Have a question? +971 56 404 0503
Hospitality
People who love to eat are always the best people
Exclusive Interview with: Ola El Jaroudi and Tarek Sultani, Founders, Cucina Del Sul
Cucina Del Sul has evolved from a backyard dining experience to a celebrated culinary movement. What inspired you to start this journey?
During COVID, the inner foodie in all of us emerged. I took online Korean cooking classes, while Tarek became obsessed with YouTube tutorials on smoking and grilling large cuts of meat. He created such a mess in our kitchen, and the entire house smelled like BBQ, so I kicked him out to grill in the garden. That’s when we decided to build Cucina Del Sul (Kitchen of Sultani), our outdoor kitchen where we could cook and host friends and family.
What began as a gathering spot for friends and family soon evolved into a vibrant culinary hub, attracting foodies, chefs, and passionate cooks eager to showcase their talents. We began hosting invite-only dining experiences to celebrate Dubai’s homegrown culinary scene, featuring everything from burgers to paellas, braais to BBQs. Each session highlighted a different cuisine.
This marked the birth of the Cucina community—bringing people together over good food. From our villa’s backyard, strangers entered and left as friends. Cucina has since become an incubator and accelerator for culinary talent, helping over a dozen homegrown startups fast-track their journey to market.
Your events combine exceptional food, community, and the magic of the outdoors. How do you strike the perfect balance between these elements?
The balance comes naturally because it reflects the types of events we love to attend, whether at home or abroad.
Creating a complete experience—the food, the setting, the flow, and the vibe—is essential. My decade of experience running an events company ensures every detail is thoughtfully considered to elevate our culinary experiences. But the setting is critical, the UAE is home to incredible landscapes that lend themselves to unique dining experiences, so finding those spots and converting them to backdrops for our events is special and unexpected.
We’re selective about our locations, often turning down venues that lack the personality or charm needed to align with our vision for food events.
Events like Camp Cucina and Meats & Mountains have become iconic. How do you consistently keep these events fresh and engaging?
It boils down to three key points:
Discovery: Foodies are always seeking new culinary experiences. We constantly rotate chefs and discover hidden culinary talents in the community. Even repeat stations are encouraged to offer something new.
Chef-led Experiences: Our events prioritize interaction between chefs and guests, fostering connections and storytelling through culinary art. We only collaborate with chef/owner-operated vendors to maintain authenticity.
Personal Touches: Whether it’s long table decorations, homegrown musical entertainment, or nostalgic treats from our childhood (like churros and sahlab), we infuse every event with a sense of warmth and individuality.
Ultimately, the key to keeping things fresh is staying authentic and trusting the chefs to showcase their creativity with minimal interference.
With milestones like the World’s Best Burger win, how do you see these achievements influencing the culinary reputation of the UAE and the broader MENA region?
The UAE is a vibrant melting pot of cultures, best exemplified by its diverse cuisines and the innovative fusion emerging from its dynamic food scene. The World Food Championships provide us with a platform to showcase the region’s top culinary talent on the global stage. This year, five culinary teams from the region competed in categories ranging from burgers to noodles, vegetarian dishes, sandwiches, and desserts.
Our first major success came in 2022 when Sultan Chatila’s Bull Burger secured third place in the World Burger Championships. The WFC ‘Battle of the Burgers’ event laid the groundwork for local recognition, while our World Food Championship platform brought global acclaim. The Cucina pop-ups and markets generated significant buzz, ultimately leading to the establishment of Eleven Green—now one of the most popular burger joints in the city.
Many other F&B brands have similarly leveraged the Cucina platform and network to transition from niche, home-based dining experiences to thriving commercial ventures.
This year, Hassan Naja’s One More Burger raised the bar even higher, clinching first place in the World Burger Championships—outperforming over 700 competitors from around the world. His journey is just beginning, and we’re organizing exclusive pop-ups to offer food enthusiasts a taste of his exceptional burger while building excitement for his next steps. These winners are already redefining the region’s culinary identity on a global scale.
At Cucina, this is what we stand for: helping culinary talent turn their dreams into global realities. The Middle East has long demonstrated its ability to compete internationally, and our participation in global events like the World Food Championships underscores this on a culinary level. The region’s food scene is truly world-class, and achievements like these only reinforce its prominence.
These milestones embody the spirit of the region, reflecting the passion, creativity, and talent that make this community so extraordinary. We are deeply honored to contribute to shaping and supporting this remarkable journey.
Your platform celebrates both food and the connections it creates. How important is fostering a sense of community to Cucina Del Sul’s identity and success?
