Haute Secrets: Cedric Betis Discusses His Favorite Dubai Locations

Cedric Betis is a well-traveled and accomplished individual whose enlightened views and business acumen are leading the Jumeirah Group‘s Wellness Division into unchartered territories of expansion and growth.

A French national, Cedric Betis completed his Master’s Degree in Sports & Sciences at Montpellier University, France. Since earning his esteemed degree, Cedric has gained unparalleled experience within the health and fitness industry, with his work sending him to premier destinations across key territories, including Europe, North America, Asia and the Middle East.

Betis has been at the head of the Corporate Wellness Division at Dubai Holding since 2007, and also previously worked for StarTrac Fitness as their Middle East Regional Manager.

Cedric is currently the Group Director of Wellness for the Jumeirah Group, where he successfully converted the exclusive Talise Spa brand into a Global Wellness brand – Talise Wellness – that encompasses three pillars, Talise Fitness, Talise Spa and Talise Nutrition.

Betis is an incredibly busy man, as he is responsible for the Global Wellness strategy for the Jumeirah Group, including the day to day management of its owned operations, as well as the development of the Talise Gyms outside the hotel footprint.

Cedric set aside a moment within his prodigious schedule to speak with Nasrine Abushakra for this exclusive interview where he shares some of his favorite places and spaces in Dubai.

1.) Where were you born?
Montpellier, South of France (Mediterranean Coast)

2. How long have you been in the Middle East?
Since 2002

3. Neighborhood:
Dubai Marina

4. Occupation:
Chairman of the Dubai Holding Wellness Committee and Group Director of Wellness for the Jumeirah Group.

5. Favorite Restaurant:
Toro Toro at Grosvenor House

6. Best Sushi:
ET Sushi at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers

7. Best Italian:
Segreto at Madinat Jumeirah

8. Best Dessert:
Carrot Cake at Lime Tree Cafe

9. Best place for a romantic date:
Jetty Lounge at One&Only

10. Best Brunch:
Emperium at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

11. Best place for a power business meeting:
Zuma at DIFC

12. If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend?
Madinat Jumeirah Hotel

13. Favorite shopping venue/boutique:
Shoe Level District at Dubai Mall

14. Best Spa:
Talise Spa at Madinat Jumeirah

15. Favorite Cultural Event:
Art Week

16. Favorite Cultural Institution:
Dubai Museum

17. Best Steakhouse:
The Rib Room at Jumeirah Emirates Towers

18. Best Pizza:
Calzone

19. Best Gym/Athletic Facility:
Talise Fitness at Jumeirah Beach Hotel

20. Describe your city in three words:
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful…

21. Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore:
The Great Wall of China

22. All-around favorite spot in Dubai:
The Beach

23. Best Aspect of AD/UAEDubai/Middle East
Arabic hospitality