Lebanon: a country of contrasts
Nagi Morkos, founder and managing partner at Hodema Consulting Services, discusses the disconnect between Lebanon’s economic struggles and its booming tourism sector.
Marriott signs 13 new deals as part of its expansion in Turkey
Marriott International, Inc. has reinforced its positioning in Turkey with the announcement of 13 deal signings comprising over 2,000 rooms. The signings are expected to further enhance the company’s footprint in the country, where it currently has a portfolio of 48 properties and nearly 8,000 rooms across 21 brands.
Salon du Chocolat et de la Patisserie returns to KSA
Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie is debuting at Riyadh’s International Convention and Exhibition Center from November 27-29, 2023. Following on from a successful first edition in Jeddah earlier in the year, we map out the main highlights of the show.
Chef Youssef Akiki places Lebanon on the culinary map with chef Tissot
Chef Youssef Akiki is not just a culinary master but also a true ambassador for Lebanon. He has earned a global reputation for his innovative and authentic approach to Lebanese cuisine. He is the owner and manager of the F&B consultancy firm Kitchen Backstage Company and the visionary behind brût, a unique farm-to-table concept that offers an immersive experience in Levantine cuisine. Additionally, Akiki has launched Butler’s Table offering Mediterranean cuisine with vibrant, fresh ingredients. As a board member of the Lebanese Syndicate of Owners of Restaurants, Cafes, Night-Clubs & Pastries, and through his consultancy work with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in Lebanon, as well as thrilling collaborations such as the one with celebrity chef Davy Tissot at brût in Hrajel-Lebanon this September 16, Akiki is committed to putting Lebanon on the international culinary map.
The EY Middle East Hotel Benchmark Survey highlights a flourishing hospitality scene
In May 2023, the Middle East’s hospitality industry witnessed noteworthy shifts and trends, unveiling the dynamic landscape of the region’s tourism and hotel sectors. The latest findings from the EY Middle East Hotel Benchmark Survey provide valuable insights into key cities’ performance during this period.
Future Hospitality Summit gears up for themed “Focus on Investment” summit
The Future Hospitality Summit and 19th edition of the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC) is gearing up to check into Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island for three days of discussion, debate and dealmaking at the region’s leading tourism and hospitality summit, taking place from September 25-27.
JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh appoints chef Hamzeh Abu Elfoul as its new culinary director
JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh has appointed chef Hamzeh Abu Elfoul as its new culinary director. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Abu Elfoul brings a wealth of international culinary expertise and a remarkable portfolio of luxury hospitality brands to his role.
Hilton Dammam Airport set to open in 2025
Hilton continues its expansion across Saudi Arabia with the signing of Hilton Dammam Airport, its first airport hotel in the country. The 273-key property will be completed in partnership with Al Musbah Group and Damman Airports Company (DACO).
A gastro tour of Turkey’s Black Sea
Diverse, colorful and flavorful, Turkish cuisine — one of the world’s oldest — unquestionably caters to all tastes and palates. The country’s rich history, geography and favorable climatic conditions, among other factors, have contributed to the enormous variety of dishes that one finds in Turkey today; and while Istanbul is considered the gastronomy capital, culinary delights can be found in countless other cities and towns, notably in the north, along Turkey’s Black Sea.
Wynn Al Marjan Island’s casino is “on track” to open in 2027
Setting new global benchmarks for design and premium luxury experiences, Wynn Resorts is poised to introduce its highly anticipated resort on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah. This visionary project draws inspiration from the mesmerizing views of the Arabian Gulf, encapsulating a harmonious blend of tranquility and grandeur. The forthcoming multibillion-dollar integrated resort, known as Wynn Al Marjan Island, signifies a pivotal milestone for Wynn Resorts in the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region.
