Looking at life through clear lenses

Ahmed jaber, Managing director, al jaber optical centre from a small-scale enterprise run by my family to the large-scale unit it is today, Al Jaber Optical Centre is proof of Dubai's growth

I took over the optical business in 1995. Before that it was just a small part of the family business. Today, Al Jaber Optical Centre is a full-fledged organisation operating through 17 stores all over the UAE. And, all that I can say is, 'Thank you, Dubai.'

It is the vision of General Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Minister of Defence, that has helped Dubai and, in turn, my business to prosper.

Throughout the world, he is hailed as a true visionary who came up with the seemingly impossible venture of the Palm Islands and has many more ventures in the pipeline.

I strongly believe that all kinds of business ventures are faring very well (and still growing) in Dubai in spite of the highly competitive market.

The beginning
I have a degree in Business Management. My MBA, however, was completed through a hands-on approach while working with the Dubai market.

After that, I took a year out to study the family business and the market conditions. I always wanted to get into the optical business, so Al Jaber Optical Centre became my baby.

During the early years, Al Jaber Group housed the Ray-Ban brand, but it did not focus on opticals and related products as a dedicated business.

Al Jaber Optical Centre started out with just a few retail staff who worked very, very hard. I had to be prepared for the job responsibility that came with my position, so I attended several training sessions with various companies all over the world. Back then the two factors that were missing were quality products and good service. So, I decided to fill that vacuum.

My dream...
... is to have 30 Al Jaber Optical Centre outlets in Dubai alone. Today, we have 10 in Dubai. In the next five years, I aim to reach this goal and, if possible, go further. With Dubai growing so rapidly, more and more areas promise development.

We are the only UAE nationals in this business. We are not looking for a temporary, quick-buck business; instead, we are investing in good quality and service for a lasting reputation.

My family
Family life is very important to me. I was married in June 2000. My son, Faris, was born in June 2001 and my daughter, Futtaim, was born in June this year.

Growing up with a large family with five sisters and two brothers was a lot of fun. In Arabic culture, family tradition is held very dear. We have a special family day (every Wednesday). On this day, my siblings with their respective families, and my family, meet up at my parents' home.

It is such a happy day for my mother to have us all with her. For us, too, these occasions are a great oppurtunity for bonding. I feel so lucky to have such a good, large family and that they are all here in Dubai. My family has always been a constant source of moral support.

My lifestyle...
...has changed after marriage. Earlier, I travelled extensively for pleasure, now it is mostly business-related. In fact, since we have a new-born at home, we are not holidaying this year.
Diving and other water sports also used to be my favourite activities, but I don't engage in these as frequently now.

I am a certified deep-sea diver; I dive for pleasure or to hunt lobsters off the Arabian sea. These waters are good for diving and there are some amazing places off the coast.

You know, lobsters are tricky creatures - they hide behind the rocks when a diver approaches and the only thing that gives them away is their 'antenna' that sticks out! I once tried to tickle one of them - taking care not to have my fingers clamped upon - to make it come out of its hiding place! It was quite amusing!

Earlier, I also used to play soccer, but am now bowing down to age!

The people I admire
Shaikh Mohammad, and my father.

I admire Shaikh Mohammad for the able way he has managed Dubai. He has treated it like a company and as a director, he has made it a success.

I admire my father for the way he built his business - all on his own. He is a treasure trove of wisdom and has taught me about hard work and trust. Although, he is not actively involved in business now, I still feel good when I consult and heed his advice. He has a flair for art and still involves himself with the purchasing of handicrafts for Al Jaber Gallery.

My favourite quote
'The biggest risk is not to take the risk' - Shaikh Mohammad. I regret all the risks that I did not take earlier.

I believe...
... in being honest and being clear in what I say or do both with my family and in my business. And, I believe in giving customers genuine products.

Favourite places
If there's one place that I would want to visit again, it is the Maldives. It is so quiet and peaceful... It is almost as if I need it after my busy schedule in Dubai! Another place that I want to go to is New Zealand because I've met many wonderful people from there. Plus, the summers in that country are great. And, locally, Fujairah is the one place I love visiting time and again.

Favourite food
Indian cuisine, steaks and seafood (the local fish is excellent). My absolute favourite dish is lamb chops - cooked by me. The recipe is simple. Buy lamb chops, season with garlic powder, pepper and salt. Grill and serve. Delicious!