Nicole Rodrigues, the CEO of the Dubai-based Diva Group of Companies, has truly embodied the spirit of hard work and perseverance in building a multi-faceted business empire. Her company spans across industries, including a modeling agency, real estate, and accounting services. As she lounges in her luxurious Palm Jumeirah mansion with stunning ocean views, she reflects on her fascinating journey from a model to a powerful businesswoman.
One of her most notable lessons on success comes from her relationship with money, which she compares to her relationship with her wife. “Treat money like how you treat your wife,” Nicole says, flashing a mischievous smile. “The energy of money is similar. The more you chase her, the further away she runs. So, you have to let her be. Please ensure to periodically check in on her by conducting audits and reviewing accounts. It’s like buying the occasional gift for your wife. Similarly, keeping track of finances is important, and that’s how you flourish.”
A Harvard graduate and a former model, Nicole’s mantra for success comes with a clear focus on the essentials: passion, purpose, and a relentless drive. The self-proclaimed “Queen of the Palm” didn’t fall into her fortune by accident — she worked tirelessly for it. 
With her 25,000-square-foot mansion in Palm Jumeirah as a testament to her staggering success, Nicole reflects on her humble beginnings. “To be very honest, I never really imagined I would be living this life,” she admits. “I just stayed focused on working hard and giving myself into serving others.”
Nicole’s entrepreneurial journey began over two decades ago when she first moved to the UAE. The goal was clear: professionalize model scouting in the region. That vision resulted in the creation of Diva Modelling Agency, which she founded with just a handful of key contacts and boundless ambition.
“I wanted to create a platform that would provide opportunities for talent in the region. That’s how it all started,” she explains. From there, her business expanded into real estate, finance, and other ventures, always reinvesting and scaling up gradually, but purposefully. The result? Her first million came as a natural by-product of her drive, as did her growth into a seasoned businesswoman.
“I’m obvious that your finances are the heart of your business — or your life, for that matter — and you must treat them well,” says Nicole. “Do your projections, track your expenses, set goals, and understand investments. Money will follow, but it’s not the goal — it’s the reward.”
Nicole didn’t always see Dubai as her home. Originally from Bahrain and later Copenhagen, she moved to Dubai 22 years ago with her ex-husband. Initially, she wasn’t fond of the city, but she soon realized, “Dubai is me, and I am Dubai. She’s vibrant, alive, and constantly evolving. She’s generous, kind, and epic.”
Today, Nicole is one of the most successful businesswomen in Dubai, a symbol of purpose, persistence, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Her journey is not just about money but about building a legacy in a city that never stops growing.
