Who’s Peaty & what’s the club?

Praveen “Peaty” Tampi helps steer Ash Hole’s global operations. Founded in 2015 (Phoenix), the club now spans the U.S. and international chapters, with Dubai the single largest chapter worldwide.

Dubai by the numbers

• Weekly Thursday meet-ups; Friday is a lighter workday in the region, so Thursdays work best.
• 664 active Dubai members; 54 nationalities; ages range from early-20s to ~80.

DNA of membership

• Invitation only and referral-led: passion to learn trumps clout.
• No politics, religion, race, or nationality debates, this is sanctuary time.
• Community over networking: it’s brotherhood and genuine human conversation.

Cigar wisdom

• Palate first, labels second: start light-to-medium strength and discover what suits you.
• Cuban vs. “new world” is access and terroir, not status; great leaves come from DR, Nicaragua, Honduras, etc.
• Pairing philosophy: enjoy the cigar as designed, sparkling water with a dash of lime keeps the palate honest.

Operating model

• U.S. chapters run locally; global regions adapt to culture and regulations.
• Guests are welcome via members, but membership preserves standards and vibe.
• Dubai challenge: high retail/lounge markups; many source duty-free to explore broadly.

Why it works

Consistency, curation, and a clear ethos: be yourself, respect the craft, and leave the rest at the door.