The Emirati entrepreneur redefining business success across healthcare, education, and investment
Faisal bin Juma Belhoul is not only one of the UAE’s most influential business leaders but also a trailblazer whose legacy spans across multiple sectors. With more than 25 years of experience in private markets, his roles have included Vice Chairman of Dubai Chambers and Chairman of J&F Holdings. He also serves as Vice Chairman and Senior Adviser of Speedinvest Growth Markets Fintech Fund, supporting high-growth ventures across the region.
As founder and former Executive Chairman of Ithmar Capital and Amanat Holdings PJSC, Faisal has pioneered private equity investments in healthcare, education, and beyond spearheading landmark deals, including the listing of Al Noor Hospitals on the London Stock Exchange. Now, as a judge on Shark Tank Dubai, he continues to shape the future of entrepreneurship. In this exclusive interview, he shares candid reflections on his journey, the principles that guide his investment philosophy, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.
How did your journey in entrepreneurship begin? What initially sparked your interest in business?
After returning from my studies in the US, I joined the family business as the eldest son it felt like the right thing to do. I was fortunate that my father welcomed me into the fold and gave me real responsibility from day one. That responsibility quickly became a catalyst. As I looked at how best to grow the business, I realised the key was in attracting top-tier talent.
The challenge, however, was that senior professionals were reluctant to join a family business unless there was real career progression or partnership potential something not typical in such setups. That’s when I saw the need to bridge both worlds. I established Ithmar Capital as an independent investment platform that could attract top talent and, in turn, support the family business. My entrepreneurial journey really started with solving that problem thinking outside the box to create a solution that didn’t exist yet. And from there, I never looked back.
You’ve been at the forefront of ventures that align closely with the UAE’s national goals. How do you see your work contributing to the country’s broader vision?
I always say it’s better to swim with the tide than against it. Being part of the UAE and Dubai’s dynamic economy has been exactly that: a tide of opportunity. I wouldn’t say I’ve contributed to the UAE’s growth as much as the UAE has enabled mine. Working within a growing, visionary market provides room for innovation, forgiveness for failure, and rewards for resilience. My focus has been in non-oil sectors like healthcare, education, real estate, and technology all critical pillars in the UAE’s diversification strategy.
And now you’re on Shark Tank Dubai. What drew you to the show?
Honestly, it came completely out of the blue. I never sought out TV. But once I reflected on it, I saw the opportunity to give back. To me, Shark Tank is a CSR platform it’s about sharing knowledge, offering hope, and educating the next generation of entrepreneurs in an entertaining way.
What’s been incredibly fulfilling is hearing from kids friends of my daughter or even young strangers saying I’ve inspired them. If a show like this becomes their go-to instead of mindless content, then we’ve done something meaningful.
What do you look for in a startup pitch?
The show isn’t primarily about finding the best deals it’s about supporting the ecosystem. That said, I always look for clarity of vision, problem-solving capability, and alignment with market needs. A great idea is one thing; the ability to execute it and build something sustainable is another.
Healthcare and education have been at the core of your investment story. What sparked your interest in those sectors?
I grew up surrounded by healthcare my father was Director General of Dubai’s Department of Health and a practicing physician. Our family business also had ventures in both healthcare and education, so I gained early exposure and built a strong network. When I launched Ithmar Capital, I naturally gravitated towards those sectors. Our investment in Al Noor Hospitals, which we eventually listed on the London Stock Exchange, was a proud moment proof that regional businesses can become global players.
Through Ithmar Capital, how did you approach selecting businesses with long-term potential?
It starts with having a clearly defined strategy. At Ithmar, we focused on growth-stage companies where we could take significant stakes and help founders scale. It was never about early-stage ideas it was about proven models with untapped potential. Once we found alignment between our vision and the founder’s, we structured deals that created value for everyone involved.
Looking ahead, what trends do you think will shape the next era of entrepreneurship in the UAE?
The UAE government has been incredibly clear in its direction moving towards a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy. Key themes like technology, AI, sustainability, and clean energy are being prioritised, and that informs where we focus our efforts. As always, swimming with the tide makes all the difference.
You wear many hats entrepreneur, investor, adviser, now TV personality. How do you manage it all?
Prioritisation is key. I focus on what’s most impactful what sits in the top right of that “important vs. urgent” matrix. And I delegate where possible. It’s an art, really, and something I continue to refine. When I look at leaders like His Highness Sheikh Mohammed, who carries enormous responsibility with grace, I’m reminded that effective systems, prioritisation, and trust in your team are essential.
And how do you embed sustainability and social responsibility into your work?
For me, CSR isn’t a department it’s a mindset. It should be embedded in everything you do. We talk about “impactful investment” investments that not only generate financial returns but also create positive societal outcomes. Whether it’s job creation, emissions reduction, or education, the idea is to make a difference beyond the bottom line.
On a personal note what inspires you to keep building?
Legacy. I want to leave something behind that lasts longer than me. Financial success is important for sustainability, but it’s always been a byproduct. What drives me is the opportunity to contribute to stories that uplift communities. I don’t need to be the only protagonist I just want to be a meaningful part of the narrative.
Lastly, for young entrepreneurs here in the UAE what’s your best piece of advice?
Embrace failure. You’ll miss a few free kicks, as I like to say, but that’s part of the game. The only real failure is when you give up. If you keep taking shots, eventually you’ll score and maybe even become the best in the world. So don’t fear the misses. Keep going.