Ryan Ronel is the co-founder of Trip Expert International. JONATHAN YBERA/EXPAT MEDIA

For Ryan Ronel, co-founder of Trip Expert International, life in the UAE began with one bold decision and a plane ticket on his 24th birthday. “I always dreamed of working abroad,” he tells Expat Media . “When Junie told me his plan to move to Dubai, I didn’t think twice. We booked the ticket right away. We even made a short detour in Thailand before flying here.” Today, Ryan stands alongside Junie as part of the powerhouse duo behind one of Dubai’s fastest-growing business setup and travel companies. Born and raised in Valenzuela City, Ryan grew up in a big family as the third of seven siblings. “After senior high, I tried enrolling in Hotel and Restaurant Management, but I didn’t push through,” he shares. “I discovered I had a skill for cooking and creativity, so I just started working.” Those early jobs in different companies in the Philippines sharpened his adaptability. “I skipped from one job to another,” he admits. “Nothing really got my full interest—until I met Junie.” The two hit it off quickly. “We met while Junie was on vacation,” Ryan recalls. “We clicked right away and even launched a marketing and immigration business there.” Their passion for entrepreneurship would eventually evolve into something much bigger.

New beginnings in Dubai

He and Junie began freelancing from home, creating marketing content for travel brands and corporate clients. “At that time, we didn’t plan on starting a company like what we have now,” Ryan says. “But our clients kept growing.” In 2024, Trip Expert International was born—a company that blends travel services with business setup solutions. “We help clients set up their businesses in the UAE, get self-sponsored or freelance visas, and even assist with tourist and student visas for places like the US, Canada, and Europe,” Ryan explains. “What makes us different is that we deal directly with UAE freezones so our clients know everything we do is legal and transparent.” “We started with a small office and a few staff,” Ryan recalls. “Now we’ve multiplied our team and moved to a bigger space. That’s what I’m most proud of.” He manages the company’s marketing and partnerships, complementing Junie’s role in operations and training. “We’re different in personality,” he says with a smile. “Junie is dominant. But we balance each other out and find a compromise.” Their teamwork has become the foundation of Trip Expert International’s success. “In one year, we achieved what we thought would take three,” Ryan says. “We’re proud that 90 percent of our clients are Filipinos. We understand their struggles and we want to help them succeed.” For Ryan, the business is more than a livelihood, it’s a mission. “We help people achieve their dreams,” he says simply. “And when we see our clients grow or finally bring their families here, it feels like we’ve succeeded too.” His advice for aspiring entrepreneurs? “Don’t rush success,” he says. “The small wins lead you to the bigger goals.” WDL/Expat Media

Quick fire with Ryan

How do friends describe you? Naughty! Shawarma or adobo? Adobo! Coffee or chai? Chai. Filipino dish you could eat every day? Pancit. Burj Khalifa or Boracay? Boracay. Time travel destination? Switzerland. Funniest travel mishap? Overstaying in Armenia for two days! Desert safari or island hopping? Island hopping. Who’s the better trip planner? I think it’s Junie. Bucket list destination? Korea. Need help with your business setup or visa? Contact Trip Expert International via tripexpertintl.com or call +971 04 5536289
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