In this episode of Real Talk Dubai, George Hojeige speaks with Jeremy Loisel about the architectural lighting industry and the business behind delivering large-scale projects across the region. Jeremy shares his journey from studying engineering and finance in France to moving to Dubai at 22 during the subprime crisis. He discusses how his early work in flooring led to the launch and growth of Switch Made Group, now operating across multiple markets and supplying lighting for major infrastructure and commercial developments. The conversation explores what it takes to build and run a specialist company in Dubai, from operating in a highly competitive environment to balancing creativity, engineering, and commercial pressure. Jeremy reflects on entrepreneurship, leadership lessons, investment risk, and the realities of making decisions without the safety net of large corporate structures. George and Jeremy also discuss the growing use of AI in lighting design, challenges around product quality and copy-paste solutions, cultural expectations in regional markets, and how Dubai has become a first-choice base for international entrepreneurs. The episode closes with an honest discussion on the personal and professional cost of building a business in the UAE. Guest: Jeremy Loisel, CEO at Switch Made GroupHost: George Hojeige, Group CEO, Virtuzone an Ascentium Company Timestamps (Chapters)00:00 – Introduction and guest overview01:30 – Engineering, finance, and entering the workforce during the subprime era04:30 – Moving to Dubai at 22 and early career decisions07:00 – From flooring to architectural and LED lighting10:00 – Major projects and sustainable building milestones14:00 – Design, creativity, and visible architecture18:00 – Client culture and market expectations21:30 – Entrepreneurship and leadership pressures25:30 – COVID lessons and scaling challenges29:30 – AI, lighting trends, and the real cost of doing business in Dubai Connect and Next Steps• Learn more about business setup and growth in the UAE: virtuzone.com• Follow Real Talk Dubai for more conversations with founders and industry leaders shaping the UAE• Subscribe and hit the bell icon