This week, Emirates Man speaks to Shad Askari, co-founder of Padel Edition, the latest newcomer to the padel scene.
The latest padel hotspot, located at Al Quoz 1, brings together an array of facilities including 8 indoor padel courts, group or private coaching services, fitness classes, recovery therapies, and more – all in an aesthetically-led space. Here, Shad shares the highlights and challenges of bringing the padel club to life, ensuring that Padel Edition’s purpose and character were clear from the outset.
Welcome to the Emirates Man weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businessmen 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 out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
Co-founder of Padel Edition, Shad Askari
What was your favourite subject at school?
My favorite subject at school was social science. From a young age, I was fascinated by the human society and the world around me. I was drawn to the interdisciplinary nature of the subject, which allowed me to delve into fields like history and geography. History, with its rich events and narratives, ignited my curiosity about the past. Geography, on the other hand, provided a spatial perspective, allowing me to understand the interconnectedness of different cultures, landscapes, and economies. The arts classes also taught me the importance about patience, perseverance, and the importance of practice.
What was your first job?
My first job flipping burgers at McDonald’s was a experience that taught me lessons about teamwork, customer service, and the importance of hard work. Those early days instilled in me a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the value of every job.
What eventually brought you to Dubai?
I’ve always been drawn to the vibrant culture and rich history of the Middle East, even though my Scandinavian roots, Dubai’s cosmopolitan atmosphere and its commitment to innovation ultimately led me to this dynamic city. Now i’ve been here for the past 6 years and I’m so grateful to be working around great people in the industry and definitely my second home.
What inspired you to enter the recreation space and launch Padel Edition?
I was introduced to padel in 2021, and was immediately hooked. The game’s unique combination of strategy, skill, and social interaction resonated with me deeply. We started working on the concept in 2022, and next thing, the partners and I spinned this idea to life.
What are the key elements of your role?
As a co-founder and partner, my role at Padel Edition involves overseeing the entire club. This includes strategic planning, managing day-to-day operations together with my partners and General Manager. We are all hands-on in the business, we are all striving for the same goal, which is ensuring that we provide an exceptional experience for our customers. We are no longer just partners, but family, which is a big part of how we want to build our community here as well.
Talk us through your daily routine.
My daily routine is quite varied, but it typically involves a combination of managing my own architect studio with design projects alongside the padel club. Currently, I’m working on a couple of projects, including a 5-bedroom villa that will be ready soon. I strive to maintain a balance between work and personal life, ensuring that I have time for relaxation and rejuvenation, and of course some padel.
What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is to never give up when things get hard. This was especially valuable to me as a young architect starting my own studio, in a country with the biggest competition (Italy). When I then moved to Dubai, I always had the mindset on, no matter how challenging the projects or the market is, I go back onto this belief. It’s a reminder that perseverance and determination are key to achieving any goal, especially in the face of obstacles.
And what is the worst?
The worst advice I’ve received was to follow a traditional career path. Sometimes, the most rewarding opportunities come from taking risks and stepping outside of your comfort zone. No one will know how good it’s going to be, and this involves taking risks because while doing so, you’ll make sure that things get done correctly and you will succeed.
Tell us more about the facilities and services offered at Padel Edition?
Padel Edition offers 8-indoor padel courts, beyond the courts we have a range of facilities to enhance the overall padel experience. A dedicated recovery zone that features contrast therapy to help players optimize performance and reduce muscle soreness. A studio space that will host stretching, mobility, and yoga classes, ensuring a well-rounded approach to fitness. Face Workouts, combining facial massage, neck, and shoulder therapy for a holistic well-being experience. Along with Baristro that serves healthy and nutritious food and beverages.
We want to focus on the next generation of padel players, that’s why we have decided to launch a extensive junior academy program as well with more to come. And of course, our coaches that coach both beginners and advanced players.
What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
Relocating to a country like the UAE has been a valuable learning experience. Navigating the unfamiliar workflows and adapting to the unique pace of life in the UAE have taught me the importance of patience and adaptability. It has been a journey of discovery, as I’ve come to appreciate the distinct ways in which work is conducted and the value of understanding expectations. Of course as a business owner, you face many challenges in the day-to-day work but I never let the fear of failure stop me from achieving my goals.
What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
For anyone looking to start their own business, I would advise them to do their research, be passionate about what they do, and be prepared to work hard. Building a successful venture takes time, dedication, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances. Work along side people with purpose and that shares the same values as you.
What are your goals for the future?
As for Padel Edition, our goal for the future include expansion of the club, organizing more high-profile tournaments, and becoming a leading destination for padel players in the region. We also hope to continue contributing to the growth and development of the sport.
Since I run my own architect studio alongside the padel club, I want to continue learning and growing as an architect and leader. I’m looking forward to grown my team of talented designers and keep a motivated spirit for future growth.
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