Name: Jasper Hope
Title: Chief executive
Company, city: Dubai Opera, Dubai
Number of employees: 102
Recent project: Opening Dubai Opera!
First job: Agency receptionist (maternity coverage)
Little-known fact about you: I usually carry a lollipop in a jacket pocket for those low-sugar moments, whether mine or someone else’s.
YOUR BUSINESS
What innovations/initiatives do you foresee in the industry over the next years? Advances in technology—better sound systems, adaptive lighting, and more seamless ticketing—will continue to enhance the live-performance experience. Still, at the heart of this industry is the artist on stage: a talented performer connecting with a live audience. That human connection remains the defining element of live entertainment and will always be central, even as supporting technologies evolve.
Best career advice you’ve received: When you feel your worst, look your best.
What advice would you give someone starting out in the field: Focus on the audience. Always view your work from their perspective and aim to create moments that truly resonate with them.
JASPER HOPE AS A TRAVELER
Favorite travel memory or story: My honeymoon—time spent relaxing and enjoying excellent food in Sardinia and around Lake Como. It was a perfect balance of calm and discovery.
One travel tip you cannot live without: Bring plenty to read. My Kindle is essential for flights, downtime and long waits—good reading makes travel more enjoyable and productive.
Best advice for business travelers: Travel light with carry-on only when possible. It simplifies connections, saves time and reduces stress.
ABOUT DUBAI OPERA
What can visitors expect from a visit to Dubai Opera, the creative heart of the city?
Visitors can expect world-class performances and meticulously produced shows. Dubai Opera is committed to bringing top international artists and diverse productions to the stage, ensuring memorable evenings for local audiences and travelers alike.
Tell our readers more about the iconic architecture of the Dubai Opera building.
Designed in the shape of a traditional dhow, Dubai Opera reflects the city’s maritime heritage. The building’s silhouette ties the venue to local culture and history, honoring the sailors and merchants who shaped the region’s early prosperity while presenting a striking contemporary landmark in the city center.
What other venues can travelers enjoy in and around Dubai Opera?
Dubai Opera sits in a vibrant area with immediate access to some of the city’s most famous sights. Its nearest neighbor is the Burj Khalifa, which dominates the skyline; for many first-time visitors, a visit to the observation decks is a highlight. Around the opera, guests will also find waterfront promenades, fine dining and other cultural attractions that make the area rich for exploration.