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.
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.
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.
In the kitchen with Rachel Bado, group executive chef
In the kitchen, Rachel Bado, group executive chef creative at SAS Hospitality, finds joy through ingredients, guided by cultures and memories. She shares more in this exclusive interview.
Stephan Schupbach on Chedi Hospitality’s unbound approach to luxury hospitality
In a buoyant regional market, Chedi Hospitality is expanding its presence through a growth strategy rooted in authentic luxury and cultural stewardship. CEO Stephan Schupbach tells HN how the group is curating experiences that go beyond simple stays to give high-end guests a deeper sense of connection and place.
Regulation is reshaping plant-based expectations, says YOOK CEO Katre Kõvask
Plant-based products are coming under renewed scrutiny as regulation and consumer expectations reshape credibility across regional food and beverage markets.
