Who was Rajiv Meherish? The Indian-origin founder of popular Dubai-based restaurant chain Raju Omlet has died

Rajiv Meherish, founder and chief executive officer (CEO) of Raju Omlet, a Dubai-based chain of retro-chic restaurants of Indian origin, died on July 19.

The news of his death was confirmed by employees of Raju Omlet outlets who said the restaurants continued to operate as usual, Khaleej Times reported.

Family friend Meherish also confirmed the news of his death, saying, “I am extremely saddened by this news. He was not well and passed away this morning.” However, they did not reveal the reason for his death.

Who was Rajiv Meherish?

According to his LinkedIn profile, Meherish was a business graduate from Mumbai University who moved to Dubai in 1980 and started his career as a sales professional. From February 1982, he spent many years selling media space to Khaleej Times and other leading English and Arabic newspapers.

From 1990 to 2013, he established and successfully ran a media business where Meherish and his special occasions team produced publications for leading newspapers in Dubai and for corporate clients including Dubai Airport, Dubai Chamber, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Roads and Transport Authority and other leading government and government organisations.

Meherish then founded Raju Omlet in 2013, which is described as a retro-chic restaurant specializing in egg preparation. The restaurant has since expanded to seven locations across Dubai, with two more said to be in the works. His long-term vision was to take Raju Omlet beyond the borders of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and build it into a global brand.

Dubai businessmen mourn Meherish’s death

Kamal Vachani, a veteran Dubai businessman, remembered Meherish, calling him “a very nice man” who was always “humble”.

Anis Sajan, vice chairman of the Danube Group, described him as a visionary entrepreneur who transformed simple egg dishes into a popular household brand.

Sajan said, “I am deeply saddened to hear of Rajiv’s death. As a food lover, I have watched the remarkable growth of Raju Omlet over the years. I fondly remember visiting the restaurant and being personally invited by Rajiv to taste some of his signature dishes.”

He went on to say, “What he accomplished was truly extraordinary. He took humble, everyday egg dishes and elevated them through creativity and distinctive flavors, transforming a simple concept into a much-loved household brand. His legacy will live on through the brand he created and the countless people he inspired.”

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.