Franchising: a strategic tool for MENA hospitality growth
Growing investor confidence and economic diversification are prompting hospitality brands to rethink how they approach regional expansion. Hala Matar Choufany, president of HVS Middle East and Africa, spotlights the evolving partnership models and considers what they signal for the sector’s future.
How to better manage food waste in tourism
From hotel buffets to airline catering and destination events, significant volumes of edible food are discarded daily. UN Tourism senior communications specialist Megha Paul highlights why food waste is tourism’s most preventable challenge and outlines practical strategies to reduce surplus sustainably.
Clovis Khoury, the Lebanese chef who refused to be defined by Michelin
Clovis Khoury, owner and head chef of SAS Lyle Maison Clovis, turned his back on Michelin acclaim to pursue true culinary freedom. Rooted in simplicity and devoted to local producers, he is now shaping his most daring chapter yet. We discover the story behind his bold vision.
MRA reports Middle East’s meat market disruption
Based on a 2025 report by Market Report Analytics (MRA), the Middle East edible meat industry is experiencing significant transformation. While traditional meat consumption remains dominant, the rise of plant-based meat substitutes is creating new dynamics, driven by shifting consumer preferences, sustainability concerns and evolving dietary trends across the region.
Accor accelerates premium growth in Cairo with Swissôtel Cairo West
Accor signs Swissôtel Cairo West, marking a milestone expansion reinforcing Egypt as a priority growth market regionally today.
Redefining family travel with Ozgur Cireli, GM of Rixos Bab Al Bahr
Family travel is evolving fast. From wellness to adventure, discover the bold trends reshaping multi-generational, experience-driven holidays for unforgettable memories with Ozgur Cireli, general manager of Rixos Bab Al Bahr Rixos Bab Al Bahr.
New Tapestry Collection by Hilton in Dammam slated to open in 2027
Aleph Hospitality has announced a new hospitality milestone after securing the Tapestry Collection by Hilton for Dammam. The upcoming 84-key hotel will be developed in Dammam, Saudi Arabia and owned by AREA Investment and Real Estate.
Eye on Bahrain with Tamer Farouk, general manager of Hilton Bahrain
Tamer Farouk, general manager of Hilton Bahrain discusses Bahrain’s evolving hospitality landscape, highlighting sector strengths, key growth drivers, emerging trends and Hilton Bahrain’s future plans.
Celebrating Levantine flavors with Dima Habibeh, founder and executive chef of AMMATOLI
We’re joined by a leading voice in Levantine cuisine, Dima Habibeh, founder and executive chef of AMMATOLI, to share her story of how she has brought the flavors, traditions and soul of the region to a wider American audience. As the founder of AMMATOLI, she has transformed personal memories and cultural heritage into a celebrated culinary experience
Insights from talks at HORECA Riyadh
HORECA Riyadh and Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh (15–17 December 2025) at Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Center successfully gathered the region’s hospitality and foodservice industry.