influential Indians in the Region 2024: Icons of Influence List and Hotelier Middle East’s Hospitality Developers Power 11 List 2024.

Most notably, he was honoured with Diario de Ibiza’s Business Career Award 2024, in celebration of The Pacha Group’s cultural and economic impact on the White Isle.

Mulchandani’s Arabian Business’ Indian Power List 2021 cover highlights his swift ascent as one of the GCC’s most visionary lead.

IN THE PRESS

A charismatic leader and pioneering entrepreneur, Kabir Mulchandani has graced top-tier worldwide press from Bloomberg, Forbes, CNN, BBC, CNBC, Arabian Business, Construction Week, CEO Middle East, and more.

FIVE’s diverse array of accolades include the following – FIVE Zurich holds an 8.6/10 rating in the Swiss Location Awards. Cinque has been celebrated by Gault&Millau 2023 -2025, the MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2024-2025, and Gambero Rosso 2023 – 2024, Ronin was awarded “Opening of the Year” and earned a coveted spot in the MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2025, is recognized by Gault&Millau 2025, Playa Pacha Pool and Beach Club won top honours at TimeOut Dubai Nightlife Awards 2024 and BBC Good Food Awards 2024, Paradiso Dubai is lauded by TimeOut Dubai Nightlife Awards and FACT Dining Awards 2024, Goose Island Tap House is the most awarded pub in Dubai as highlighted by What’s On Dubai and Time Out Dubai till date, while The Penthouse Dubai is DJ Mag’s #1 Nightclub in the Middle East in 2023 – 2025.

ZAYA GROUP

Nadia Zaal’s role was pivotal in the development of Zaya Nurai Island. Her undying passion for sustainability is evidently reflected in Zaya’s inaugural project in Abu Dhabi. The island had the region’s first floating solar plant in the sea, generating 30 percent of the power for the island. Zaal’s mission to create sustainability in the luxury real estate world was further extended through the introduction of public solar lighting throughout the island as well as transportation solely via use of electric buggies. Moreover, the novel and visionary ‘green carpet’ concept also ensures that Nurai is designed to appear as a ‘virgin’ island with minimal concrete views across the panorama of the landscape.

AL BARARI

Nadia Zaal was the driving force behind the Al Barari project, a first mixed-use development to target the premium segment of the real estate market while still focusing on the concepts of sustainability and eco-conservation. With Al Barari, Zaal created the lowest-density lush microclimate community in the region which was conceptualised keeping greening practices in mind and encouraging strong social interactions with ample community space, specially for children. Al Barari also recycles all its grey water and green waste to use for composting.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

A ‘hands-on’ entrepreneur and developer, Nadia is the recipient of the Women in Leadership Achievement in Dubai and The Arab Woman Award for Business. Her extensive experience in project development, structuring and funding has won her monikers such as Most Influential Women in the Middle East by Arabian Business, One of the Top 50 Travel and Tourism Leaders and one of the Forbes Middle East’s  Top 100 Most Powerful Women in the Middle East.

Under his leadership, FIVE Hotels and Resorts has welcomed over 7.6 million guests from 179 countries across its diverse portfolio, including three UAE hotels —FIVE Palm Jumeirah, FIVE Jumeirah Village, FIVE LUXE—along with FIVE Zurich in Switzerland, Destino Five Ibiza and Pacha Hotel in Spain, Pacha Ibiza nightclub, FIVE MODE and The Pacha Collection Fashion Lines; and a range of assets including Toy Room Clubs, and WooMoon Storytellers (Globally). The Group also encompasses a private record label, FIVE Music and FIVE Music Studio, located at The Penthouse Dubai.

FIVE Holdings delivered outstanding Q2 2025 financial performance, driven by exceptional high-double-digit hospitality growth. For the three-month period ended 30 June 2025, revenue soared to AED 597 million (+9%) with EBITDA up 13%, as Hospitality delivers AED 548 million in revenue (+22%) and an EBITDA jump to AED 207m (+31%), reflecting the Company’s successful strategy in expanding its operations and strengthening market positioning.

BUILDING A PROFITABLE ‘VIBE AT FIVE’

FIVE Holdings is globally renowned for its iconic lifestyle destinations, experiential dining and entertainment. Batra has successfully created the ‘Vibe at FIVE,’ combining venues and nightlife under one roof, resulting in lower costs and higher profitability. With over 30 venues hosting daily events, FIVE Hotels and Resorts’ signature IPs such as Maiden Shanghai Naughty Noodles, Bohemia Presents and Bohemia Chill at Beach by FIVE, The Penthouse Presents and Pacha ICONS at Playa Pacha, FIVE LUXE, feature top artists such as Lost Frequencies, Robin Schulz, Keinemusik duo Adam Port and Rampa, Joseph Capriati, Marco Carola, Blond:ish, Black Coffee, Rampa, Mochakk, ANOTR and many more.

