Blending Italian and Omani cuisine with executive chef Massimiliano Ascion
At Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, executive chef Massimiliano Ascione reveals how he transforms Salalah’s freshest seafood, fruits, herbs and spices into unforgettable dining moments. With over 20 years’ international experience, he combines Italian techniques, local inspiration and meticulous attention to detail to craft dishes that linger, leaving guests with authentic, world-class culinary memories.
Saudi Arabia’s luxury hospitality evolution with Fredrik Blomqvist
Fredrik Blomqvist, general manager of Raffles Jeddah, discusses the city’s evolving luxury hospitality scene, emerging guest trends and how Raffles will blend legendary service with Jeddah’s unique character to create unforgettable, meaningful experiences.
Functional food: the new ingredient for F&B success
Hospitality is in the midst of a revolution rooted in wellness and health-focused innovation. Fresh from a panel debate that explored this topical issue, Christian Salloum, managing director of BrandPortunity F&B Consulting, explains why products that were once mostly found in health-food stores have now gone mainstream, from beetroot hummus to cacao-nib granola.
Raising the bar in the UAE’s beverage scene
From zero-proof cocktails to functional drinks and locally inspired creations, mixology in the UAE is evolving fast. We meet the innovators behind the movement — crafting experiences that go far beyond the glass.
9 ways that AI can help hotel investors make smarter decisions
In the rapidly evolving digital era, smart technology is redefining how project investment decisions are made, offering business leaders the advantage of data-driven precision. Abdul Kader Saadi, founder and managing director at Eighty6, shares his nine-point checklist outlining how AI can support hotel investors and give them a strategic edge.
Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah’s hotel manager Rania Chamoun on the future of hospitality in Dubai
As Dubai continues to lead global tourism, Palm Jumeirah is becoming a symbol of luxury and innovation. Rania Chamoun, hotel manager of Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, discusses the evolving hospitality scene in the UAE.
Coffee mixology: shaking things up with cutting-edge creativity
Coffee mixology is scaling new heights, with baristas, mixologists and even Michelin-starred chefs harnessing the richness of top-quality, specialty coffee to craft unique taste experiences. Victor Delpierre, gastronomy consultant, former world champion barista and former world champion mixologist at the Coffee In Good Spirits (CIGS) competition, maps out the latest trends.
Destination Salalah with Andrea Orrú, general manager of Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara
Andrea Orrú, GM of Al Baleed Resort Salalah, spotlights the evolving luxury hotel market in Salalah, the challenges faced by high-end resorts in the region, and the unique features that set Al Baleed Resort Salalah apart.
Oman’s cuisine and unique flavors
A panel discussion titled “In the Spotlight: Omani Cuisine and Its Unique Identity” was held on May 28, 2025, during HORECA Oman. Organized by Hospitality News Middle East, the discussion emphasized the growing role of Omani cuisine in shaping the region’s gastronomic reputation. Indeed, through storytelling, local ingredients and passionate chefs, Omani cuisine is rising with authenticity and charm.
Rotana expands into Africa and Iraq with six new hotel openings
Rotana has announced its latest international expansion plan with the addition of six new properties across Africa and Iraq.
