Cover A look inside one of the private rooms at Ramitta Elite in St Regis Kuala Lumpur
A look inside one of the private rooms at Ramitta Elite in St Regis Kuala Lumpur
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A profession that has run in the family for long, Ali Abdulnaser, the CEO of Ramitta, is a fourth-generation hairdresser
With a legacy that has just turned over a century old, Ali Abdulnaser is proud of his heritage and the skills that were passed down from generation to generation in his family. “My great-grandfather first started the business in Syria; he learned his skills from an Armenian hairdresser and then passed them down to my grandfather, who in turn shared the knowledge with my father—who supplemented what he knew with the flair of Italian hairdressing skills. And now, here I am,” says 86 Abdulnaser, who started helping his father in the business at the age of 15 and also trained in London to further enhance his hairdressing expertise.
Having arrived in Malaysia, Abdulnaser first started working for a renowned hair salon before branching out on his own and continuing the family business.
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Above Ali Mustafa Kurdi—Ali Abdulnaser's grandfather
Ali Mustafa Kurdi—Ali Abdulnaser's grandfather
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“‘Ramitta’ means ‘peak’ in the Aramaic language, which is the name my grandfather gave the business, and that aptly reflects us, as being at the top of our game and taking the best care of the top of your body,” he shared.
But it doesn’t end there; we learn that Ramitta also chooses to only do business in top locations. “The first parameter I look at when opening an outlet is to open at the best location in town. It has to be centralised and have an exclusive or luxurious feel to it. Our first location in Ipoh fits the criteria, and the branch there also features a cigar lounge. Then in Kuala Lumpur, we have set up Ramitta Elite, which further elevates the luxury element, in the St Regis KL, one of the more luxurious hotels in the city and easily accessible,” Abdulnaser added.
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Above Ali Abdulnaser, CEO of Ramitta
Ali Abdulnaser, CEO of Ramitta
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Visiting Ramitta Elite, we sensed the luxury and professionalism of the salon. From the waiting area where patrons are served beverages and light snacks, to the private rooms where various procedures take place, be it a haircut, shave, waxing, or more, Ramitta provides a truly indulgent and pampering experience for men to spend some time on self-care.
Above Ramitta in Ipoh
Ramitta in Ipoh
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What we also found interesting was the business model. Unlike other barbershops where you are charged per service requested, here you are charged by time—and are then free to have as many services done within that time frame as possible. So, if your hair trim is finished earlier than expected, you can then opt for a facial waxing, or maybe a head massage, depending on how you feel that day.
On top of that, the products and amenities used in Ramitta are premium and contribute to the luxurious feel of the entire experience. Perhaps one of the standout features is the Takara Belmont barber chairs, which Abdulnaser had customised for each of the three private rooms. Plush and comfortable, each of the chairs costs six figures, specifically made to give Ramitta Elite’s clients the best in terms of comfort and experience during their time in the salon.
Above Ramitta features luxe interiors and a private hairdressing room
Ramitta features luxe interiors and a private hairdressing room
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When asked what sets Ramitta apart from the rest, Abdulnaser explained, “Not only do we offer our skilful expertise in grooming and styling, but there’s more to it. Our environment and tools are cleaned and sanitised frequently to ensure high standards of hygiene. We also [prioritise] privacy and hospitality; whether you come alone or in a group to discuss business or simply want company while having your haircut done, your party of up to three is invited to the private hairdressing room. Here, you can adjust the lighting and music to your liking. And what is perhaps most attractive is that Ramitta can also function as a social club, where members can get to know and mingle with other clients too.”
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