DIGITAL DOMINATION

Batra’s digital expertise has built a highly engaged online community of over 1.7 million followers, driving over 547 million views for FIVE Holdings’ and The Pacha Group’s hashtags on TikTok in 2024. FIVE’s experiences, tailoured for Millennials and Gen Z, are rich in Instagrammable Moments, amplifying brand visibility through powerful, user-generated content.

Consequently, FIVE is 410% more searched than other UAE luxury hotel brands, while The Pacha Group is 190% more searched than comparable entertainment brands.

With FIVE Holdings’ emphasis on digital innovation, which accounts for 50% of bookings through its proprietary website and reservations teams, FIVE Jumeirah Village emerges as the most reviewed hotel on Booking.com, boasting over 35,795 reviews and an impressive 9.1/10 rating. Similarly, FIVE Palm Jumeirah achieved a stellar rating of 9.2/10 and FIVE LUXE has a 9.4/10 rating on Booking.com.

FUN DINING POWERHOUSE

Batra is the visionary behind successful homegrown concepts, including Dubai’s iconic rooftop venue, The Penthouse Dubai voted DJ Mag’s #1 Nightclub in the Middle East 2023 – 2025. He also created Cinque, recognized by MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2024-2025, Gambero Rosso 2023-2024, and Gault&Millau 2023 – 2025; Maiden Shanghai, an MSG-free gourmet Chinese experience is highly commended by What’s On Dubai Nightlife Awards 2021-2024, awarded by FACT Dining Awards 2022 and BBC Good Food Middle East Awards 2022; the immersive street-food destination, Soul St.; and Trattoria by Cinque. Batra introduced Dubai’s most awarded Goose Island Tap House, acknowledged by Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2023-2024, Time Out Dubai Nightlife Awards 2021 – 2024, What’s On Dubai Nightlife Awards 2022-2024, and FACT Dining Awards 2023; and irezumi-inspired Japanese restaurant Ronin was awarded “Opening of the Year” and earned a coveted spot in the MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2025, is recognized by Gault&Millau 2025 and BBC Good Food Middle East Awards 2024.

Notably, in 2024, the Time Out Dubai Nightlife Awards 2024 bestowed top awards to Playa Pacha Pool and Beach Club and Paradiso Dubai, cementing their position in Dubai’s nightlife scene within a short span of time.

Expanding his success to FIVE Zurich, he brought Cinque Studio, Soul St., and The Penthouse, a finalist for the Swiss Bar Awards 2024’s Best Hotel Bar.

FIVE MUSIC INNOVATOR

Boasting over 30 weekly, high-energy entertainment events across 30 venues in Dubai and Zurich, Batra led the creation of private record label, FIVE Music and state-of-the-art FIVE Music Studio, to bring the inimitable ‘Sound of FIVE’ to a global music-loving community through creative artist collaborations, exclusive music releases, signature events such as Bohemia Presents and Bohemia Chill at Beach by FIVE, The Penthouse Presents, Pacha ICONS at Playa Pacha and more.

FLY HIGH, FLY FIVE

An extension of famed ‘Vibe at FIVE’, Fly FIVE perfectly embodies FIVE Hotels and Resorts’ ethos of immersive entertainment and luxury service with this one-of-a-kind private jet experience, featuring 16 seats, a dining area, a luxurious suite and shower, in-flight entertainment, fully serviced, curated menu of culinary highlights.

GOING GLOBAL

In October 2023, FIVE Holdings acquired legendary Spanish nightlife brand, The Pacha Group in a landmark deal with Batra taking on the mantle of CEO, The Pacha Group. With this acquisition, that includes a range of assets from the Pacha Nightclub, Destino Five Ibiza, Pacha Hotel, Toy Room Clubs, and WooMoon Storytellers, FIVE Holdings’ vision and commitment to fuse world-class hospitality with sensational, cutting-edge entertainment experiences continues to expand worldwide.

LINKEDIN THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

With over 48,685 engaged LinkedIn followers, Batra openly shares his journey of building a successful, trailblazing hospitality brand. For YTD ending 31 December 2024, Batra’s content garnered over 1,589,997 impressions, successfully positioning him as an industry expert who is also relatable, friendly, and always open to fresh perspectives – a persona that mirrors his charismatic real-life presence.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

Batra is recognised as one of the Forbes Middle East Top 100 CEOs for 2022-2024, Gulf Business’ Top 30 Most Influential CEOs in MENA 2025, Arabian Business Indian Aces 2023-2025 in the Change Makers category, #44 in Arabian Business Dubai 100 List 2024, #57 in Arabian Business 100 Most Inspiring Leaders 2024, and was awarded CEO of the Year – Hospitality 2023 by CEO Middle East. His relentless efforts to integrate sustainability and technology into the business enabled FIVE Holdings to be recognised as one of the Most Innovative Companies of The Year in 2022 (the only Hospitality Group included in the Annual List) by Fast Company Middle East.

