Dubai, UAE – Devesh Mistry, a prominent figure in the digital experience industry in the Middle East and co-founder of Dubai-based Red Blue Blur Ideas (RBBi), has passed away. The news, announced by RBBi on Sunday, marks a significant loss for the regional tech and design community. Mistry was also a dedicated mentor to students at the University of Dubai, leaving a lasting impact on aspiring professionals.
Mistry’s death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from colleagues and former students. He was instrumental in establishing RBBi as a leading agency specializing in user experience (UX), user interface (UI), and digital performance marketing. The company has paused operations to mourn and support its team during this difficult time.
A Pioneer in Digital Experience Design
Devesh Mistry co-founded RBBi in 2011, recognizing a growing need for specialized expertise in creating effective and user-centric digital solutions. According to the company, he played a crucial role in shaping its culture and approach to client work. This focus on usability and design thinking helped establish RBBi as a key player in the rapidly evolving digital landscape of the UAE.
His career began in the late 1990s with a foundation in coding. However, Mistry quickly realized that the technical aspects of development were only part of the equation. He became increasingly focused on how users interacted with and experienced the technology, leading him to pursue a balance between development and design.
Extensive Client Portfolio
Throughout his career, Mistry and RBBi collaborated with a diverse range of globally recognized brands. These included major corporations such as Microsoft, IBM, and MasterCard, as well as regional leaders like Emirates NBD and Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. The agency’s work spanned multiple industries, demonstrating its adaptability and expertise in UX design.
Additionally, Mistry’s experience extended to the telecommunications and financial sectors, having worked with Telstra Australia and the Commonwealth Bank of Australia earlier in his career. This broad exposure informed his approach to problem-solving and innovation within the digital realm.
Commitment to Education and Mentorship
Beyond his entrepreneurial success, Mistry was deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of digital professionals. He served as a lecturer, mentor, and curriculum developer at the University of Dubai, focusing on digital strategy programs. His contributions to the university helped bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world industry practices.
Prior to his work in Dubai, Mistry also held a lecturing position at the University of Technology in Sydney. This demonstrates a consistent dedication to sharing his knowledge and experience with students across different geographical locations.
Mistry’s educational background included a science degree in physics from Mumbai University. He also held professional certifications, including being a Microsoft Certified Professional and a certified member of the User Experience Professionals Association (UXPA), further validating his expertise in digital marketing and user-centered design.
Colleagues remember Mistry as a curious and thoughtful individual who enjoyed reading and playing the guitar outside of work. These personal interests reflect a well-rounded personality and a continuous pursuit of knowledge.
RBBi stated they will continue to operate based on the principles established by Mistry and the team. The company is currently focused on supporting its employees and honoring Mistry’s legacy. It remains to be seen how the company’s leadership structure will evolve in the long term.
The industry will be watching to see how RBBi navigates this transition and continues to contribute to the growth of the digital experience sector in the Middle East. Further details regarding memorial arrangements and potential tributes are expected to be announced by the company in the coming days.
