From bean to bar: the rise of the chocolate sommelier
Chocolate is no longer just a sweet treat; it has become a subject of study, sensory exploration, and culinary refinement. On October 1, 2025, at Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Dubai, experts explored how cocoa became a sophisticated tasting experience. Furthermore, the discussion featured Victoire Finaz, chocologue and founder of Chocologue Paris, and James Knight-Pacheco, culinary development lead at Chef Middle East.
Dubai leads UAE hotel sector growth, says Cavendish Maxwell
According to new research and insights from Cavendish Maxwell , the UAE’s hotel sector is seeing strong growth across all segments. Vidhi Shah, director and head of Commercial Valuation at Cavendish Maxwell, notes that Dubai continues to lead the market, outperforming other emirates in occupancy.
The significance of fine pastry in the UAE
From heritage-inspired confections to cutting-edge presentations, the UAE’s pastry world is rising fast. We meet the chefs behind this sweet revolution — blending tradition, innovation and artistry to shape the region’s dessert identity.
Made in Dubai: brands elevating the UAE’s chocolate scene
From heritage flavors to global ambition, Dubai’s homegrown chocolate brands are shaping a bold new identity for the UAE’s confectionery scene. We hear from the creators driving this evolution — blending tradition, quality and innovation to redefine what it means to make chocolate in Dubai.
The future of investment in Saudi Arabia’s hospitality market with Dagmar Symes, CEO of Al Hamra Oasis Village Compound
Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector is heating up as Vision 2030 drives record tourism and investment. With new projects rising across the kingdom, Dagmar Symes, CEO of Al Hamra Oasis Village Compound, shares where investors are finding fresh opportunities and how the market is evolving.
New concept Ortovivo opens in Ajaltoun, Lebanon
Ortovivo has opened on Ajaltoun’s main road, introducing a new concept that offers fresh produce alongside natural ice creams, infusions and sandwiches.
Gault&Millau enters the Saudi Market through strategic partnership with the Culinary Arts Commission
Gault&Millau, one of the world’s most respected authorities in gastronomy and hospitality, has announced its official entry into Saudi Arabia through a landmark partnership with the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, supported by Hospitality Services Middle East (HSME). This launch brings the prestigious Yellow Guide to the Kingdom for the first time, setting a new benchmark for culinary excellence while fostering the growth of Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving culinary and hospitality sectors.
How to improve communication within teams
With over two decades of experience driving brand, marketing and communication strategies across sectors, award-winning strategist Carine Nehme has witnessed teams losing alignment. Here, she lifts the lid on how to solve communication issues that arise within teams.
Making waves: how beach clubs are redefining luxury leisure by Ahmed A. Sultan, GM and partner at Finasi
Once simple seasonal spots for sunseekers, beach clubs have evolved into immersive, experiential daycation destinations at the forefront of premium hospitality. Designed to operate all year round and take guests from day to night, the latest concepts serve as a masterclass in how to combine elegance with robust functionality, as Ahmed A. Sultan, general manager and partner at Finasi, explains.
Driving hospitality forward with Dr. Abed Al Razzaq Arabiyat
Dr. Abed Al Razzaq Arabiyat, managing director of the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB), has been instrumental in shaping the country’s tourism strategy and global positioning. Under his leadership, JTB has embraced innovation, digital transformation and sustainability to strengthen Jordan’s appeal across international markets. In this exclusive interview, he shares how the board is driving growth, building partnerships and positioning Jordan as a leading destination for the future.