Batra’s unwavering commitment and marketing prowess has earned FIVE Holdings prestigious recognition, including Hospitality Company of the Year at the Gulf Business Awards 2025, ranking #15 in Fast Company Middle East’s 2024 Most Innovative Companies of the Year in the Travel and Tourism category, winning the MIT Sloan Management Review Middle East 2024 Customer Centricity Award in Travel and Hospitality, and securing the #25 rank on Arabian Business’ 2024 Most Admired Companies List.

Building on this momentum, FIVE LUXE and FIVE Palm Jumeirah have earned the Forbes Travel Guide’s Responsible Hospitality Badge Verification in 2025, FIVE Palm Jumeirah and FIVE Jumeirah Village received the prestigious Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism’s Sustainability Tourism Stamp and FIVE LUXE was nominated in the Design ME 2024 Awards for both, Hospitality Project of the Year and Sustainability Project of the Year, and Ronin at FIVE LUXE is celebrated as a nominee for Commercial Interior Design Awards 2024 Interior Design of the Year (F&B High End).

AWARD-WINNING WORKPLACE CULTURE

Acknowledged as a Great Place to Work, FIVE Hotels and Resorts ranked #13 on the Best Workplaces in the UAE ‘Large Category’ 2025, and in 2024, it ranked #12 for Best Workplaces for Hospitality in GCC, #13 in the Best Workplaces for Millennials ‘Large Category’, #8 in the Best Workplaces ‘Large Category in the UAE’ and #16 in the Best Workplaces ‘Large Category in the Middle East’. Additionally, FIVE Hotels and Resorts also earned a prestigious spot in Fast Company Middle East’s Best Workplaces for Women in the Middle East 2024 list, distinguishing itself as the only hospitality group.

The company’s distinction as a large-sized organization is evident, ranking #97 in the Great Place to Work Best Workplaces in Asia 2025. Additionally, FIVE Hotels and Resorts stood #6 for the Happiest Employees in the Region (ahead of Coca Cola and Deloitte) and #3 in UAE’s Workplace for Women in 2021.

FIVE boasts a diverse array of accolades – FIVE Palm Jumeirah is Condé Nast Traveller Middle East’s Favourite Beach Hotel and FIVE Zurich boasts an 8.6/10 in the Swiss Location Awards. Cinque is celebrated by MICHELIN Guide Dubai and Gault&Millau; Goose Island Tap House has been feted by What’s On Dubai and Time Out Dubai; The Penthouse Dubai is DJ Mag’s #1 Nightclub in the Middle East and the ultra-luxurious ReFIVE Spa has also been widely celebrated. Forbes ME, CEO ME and Hotelier ME on the other hand, have commended FIVE Holdings’ Leadership endeavours.

IN THE PRESS

Batra has featured in reputed press tiles from Forbes Middle East, Billboard, Numero, CEO Middle East to Entrepreneur Middle East, Arabian Business, Hotelier Middle East and more.

Likewise, FIVE continues to dominate the spotlight — consistently grabbing headlines globally. From publications in the Middle East to international ones that include Vogue, Vanity Fair, Condé Nast Traveller, Esquire, GQ, Rolling Stone, Billboard, Grazia, Cosmopolitan and Nylon to Bloomberg, Forbes, Robb Report, Business Insider, Business Traveller, The National, Gulf News and Gulf Business. Condé Nast Traveller Middle East extolled FIVE Palm Jumeirah’s entertainment ecosystem, Cinque stood out with Harper’s Bazaar Arabia and Cosmopolitan Middle East, while Rolling Stone India was impressed by FIVE’s music-driven experientials. ReFIVE Spa across all FIVE destinations have been applauded by Vogue Arabia, Emirates Woman and Cosmopolitan Middle East.

Batra completed his education at The Cathedral and John Connon School before earning a Bachelor’s Degree in International Business from Sydenham College, Mumbai. Originally from Mumbai, India, Batra now resides in Dubai, UAE with his wife and three children.

With over two decades of experience in the design, development, and delivery of mixed-use projects across the GCC, North Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, Akiki has mastered the art of execution-led real estate leadership. A first-class architecture graduate, he earned a first-class degree from INBA in Beirut, graduating top of his class amongst all architecture universities. He later received a Master’s in Architecture from the prestigious École Spéciale d’Architecture in Paris on a special scholarship, graduating Major De Promotion. His early portfolio from hospitals, commercial complexes, residential developments, to luxury hospitality projects, shaped the executional intensity and design precision that define his leadership today.
Since 2012, Akiki has spearheaded every FIVE Holdings development, overseeing the end-to-end lifecycle from feasibility to handover. His relentless focus on detail, pace, and functional excellence has resulted in a portfolio of architecturally iconic, commercially high-yielding assets that consistently outperform market expectations.

