Sunil Gidhwani’s wish to become an entrepreneur stemmed from his desire for independence and his ambition to create something meaningful.
He started his career in Dubai's retail industry in 2003. He later shifted to the banking sector, working at Barclays Bank from 2008 to 2009, and then moved into facilities management. He has worked for companies including Farnek Services, MAF Dalkia (now Enova) and Morganti Group.
In 2017, he capitalised on his experience in facilities management to venture into entrepreneurship, founding Mega Meter Cleaning Services. The Dubai company provides specialised services such as water tank cleaning and disinfection, air conditioning duct cleaning and sanitisation, kitchen exhaust system cleaning, pest control and commercial cleaning.
“Entrepreneurship offers the chance to pursue my vision, implement my ideas, and develop a work culture that reflects my values,” the 41-year-old says. “It was a leap of faith, but one that has been incredibly rewarding.”
Mr Gidhwani lives in Discovery Gardens, Dubai with his wife, children and parents. He graduated with a bachelor of commerce from Mumbai University and pursued a master's degree in facilities management from Heriot-Watt University, Dubai.
Did wealth feature in your childhood? What did you learn from it?
Wealth did have a presence in my childhood, but it was always viewed through the lens of responsibility rather than mere accumulation. My family emphasised the importance of financial literacy, teaching me about saving, investing and the value of hard work.
I learnt early on that wealth is not just about money; it’s about the resources and opportunities it can provide. This understanding has influenced my financial decisions and the way I approach wealth building. It instilled in me the importance of integrity and the idea that true wealth is achieved through ethical means and contributions to society.
How did you first earn? What did your first job pay?
My professional journey began in Dubai in 2003, when I secured my first job in retail as a sales executive with a salary of Dh1,000 ($272).
This initial experience taught me the value of earning and the dedication required to succeed in a competitive environment. It was a modest beginning, but it provided me with a crucial stepping stone to more significant opportunities.
Any early financial jolts?
Throughout my career, I have encountered several financial challenges, one of the most significant being during the Covid-19 pandemic. The sudden lockdowns and restrictions tested my business’s resilience, as revenues plummeted overnight.
I had to manage numerous financial obligations, including salaries, rents and ongoing expenses, all while maintaining a commitment to my employees. This period taught me invaluable lessons about financial planning, adaptability and the importance of having a contingency strategy in place. It was a stark reminder of the unpredictability of business and the necessity of being prepared for unforeseen challenges.
How do you grow your wealth?
My approach to growing wealth has been centred around strategic reinvestment. From the outset, I made the conscious decision not to take a salary from my company for the first two years. This choice allowed me to reinvest every available profit back into the business, facilitating expansion and the development of our service offerings.
Also, I actively invest in the Indian stock market. This diversification strategy, combined with seeking opportunities in areas that resonate with my expertise and values, has been key to building my wealth over time.
Are you a spender or a saver?
I would describe myself as a combination of both. While I recognise the importance of saving for the future, I also believe in the value of investing in experiences that enrich life. I prioritise financial security but also understand that spending on meaningful experiences – whether it’s family vacations, education, or personal development – can yield invaluable returns.
Early on in my journey, I invested in a business coach and engaged with networking platforms, which significantly helped me grow both personally and professionally.
Have you been wise with money?
I haven’t always made the wisest decisions. I have experienced setbacks due to poor investment choices and impulsive spending. However, each mistake has been a learning opportunity that has shaped my understanding of financial management. I’ve come to appreciate the importance of research and careful consideration before making financial decisions.
What has been your best investment?
My best investments have undoubtedly been in my business and my personal development. Establishing my business has been the most rewarding endeavour. My investment in my education has equipped me with the necessary skills to navigate challenges in the facilities management sector.
Financial resources should be utilised not just for personal gain but also to uplift others and contribute to the community
Sunil Gidhwani,
founder and managing director, Mega Meter Cleaning Services
How do you feel about money?
I feel a sense of excitement and opportunity when it comes to money. It represents potential for growth, security, and the ability to create a positive impact. I view money as a tool that, when used wisely, can open doors to new experiences and opportunities for my family and myself.
My philosophy is that financial resources should be utilised not just for personal gain but also to uplift others and contribute to the community.
Any financial advice for your younger self?
Start investing early and prioritise financial education. Understanding the principles of investing, saving and budgeting from a young age can set the foundation for long-term financial success.
I also wish I had been bolder and more aware during conversations about emerging opportunities, like when my friends and I discussed crypto when it first emerged. Many of those discussions remained at the idea stage, and I would encourage myself to be more proactive in exploring those opportunities.
