Business & Money | Wednesday 11 February, 2015 4:08 pm |

Emaar Properties has appointed Jasper Hope, an accomplished international professional with deep insights in the management of high-end cultural venues and events, as the Chief Executive of the iconic Dubai Opera, the centerpiece of The Opera District development in Downtown Dubai, set to commence operations in 2016.

Mr. Hope, earlier the Chief Operating Officer of Royal Albert Hall in London, one of the world’s leading cultural and entertainment facilities in the world, assumed charge in January 2015 bringing his expertise in promoting high-end cultural destinations. As Chief Executive of Dubai Opera, he will serve as its lead officer and international advocate focused on setting its artistic direction and driving global stakeholder relationships.

Billed as Dubai’s new cultural icon, Dubai Opera is a 2,000-seat multi-format venue for opera, theatre, concerts, art exhibitions, orchestra, film, sports events, and seasonal programmes. Mr. Hope, who has extensive experience in creating, directing and promoting global events, is mandated with ensuring the commercial success of Dubai Opera and developing its profile internationally.

Ahmad Al Matrooshi, Managing Director of Emaar Properties, said: “We are delighted to welcome Jasper Hope on board our prestigious cultural icon. His deep expertise in managing internationally renowned venues and tremendous industry insights will be a great asset in establishing Dubai Opera as one of the world’s most prestigious cultural destinations. With Dubai Opera, we aim to further define Dubai’s cultural richness and create a dynamic platform for intercultural exchange. Mr. Hope’s proven track-record in identifying and motivating talent will be a strong resource in achieving our goals.”

Mr. Hope said: “Dubai Opera is a fantastic development with tremendous potential to serve as the Gulf region’s defining destination for cultural events. I am thankful to Emaar Properties for this opportunity to serve a region that is fast-evolving as one of the leading artistic and cultural hubs in the world. An iconic development such as Dubai Opera will be a catalyst for the city’s cultural scene and serve as a magnet to attract international professionals and large-scale productions, further building Dubai’s reputation globally.”

Renowned in the industry as a creative, commercial and resourceful leader, Mr. Hope has proven experience in successfully delivering a programme of change for the venues he leads apart from conceptualising and executing a diverse range of notable events in many of the world’s unique venues.

Earlier, as Chief Operating Officer of Royal Albert Hall, he was responsible for the successful implementation of all operational management criteria and the leadership of the day-to-day business of the Hall. Under his leadership, the prestigious venue achieved close to 400 events each year, making it one of the busiest venues in the world





He also served as Senior Director of AEG Live at UK Live Events, responsible for creating and managing new entertainment business for the company. He was also International Vice President and General Manager for Europe at IMG, leading projects such as The Hampton Court Palace Festival in London and Nobel Peace Prize Concert.

Mr. Hope holds a B.Sc (Hons) in Hotel and Catering Management from Oxford Polytechnic, and has been elected as Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts in 2008 and to the Council for the Corps of Army Music. He also served as Board Member of Exhibition Road Cultural Group.

Launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, The Opera District in Downtown Dubai is billed to be the cultural hub of the region bringing with it an unparalleled lifestyle for residents. Set to promote the arts, culture, and events scene by ensuring global exchange and promoting local talent as well as serve as a vibrant events venue, The Opera District will feature luxury hotels, elegantly designed residential and serviced apartments, a retail plaza, waterfront promenades, recreational spaces and parks.