Surge in Makkah’s licensed hospitality facilities hits 80 percent
Saudi Arabia experienced a significant rise in the number of licensed hospitality facilities in Makkah, reaching 1,030 by the end of 2024. This marked an impressive 80 percent increase compared to the previous year, according to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism. Consequently, Makkah now leads the kingdom in the number of licensed facilities and rooms.
Weighing up the options: franchise, management agreement or third-party operator?
Choosing a hotel operating model is a major decision and one size certainly doesn’t fit all. Hala Matar Choufany, president of HVS Middle East and Africa, has the insights that hotel owners need to make their evaluations and selections, with a view to optimizing returns.
A four-hand chocolate masterclass at L’École Valrhona Dubai with Roger Fok and Andy Yeung
L’École Valrhona Dubai is set to host an exceptional culinary event that will captivate chocolate lovers and pastry professionals. From March 17-19, the school will welcome renowned pastry chefs Roger Fok and Andy Yeung.
How to optimize AI technology in hospitality and event management
There’s widespread acceptance that AI applications today are a must, rather than optional, for hospitality marketers and event providers looking to maintain a competitive edge. Lovetto Nazareth, CEO of Prism Digital, has a 12-point checklist on how to utilize this revolutionary technology to enhance efficiency and create unique guest experiences.
Dare to be different in franchising
It’s a fact that traditional franchising agreements often fall short of offering a genuine working partnership, weighted, instead, in favor of the franchisor. Daniel During, principal and managing director at Thomas Klein International, challenges us to rethink our approach to franchising, with a focus on rewards rather than punishments.
Showcasing U.S. Beef at a technical seminar for restaurateurs and chefs in Egypt
The rich aroma of sizzling beef filled The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo, as top chefs and restaurateurs attended a prestigious U.S. Beef Technical Seminar. Organized collaboratively by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) and the Foreign Agricultural Service – USDA/FAS Cairo, the event celebrated premium beef. Additionally, it highlighted innovative cooking techniques and the art of crafting unforgettable flavors, strengthening the connection between culinary professionals and high-quality U.S. beef.
Gearing up for Gulfood 2026
Building on the hugely successful Gulfood legacy, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has announced that the next edition of Gulfood will take place from January 26-30. The announcement has already attracted significant interest from key industry sectors during the 2025 show, reflecting growing anticipation.
European Rice showcases premium quality at Gulfood 2025
The European Rice campaign successfully marked its presence at Gulfood 2025, the world’s largest food and beverage trade exhibition, held in Dubai.
The future of digital hospitality
The hospitality industry stands at the threshold of an extraordinary digital revolution that will fundamentally transform guest experiences, according to Dr. Jassim Haji, president of Global Artificial Intelligence Group.