A BUILT LEGACY THAT PERFORMS

FIVE Palm Jumeirah
Akiki’s blueprint for FIVE’s development strategy began with FIVE Palm Jumeirah. Completed in 2016, this architectural icon redefined beachfront living through a bold, cascading amphitheatre structure that seamlessly connects every guest to the ‘Vibe at FIVE’.

Akiki, along with FIVE’s leadership team, led the architectural concept, designing a cascading, amphitheatre-style structure that ensures every guest, whether in a hotel room or a branded residence, remains visually connected to the energy of the central pool deck. Situated on a coveted beachfront plot on the Palm Jumeirah, the development was designed to create an immersive guest experience that extends beyond traditional hospitality.

“When you step into the lobby, you are still outside. You see the pool, you see the vibe. That openness is not incidental — it’s designed into the experience,” Akiki explains. His philosophy of spatial transparency transforms outdoor terraces into high-value, revenue-generating extensions of the guest journey, reshaping how luxury assets are designed for performance.

The form and function of the building work in tandem. Guests in upper-level residences become part of the scene below, visually connected to the energy and atmosphere, while enjoying the privacy and exclusivity of their own terrace. This architectural interplay created a unique social dynamic that has become synonymous with FIVE’s brand identity: a place where guests are part of the vibe, even when celebrating in their own space.

FIVE Jumeirah Village
In 2019, Akiki scaled this philosophy vertically with FIVE Jumeirah Village. His globally patented corkscrew tower design, registered in 168 countries, created 501 ‘Villas in the Sky,’ each with private terraces and pools that spiral around the building’s central core. Built to amplify collective energy, the tower embodies FIVE’s immersive experience ethos. Outdoor areas feature sun loungers, green spaces and outdoor seating as integral extensions of the living space. The architectural design of Jumeirah Village enables a fluid lifestyle for guests who seek to celebrate, socialise, and experience luxury on their own terms, whether in the communal buzz of the pool deck or within private terraces.

This blend of privacy and connection is a defining characteristic of the FIVE experience, and a key factor in the property’s enduring success. In 2024, FIVE Jumeirah Village became the most-reviewed hotel in the world on Booking.com, a testament to how architectural design, when aligned with guest behaviour, drives both exceptional guest satisfaction and outstanding commercial performance.

FIVE Zurich
In 2020, Akiki spearheaded FIVE’s first European expansion with FIVE Zurich. Tasked with transforming a protected heritage building into a lifestyle destination, he delivered a meticulous retrofit that preserved architectural integrity while infusing FIVE’s experiential DNA.

Akiki, along with FIVE’s leadership team and specialists designers, led a strategic, design-led retrofit, retaining the original façade and structure while completely reimagining the building’s interiors. Every surface, system, and layout was upgraded to meet FIVE’s operational standards, introducing the Group’s signature venues, including The Penthouse and Cinque Studio, into the heart of Zurich’s hospitality scene.

The existing terraces were optimised and reconnected to the Uetliberg mountain and Zurich skyline, allowing guests to enjoy uninterrupted views that celebrate the hotel’s hilltop phenomenal setting. Akiki also directed the revitalisation of the property’s outdoor deck, transforming it into Zurich’s only 5-star outdoor pool experience. Framed by forest views, The Social Pool is a dynamic lifestyle hub designed for day-to-night interaction. The expansive 25-metre pool, complete with jacuzzi, sunbeds, lounges, and a poolside bar, serves as the backdrop for Zurich’s most sought-after summer events. It’s an entertainment deck that aligns with FIVE’s immersive guest experience philosophy, curating energy, social connection, and exclusivity.

Further enhancing the property’s appeal is the newly constructed East Wing, a modern addition that seamlessly blends into the hotel’s architectural language. Housing 62 “Amazing Rooms”, the East Wing was designed with lifestyle and functionality in mind, offering guests flexible spaces for work, relaxation, and social interaction. A sensorial tunnel connects the East Wing to the main building through an immersive light installation.

Since its reopening in mid-2022, the property has steadily built a reputation for its luxuriously expressive architecture, bold attitude to guest comfort, and innovative approach to food and entertainment. Akiki’s design leadership is a masterclass in blending heritage preservation with bold, contemporary guest experiences.

LEADING FIVE’S EXPANSION FROM DUBAI TO SPAIN

Akiki’s architectural skills and operational control, along with FIVE leadership team’s vision have been pivotal in scaling FIVE’s ‘Global Entertainment Ecosystem’ into Spain. This journey began in 2023 when FIVE Holdings acquired The Pacha Group, one of Spain’s most iconic nightlife and hospitality brands, a move that added legendary assets like Destino Pacha Hotel Ibiza and Pacha Ibiza nightclub to the Group’s portfolio. Akiki led the transformational redesign of Destino Pacha Hotel Ibiza, reopening it as Destino Five Ibiza in June 2025. Retaining the property’s lush garden-like footprint, he introduced a new spatial rhythm, seamlessly blending private terraces with expansive communal areas to cultivate an atmosphere of social energy and immersive luxury.

