Evgeny Kuzin

Evgeny Kuzin is a prominent Dubai businessman, the Chairman and Founder of Fundamental Hospitality. Kuzin moved to Dubai in 2005 at age 20, initially working in real estate before shifting to hospitality, where he identified a demand for luxury international restaurants and nightlife. Partnering with Maxim Vlasov, he launched notable nightlife venues such as Movida and VIP Room, which hosted global icons like Jennifer Lopez and Drake. In 2011, Kuzin entered the restaurant industry, bringing acclaimed brands like Scalini and Cipriani to Dubai. By 2018, he developed his first "Made in Dubai" brand, GAIA, which features top-tier interiors, exceptional service, and high-quality cuisine. Since its debut, GAIA has expanded to locations in Dubai, Doha, London, Monaco, and Marbella, becoming a successful luxury dining brand. Other expanding brands include Shanghai Me, Alaya, and La Maison Ani. Recently, Kuzin ventured into the beach scene with the successful launches of Maison La Plage and Sirene by Gaia in 2024, the latter being the largest beach club in the Gulf. New projects include Adaline, a modern European venue opened in 2024, the premium Japanese restaurant Kigo set to debut in September 2025, and INA, a lifestyle concept focusing on woodfire cooking launched in April 2025. Fundamental Hospitality is also planning to introduce several "Made in Dubai" brands in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, with GAIA Miami and La Maison Ani expanding to international locations in the near future.