Community is at the core of everything we do—without it, Cucina Del Sul simply wouldn’t exist. There’s something truly special about bringing people together over a shared love and passion for food.
From the very beginning, authenticity has been the foundation of our platform. We’ve always focused on sharing our love for food, offering honest recommendations, and introducing people to our favorite hidden gems. We don’t believe in gatekeeping; we only recommend places and experiences we genuinely love and stand behind.
This philosophy is integral to our events and pop-ups. We wouldn’t organize anything unless we could confidently say, “We’d 100% attend this if someone else were hosting it.” That same passion and trust resonate deeply with our community and make everything we do feel authentic.
We also cherish taking these connections offline, where they become even more meaningful. Over the years, we’ve welcomed countless familiar faces returning to our events while embracing many new ones.
These connections—both old and new—are what propel us forward. Our community is truly the heart of Cucina Del Sul.
As we continue to grow, engaging with and nurturing this incredible community will always remain our top priority.
As you continue to grow and redefine the food scene in the UAE, what’s next for Cucina Del Sul?
Community lies at the heart of everything we do—without it, Cucina Del Sul wouldn’t exist. There’s something truly special about bringing people together through a shared love and passion for food.
From the very beginning, authenticity has been the cornerstone of our platform. We’ve always prioritized sharing our love for food, offering genuine recommendations, and introducing people to our favorite hidden gems. We don’t believe in gatekeeping; every place or experience we recommend is one we genuinely love and wholeheartedly support.
This philosophy extends seamlessly to our events and pop-ups. We wouldn’t host anything unless we could confidently say, “We’d absolutely attend this if someone else were hosting it.” That passion and trust are what deeply resonate with our community and make everything we do feel authentic and meaningful.
We also treasure taking these connections offline, where they become even more impactful. Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of welcoming familiar faces back to our events while also embracing countless new ones.
These connections—both enduring and fresh—are what drive us forward. Our community is and will always be the soul of Cucina Del Sul.
As we continue to grow, fostering and nurturing this incredible community will remain our top priority.
In your opinion, what’s the single most impactful step the hospitality industry can take toward sustainability?
Tarek: Reducing food waste is key. Repurpose old bread, create smaller portion options, redistribute leftovers, and educate both customers and the industry about composting.
Ola: Farming and growing your own produce can also make a huge difference. Using compost from eggshells and leftover food to nourish your garden is a step toward creating a circular system of sustainability.
Hospitality
Excellence combined: A powerhouse week of hospitality and foodservice events as HORECA and Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh return
With the strategic partnership of the Culinary Arts Commission (CAC), HORECA Riyadh and Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh will be held from 15–17 December 2025 at Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center. Together with Saudi Elite Chefs and Host Arabia, they will create the biggest hospitality and foodservice week in the kingdom’s capital, with four events attracting 50,000 professionals and gathering 500 exhibitors across 42,000 sqm.
Organized by Semark Group, Jad Taktak, CEO of the company, said: “This edition marks the greatest alliance of hospitality exhibitions in Saudi Arabia. We are thrilled to join over 100 years of combined experience, bringing together the region’s leading brands, experts and innovators under one roof. The expectations are very high, and we are confident that this collaboration will elevate industry standards, create exceptional business opportunities and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing hospitality landscape.”
Transforming Riyadh into the kingdom’s premier stage for foodservice and hospitality excellence, HORECA Riyadh’s 14th edition will showcase cutting-edge products, advanced technologies and world-class culinary talent across all areas of hospitality, from hotel and restaurant management to catering, design and F&B innovation, creating unparalleled opportunities for business growth and networking.
At the heart of the show lies a rich calendar of competitions and activities that honor excellence, creativity, talent and knowledge, with 40 international and local judges, experts and speakers. More than 100 participants will take part in contests, including the Hospitality Salon Culinaire, HORECA Barista Competition Riyadh and the Mocktail Competition, while HORECA Talks, a platform for thought leadership and exchange, will host expert-led sessions on emerging trends in hospitality and F&B, investment and the what’s next for the sectors in Saudi Arabia. These talks are organized by Hospitality News Middle East and Hodema Consulting Services.
HORECA Riyadh 2025 welcomes back Guillaume Gomez, president of Groupe Gastronomie and former French ambassador for gastronomy, as guest of honor.
Running alongside HORECA Riyadh is the third edition of Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh, an extension of the iconic French Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie, renowned globally as a premier event dedicated to chocolate and pastry excellence. Co-organized by Semark Group and Hospitality Services, this year’s show promises an immersive journey into the world of cocoa and confectionery, with over 40 live demonstrations, workshops and competitions. A dedicated Pastry Show will gather acclaimed chefs and artisans from around the region and beyond, while competitions across multiple categories will spotlight the talents of more than 50 participants.
