Emil Bedretdinov, also known as Emil E7, is a hospitality entrepreneur best known as the founder and CEO of THE DNA GROUP, an international hospitality holding based in Dubai. His story is one of persistence, strategy, and passion for creating experiences that connect people.
He started in the industry at just 15, washing dishes at IKEA. Two years later, he was promoting nightclubs, organizing events, and leading his first promotional group. These early years gave him hands-on experience in operations, marketing, and guest management skills that later defined his leadership approach. The early loss of his father placed great responsibility on his shoulders and shaped his discipline and resilience, which became central to his work ethic.
Early Life and Education
Emil Bedretdinov often credits his parents and grandparents for instilling values of persistence and responsibility. His path through hospitality wasn’t accidental; it was shaped by curiosity and the drive to learn every aspect of the industry. He attended both public and private schools, later graduating from the State University of Management with a degree in Advertising. In 2021, he earned his Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), continuing his lifelong commitment to education.
Each year, he invests over $200,000 in executive programs, business courses, and coaching to expand his knowledge and refine his leadership style.
The DNA GROUP: Building Systems That Last
In 2007, Emil Bedretdinov founded THE DNA GROUP, which has since grown into a team of more than 120 professionals operating across four countries. Headquartered in Dubai, the company designs and manages hospitality concepts for global markets.
The group is known for creating new venues as well as transforming underperforming businesses. Its mission is simple but ambitious — to create positive emotions through experiences grounded in human values. Since its founding, THE DNA GROUP has worked on more than 800 projects, ranging from boutique events to international collaborations with media and celebrities.
Beyond the core company, Emil Bedretdinov has founded or co-founded ElitE7Jet, Emil E7 Events, Shakti by Emil E7, and E7.DIGITAL, extending his expertise across different sectors linked to hospitality and lifestyle.
Papa Dubai and Papa Moscow: Turning Vision Into Success
Among THE DNA GROUP’s flagship projects are Papa Dubai and Papa Moscow, two venues that perfectly represent Emil Bedretdinov’s strategic approach. When he joined as a partner, both spaces were struggling to find their identity. Through thoughtful redesign, innovative programming, and a focus on consistent service, he successfully repositioned both into leading nightlife destinations.
These venues capture the essence of modern hospitality — where gastronomy, music, design, and storytelling merge into one experience. For Emil Bedretdinov, hospitality is not just about entertainment but about evoking emotion and creating memories.
Leadership Philosophy
Emil Bedretdinov describes hospitality as one of the most complex industries in the world — one that demands excellence in logistics, branding, production, and guest relations. His philosophy centers on systems and structure rather than chance. “Long-term value creation matters more than short-term profit,” he says. “Only systems scale, not luck.”
He highlights the importance of decision-making speed, team alignment, and adaptability in a constantly changing market. For him, success depends on leadership that blends analysis with intuition and the ability to shift direction when strategies stop working.
Recognition and Media
Emil Bedretdinov’s contributions have been widely recognized. He has received awards including Hospitality Entrepreneur of the Year from Entrepreneur Middle East, Emirates’ Best F&B Entrepreneur, and UAE’s Best Hospitality Group CEO. His work has also been featured in UAE Stories, CEO Weekly, and The American Reporter, among others.
Despite his success, he measures accomplishment not by awards but by guest satisfaction, team growth, and long-term partnerships.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, THE DNA GROUP is developing two major new concepts. One combines fine dining with immersive theater, while the other — a “phygital lounge” — blends digital technology with physical experience to redefine modern nightlife.
Short-term priorities include strengthening the group’s presence in Dubai and Riyadh, while the long-term goal is to grow THE DNA GROUP into a globally recognized hospitality company valued at over $1 billion.
Beyond Business
For Emil Bedretdinov, success also means balance. He believes harmony between family, health, and work creates the foundation for productivity and clarity. Outside of business, he’s passionate about football, travel, history, and contemporary art, which often inspire his professional creativity.
He describes motivation as the constant feeling of unfinished work and energy as a form of capital — something to be managed with discipline and care. His advice to young professionals entering the industry is simple: avoid chasing quick wins, focus on relationships, and build systems that create real value.
Final Thoughts
From his first job as a dishwasher to leading one of Dubai’s most dynamic hospitality groups, Emil Bedretdinov has built a career rooted in discipline, innovation, and people-first leadership. His journey reflects the evolution of modern hospitality where experience is everything and structure makes it possible.