Meet the Owner - Zaya Younan

From Humble Beginnings to Cigar Connoisseur & the Rise of El Septimo

A Dream Takes Flight

Zaya Younan’s story is a remarkable testament to the power of resilience, passion, and the unwavering pursuit of dreams. As a young boy in Tehran, Younan’s aspirations were ignited by a chance encounter with an American tourist. This fleeting interaction sparked a desire to pursue an education in the United States, a dream he tenaciously pursued, working tirelessly to earn enough money for a one-way ticket to Chicago. At the tender age of 13, he embarked on a solo journey to a new land, leaving behind his family and everything familiar.
Arriving in the United States from Iran with little more than a pair of worn-out shoes and an unexpected $25 tip from a stranger, Younan’s journey is an inspiring tale of overcoming adversity, with his net worth reflecting extraordinary success.

From Engineering to Entrepreneurship

Zaya Younan’s early years in America were marked by hard work and determination. He juggled multiple jobs while pursuing his education, eventually earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois. His engineering career spanned over a decade, contributing to groundbreaking projects for major corporations like General Motors, Johnson Controls, and TRW.

However, Younan’s entrepreneurial spirit yearned for more. In 2002, he took a bold leap into the world of commercial real estate, founding Younan Properties Inc. Despite having no prior experience in the industry, he immersed himself in the business, learning every aspect of property management and development. His hands-on approach and relentless drive propelled the company to remarkable heights, amassing a portfolio worth billions and establishing Younan as a prominent figure in the real estate world.

A Passion Ignited: El Septimo

Amidst his business ventures, Zaya nurtured a deep-seated passion for cigars. More than just a hobby, it was an appreciation for the artistry, history, and craftsmanship behind each cigar. This passion culminated in the creation of El Septimo, a brand synonymous with luxury, quality, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

El Septimo cigars are distinguished by their unique blends of rare and aged tobaccos, sourced from the most prestigious growing regions around the world. Younan’s dedication to quality is evident in every step of the production process, from the careful selection of leaves to the expert rolling and aging techniques. The result is a collection of cigars that offer a truly exceptional smoking experience, characterized by rich flavors, complex aromas, and impeccable construction.

Younan’s vision for El Septimo extends beyond crafting exceptional cigars. He aims to create a lifestyle brand that embodies luxury and sophistication, offering a range of accessories and experiences that complement the cigar-smoking ritual. El Septimo lounges, located in select cities, provide a haven for aficionados to relax, connect, and indulge in their passion.

A Legacy of Passion and Perseverance

Zaya Younan’s story is an inspiration to all who dare to dream big. From humble beginnings to remarkable achievements, his journey exemplifies the power of resilience, passion, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s aspirations. His love for cigars, embodied in the exceptional El Septimo brand, is a testament to his appreciation for the finer things in life and his desire to share that passion with the world.

A Life of Giving Back

Zaya Younan’s success has not diminished his commitment to giving back. He is a dedicated philanthropist, supporting numerous charitable endeavors and actively contributing to the Assyrian community. His generosity extends from rebuilding homes in war-torn Lebanon to funding educational initiatives and cultural preservation efforts.

You can read much more about Zaya and his ventures on his personal website https://zayayounan.com/. For more information about El Septimo, please visit our About page.

2 Comments

Terry Ray

| January 6, 2026

I would really love to try a couple of those cigars. And one day I will. I’m very impressed with the stories I’ve heard from Mr. Younan. Please tell me where can I get one from???