Life
The Lob’s co-founder on creating community, bad advice and why it’s important to live your passion…
Welcome to the Emirates Woman’s weekly series, ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
This week, spoke to Deepti Rupaney Taimni, co-founder of The Lob, Dubai’s pioneering new padel and wellness space. Set to open on Saturday April 19 in Al Quoz 3, The Lob is a multi-dimensional wellness space featuring six premium indoor padel courts, two multifunctional wellness studios, including one for reformer Pilates, plus an infrared sauna and cafe. It’s all designed oh-so-aesthetically with a Bali-meets-Tulum aesthetic.
Here, Deepti talks us through the concept, her biggest influences, and why The Lob is bringing something different to Dubai’s wellness scene.
I was always drawn to the world of art and design. My mother played a huge role in nurturing that passion—she made sure I was exposed to a wide range of artistic mediums from a young age, encouraging creativity in every form.
Today, I’m fortunate to be living my passion. Design and aesthetics are truly part of who I am. I believe once you’re a designer, your eye is trained for life—you begin to see the world through a different lens, whether it’s branding, architecture, fashion, or interiors.
Dubai didn’t just bring me here, it raised me. I’m proud to call myself a true Dubai kid, born and brought up in this incredible city. It’s home in every sense of the word—and in my eyes, the best place to be. There’s nowhere else quite like.
The idea for The Lob began when I knew I wanted to build something rooted in wellness. As a fitness enthusiast and former tennis player, movement has always been a big part of my life. After living in Spain for a few years, I witnessed firsthand how padel evolved—drawing people out of their living rooms and onto the court. It’s more than just a sport now—it’s become a cultural movement, a social ritual, and a lifestyle.
I wanted to create a space that embodied this spirit—one that didn’t just focus on physical activity, but embraced a more holistic approach to well-being. For me, true wellness lies in the balance of body and mind.
That’s why The Lob goes beyond the court—with a clean eating café that’s free from refined sugar and seed oils, designed to nourish from within. It’s a space where fitness, nutrition, and mental clarity coexist—where sport becomes a gateway to stronger bodies, clearer minds, and deeper community.
The vision behind The Lob was to create a space that feels like you’re playing outdoors—while being comfortably indoors, adapted to the unique climate of the region.
As a designer, I drew inspiration from Tulum and Bali—places that blend nature with soul. The design incorporates organic materials, lush landscaping, and subtle nods to Roth Architecture, while staying true to a modern, chic, and sporty aesthetic.
My day begins early—before the city wakes up. I start with warm water infused with salt and lemon, followed by copper-charged water to keep those ions flowing and energy aligned.
Movement is non-negotiable—whether it’s a gym workout or a solid cardio session, I commit to training six days a week. It’s my time to reset, recharge, and prepare to take on the day with clarity and strength.
Evenings are for slowing down. I catch up with my kids, share moments that matter, and try to wind down early for a restful night. I prefer clean, home-cooked meals and reserve weekends for meaningful connections—whether that’s time with family or catching up with friends over easy conversations and good energy.
Dream big, and stay the course.Passion is the most important promise you make to yourself—but it’s discipline and healthy boundaries that keep it alive. The Lob was over two years in the making. The challenges were real, and there were moments that tested everything—but I kept going.
Just don’t give up. That’s where the magic happens.
Do what everyone else is doing.
At The Lob, we’re creating more than just a club—we’re building a community. A space where every person, at every level, feels seen, supported, and energized. Whether you’re here for a competitive game of padel, a mindful moment of holistic healing, or a boost of supercharged nutrition, The Lob is designed to meet you exactly where you are. It’s a space where you come as you are, and leave with a lighter heart, a stronger body, and a smile on your face.