Among the 30 pastry chefs and experts, Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh proudly announces renowned Belgian chocolatier Pierre Marcolini as guest of honor. Marcolini will host a special chocolate masterclass and join a discussion on chocolate innovation and trends at The Talks.
“As part of the HORECA Network, with annual events in cities across the Middle East – Kuwait, Beirut, Amman, Muscat and Riyadh – HORECA Riyadh is a pivotal platform that brings together the region’s leading hospitality and foodservice professionals, innovators and investors. In parallel, Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh celebrates the artistry and creativity of chocolate and pastry while inspiring innovation and showcasing trends in the Saudi market,” said Joumana Dammous-Salamé, managing director of Hospitality Services, the company behind the HORECA Network and co-organizer of Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh.
Held concurrently, the second edition of Saudi Elite Chefs, organized by the Culinary Arts Commission (CAC), will gathers the kingdom’s top culinary talents for the second consecutive year. This prestigious event will highlight the diversity of Saudi cuisine, celebrate world-class culinary craftsmanship and provide a dynamic platform for chefs to demonstrate their expertise through challenging, high-level competitions that aim to elevate the national culinary scene, inspire future generations of Saudi chefs and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s growing reputation as a global gastronomic destination.
Making its debut, Host Arabia – the international extension of Milan’s world-leading hospitality exhibition, HostMilano – brings the global hospitality ecosystem to Riyadh, connecting regional decision-makers with international suppliers and innovators.
Exclusive interview with Khalid Saeed, General Manager, Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection
With your extensive experience in the UAE’s hospitality industry, how has your local expertise shaped your leadership approach at Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection?
Working in the UAE for more than 26 years has taught me that hospitality here is about much more than service—it’s about culture and connection. At Al Habtoor Grand Resort, we live by our concept ‘Beach Meets Culture, blending our prime location on Jumeirah Beach with authentic touches of Emirati heritage. My leadership style reflects that same balance: operational discipline, financial responsibility, and genuine warmth that makes guests feel part of something special.
Al Habtoor Grand Resort has emerged as a sought-after destination for regional travelers, especially from the GCC. What do you believe is attracting this audience to the property today?
For GCC travellers, our resort offers the perfect mix of space, privacy, and connection. Families appreciate our suites, authentic Arabic design touches from elegant mashrabiya details to a warm contemporary Arabian style along with a wide choice of dining options and of course beachfront location. Business and leisure guests value our proximity to Dubai’s key districts. What sets us apart is consistency—guests know they can return to the same warm service and thoughtful details that make the stay truly memorable.
How is the hotel integrating today’s evolving travel trends, such as wellness, workcation, and experience-driven stays, into the guest journey?
Today’s travelers are seeking balance—wellness, productivity, and inspiring experiences. We meet these needs through our spa, fitness facilities, and a variety of outdoor activities, including four outdoor tennis courts, beach volleyball, a range of watersports for Adults, Kids water slides and splash pad for children. For workcations, we offer high-speed connectivity and dedicated one of its kind Club Lounge in the 25th Floor designed for both comfort and productivity.
We further enhance the guest journey with curated dining experiences and cultural activations. This is where our ‘Beach Meets Culture’ identity truly shines—offering a stay that blends Dubai’s vibrant beach lifestyle with rich heritage, delivering an experience “exactly like nothing else”.
What role does digital innovation play in your operations and guest engagement strategy?
Digital innovation is a vital part of how we enhance the guest journey. Mobile check-in, digital concierge services, and tailored communications give guests convenience and personalisation, while analytics guide us in anticipating their needs. Yet hospitality is still about people—technology helps us deliver efficiency, but the human connection is what makes the experience unforgettable.
In such a competitive hospitality landscape, what marketing or sales strategies have proven most effective for you in driving both occupancy and loyalty?
Our strategy is built on clear positioning and disciplined execution. Personalized service, a strong focus on guest satisfaction, competitive promotions, and our ability to cater to a diverse mix of source markets have been key drivers of loyalty. Marriott Bonvoy also plays an important role, connecting us to a global community of travelers who value consistency and recognition. At the same time, we place strong emphasis on regional campaigns, strategic partnerships, and tailored promotions that resonate particularly well with the GCC market. What differentiates us is our ‘Beach Meets Culture’ identity, which allows us to highlight experiences that feel “exactly like nothing else” —whether it’s family-friendly recreation, cultural activations, or diverse dining.
