Gulfood 2026 opens from 26 to 30 January with a major expansion
Running from 26th to 30th January 2026, Gulfood will enter a bold new era shaping global food trade with unmatched scale. Moreover, with 8,500 exhibitors representing 195 countries across 12 sectors, the event will redefine where the global food industry advances.
Elle & Vire Professionnel hosts exclusive afternoon tea with Gianluca Fusto at L’École Valrhona Dubai
Elle & Vire Professionnel recently welcomed a group of selected chefs to an exclusive afternoon tea and pastry demonstration at L’École Valrhona Dubai. Held on Monday, November 17th, the event featured renowned pastry chef Gianluca Fusto, owner of FUSTO Milano and ambassador for Elle & Vire Professionnel.
Fairmont The Palm’s GM Ugur Talayhan explores the future of luxury hospitality in Dubai
With decades of experience in luxury hospitality, Ugur Talayhan, GM of Fairmont The Palm, has built a reputation as a leader who blends operational excellence with personalized service. As Dubai’s hotel landscape evolves, he shares how luxury is being redefined and what today’s high-end travelers expect.
Cultivating excellence in hospitality with Andrea Strim, GM of Renaissance Business Bay Hotel, Dubai
Andrea Strim, GM of Renaissance Business Bay Hotel, approaches hospitality with a focus on people, operational efficiency and strategic growth. He discusses his approach to motivating teams, fostering innovation and navigating the evolving challenges of today’s hospitality landscape.
Inside the Michelin mind of chef Antonio Salvatore
Antonio Salvatore, Michelin-starred chef, recently showcased his Rampoldi creations at Signor Sassi. Building on his Michelin-starred success in Monaco, he shares his relentless pursuit of culinary excellence, creativity, discipline and deep Mediterranean roots.
Sweet Success: The Cheesecake Competition sponsored by Elle & Vire Professionnel in collaboration with Norohy at SDCP 2025
At Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Dubai, the Cheesecake Competition offered a space for young pastry chefs to share their interpretation of a classic dessert. Sponsored by Elle & Vire Professionnel in collaboration with Norohy, the event brought together rising talents from across the UAE, each presenting their own perspective on what a contemporary cheesecake could be.
Chris Wayne-Wills, cluster GM of JA on leading through adversity
Chris Wayne-Wills discusses how overcoming challenges has shaped his leadership, strengthened team culture and redefined excellence while managing JA Ocean View and The Manor.
Lisandra Cotrina Mestre, cigar sommelier at Sunset Hospitality, redefines the cigar ritual in luxury settings
Lisandra Cotrina Mestre, a proud Cuban and certified cigar sommelier, is bringing refined cigar culture to the forefront of luxury hospitality. We spoke with Lisandra about the art of cigar service, the role of storytelling in hospitality and why cigars remain a timeless symbol of elegance.
Cooking with heart with chef Rita Soueidan of Maisan15
Dubai-born chef Rita Soueidan, head chef at Maisan15, believes that cooking is an act of love and giving. True to her motto ‘Lead with love, uplift others and give back every day,’ she mentors youth with disabilities and supports underprivileged communities, proving that true hospitality begins with heart and compassion.

















