When discussing the most influential leaders under 50 in 2025, Jonathan L. Hasson stands out as a visionary entrepreneur whose work is transforming how people connect in the digital age.

As Co-Founder and CEO of UBQT, a Dubai-based AI-powered social networking app, Jonathan is on a mission to disrupt traditional social media by prioritizing real-life, meaningful interactions over digital noise and vanity metrics.

The UBQT Revolution

Founded in March 2023, UBQT (pronounced “ubiquity”) was born from a simple yet powerful realization: even in our hyper-connected world, people often miss opportunities to reconnect with those who matter most.

UBQT’s core innovation lies in its ability to keep users updated on their contacts’ schedules and facilitate spontaneous, in-person meetups—locally or globally—without the distractions of likes, followers, or curated selfies.

The app’s philosophy, “less screen time, more lifetime,” is a direct response to the growing concern over digital fatigue and superficial engagement. UBQT’s platform is intentionally designed to foster pure human reconnection, encouraging users to step away from their screens and nurture authentic relationships in the real world.

Achievements and Impact

Since its official launch in January 2024, UBQT has achieved nearly 5,000 organic downloads and forged partnerships with major events and organizations, including GITEX, Step Conference Dubai, The Offline Club, and The Emotion Network in Milan.

Expanding its feature set, UBQT is rolling out an innovative Emotion Network community feature. This allows users, corporates, and alumni associations to create their own communities and never miss a chance to reconnect in real life when they are in the same city.

In early 2025, UBQT successfully closed a $750,000 pre-seed funding round, positioning the platform for accelerated growth and deeper market penetration.

Jonathan’s leadership has also attracted a powerhouse team, including co-founders Lara Varjabedian and I.Q. Sayed (formerly of Meta and Careem), blending strategic vision and technical excellence.

Skills and Entrepreneurial Journey

Jonathan’s entrepreneurial journey is built on a rare combination of grit, global fluency, and a relentless drive for innovation.

Before UBQT, he co-founded Luxury Concierge China, a leading travel consultancy specializing in bespoke, privately guided experiences across China. His success in scaling niche businesses has been proven across multiple continents.

Since 2017, Jonathan has been an active angel investor, backing disruptive startups across edtech, HR tech, and sustainable lifestyle brands.

In addition to his ventures, Jonathan’s love for storytelling is reflected in creative projects like TV series SAPE TOI and GAMBUCH, which explore cultural movements and stories of resilience and transformation.

Vision for the Future

Jonathan L. Hasson’s leadership at UBQT is setting a new standard for social networking—one that values authentic connection, emotional intelligence, and real-world engagement over digital vanity.

His vision is not merely to build another app, but to spark a global movement where technology serves human relationships, rather than replaces them.

“We are absolutely thrilled to close the pre-seed funding round and have Iq join the team. This is just the beginning, and with the new funding and Iq on board, the team is excited to continue building a platform that empowers real, offline connections.”
– Jonathan L. Hasson, Co-Founder of UBQT

Why Jonathan L. Hasson is a Spotlight Leader

Jonathan’s work stands out for several reasons:

• Disruptor of Digital Norms: Challenging the traditional social media model by eliminating vanity metrics and promoting genuine, in-person interactions.
• Global Perspective: Drawing from a career that spans luxury travel, technology, and media, Jonathan brings a multicultural, human-centered approach to innovation.
• Community Builder: His mission extends beyond technology, restoring the value of real-world community and serendipitous connection.

In a world increasingly craving authenticity and deeper relationships, Jonathan L. Hasson’s journey with UBQT exemplifies the transformative power of visionary leadership. His inclusion among The Spotlight’s 50 Under 50 Leaders Around the Globe is a tribute to a leader reshaping the future of human connection.

Jonathan is on a mission to end digital fatigue and bring back serendipitous, meaningful meetups—online to offline.
🔗 Connect with Jonathan