Emil Bedretdinov
| Emil Bedretdinov | |
|---|---|
 File:Emil Bedretdinov.jpeg | |
| Born | 1989-06-07 |
| 🏳️ Nationality | Russian |
| Other names | Emil E7 |
| 🏳️ Citizenship | Russian |
| 🏫 Education | State University of Management (BA in Advertising) Doctor of Business Administration (DBA, 2021) |
| 💼 Occupation | Entrepreneur, Hospitality Executive |
| 🏢 Organization | The DNA Group |
| Title | Founder and CEO |
| 🌐 Website | https://thedna.group |
Emil Bedretdinov (also known as Emil E7) is a Russian-born hospitality entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of THE DNA GROUP, an international hospitality holding company headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. He is known for developing nightlife and restaurant concepts, including Papa Dubai and Papa Moscow.
Early life and education
Emil Bedretdinov began working at age 15 as a dishwasher at IKEA to support his family following his father's illness. By age 17, he transitioned to promoting nightclubs and organizing events, eventually founding his first promotional group. His early career was characterized by hands-on experience across multiple operational roles in the hospitality industry.
He attended the State University of Management, where he graduated with a degree in Advertising. In 2021, he completed a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program. He has stated that he invests over $200,000 annually in executive education programs and professional coaching.
Career
Early ventures
Between 2007 and 2020, Bedretdinov founded several companies in the hospitality and events sector, including ElitE7Jet (2007), Emil E7 Events (2013), Shakti by Emil E7 (2016), and E7.DIGITAL (2020). These ventures operated primarily in event promotion, nightlife management, and digital services related to the hospitality industry.
THE DNA GROUP
Emil Bedretdinov established THE DNA GROUP in 2007 as an international hospitality holding company. The company develops new hospitality concepts and enters into operational partnerships with existing venues, particularly those experiencing performance difficulties. As of 2025, the group operates across four countries with approximately 127 employees and claims involvement in over 800 projects since its founding.
The company's business model focuses on venue turnarounds and concept development, with particular emphasis on technology-driven management systems. THE DNA GROUP's stated mission is to create hospitality experiences based on what it describes as human values and emotional engagement.
Papa Dubai and Papa Moscow
Papa Dubai and Papa Moscow are nightclub and restaurant venues that serve as THE DNA GROUP's flagship operations. Both properties were existing venues that underwent operational restructuring and rebranding under Bedretdinov's management. The venues operate as hybrid spaces, transitioning from restaurant service to nightlife without requiring guests to change locations.
Papa Dubai shifted from a Nikkei cuisine concept to globally inspired menu offerings. The venues employ data management systems for tracking operational metrics including staffing patterns, service pacing, and guest preferences.
Recognition
Emil bedretdinov has received several hospitality industry awards, including Hospitality Entrepreneur of the Year from Entrepreneur Middle East, Emirates' Best F&B Entrepreneur, and UAE's Best Hospitality Group CEO. His projects have been covered in business and hospitality publications including UAE Stories, CEO Weekly, and The American Reporter.
Personal life
Emil bedretdinov is based in Dubai and has stated interests in football, travel, history, and contemporary art. He has articulated a business philosophy emphasizing systematic operational approaches over improvisation, and long-term value creation over short-term profitability.
