Hospitality
The Ritz-Carlton: Inspiring Life’s Most Meaningful Journeys
Exclusive interview with Christian Hoehn, GM, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
How does Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal align with the overall brand values of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company?
The Ritz-Carlton is synonymous with luxury, elegance, and unparalleled service. The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, embodies these brand values through its commitment to creating exceptional experiences that resonate with the rich legacy of the brand, making every moment ‘legendary’, ‘gracious’ and ‘inspiring’ to our guests. Situated in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the hotel mirrors the global reputation of The Ritz-Carlton while embracing the local culture and heritage, ensuring that every guest leaves with an indelible mark.
What unique aspects of The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal contribute to creating an unforgettable guest experience?
One of the unique aspects of The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, is its breathtaking architecture and design inspired by the Renaissance era, set against the stunning backdrop of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Both the tangible elements, such as the meticulously landscaped gardens and luxurious interiors, and the intangible aspects, like the hotel’s dedication to personalized service, work together to create an unforgettable guest experience. This dedication is evident in every interaction, from the signature Emirati warm welcome at check-in ‘Hayyakum’ to the attentive assistance provided throughout the stay.
The hotel offers a variety of dining experiences, from Afternoon Tea at Alba to The Tomahawk Experience at The Forge. How do you ensure that each dining event meets the highest standards of culinary excellence?
The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, offers an array of dining experiences that cater to diverse palates. At Alba, guests can indulge in refined Afternoon Tea, enjoying an assortment of delicate pastries and fine teas in an elegant setting. For a more robust culinary adventure, The Forge presents The Tomahawk Experience, where diners can savor expertly prepared prime cuts of meat. Ensuring that each dining event meets the highest standards of culinary excellence involves meticulous attention to detail, from sourcing the finest ingredients to employing skilled chefs who bring creativity and passion to their craft. Each dish and the overall dining experience is crafted to perfection, reflecting the commitment to quality that defines The Ritz-Carlton brand.
How do you integrate the local culture and heritage of Abu Dhabi into the guest experience at the hotel?
Integrating the rich culture and heritage of Abu Dhabi into the guest experience is a cornerstone of The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal’s philosophy. Our team takes pride in embodying Emirati traditions to provide an authentic and enriching experience for our guests. From the moment guests arrive, they are greeted with a warm “Hayyakum” and offered traditional Emirati refreshments, including aromatic coffee and sweet dates. As a mark of respect and cultural appreciation, we always say farewell with “Fi-amaan-allah” and express our gratitude with “Shukran”.
Our commitment to showcasing Emirati culture extends to Mijana, our signature Middle Eastern restaurant, where guests can savor traditional Emirati dishes prepared with the finest local ingredients. This dining experience is a culinary journey through the region’s rich flavors and culinary heritage.
Additionally, our concierge team is always at hand to arrange local tours to significant landmarks. Guests can explore the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, and visit Wahat Al Karama, a timeless tribute honoring Emirati martyrs, located directly opposite the hotel. These tours provide guests with a deeper understanding of Abu Dhabi’s history and cultural significance.
By weaving these cultural elements into the fabric of our guest experiences, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, ensures that every stay is a journey of discovery and appreciation for the local heritage.
Happiness: a journey or a destination?
Happiness is certainly a journey – at The Ritz-Carlton, we inspire life’s most meaningful journeys in line with our brand vision. By creating memorable experiences and nurturing a sense of well-being, we aim to enhance every guest’s happiness. From our personalized service to luxurious amenities and cultural immersions, every aspect of our hotel is designed to foster joy from the beginning to the end. Ultimately, we strive to ensure that each guest leaves with cherished memories that last a lifetime.
Hospitality
CELEBRATE KOREAN LUNAR NEW YEAR WITH SMOKI MOTO’S EXCLUSIVE SEOLLAL MASTERCLASS
Smoki Moto marks Seollal, the Korean Lunar New Year, with a unique culinary experience that brings one of Korea’s most meaningful traditions to Dubai. On Monday, 16th February 2026, from 2:00pm to 5:00pm, Smoki Moto invites guests to take part in a Tteock Mandu Guk Masterclass, a three-hour session centred around the symbolic New Year dish (rice cake and dumpling soup) that represents longevity, renewal and good fortune.
More than a lesson in technique, the afternoon offers insight into the customs and rituals that define Seollal, when families gather to share food and welcome a fresh start.
The experience begins with an introduction to the significance of Tteock Mandu Guk, the rice cake and dumpling soup customarily eaten to mark the New Year. Guests will then watch a chef-led demonstration on creating a clean, balanced broth before stepping into the kitchen. There, they will prepare elements such as egg garnishing (jidan), classic toppings and signature Korean dumpling-folding techniques. Each guest will go on to cook their own bowl of soup, with guidance on timing, seasoning and final assembly to bring the dish together beautifully.
The session concludes with a traditional Seollal dining moment, where guests enjoy their Tteock Mandu Guk, alongside Korean side dishes such as seasonal namul and house-made kimchi, the perfect way to honour the spirit of the holiday.
Seollal Masterclass: Tteock Mandu Guk
What: Cultural cooking masterclass led by Smoki Moto’s Korean chefs
When: Monday, 16th February 2026
Where: Smoki Moto, Palm West Beach
Time: 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Hospitality
CELEBRATE TOGETHER AT THE TABLE WITH MISTER BAKER’S RAMADAN GIFTINGS
Ramadan in the UAE is all about putting the phone down and gathering around a table overflowing with family, friends, and food. This year, homegrown favourite for more than three decades, Mister Baker is bringing that feeling to life with its 2026 Ramadan campaign, “Together at the Table,” offering treats priced from AED 16 to 199. The collection isn’t just about sweet indulgence, it’s about celebrating the little ways we say, “I’m glad you’re here.” From neighbourhood Iftars to late-night Suhoors, Mister Baker makes sure nobody arrives empty-handed.
The Standout Stars
Designed to dazzle both your Instagram feed and your taste buds:
Moon Cakes
Showstoppers: Two stunning cakes that double as edible art, perfect for your Majlis centrepiece.

