Leadership series: Ryan Hattingh

We explore the people behind industry leadership through in-depth interviews in our CORE Leadership Series.

In this interview, we speak to Ryan Hattingh, Group CEO at Agon Capital.

He shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey, from building beach club and sports-and-F&B concepts to his upcoming opening in the Maldives and operations across 22 countries.

He talks about his approach to business as a constant deal maker, his “Dubai survival guide” of working hard and making meaningful connections, and the opportunities he sees in Dubai today. 

Ryan also reflects on resilience, leadership development during his time at Gaucho, his biggest business lessons, and what’s next on his global openings list.

Agon Capital are a family-owned investment and development group based in Dubai, UAE, focused mainly on lifestyle-led hospitality, real estate, sports and leisure assets across the Gulf region and beyond. They position themselves as hands-on investors, combining capital backing with operational involvement in experience-driven concepts and development projects.