Homegrown concepts in the GCC with Naveed Dowlatshahi, COO of Gastronomica
As the GCC dining sector evolves rapidly, Naveed Dowlatshahi, COO of Gastronomica, discusses how local restaurant groups such as his are shaping dining culture through regional tastes, flexible formats and locally driven hospitality approaches.
Dubai rolls out Dubai A Fine Way to Dine to drive restaurant demand through exclusive citywide dining offers
Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism launches “Dubai A Fine Way to Dine” to activate demand across its diverse restaurant landscape.
The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel set to open in RAK in 2027
Almal Real Estate Development confirms the upcoming opening of The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel & Residences, a landmark beachfront hospitality destination set to debut in 2027 in Ras Al Khaimah.
As data-driven travel reshapes destinations, Fouad Talaat of Booking.com explains why
As destinations compete for smarter growth, Fouad Talaat, regional manager MENA & Türkiye of Booking.com sees data as the decisive edge.
Chef Karim Haïdar celebrates Lebanese flavors in his new book
Karim Haïdar releases Dictionnaire des Saveurs du Liban, a book exploring Lebanon’s culinary identity through its ingredients, traditions and regional flavors. We sat with the chef and owner of Sama restaurant and Les Mots et le Ciel catering to discuss his book and Lebanese cuisine.
Sommelier Natalie Lumpp decodes the new rules of wine
Natalie Lumpp, wine expert and sommelier at Wein erleben!, is among Germany’s award-winning sommeliers and a pioneering industry female figure.
The growing appetite for plant-based cuisine
Once regarded as niche or limiting, plant-based dishes are now appearing on mainstream menus thanks to broader wellness trends and changing eating habits. Abdul Kader Saadi, founder and managing director at Eighty6, examines how hospitality professionals are rethinking their approach to this increasingly in-demand, maturing segment.
Minor Hotels launches Colbert Collection with plans for Middle East expansion
Minor Hotels announces the launch of Colbert Collection, a premium soft brand uniting independent hotels through emotionally-driven travel experiences globally.
Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi on why Ajman offers a unique UAE stay
Ajman is carving a niche as a charming UAE destination with a distinct identity, combining warm Emirati hospitality, cultural attractions and coastal beauty. Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, director general of Ajman Department of Tourism, Culture and Media, explains why the emirate is an ideal choice for travelers seeking genuine connections and leisurely paced, meaningful experiences.
An authentic expression of Tuscany with MICHELIN-starred chef Matteo Temperini
MICHELIN-starred chef Matteo Temperini, executive chef of Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, is celebrated for refined, ingredient-driven cuisine rooted in authenticity. With a deep respect for Italian culinary heritage, he brought a taste of Tuscany to Rosewood Abu Dhabi briefly.