What does success look like for you at Al Habtoor Grand Resort over the next year?
For me, success is about balance—achieving financial goals, creating unforgettable guest experiences, and keeping our team inspired. Over the next year, I want to strengthen our position as the resort where the spirit of place shines through—offering a stay that’s truly one of a kind. When our guests leave with lasting memories, our owners see measurable results, and our associates feel proud of where they work—that’s what true success looks like. True leadership is about empowering people to deliver results together, not alone.
A Very Merry Light-Up – Tree Lighting Ceremony
Welcome the festive season with Mövenpick’s enchanting Tree Lighting Ceremony, where glowing lights, carols, and joyful moments create the perfect start to December. Guests can enjoy a live choir, Santa meet & greet, kids’ giveaways, and a cheerful raffle draw, while adults savour festive canapés and beverages. With magical snow moments and charming décor, it’s an evening designed to bring families together in the spirit of the holidays.
The lobby at Mövenpick Bur Dubai is known for its welcoming warmth and elegant ambiance, making it the perfect gathering place for families to come together and celebrate the start of the festive season. Its open, bright layout brings a sense of harmony and connection to every moment.
Date & Time: 5th December | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Venue: Lobby | For more information, please call +971 04 336 6000 or +971 50 210 6033
Santa’s Sweet Stop at Fountain Café
A holiday favourite returns, Mövenpick’s Christmas Plum Cake, baked with love and steeped in tradition. Made with plump fruits, warm spices, and a rich, buttery crumb, each cake captures the essence of the season in every slice. Whether you’re gifting it to loved ones, bringing it to a festive gathering, or simply enjoying it at home, it brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to any holiday table.
Families often return year after year for this much-loved treat, a symbol of togetherness, celebration, and the comforting tastes that make the season special.
Fountain Café offers a cozy, elegant setting at the heart of the hotel, making it the perfect spot for guests to gather, savour seasonal treats, and enjoy relaxed moments with family during the festive season.
Date: 1st–31st December | Venue: Fountain Café | For more information, please call +971 04 336 6000 or +971 50 210 6033
Turkey Takeaway – A Festive Feast at Home
Celebrate the holidays in the comfort of home with Mövenpick’s lovingly prepared Turkey Takeaway, a heartwarming feast designed to bring families together around the table. Each turkey is seasoned, roasted, and paired with classic trimmings, creating a centerpiece that invites storytelling, laughter, and meaningful moments shared with the people who matter most.
Perfect for intimate gatherings, extended family dinners, or festive hosting, this takeaway offering allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality flavours without the stress of preparation freeing you to focus on connection, togetherness, and the joy of the season.
Mövenpick Bur Dubai is celebrated for its culinary craftsmanship rooted in Swiss hospitality. Every festive dish reflects a dedication to flavour, harmony, and creating memorable family moments that bring people closer together.
Date: 24th November – 30th December | Extra: Free delivery within Oud Metha | For more information: +971 04 336 6000 | +971 50 210 6033
Art of Brunch: Holly Jolly Feast – Christmas Saturdays
Every Saturday in December, families are invited to step into a joyful world of festive magic at Mövenpick’s Holly Jolly Feast. This heartwarming brunch brings the spirit of the holiday season to life with mouth-watering roasts, colourful live stations, and decadent desserts that delight young and old alike.
Children can enjoy unforgettable moments with Santa, experience gentle snow flurries, bounce through the day on the bouncy castle, and decorate gingerbread houses while parents relax to cheerful entertainment and savour time together.
A celebration crafted for families, filled with laughter, festive flavours, and memories that will be cherished long after the decorations come down.
The Fountain Restaurant is designed with families in mind, offering generous space, warm lighting, and interactive live stations that bring a sense of excitement and connection to every meal. It’s a venue where celebrations feel personal, joyful, and truly memorable.
Dates & Time: Saturdays, 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th December | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Venue: The Fountain Restaurant | Info: +971 04 336 6000 | +971 50 210 6033
Jingle Roast Sunday at Garden Lounge
Make Sundays extra special this December with Mövenpick’s Jingle Roast Sunday, a comforting, family-friendly gathering that celebrates the joy of slowing down together. Enjoy a beautifully prepared roast with all the festive trimmings, golden potatoes, rich gravies, seasonal vegetables, and indulgent desserts, all served in a relaxed open-air setting.
Live music adds warmth to the atmosphere, while children enjoy a heartwarming Santa meet & greet and receive festive giveaways. It’s a laid-back, wholesome afternoon designed to bring families closer and create holiday memories that last a lifetime.