FIVE’s design philosophy, rooted in local authenticity and elevated through meticulous execution, has created a destination that resonates with both global travellers and the island’s cultural heritage. “The design is inspired by Ibizan-style, which is very clean, very subtle, very white, but at the same time it is not perfectionist,” Akiki explains. Interiors were updated with clean-lined finishes, textured micro-cement, and subtly distressed surfaces, drawing from traditional Ibiza styles while elevating their execution. As Ibiza’s most glamorous outdoor entertainment destination, it exemplifies how FIVE is creating high-performance lifestyle assets that are deeply rooted in their cultural context.

Expanding on this foundation, Akiki is now leading the development of Casa Pacha Residences, a new collection of branded residences that will extend FIVE’s immersive living experience into the residential segment. Casa Pacha Residences will offer high-end beachfront living that celebrates community, connection, and cultural authenticity, while meeting the performance standards of a globally recognised lifestyle brand.

DEVELOPMENT, DELIVERY AND EXECUTION

At FIVE Holdings, development is viewed as an integrated, performance-driven discipline. Under Akiki’s execution-first leadership style, every project is managed as a closed-loop system where design, budgeting, procurement, and execution are aligned under a single, accountable structure. This in-house model eliminates the inefficiencies of fragmented consultancy frameworks, ensuring greater control over pace, cost, and quality.

With a focus on executional excellence, Akiki leads each development with precision and consistency. From feasibility studies to site delivery, his approach is built around clear workflows, agile decision-making, and continuous oversight. This operational structure has enabled FIVE to consistently deliver complex assets ahead of schedule, within budget, and at a level that exceeds both investor expectations and design intent.

Akiki’s leadership style is hands-on and solution-oriented, addressing challenges in real time and streamlining processes to maintain momentum. His belief is simple: when decisions are made at the point of action, timelines are protected, and outcomes are optimised. It’s a principle that underpins FIVE’s reputation for fast-track, high-performance development.

THE ARCHITECTURAL DNA THAT DIFFERENTIATES FIVE

FIVE Holdings’ success is built on creating spaces that don’t just look impressive, they perform. Design is approached as a strategic function of value creation, where every architectural decision is engineered to enhance guest experience, operational efficiency, and long-term asset performance.

At the core of Akiki’s design philosophy is spatial intelligence, crafting environments where every square foot is activated for guest experience and commercial value. Whether it’s a cascading terrace at FIVE Palm Jumeirah, a spiralling villa-in-the-sky at FIVE Jumeirah Village, or the seamless indoor-outdoor transitions at Destino Five Ibiza, every development is engineered to maximise flow, connectivity, and energy.

Central to this is the belief that outdoor environments hold equal value to interiors. Akiki has consistently redefined the role of terraces, balconies, and communal areas as vital extensions of the guest journey and revenue-generating assets. Akiki’s holistic approach, where design, development, and operational requirements are aligned from day one, has been instrumental in FIVE’s ability to deliver immersive, high-performing lifestyle destinations that dominate the market.

SUSTAINABILITY BY DESIGN

Long before sustainability became a commercial imperative, FIVE leadership team has been a pioneering force in embedding ESG leadership into FIVE Holdings’ development DNA. Today, all FIVE’s properties in Dubai, Zurich and Ibiza are LEED Platinum certified or targeting LEED Gold or Higher Certification. The group boasts over 1,550 LEED Platinum hotel keys compared to less than 300 in the USA under the latest LEEDv4 standard. Akiki’s architectural and development vision ensures sustainability is integrated into every contract, construction methodology, and operational system.

This approach dates back to the design and development of FIVE Palm Jumeirah in 2014 which was developed to LEED Platinum standards, ensuring that sustainability was built into the system. This philosophy has since been implemented across all FIVE developments, as a company strategy, with on-site wastewater treatment, energy-efficient HVAC systems, solar power integration, and circular material sourcing now part of the Group’s default specification. Akiki’s prowess in harmonizing luxury development models with cutting-edge green building performance has defined the Group’s pioneering Global Sustainable Entertainment Ecosystem. FIVE LUXE holds the world’s highest 5 Star LEED Platinum rating under LEEDv4 (BD+C) at 89 points. In 2025, Pacha Hotel became Ibiza’s first and only LEED Platinum certified hotel, demonstrating Akiki’s ability to scale FIVE’s global model and champion Balearic Net Zero ambitions, and in October 2025, Pacha Ibiza nightclub achieved a groundbreaking milestone as the world’s first and only LEED Platinum-certified nightclub, earning an impressive 81 points. 

