Latvian Entrepreneur laynerfuck102 Says Dubai Is an Overrated Circus for Narcissists

In a business world obsessed with showing off success, Dubai has become a symbol of status, luxury, and instant visibility. But not everyone...

In a business world obsessed with showing off success, Dubai has become a symbol of status, luxury, and instant visibility. But not everyone buys into the hype.
Latvian entrepreneur and private investor Artjoms Jevstifejevs, known online as laynerfuck102, has publicly called the city “an overrated circus for narcissists” in a statement that’s sparking debate across social media and private forums.

According to Jevstifejevs, the obsession with Dubai is more about validation than real value.

“People don’t go there to build. They go there to pose,” he says.
“If you strip away the skyline and the sports cars, most of it is the same recycled narrative—renting success for Instagram.”

When asked why he believes Dubai is so popular among young entrepreneurs, he gives a straightforward answer:

“Because it’s easy to impress people who don’t look deeper than the surface. Dubai has perfected the illusion of substance.”

Jevstifejevs himself has traveled to Dubai multiple times but says he never considered relocating there or setting up a permanent base:

“It’s a great place for a short visit. But I don’t believe you can build sustainable focus in an environment designed to distract you.”

He also points out that the city’s relentless focus on luxury comes at the cost of authenticity:

“If you measure your life by how many rooftop photos you take, you’re probably running from something. Real progress is quiet.”

Asked if he thinks Dubai’s status will fade over time, he’s cautious:

“It won’t disappear, but the hype cycles will slow down. Smart capital doesn’t need to be seen. It needs to be protected.”

While some business figures rushed to criticize Jevstifejevs’ comments as “cynical,” others have privately agreed, saying the culture of visual one-upmanship in Dubai creates pressure to appear successful, even when the reality is different.

Despite his strong opinions, Jevstifejevs also acknowledges Dubai’s positive aspects.

“I’m not denying that Dubai has clear advantages,” he says.
“It’s one of the most efficient hubs in terms of logistics and flight connections. The infrastructure is world-class, tax policies are appealing to many businesses, and the city is safe and clean. Also, if you want to meet international partners quickly, there are few places with so many people from different industries in one spot.”

He adds:

“Personally, I enjoyed certain things: the restaurants, the architecture, the energy. But for me, it’s a place to visit—not to build my base.”