Transforming Investments: Zuhair on Digitizing Alternative Assets with Zest

In this engaging Q&A, Zuhair shares his journey from growing up in Jordan and Lebanon to building a career in investments after moving to the UAE in 2012. Now, as the founder of Zest, he is transforming the alternative asset space by creating transactional infrastructure that digitizes workflows, enhances transparency, and simplifies transactions—empowering stakeholders to transact seamlessly.

Why did you choose to start a business?

Solving for inefficiencies in private markets was a challenge I couldn’t ignore. At the time, I also needed a fresh challenge.

How did you start your business?

My co-founder and I left our jobs and bootstrapped the business. We worked from home or local coffee shops. It was an exciting and entirely new experience.

What do you wish you’d known before you started your business?

Things rarely go as planned, and that’s okay. The key is to keep moving forward and making progress.

Did you have any support in your journey?

Our investors have been a cornerstone of our support system since day one. My family has also played an integral role in supporting me personally.

What is your greatest challenge as a business owner?

Managing time effectively. Time is finite and scarce, and if you’re not diligent, it will slip away quickly.

What advice would you give to your past self before opening your own business?

Perfection is the enemy of progress.

Reflecting on your path to entrepreneurship, what key piece of advice would you offer to aspiring founders ?

If you’re passionate about solving a challenge and it keeps you up at night, don’t overthink it. Start now—solutions will follow.