How Entrepreneur Donna Benton Turned a Simple Idea into The ENTERTAINER App, Achieved a Successful Business Exit, and Continued to Inspire Through Reinvention
When Donna Benton launched The ENTERTAINER in Dubai in 2001, she wasn’t chasing fame or a quick win—she was solving a problem. Frustrated by the lack of everyday deals and rewards for locals and tourists alike, Benton turned a simple voucher concept into a global lifestyle brand that transformed how millions of people dined, traveled, and entertained themselves.
Over the years, The ENTERTAINER evolved from a printed discount book into a tech-driven app, offering thousands of 2-for-1 deals across restaurants, hotels, and leisure experiences worldwide. Benton’s journey from a small startup founder to a recognized entrepreneur and CEO is a masterclass in resilience, vision, and adaptability.
Building The ENTERTAINER: From Scratch to Success
Starting with limited resources, Benton relied on persistence and relationship-building. She personally knocked on doors of restaurants and hotels, convincing them to participate in her fledgling idea. Her belief in value creation for both businesses and customers laid the foundation for The ENTERTAINER’s early growth.
By staying true to her vision and understanding local markets, Benton grew the brand across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, proving that strong customer loyalty and consistent value can outlast trends.
The Exit: A Bold Move for a New Chapter
In 2018, Benton made headlines by selling a majority stake in The ENTERTAINER to a global investment group. For many entrepreneurs, exiting a company can be an emotional decision—but for Benton, it was a strategic evolution.
She stayed on during the transition, ensuring her team and brand continued to thrive. “Building something from the ground up teaches you everything—from leadership to patience,” she has shared in interviews. Her successful exit became an inspiration for women entrepreneurs navigating similar paths.
Reinvention: Life After The ENTERTAINER
Rather than slowing down, Benton embraced reinvention. She has since launched new ventures, invested in creative projects, and become an active mentor and advocate for female entrepreneurship. Her journey underscores that success isn’t an endpoint—it’s a cycle of growth and rediscovery.
Today, Benton continues to inspire with her commitment to innovation, empowerment, and authenticity—values that have made her one of the most respected business figures in the region.
Key Takeaway
From building an idea into a household name, to exiting at the right time, and reinventing herself beyond her brand, Donna Benton’s story is proof that true entrepreneurship is about passion, purpose, and perseverance.
