In a defining moment for one of the region’s most celebrated, MICHELIN-starred Japanese dining brands, 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant announces a bold new chapter in its evolution – one marked by strategic talent investment, renewed culinary direction, and an unwavering commitment to long-term growth.

At a time when the hospitality landscape across the UAE continues to evolve, 99 Sushi remains steadfast in its belief that challenge breeds opportunity. The brand is doubling down by investing in exceptional talent, expanding its footprint, and reinforcing the culinary vision that has earned it a MICHELIN Star for three consecutive years at its Four Seasons Abu Dhabi flagship, alongside recognition from the world’s most respected culinary guides.

Leading the charge is Chef Thinus van der Westhuizen, who steps into the newly defined role of from Culinary Director of the UAE to Culinary Director for 99 International. Long regarded as the creative force behind 99 Sushi’s kitchen standards, Thinus now assumes global oversight of the brand’s culinary vision – ensuring consistency, innovation, and excellence across every location as the group enters its next phase of international expansion. Under his direction, 99 Sushi’s signature approach of precision Japanese craftsmanship, ultra-premium ingredients, and thoughtful omakase sequences will continue to evolve, informed by the exceptional talent now joining the UAE team.

Joining 99 Sushi Abu Dhabi as Executive Chef is Pedro Banzuzi, a creative force whose pedigree spans Michelin-starred kitchens and internationally awarded fine dining institutions across Europe and the Middle East. During his last role as Head Chef at Taiko Dubai, Sofitel The Obelisk, the restaurant earned three distinctions at the World Luxury Restaurant Awards 2025 (Best Japanese Cuisine, Best Luxury Hotel Restaurant, and Best Food Styling & Presentation) and a Gault & Millau UAE rating of 12/20.  With a wealth of experience at award-winning, premium restaurants, Pedro brings to 99 Sushi a culinary sensibility defined by technical precision, creative ambition, and a strong command of Japanese and European fusion cuisine.

99 Sushi Dubai also welcomes a new Chef de Cuisine, Chef Timothy Edwards, a highly experienced culinary professional with over nine years in professional kitchens spanning four continents. Most recently Chef de Partie at The WB™ Abu Dhabi Hotel, Timothy has built a career defined by range and international depth. His experience includes a senior chef de partie role at The Potluck Club, part of Luke Dale Roberts’ acclaimed restaurant group in South Africa; a tenure at Highway Shukudo in Okinawa, Japan, where he led the Yakitori station and deepened his affinity for Japanese culinary tradition; and an earlier role as Sous Chef at The Commodore Hotel, South Africa. A meticulous kitchen leader with a natural ability to mentor and inspire, Timothy brings to 99 Sushi’s Dubai team both the technical rigour and cultural adaptability.

The arrival of this new leadership comes at a moment of strong global momentum for 99 Sushi. The brand is set to open in Budapest at the end of April 2026, followed by a flagship launch in London’s Mayfair at the end of May 2026, marking its debut in the United Kingdom. In September, 99 Sushi will introduce Tanjun by 99, an exciting new concept opening at Time Out Market in Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi, bringing a distinct yet familiar 99 Sushi experience to one of the capital’s most vibrant cultural destinations. These openings, spanning Central Europe, the United Kingdom, and the UAE, reflect the brand’s confidence in its identity and its readiness to scale.

Group CEO of Ninety Nine SB Investment L.L.C, Jaime Castañeda comments on the recent team development and global expansion, “We have always believed that the strength of a brand is tested not during moments of ease, but during periods of change. The talent we are bringing into 99 Sushi today, and the venues we are preparing to open, are a direct expression of our long-term confidence in this brand and in the markets we serve.”

Grounded in two decades of culinary excellence and accelerating into a future defined by growth and scalability, 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant enters this new phase with its most compelling team yet who will continue to serve award-winning, luxury Japanese dining experiences in the UAE and beyond.

Some experiences are defined by where they take place. At.mosphere, perched on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, is one of them. For a limited time, five distinct moments trace the day’s passage, from sunrise to midnight, each tied to the rhythm of the city below. Priced at AED 122, the experience follows its setting with intention, offering the city from a perspective reserved for the rarest of visits.

From first light to nightfall, At.mosphere invites you to rise above the city, where the skyline stretches endlessly and each dish draws your attention as much as the view. This isn’t just dining; it is an experience worth savouring. 

The Five Daily Experiences at At.mosphere Lounge

Sunrise in the Sky – Breakfast
Start your day above the city. Freshly baked pastries and signature coffee come with uninterrupted views of Dubai as it wakes, making mornings feel a little more special.
Time: 8:00 am – 11:30 am

Midday Pause – Lunch
Take a break from the rush. Lunch here is simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy days, with dishes that keep you going while the city moves below.
Time: 12:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Twilight Indulgence – Afternoon Tea
As the afternoon softens, enjoy a sweet treat and a cup of tea. The city carries on below, while up here you can just take a moment for yourself.
Time: 2:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Sunset Aperitivo – Cocktails & Bites
Golden hour glows over the skyline. Sip a signature cocktail, nibble on light bites, and watch the city shift as the sun sets.
Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Midnight in the Sky – Drinks
When Dubai comes alive at night, two signature drinks and ambient sounds make for a quiet, memorable evening above it all.
Time: 10:00 pm – 12:00 am

Five moments. Five moods. One destination. At.mosphere Lounge gives you a view of Dubai you won’t forget.

Mövenpick Hotel Apartments Downtown Dubai welcomes guests to experience a seamless blend of comfort, space, and convenience with its thoughtfully designed rooms and apartments, ideal for a stress-free city escape.

Located moments away from iconic attractions, the property offers a tranquil retreat amidst the vibrancy of Downtown Dubai. Whether for a short staycation or an extended getaway, each apartment is designed to provide a sense of ease, combining modern interiors with practical living spaces.

Guests can unwind in spacious accommodations featuring fully equipped kitchens, dedicated living and dining areas, and serene bedrooms, creating a home-away-from-home experience tailored for both leisure and business travellers.

Perfect for the summer season, the hotel presents an inviting setting for those looking to slow down and recharge, while still staying connected to the energy of the city. From relaxing mornings in light-filled spaces to evenings spent exploring nearby landmarks, every stay is curated to offer both comfort and flexibility.

With warm, intuitive service and a focus on guest well-being, the property continues to deliver experiences that are both comfortable and memorable.