The impact of this strategy is quantifiable. In just five years, FIVE Holdings became the world’s first company to receive an ‘A’ rating for ESG by ISS, out of more than 7,000 companies assessed globally. The Group holds six ISO certifications, including ISO 50001 (Energy Management System), making FIVE the only five-star hotel group in the UAE to achieve this distinction. In 2025, FIVE Palm Jumeirah and FIVE Jumeirah Village were awarded the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Gold Stamp, placing them in the top 1% of Dubai’s hotels for sustainability excellence. FIVE Palm Jumeirah and FIVE Jumeirah Village also hold Dubai Land Department’s Highest Sustainability Rating of 4 Star Plus. Destino Five Ibiza recorded a 24% water reduction during the 2024 season thanks to Akiki’s innovative approach to recycling water and optimizing consumption, playing a vital role in sustaining Ibiza’s groundwater reserves. Today, the Pacha Group and all FIVE Hotels and Resorts in Dubai and Zurich run on 100% green electricity. From 65% reduction in carbon footprint in Dubai in 2024 to the Pacha Group’s 15% reduction in emissions, Akiki’s ability to align luxury design with ESG performance has transformed the industry and continues to set new benchmarks.

Beyond certifications, FIVE’s sustainability commitment is now driving the Group’s next evolution, Net Zero Luxury Living. Building on the copyrighted architectural framework of FIVE Jumeirah Village, where a spiralling corkscrew façade integrates 35,000 sq. m of solar technology and over 30,000 sq ft of greenery, generating net positive power to the grid and facilitating air purification, natural ventilation, and daylight optimisation, FIVE’s Net Zero Tower, will constitute a next-generation prototype for sustainable high-rise living.

ON-THE-GROUND LEADERSHIP APPROACH

At the centre of FIVE’s development model that prioritises direct oversight and agile decision-making is Akiki, whose leadership approach is defined by an acute understanding of how strategic vision translates into operational execution.

His involvement extends across every phase of a project’s lifecycle, from feasibility assessments and design coordination to procurement, site supervision, and final delivery. By remaining actively engaged on-site, he eliminates the inefficiencies and delays that often accompany multi-layered consultant-driven structures.

His philosophy prioritises development decisions being made at the point of action. Whether it’s a design conflict, a contractor query, or a procurement challenge, Akiki believes that issues are best resolved in real-time, with clarity and accountability. “If the action is on site, I’m there,” he says. “When decisions can be made on the spot, you protect timelines and maintain momentum.”

This proximity accelerates execution and enables a continuous feedback loop, where insights from team members, operational leaders, and frontline staff are incorporated into design refinements and construction adjustments, ensuring that every asset is optimised for functionality and guest experience.

Akiki’s leadership is not defined by high-level oversight alone. Every design element is assessed for usability, every build decision is weighed against practical outcome. This meticulous approach ensures that each FIVE development is not only architecturally distinctive but also operationally seamless. His ability to compress timelines, enhance quality control, and optimise cost structures has been a critical factor in FIVE Holdings’ success as a high-performance lifestyle developer.

INDUSTRY AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

Few development leaders can match Akiki’s track record of delivering award-winning, market-dominating assets. His patented design for FIVE Jumeirah Village earned the MIPIM Future Project Award (2016) and the CTBUH Best Tall Building Award (2021). He was ranked #30 on Design Middle East’s Architects Power List (2022).

Under his contribution to FIVE’s leadership, FIVE Holdings has consistently earned top honours across Europe and the Middle East. In 2025, FIVE Palm Jumeirah and FIVE Jumeirah Village were awarded the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Gold Stamp, placing them in the top tier of Dubai’s sustainability leaders. FIVE LUXE secured top honours at the Arabian Property Awards 2025 as Leisure Development Dubai winner, and dominated at the MEED Projects Awards, earning the title of Hotel Project of the Year (UAE National Winner).

FIVE Holdings ranked #29 on Construction Week’s list of Top GCC Real Estate Developers 2025 and won the Innovations that Foster Sustainability category at the Global ESG Awards 2024. Projects under Akiki’s leadership have been recognised across Europe and the Middle East. FIVE Palm Jumeirah was named the Best Large Luxury Hotel in Dubai, Best Large Luxury Hotel in Arabia, and Best International Large Luxury Hotel at the International Property Awards Africa and Arabia 2024. In 2023, the International Property Awards Africa and Arabia named FIVE LUXE and FIVE Palm Jumeirah winners in the Best Leisure Development in Dubai and Best Large Luxury Hotel in the world, respectively.

Yet, Akiki’s impact is best measured in real-world performance. His developments have set new records in guest reviews, occupancy rates, and asset value growth. FIVE Jumeirah Village is the most-reviewed hotel in the world on Booking.com, boasting over 35,795 reviews and an impressive 9.1/10 rating. Similarly, FIVE Palm Jumeirah achieved a stellar rating of 9.2/10 and FIVE LUXE has a 9.4/10 rating on Booking.com.