Milk Cakes – The Crowd-Pleasers: A trio of Milk Cakes (Vanilla, Saffron, and Rose) that feel like a warm hug in a bowl

Cheesecakes – The Modern Twist: Date & Speculoos Cheesecakes, and the Saffron Cheesecake, which give traditional flavours a contemporary glow-up.

Mini Cupcakes – The Gift-Giver’s Dream: Mini cupcakes to make corporate gifting or hosting feel effortless.

From a solo indulgence to a table full of treats for friends, family, or colleagues, there’s a flavour for everyone.
Hospitality
CURATED MOMENTS FOR TWO: SUNRISE TO SUNSET EXPERIENCES AT SUN SIYAM VILU REEF
At Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, romance is woven into the rhythm of the island itself, unfolding gently from the first blush of sunrise to the soft glow of moonlight. This Valentine’s season, the boutique Maldivian hideaway invites couples to rediscover connection through a collection of immersive experiences crafted exclusively for lovers. Whether beginning the day with a serene lagoon breakfast at dawn or ending it beneath a starlit sky, every moment is designed to honour intimacy, celebrate togetherness and transform ordinary hours into unforgettable memories.
Sunrise lagoon breakfast is a must have experience to commence your day in an unparalleled setting. The Sunrise Lagoon Breakfast features an inimitable breakfast layout delivered directly to the water, a setting where you can bask in the healing warmth of the first sunrays and the flawless sound of the waves. This experience is designed for couples who wish to savor an intimate and visually stunning start to their day.
As the Maldivian sun dips below the horizon, retreat into the Tranquility Package, curated exclusively for couples seeking intimate rejuvenation. This ultimate indulgence unfolds in one of the resort’s picturesque outdoor cabanas during the serene golden hour. The intimate ritual initiates with a warm, traditional Foot bath Ritual to melt away stress. Guests then choose a full-body treatment, either a soothing Balinese Massage or an invigorating Asian Blend Massage, complemented by a relaxing Fancy Foot Massage.
The close of day marks the start of an exclusive date night. Our brand signature experience Cinema by the Moonlight transforms the evening into a romantic, tailor-made event. Couples can choose from floating cinema on a “dhoni”, Sunset cruise with movie and dinner with magical settings, blending cinematic romance with Maldivian luxury. This showcases the magic of the Maldivian night sky and offers a choice of personalised settings and menus, making it one of the most intimate ways for couples to spend another romantic evening.
In addition, this Valentine’s Day, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef transforms into a sanctuary of Coastal Blush. Explore our Valentine’s Collection, a series of bespoke moments designed to ignite the senses. From a Floating Breakfast to the tropical flair of our Sip of Love cocktails, every detail is crafted for connection. Rejuvenate with our dedicated Valentine’s Spa Rituals, indulge in a private Lagoon Feast, or lose yourself in a Starlit Movie Night. Throughout February, experience a timeless celebration of your unique love story.
Each intimate experience is curated for couples seeking calm, harmony and stillness with every detail designed to deepen the magic of your escape and reconnect at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef.
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