How this Dubai entrepreneur rebuilt her relationship with money after divorce; startup loss

Indian expat Ritika Kothari is just 35 and is thriving as a young entrepreneur in the UAE’s innovation landscape where she says after nearly three years in Dubai, she can even earn money while sleeping. She sees money as something, which must be nurtured, a double-edged sword with potential for both empowering us and creating conflict.

If you had to use one word to describe money, what would it be?

Freedom.

If you had to write a letter to money, what would you say?

Dear Money, You’ve been a double-edged sword — both a tool for empowerment and a tough teacher. While I’ve had my wins and losses, I’m grateful for what you’ve enabled me to create and experience. 

How would you describe your relationship to money?

My relationship with money has been both good and challenging. I married young into a well-to-do family, which exposed me to wealth but also made me learn financial independence the hard way when I got divorced. I started thinking money is a problem creator, having too much of it can cause family feuds.

How do you think it was formed?

It was shaped by contrasting influences. My mother, a salaried professional, believed in saving for comfort and spending only on experiences, books, and things that enriched the mind. On the other hand, I learned the value of financial planning after navigating losses and successes in my entrepreneurial journey. Having a large sum of money at an early age of 26 was very overwhelming and confusing, since I never learned how to manage money from my father or my first husband. I was always taken care of, until one day I had to take care of everything myself — that was the biggest learning.

What good/bad lessons about money management did you learn from your mother?

My mother taught me to save, avoid excess, and focus on meaningful experiences over materialistic splurges. But I also realised the importance of balancing this with investing for the future.

Who do you speak to about money matters, and is it something you consider ‘taboo’?

It’s definitely not taboo. I’ve learned the importance of discussing finances with trusted advisors, mentors, and even peers. Open conversations about money are key to making smarter decisions. I’d also discuss all our investments and financial liabilities before getting married again, as I feel it’s important to be aware of the situation in advance, so the combined planning of a future together can be more aligned.

Who has taught you the most about financial management?

Honestly, life itself. Losing money with my first startup and not having a financial advisor to guide me when I gained wealth at just 26 taught me invaluable lessons about planning and sustainability.

How do you think living in the UAE has changed your relationship with and perception of money?

Dubai has given me a global perspective on wealth. Here, money is seen as a tool for innovation, legacy-building, and creating opportunities, which aligns with my own values. Investors are more open to listening to Dubai based startups and have a trust factor which is higher. In Dubai, I make money even when I’m sleeping.

If you could give your child or your younger self one piece of advice about money now, what would that be and why?

Learn financial planning early. Don’t just earn — invest, diversify, and build a safety net. Money should work for you, not the other way around.

What do you value spending money on?

Travel and experiences. I’m all about fine dining, incredible views, and moments that enrich life. I love gifting too.

What do you consider splashing out?

A luxury vacation, exploring new places, or dining at a restaurant with breathtaking views — these are my indulgences.

Do you long-term plan your finances, and if so, how?

Absolutely. I set clear goals for personal savings, business growth, and legacy-building. Every major financial decision ties back to these plans. Running two businesses globally requires me to have clear goals, this way I inspire my team to do better.

What is your long-term goal or dream pegged to your finances?

A couple of million dollars to live a peaceful, fulfilling life, give back through philanthropy, travel the world, and leave a financial cushion for my grandchildren so they have freedom in their choices. 

wknd@khaleejtimes.com