A new chapter in the region’s growth story
Strategic master plans and reforms point to a growing appetite for hospitality investment and development across the GCC, bringing opportunities to benefit from attractive returns and contribute to the growth and diversification of regional economies. f, president, HVS Middle East, Africa and South Asia, maps out the openings and challenges, and crunches the numbers.
Growing with the Middle East
With regional tourism in the midst of a robust rebound, the timing is ideal for businesses across the industry to put their own expansion plans into practice. It’s all about seizing the moment, according to Naim Maadad, chief executive and founder, Gates Hospitality.
Why budget lifestyle hotels are breaking the mold
With travelers seeking out better lodging experiences and affordable deals, cheap, chic offerings are proving to be the new industry disruptors, as Nada Alameddine, managing partner at Hodema Consulting Services, explains.
Data: today’s essential tool of navigation
Abdul Kader Saadi, founder and managing director of Eighty6 Shop, explains why building a data-led organization is crucial for success in an ever-evolving business environment.
Trials and tribulations of the Lebanese arak market
Arak is rapidly becoming the preferred spirit in bars in Lebanon and abroad. Salim Heleiwa, general manager of The Malt Gallery, explains why this popular drink is facing numerous challenges and what needs to be done to support its growth.
How to work with Influencers
In today’s landscape, one of the most effective ways to elevate your brand and reach your audience is by working with influencers. Influencers have become key opinion leaders, with the power to influence their followers through the content they share, including their favorite restaurants, products and experiences. For the hospitality sector, tapping into this influential network can be a game-changer, offering unique opportunities to connect with potential customers and increase brand visibility, according to Zena Hamdan, founder and CEO of Against All Odds. Here, she tells us more.
Emerging trends in the Middle East beer market
Shambhu Nath Jha, associate vice president of Fact.MR, helps companies envision the future and understand the evolving business landscape. In this article, he explores the beer market in the Middle East and the trends that are shaping its future.
Green waves: plant-based seafood on the rise
The plant-based seafood market is experiencing significant growth, driven by various factors, such as the rising popularity of veganism, environmental concerns, health considerations and animal welfare issues. With almost a decade of experience in the new food business, Vera Oswald of Vegconomist tells us more.
Levantine cuisine fab or fad by Michelin Starred chef Greg Malouf
Michelin-starred chef Greg Malouf, recognized as the master of modern Middle Eastern food and co-author of several internationally acclaimed cookbooks, tackles the question of how Levantine cooking has pushed the boundaries to become an iconic cuisine.
Empowering the F&B sector to source local talent
As Dubai solidifies its position as one of the world’s leading tourism destinations, the critical role of vocational training in shaping a skilled workforce has never been clearer. In recent years, a remarkable shift in educational preferences has occurred, with an increasing number of students recognizing the immense value of vocational studies over traditional technical education. This transformative transition not only benefits the students themselves but also plays a pivotal role in ensuring the sustainable growth of the burgeoning tourism industry. In addition, a robust vocational offering aligns with a key priority of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to seamlessly integrate the next generation of Emiratis and young residents into the thriving tourism sector. Essa Bin Hadher, general manager of Dubai College of Tourism, shares his thoughts on investing in local talents.