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PROFILE
What was your motivation to begin
business?
I always believe that hard work and
a clear mind is key to success. Born into
a very normal family of a taxi driver
in Tel Aviv, I wanted to learn how to
conduct business early. I wanted to es-
cape from a boring life with the normal
demand of food and clothes. That was
also the motivation to push me forward
in business and life.
Where did you start?
Israel - my country. I started deter-
mining business opportunities in the
real estate market, and then we kicked
off some transactions and I have re-
leased the properties to some public
companies. My collection in Israel has
been quickly developed and gave me a
perfect foundation to develop into the
international market.
Which regions look strongest now?
Given the fact that the global econ-
omy is in recovery, I see regions of
Africa and South America, as well as the
recovery of the US market, as key. How-
ever, there is no doubt that I see the
clearest opportunity in Asian countries.
What attracted you to invest in
Vietnam?
In my previous studies I recog-
nised that China and India were great
and interesting opportunities for in-
vestment, but both these markets
were too big and complicated. Vi-
etnam is different, I feel confident
about the investment environment
here and I feel that I can connect with
your culture. And another positive for
me is that I have found really intelli-
gent colleagues who are hard working
and active in their work.
I feel kind heartedness from my
colleagues here. They have a strong
belief and enthusiasm in work – char-
acteristics which are close to Israel’s
business culture.
What do you usually do in your spare
time?
I collect contemporary art works
and this is a passion, not business. My
collection consists of famous art works.
To fully entertain this hobby, I reserve
much time for reading about art and
going to exhibitions, museums and art
studios. I also regularly run and par-
ticipated in many marathons when I
was young. I normally run at least 50
kilometres per week. I also try to save
meaningful time for my family, relatives
and friends.
You are active with charity. What has
made you most satisfied?
Apart from regular contributions to
charity programmes and organisations,
my most interesting activity is support-
ing a health care and service centre re-
served for all ages at an Israel city named
Shderot. Local people here have been
suffering much impact from bombing
near the Gaza Strip in recent years.
How about your project in Vietnam?
The Alma resort is my second
business venture in Vietnam. The
beach it sits on was voted as one
of the most beautiful beaches in the
world. That is the reason why I decided
to choose this venue for this property.
timeout
48
Leading the
Igal Ahouvi, an Israeli billionaire with more than 25
years’ experience in the global real estate market, is
considered one of the most exceptional investors
in the European market, with a total transaction
value exceeding $10 billion. On the occasion of
Ahouvi’s visit to Vietnam this July,
Timeout
spoke
with the billionaire about his investment in a $300
million resort in Nha Trang.