Are you considering expanding into Africa or the Middle East? Simply copying and pasting your current business model is a recipe for failure.

These regions, while full of opportunity, have unique rules, cultures, and expectations. In this episode, Adel Hameed sits down with Africa expert Holger Vogt and Middle East strategist Ramy Lahoud.

They break down when to partner up, how to assess a market's true readiness, and why the soft skills of trust and relationship-building are your most valuable assets. This isn't a theoretical lecture; it's a practical playbook from leaders who have navigated these markets for decades.

Show Notes:

(14:55) The First Big Question: Joint Venture, Go Direct, or Acquire?

(21:40) How to Decide if a Market is Ready for You

(25:05) Navigating Africa's Legal Framework: The Power of a Handshake

(29:45) Debunking the "Money Grows on Trees" Myth in the GCC

(38:35) Product Customization in Regions with Varying Infrastructure

(43:30) The "Path of Least Resistance": Should You Work with Governments?

(47:20) Avoiding Burnout and the "Free Pilot" Trap in Competitive Markets

(51:05) Signature Question: What Do You Want to Be Remembered For?Links:

• Adel Hameed's Profile: Adel Hameed | Founder and Managing Partner of A8 Innovation
• Holger Vogt's Profile: Holger Vogt | Fractional Chief Expansion Officer
• Ramy Lahoud's Profile: Ramy Lahoud | Fractional Chief Growth Officer
• Follow the Show on LinkedIn: Linkedin Science Warriors

The Science Warriors Show is an A8 Strategy Original Podcast