I would encourage my younger self to seek mentorship and learn from those with more experience in financial matters. The sooner one begins to build good financial habits, the more opportunities they will create for themselves in the future.
Any key financial milestones?
I started my company with just three technicians and one supervisor, and today the company boasts a workforce of more than 85 employees. This growth is a significant achievement. Additionally, reaching a point of financial stability that allows for reinvestment and growth has been crucial.
What luxuries are important to you?
To me, the most important luxuries are good health and a loving family. These elements are fundamental to a fulfilling life.
I am passionate about working out, as I believe that fitness is essential for overall well-being. Regular exercise not only keeps me physically healthy but also sharpens my mind, enabling me to tackle challenges with clarity and energy.
I also appreciate the luxury of experiences – travelling, learning, and creating memories with loved ones that enrich our lives.
What are your financial goals?
My financial goals are ambitious but attainable. I aim to become a multi-millionaire, which I believe is achievable through continued dedication to my business, strategic investments, and ongoing growth.
My vision is to position my company as a market leader, aiming to capture more than 50 per cent of the market share in the AC ducts and water tanks cleaning industry. I aspire to create a legacy that benefits my family and contributes positively to the community.
Key findings of Jenkins report
- Founder of the Muslim Brotherhood, Hassan al Banna, "accepted the political utility of violence"
- Views of key Muslim Brotherhood ideologue, Sayyid Qutb, have “consistently been understood” as permitting “the use of extreme violence in the pursuit of the perfect Islamic society” and “never been institutionally disowned” by the movement.
- Muslim Brotherhood at all levels has repeatedly defended Hamas attacks against Israel, including the use of suicide bombers and the killing of civilians.
- Laying out the report in the House of Commons, David Cameron told MPs: "The main findings of the review support the conclusion that membership of, association with, or influence by the Muslim Brotherhood should be considered as a possible indicator of extremism."
KILLING OF QASSEM SULEIMANI
The specs: 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk
Price, base: Dh399,999
Engine: Supercharged 6.2-litre V8
Gearbox: Eight-speed automatic
Power: 707hp @ 6,000rpm
Torque: 875Nm @ 4,800rpm
Fuel economy, combined: 16.8L / 100km (estimate)
Match info
Deccan Gladiators 87-8
Asif Khan 25, Dwayne Bravo 2-16
Maratha Arabians 89-2
Chadwick Walton 51 not out
Arabians won the final by eight wickets
More on animal trafficking
The more serious side of specialty coffee
While the taste of beans and freshness of roast is paramount to the specialty coffee scene, so is sustainability and workers’ rights.
The bulk of genuine specialty coffee companies aim to improve on these elements in every stage of production via direct relationships with farmers. For instance, Mokha 1450 on Al Wasl Road strives to work predominantly with women-owned and -operated coffee organisations, including female farmers in the Sabree mountains of Yemen.
Because, as the boutique’s owner, Garfield Kerr, points out: “women represent over 90 per cent of the coffee value chain, but are woefully underrepresented in less than 10 per cent of ownership and management throughout the global coffee industry.”
One of the UAE’s largest suppliers of green (meaning not-yet-roasted) beans, Raw Coffee, is a founding member of the Partnership of Gender Equity, which aims to empower female coffee farmers and harvesters.
Also, globally, many companies have found the perfect way to recycle old coffee grounds: they create the perfect fertile soil in which to grow mushrooms.
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
MATCH INFO
Euro 2020 qualifier
Russia v Scotland, Thursday, 10.45pm (UAE)
TV: Match on BeIN Sports
Chef Nobu's advice for eating sushi
“One mistake people always make is adding extra wasabi. There is no need for this, because it should already be there between the rice and the fish.
“When eating nigiri, you must dip the fish – not the rice – in soy sauce, otherwise the rice will collapse. Also, don’t use too much soy sauce or it will make you thirsty. For sushi rolls, dip a little of the rice-covered roll lightly in soy sauce and eat in one bite.
“Chopsticks are acceptable, but really, I recommend using your fingers for sushi. Do use chopsticks for sashimi, though.
“The ginger should be eaten separately as a palette cleanser and used to clear the mouth when switching between different pieces of fish.”
if you go
The flights
Air Astana flies direct from Dubai to Almaty from Dh2,440 per person return, and to Astana (via Almaty) from Dh2,930 return, both including taxes.
The hotels
Rooms at the Ritz-Carlton Almaty cost from Dh1,944 per night including taxes; and in Astana the new Ritz-Carlton Astana (www.marriott) costs from Dh1,325; alternatively, the new St Regis Astana costs from Dh1,458 per night including taxes.
