Bar designs that drive revenue in nightlife venues
In the Middle East’s fast-evolving nightlife scene, counters and their surroundings have long added to the ambiance. However, when designed strategically, they can also do much more. Elie Bassil, co-founder of Studio Caramel and business strategist, explains how today’s venues are thinking beyond aesthetics and harnessing spatial design as a powerful commercial tool.
7 ways food processing delivers healthierfood products
At times viewed in a negative light, food processing is now emerging as a key industry tool, helping manufacturers to deliver healthier food products consistently, efficiently and profitably. Sam A. Jaoude, consultant and CEO of MadenLevant LLC, shares seven ways it is achieving this at pace.
Saudi Arabia and Coffee: where heritage meets global ambition
Dagmar Symes, CEO of Al Hamra, charts the kingdom’s coffee journey from traditional ritual to contemporary regional hub.
Nimish Goel of Dhruva on how the UAE’s fiscal framework impacts hospitality
In this article, Nimish Goel examines what the UAE’s maturing fiscal framework means for the hospitality sector.
Immersive and interactive: 5 ways tech is shaking up hospitality
From gamified loyalty programs to VR previews and AI personalization, digital innovation is transforming traditional guest stays into engaging, personalized experiences. Dr. Jassim Haji is president of the International Group of Artificial Intelligence and executive advisor for AI and Data Science at H.H. Sheikh Nasser AI Research and Development Centre. Here, he spotlights the technologies powering winning strategies across hospitality.
Social commerce revolution drives direct bookings from Instagram and TikTok
Riky Bains, social media strategist, believes social platforms are no longer just inspiration channels. Rather, they are becoming fully integrated booking environments reshaping the hospitality journey. We explore this shift further.
AI voice ordering to transform drive-thrus
Ready to take your order, voice-activated artificial intelligence systems are poised to revolutionize drive-thru operations across the region’s rapidly expanding quick-service restaurant market. Duncan Fraser-Smith, CEO of Craft Hospitality Group, spotlights the huge opportunities and possible challenges that this transformational technology presents.
How virtual reality is transforming pre-visit marketing
Beyond showcasing aesthetics, VR is increasingly enabling potential guests to experience spaces rather than simply interpret them. Monica E. Chikhani, founder and managing director of MEC Workshop, explores how this strategic tool instills confidence and reduces uncertainty, helping to convert interest into bookings.
Strengthening regional tourism through strategic investment and innovation
New funding models, technological advancements and sustainability frameworks are reshaping tourism development across the Middle East. Ahead of Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Saudi Arabia, Jonathan Worsley, chairman of The Bench, organizer of the summit, gathered insights from three industry leaders on the sector’s evolving priorities and opportunities.
Middle East family businesses navigate growth and risk
Dr Rebecca Gooch, Deloitte Private Global Head of Insights, presents findings highlighting Middle East family businesses resilience, growth ambitions and evolving strategic priorities.