Garden Lounge is a beloved open-air escape where families can relax together under soft lighting and a welcoming atmosphere. Its spacious setting features a massive screen for live matches and sports, making it perfect for fans and families alike, and it also offers a full shisha menu for guests who want to unwind in comfort.
Dates & Time: Sundays, 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th December | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Venue: Garden Lounge | Info: +971 04 336 6000 | +971 50 210 6033
Winter Wonderland Christmas Eve Dinner
Gather with family and friends for a heartwarming Christmas Eve celebration at The Fountain Restaurant, transformed into a festive wonderland for the night. Enjoy a beautifully curated buffet of seasonal favourites, international dishes, and sweet holiday indulgences that bring comfort and joy to every plate.
Children will delight in a magical visit from Santa, while gentle snow moments, festive music, and warm décor set the stage for a memorable evening. It’s an invitation to pause, come together, and embrace the harmony and togetherness that define Christmas Eve.
Known for its inviting décor and harmonious ambiance, The Fountain Restaurant provides an elegant yet comfortable setting for family celebrations. It’s a place where festive traditions come alive and cherished moments are created around every table.
Date & Time: 24th December | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Venue: The Fountain Restaurant | Info: +971 04 336 6000 | +971 50 210 6033
Grand Christmas Day Brunch
Create meaningful Christmas memories with a joyful family brunch at Mövenpick, where delicious food, festive entertainment, and warm hospitality come together in perfect harmony. Enjoy a lavish buffet of roasts, global dishes, vibrant live stations, and festive desserts, all designed to bring families closer through shared flavour and celebration.
Children will enjoy Snow Time moments, Santa giveaways, face painting, a bouncy castle, and holiday activities, while parents relax to live music and the joyful spirit of Christmas. It’s everything the holiday should be, loving, lively, and unforgettable.
With its bright festive décor and family-friendly layout, The Fountain Restaurant offers the perfect environment for joyful Christmas gatherings. Its warm atmosphere encourages connection, shared experiences, and celebratory moments that last long beyond the holiday.
Date & Time: 25th December | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Venue: The Fountain Restaurant | Info: +971 04 336 6000 | +971 50 210 6033
New Year’s Eve Glitter Gala
Welcome the new year surrounded by loved ones at Mövenpick’s dazzling New Year’s Eve Glitter Gala. Enjoy a spectacular night filled with a lavish buffet, vibrant bar offerings, and an impressive lineup of entertainment including a live DJ, band, belly dancer, and Tanoura show.
The evening is designed for families and friends to celebrate side by side, sharing laughter, music, and hopeful anticipation for the year ahead. As the countdown begins, raise a glass together and welcome 2026 with harmony, joy, and unforgettable memories.
The Fountain Restaurant’s elegant design and celebratory ambiance make it the ideal destination for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve. Here, families come together to enjoy exceptional dining, joyful music, and meaningful moments as they welcome a new year in harmony.
Date & Time: 31st December | 7:30 PM onwards | Venue: The Fountain Restaurant | Info: +971 04 336 6000 | +971 50 210 6033
Excellence combined: A powerhouse week of hospitality and foodservice events as HORECA and Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh return
30 YEARS OF ICONIC BUILDINGS AND BEAUTIFUL HOMES: JOTUN ABU DHABI TO INVEST AED 400 MILLION IN NEXT CHAPTER
AURA BAKERY & CAFÉ BRINGS ITALIAN FLAIR TO THE FESTIVE SEASON WITH CELEBRATORY CREATIONS
-
Tech News1 year agoDenodo Bolsters Executive Team by Hiring Christophe Culine as its Chief Revenue Officer
-
VAR8 months agoMicrosoft Launches New Surface Copilot+ PCs for Business
-
Tech Interviews2 years agoNavigating the Cybersecurity Landscape in Hybrid Work Environments
-
Tech News5 months agoNothing Launches flagship Nothing Phone (3) and Headphone (1) in theme with the Iconic Museum of the Future in Dubai
-
Tech News2 years agoBrighton College Abu Dhabi and Brighton College Al Ain Donate 954 IT Devices in Support of ‘Donate Your Own Device’ Campaign
-
Editorial1 year agoCelebrating UAE National Day: A Legacy of Leadership and Technological Innovation
-
VAR1 year agoSamsung Galaxy Z Fold6 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Clash Of The Folding Phenoms
-
Cover Story9 months agoUnifonic Leading the Future of AI-Driven Customer Engagement