When to visit
March-May and September-November
Visas
Citizens of many countries, including the UAE do not need a visa to enter Kazakhstan for up to 30 days. Contact the nearest Kazakhstan embassy or consulate.
WHAT IS A BLACK HOLE?
1. Black holes are objects whose gravity is so strong not even light can escape their pull
2. They can be created when massive stars collapse under their own weight
3. Large black holes can also be formed when smaller ones collide and merge
4. The biggest black holes lurk at the centre of many galaxies, including our own
5. Astronomers believe that when the universe was very young, black holes affected how galaxies formed
Match info
Uefa Champions League Group F
Manchester City v Hoffenheim, midnight (Wednesday, UAE)
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In numbers: China in Dubai
The number of Chinese people living in Dubai: An estimated 200,000
Number of Chinese people in International City: Almost 50,000
Daily visitors to Dragon Mart in 2018/19: 120,000
Daily visitors to Dragon Mart in 2010: 20,000
Percentage increase in visitors in eight years: 500 per cent
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Indoor cricket in a nutshell
Indoor Cricket World Cup – Sep 16-20, Insportz, Dubai
16 Indoor cricket matches are 16 overs per side
8 There are eight players per team
9 There have been nine Indoor Cricket World Cups for men. Australia have won every one.
5 Five runs are deducted from the score when a wickets falls
4 Batsmen bat in pairs, facing four overs per partnership
Scoring In indoor cricket, runs are scored by way of both physical and bonus runs. Physical runs are scored by both batsmen completing a run from one crease to the other. Bonus runs are scored when the ball hits a net in different zones, but only when at least one physical run is score.
Zones
A Front net, behind the striker and wicketkeeper: 0 runs
B Side nets, between the striker and halfway down the pitch: 1 run
C Side nets between halfway and the bowlers end: 2 runs
D Back net: 4 runs on the bounce, 6 runs on the full
More on Quran memorisation:
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What is a black hole?
1. Black holes are objects whose gravity is so strong not even light can escape their pull
2. They can be created when massive stars collapse under their own weight
3. Large black holes can also be formed when smaller ones collide and merge
4. The biggest black holes lurk at the centre of many galaxies, including our own
5. Astronomers believe that when the universe was very young, black holes affected how galaxies formed
Thank You for Banking with Us
Director: Laila Abbas
Starring: Yasmine Al Massri, Clara Khoury, Kamel El Basha, Ashraf Barhoum
Rating: 4/5
AI traffic lights to ease congestion at seven points to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street
The seven points are:
Shakhbout bin Sultan Street
Dhafeer Street
Hadbat Al Ghubainah Street (outbound)
Salama bint Butti Street
Al Dhafra Street
Rabdan Street
Umm Yifina Street exit (inbound)
PREMIER LEAGUE FIXTURES
All kick-off times UAE ( 4 GMT)
Saturday
Liverpool v Manchester United - 3.30pm
Burnley v West Ham United - 6pm
Crystal Palace v Chelsea - 6pm
Manchester City v Stoke City - 6pm
Swansea City v Huddersfield Town - 6pm
Tottenham Hotspur v Bournemouth - 6pm
Watford v Arsenal - 8.30pm
Sunday
Brighton and Hove Albion v Everton - 4.30pm
Southampton v Newcastle United - 7pm
Monday
Leicester City v West Bromwich Albion - 11pm
Need to know
Unlike other mobile wallets and payment apps, a unique feature of eWallet is that there is no need to have a bank account, credit or debit card to do digital payments.
Customers only need a valid Emirates ID and a working UAE mobile number to register for eWallet account.
Brief scores:
QPR 0
Watford 1
Capoue 45' 1
BABYLON
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More coverage from the Future Forum
Ahmed Raza
UAE cricket captain
Age: 31
Born: Sharjah
Role: Left-arm spinner
One-day internationals: 31 matches, 35 wickets, average 31.4, economy rate 3.95
T20 internationals: 41 matches, 29 wickets, average 30.3, economy rate 6.28
Mohammed bin Zayed Majlis
The Details
Article 15
Produced by: Carnival Cinemas, Zee Studios
Directed by: Anubhav Sinha
Starring: Ayushmann Khurrana, Kumud Mishra, Manoj Pahwa, Sayani Gupta, Zeeshan Ayyub
Our rating: 4/5
Company Profile
Name: Thndr
Started: 2019
Co-founders: Ahmad Hammouda and Seif Amr
Sector: FinTech
Headquarters: Egypt
UAE base: Hub71, Abu Dhabi
Current number of staff: More than 150
Funds raised: $22 million
Company%C2%A0profile
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Charlotte Gainsbourg
Rest
(Because Music)
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