Interview with Mridula Singh
By The Emirates Times Editorial Desk
In a region driven by innovation, few leaders exemplify the fusion of vision, strategy, and impact quite like Mridula Singh. As the founder of ZENA Properties and Director at Spectrum Networks, Singh is not only reshaping the face of urban living but also redefining how enterprises approach digital upskilling in a rapidly evolving world.
With a career spanning global corporate strategy, real estate development, and education technology, Mridula brings a unique blend of analytical rigor and human-centric design to everything she touches. Her story is one of purpose-led entrepreneurship—anchored in deep industry insight, continuous learning, and an unshakable belief in the power of transformation.
In this exclusive editorial interview with The Emirates Times, Mridula Singh shares insights from her journey, the future she envisions, and the values that continue to drive her across sectors.
What motivated you to embark on a career in your industry?
My journey began in corporate strategy after my MBA, working across shipping, oil & gas, and infrastructure sectors. Over time, I became deeply drawn to the transformation potential in real estate—especially taking undervalued assets, redesigning them with purpose, and elevating them into high-performing lifestyle spaces. This inspired the birth of ZENA Properties, built with a vision for curated living, short-term rentals, and long-term capital appreciation.
In parallel, I entered the technology education space through Spectrum Networks, where I now serve as Director. Spectrum has been featured in Bloomberg for our work in enterprise IT upskilling, certification partnerships, and workforce transformation. These dual roles reflect my commitment to scalable, future-ready, and impact-driven ventures.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I start my day early with time for reflection and planning. From there, I dive into team huddles at ZENA and Spectrum, followed by property site reviews, design discussions, or strategic sessions focused on our enterprise education initiatives.
I also mentor a few rising professionals, especially women navigating leadership in complex industries. I strive to stay present, clear, and agile—because no two days are ever the same when you’re building across two dynamic landscapes.
How is your industry evolving, and what trends do you foresee?
In real estate, we’re seeing a decisive shift from static investments to experiential real estate—spaces that blend lifestyle, wellness, and digital integration. Dubai’s emergence as a short-term rental and branded residence hotspot aligns with this trend. At ZENA, we’re actively exploring smart living, sustainable design, and community-centric development.
In the tech space, AI and cloud computing have moved from future concepts to present imperatives. At Spectrum, we’re investing in personalized enterprise learning platforms using AI, real-time data analytics, and robust vendor partnerships with Microsoft, AWS, and CompTIA. The future lies in blended, outcome-based learning models that empower professionals to thrive in digital economies.
What challenges have you overcome, and how?
Leading in traditionally male-dominated industries has required resilience, adaptability, and confident decision-making. From complex property negotiations to scaling a tech company during massive disruption, I’ve leaned heavily on two core enablers: continuous education and strategic agility.
Completing the General Management Program at Wharton gave me exposure to global leadership frameworks. But just as important has been building high-trust relationships within my teams and partner networks. Vision may inspire, but it’s execution and consistency that turn ideas into enduring businesses.
Can you share any pivotal career moments?
Some standout recognitions include being named among CIO Look Magazine’s “Top 25 Leaders to Watch” and receiving the Gulf News x BeingShe Excellence Award. But beyond accolades, I find the most meaning in milestones like the success of ZENA’s first long-term leasing portfolio, or when enterprise clients at Spectrum renew partnerships because our training tangibly enhanced their workforce productivity. That’s where purpose and progress truly meet.
How do you define your leadership style?
I believe in leading with grace and grit. My approach is strategic, empathetic, and design-oriented. While I encourage autonomy and accountability across teams, I remain deeply involved in culture-building, innovation, and customer experience.
To me, leaders must think like architects—able to see the entire blueprint while understanding how each detail contributes to structural integrity.
Is your organization leveraging AI or other emerging technologies?
Absolutely. At ZENA Properties, we’re piloting AI-powered predictive analytics to optimize rental yields and identify emerging real estate hotspots. At Spectrum Networks, we’ve already integrated AI into our learning systems to offer customized training paths. We’re also leveraging cloud-based labs, cybersecurity simulations, and enterprise-grade LXP platforms for some of the GCC’s most forward-thinking corporations.
What are your long-term goals for your career or business?
With ZENA, I envision a boutique yet impactful brand known for delivering stylish, sustainable, and high-return properties to both HNW investors and aspirational families. With Spectrum, we aim to scale across the GCC, Asia, and Africa, becoming a top-tier digital skills partner for governments and enterprises alike.
On a personal note, I hope to mentor more women in leadership, drive philanthropic initiatives, and contribute meaningfully to shaping the region’s future of work and modern living.
About the Leader
Mridula Singh is an award-winning entrepreneur and visionary executive, currently heading ZENA Properties and serving as Director at Spectrum Networks, a global IT consulting firm featured in Bloomberg. A Wharton GMP graduate with over 20 years of multi-industry experience, she is recognized for her pioneering work in real estate innovation, digital education, and organizational leadership. Her accolades include the BeingShe Excellence Award and recognition among the Top 25 Leaders to Watch by CIO Look.
Closing Thoughts
Mridula Singh’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when purpose meets precision. At the intersection of property and technology, she is building more than just businesses—she is shaping environments where people can live, learn, and lead with meaning. In a time of rapid global transformation, her leadership offers a compelling blueprint for what the future of entrepreneurship can truly be.
Interview by The Emirates Times