FIVE Holdings delivered exceptional Q1 2025 Financial Results, reporting a 40% increase in overall revenue and 41% EBITDA growth for the three-month period ended 31st March 2025, reflecting the Company’s successful strategy in expanding its operations and strengthening market positioning. Total revenue reached AED 496 million with an EBITDA of AED 176 million. Hospitality contributed AED 322 million in revenue, marking a 24% year-on-year increase, and generated AED 112 million in EBITDA. Meanwhile, the real estate segment reported AED 174 million in revenue and AED 74 million in EBITDA, demonstrating balanced growth across both core business verticals.

It’s Akiki’s unique ability to compress timelines, eliminate inefficiencies, and build assets that are operationally seamless and commercially formidable that drives FIVE Development performance. His projects are built to lead in the market, deliver returns, and contribute to FIVE Holdings’ global success.

As Co-Founder, Chief Development Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer for FIVE Holdings, Jaydeep Anand drives the group’s goal congruence of cost saving and carbon footprint reduction. The unrelenting stalwart of FIVE’s Journey of Excellence, Anand instills in the Group’s 3,000+ colleagues a learn-it-all spirit that constantly aims to deliver product and service better, faster and cheaper in pursuit of ESG and EBITDA alignment. Uniquely positioned as an Ivy League MBA (Johnson School, Cornell 2006) powered by engineering expertise (Computer Engineering, University of Pune), Anand embraces the many hats required to not only develop but operate FIVE’s Global Sustainable Entertainment Ecosystem.

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

A champion of the UAE’s visionary leadership in sustainability, Anand is a proven Green Building developer, leading FIVE to become the first and only 100% LEED Platinum Hotel Group (Dubai and Zurich). Highlights include FIVE Zurich representing Switzerland’s first LEED Platinum certified hotel and FIVE LUXE holding the world’s highest 5 Star LEED Platinum rating under LEEDv4 (BD+C) at 89 points. In July 2025, Pacha Hotel broke ground as Ibiza’s first and only LEED Platinum certified hotel on the road to scaling FIVE’s LEED Commitments across The Pacha Group, and in October 2025, Pacha Ibiza nightclub achieved a groundbreaking milestone as the world’s first and only LEED Platinum-certified nightclub, earning an impressive 81 points. 

Securing the only UAE hotel agreement with DEWA to source 100% Solar power for his 3 Dubai hotels reflects Anand’s commitment to carbon reduction and Dubai’s D33 vision under Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. In just five years, Anand led FIVE to become the world’s first ESG A rated company in the world by ISS, out of 7000+ companies. Committed to excellence, Anand has led his teams to earn six ISO’s, including ISO 50001 (Energy Management System) of which FIVE Holdings is the only 5-star hotel in the UAE to hold. In 2025, under Anand’s leadership, FIVE Palm Jumeirah and FIVE Jumeirah Village earned the highest Gold Stamp Award from Dubai Sustainable Tourism, placing in the top 1% of Dubai’s hotels for sustainability excellence.

In 2023, Jay Anand as Group CFO (2020-2024) led the successful over-subscription of FIVE Holdings’ debut USD 350 million Green Bond listed on Nasdaq Dubai. This green financial achievement underlines FIVE Holdings’ steadfast commitment to sustainable finance and its consistent leadership in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices.

DRIVING OPERATIONAL SUCCESS

Globally, Anand oversees more than 3,000 employees from 80+ nationalities, managing 1,700+ keys across the Group. His focus on driving top and bottom-line growth, while improving operational efficiency has led to a 65% reduction in Carbon Use Intensity, 45% reduction in Water Per Capita, and 44% reduction in Waste Per Capita (FIVE Palm Jumeirah and FIVE Jumeirah Village Hotels 2024 vs 2020 baseline). Key highlights include 23,672 metric tons of CO2 avoided in 2024 alone, 590,000 kg material recycled, and 2.3 million plastic bottles eliminated per year through glass bottling. Undertaking a Hotel Carbon Footprint Benchmarking exercise with global leader Greenview and CHSB, FIVE Hotels and Resorts reported Carbon Footprints 600% lower than the average UAE Luxury Resort and 300% lower than the average luxury hotel in the USA (CHSB 2024).

The completion of FIVE LUXE earned the Group its highest LEED Platinum score to date, at 89 points for Building Design and Construction (BD+C), positioning it as the highest-rated 5-star hotel globally for LEED v4 BD+C. Adding to the portfolio, SENSORIA, a luxurious residential tower with a 2,800 sqm ONYX Solar Facade generating 300 kW through 3,100 photovoltaic panels, reflects the Group’s commitment to ‘Sustainable Indulgence’ and is set to join the LEED Platinum ecosystem with 86 applied credits. Its Green Chiller Network recycles over 100 million liters of water annually, saving 450,000 liters daily, while its steel structure reduces embodied carbon by 36% compared to conventional concrete, enhancing energy efficiency through smart systems and IoT-integrated Building Management Systems.

