6 trends defining new regional hotel openings
A major shift is underway in high-end hospitality as hoteliers move to meet the demands of visitors who are looking for experiences rather than excessive extravagance. And the good news is that MENA is at the forefront of this transformation. Diogo Ildefonso, general manager at Glee Hospitality Solutions, spotlights six project-pipeline trends to watch that are already gaining traction region-wide.
Efficiency vs. emotion: why restaurant labor is at a crossroads
Automation may be firmly entrenched in F&B operations worldwide, but a rebalancing of the scales now appears to be underway. Mark Dickinson, of DONE! Hospitality Training Solutions believes this return to center is a timely reminder that technology should serve us – not replace us.
Maison Prunelle, chef Charles Azar and Exotica join forces to celebrate World Bread Day in Beirut
Maison Prunelle is set to host a one-of-a-kind celebration in Beirut on October 16 to mark World Bread Day in collaboration with Exotica and renowned pastry chef Charles Azar. The exclusive event will spotlight the artistry of bread combining gastronomy, craftsmanship and design in an experience never before celebrated this way in Lebanon.
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.
Lebanese Industry Expo 2025 kicks off in Beirut from October 29 to November 1 at Seaside Arena
Under the patronage and in the presence of H.E. general Joseph Aoun, president of the Lebanese Republic, the first edition of the Lebanese Industry Expo will take place from October 29 to November 1, 2025 at Seaside Arena, Beirut.
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.
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.
