Neil Petch is a well-known entrepreneur, investor and economic commentator in the UAE with over 25 years of experience in various senior roles. He founded and serves as Chairman of Virtuzone, the most dynamic and fastest growing company set-up operator in the UAE, assisting over 14,000 entrepreneurs since its formation in 2009. Neil also leads VirtuVest, an internal investment vehicle; Virtuzone Mainland, a provider of directorship services and corporate sponsorship; and Next Generation Equity, a provider of citizenship-by-investment.

Prior to Virtuzone, Neil helped establish ITP in Dubai, where he played a critical role in launching more than 60 digital and print titles, including Time Out, Harper’s Bazaar, Ahlan, and Grazia, among others. He also served as Managing Director of ENG Media, part of the Emirates Neon conglomerate. Neil has lived in over a dozen countries and leverages his global experience to deliver astute cultural insight with fresh thinking, leading to the revelation of opportunities.

Neil has made many media appearances, including in BBC (Dubai Dreams) and ITV (Piers Morgan) features on Dubai, and has also been a judge on the radio program Falcons’ Lair and similar TV competitions. Neil is also a regular speaker and panellist, specialising in the SME sector.