PACHA’S SUSTAINABILITY AMBITIONS

In line with FIVE Holdings’ Green Finance Framework, Anand has registered The Pacha Group’s assets with the US Green Building Council, which are on track to achieve LEED Gold or Higher certification. In 2025, Pacha Hotel became Ibiza’s first and only LEED Platinum certified hotel, demonstrating Anand’s executional prowess in scaling FIVE’s global sustainable entertainment ecosystem model and championing Balearic Net Zero ambitions. In October 2025, Pacha Ibiza nightclub achieved a groundbreaking milestone as the world’s first and only LEED Platinum-certified nightclub, earning an impressive 81 points. The group boasts over 1,550 LEED Platinum hotel keys compared to less than 300 in the USA under the latest LEEDv4 standard.

In 2024, The Pacha Group secured a 100% green power contract for its properties and locked in a 15% reduction in carbon footprint from 2023 levels. Destino Five Ibiza activated innovative water reduction and recycling measures, saving 24% in water use during the 2024 season compared to 2023. With 86% of its fruits and vegetables sourced from Spain, 40% of which come from Ibiza directly in 2024, The Pacha Group pursues sustainability across its ecosystem of operations, thanks to Anand’s unyielding ambition on the journey of excellence. The Pacha Group’s Net Zero strategies and water-saving measures accelerate the Balearic Government’s environmental goals and provide a playground of innovation for deploying some of the most sustainable hotels and nightclubs in the world.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

Anand’s influential role is acknowledged by Forbes Magazine for his pioneering leadership unlocking competitive advantages in luxury hospitality through his eco-tech approach. He is listed in Hotelier Middle East’s Executive Power List 2024, 2023 and 2022, where he stands amongst the top leaders shaping the hospitality landscape in the Middle East. A trailblazer of technology and sustainability within real estate and hospitality, FIVE Holdings was also recognised as one of the Most Innovative Companies of The Year in 2022 (the only Hospitality Group included in the Annual List) by Fast Company Middle East.

Kundu’s responsibilities span all of FIVE Hospitality, including three UAE hotels—FIVE Palm Jumeirah, FIVE Jumeirah Village, and FIVE LUXE—as well as FIVE Zurich in Switzerland, FIVE MODE, and the music label FIVE MUSIC. Additionally, he oversees The Pacha Group, which includes Destino Five Ibiza, El Hotel Pacha, Pacha Ibiza Nightclub, Toy Room Clubs, WooMoon Storytellers, and the fashion line, The Pacha Collection.

As a seasoned global leader, Kundu boasts an unparalleled breadth of expertise in cross-border finance, taxation, risk management, digital transformation, process improvement, restructuring, deal-making, international law, auditing, and cybersecurity.

With an MBA in Finance and an LLB from the University of London, Kundu also holds professional qualifications such as FCA (India), CISA (US), CFE (US), and DISA (India).

This extensive educational foundation fuels his commitment to excellence in regulatory compliance, process optimisation, and financial and tax restructuring.

STRATEGIC FINANCIAL LEADERSHIP

Drawing on his extensive experience in key positions, including Group Chief Financial Officer, Chief Risk Officer, Executive Director, and ESG custodian, Kundu leverages his expertise in digitalisation and financial management to contribute significantly to the success of FIVE Holdings.

In his previous roles, Kundu has led numerous digitisation initiatives, including the establishment of an award-winning Centre of Excellence that leverages advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, and robotics. He has also designed a comprehensive blockchain framework tailored for diverse applications within the hospitality sector. Furthermore, he led the development of a fully automated online audit infrastructure, featuring remote data access and sophisticated data analytics capabilities.

Kundu also spearheaded strategic expansion into new asset classes and diverse mixed-use projects—including hotels, resorts, residential, commercial, co-working, and lifestyle-oriented developments—through successful M&A deals and resolving JV disputes.

Demonstrating his exceptional leadership during challenging times, he navigated the company through the Covid-19 crisis by leading an oversubscribed equity fundraising in August 2020 and executing extensive debt restructuring amidst the pandemic.His leadership in leveraging advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, robotics, and blockchain aligns perfectly with the Group’s vision for digital innovation.

BUILDING A PROFITABLE ECOSYSTEM

Kundu’s holistic approach to financial management is a cornerstone of FIVE Holdings’ ongoing success and resilience. By aligning with cutting-edge trends in transformation and efficiency, Kundu empowers the Group to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance overall productivity. His deep understanding of international markets and regulatory landscapes ensures FIVE Holdings not only remains compliant but also seizes opportunities aligned with business objectives.

Moreover, his focus on improving operational efficiency not only drives profitability but also supports sustainable business practices, propelling FIVE’s inimitable ‘Sustainable Indulgence’ ethos forward.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

Kundu has received numerous accolades, including being named India’s Impactful CXO by The Economic Times – ET Edge and winning the Best Practice award at the CII DX Awards in 2023. In 2024, he was recognised as a Visionary Leader by The Financial Express, named CA CFO 2024 by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, and earned a spot on the CFO 2024 Roll of Honour for Strategy Execution by CFO India.