Exclusive Interview with Mohamed Rifky, Executive Chef at DREAM Dinner Show
“Mother Nature is the true artist, if you know how to work with her.” – Chef Mohamed Rifky
At DREAM Dubai, the spotlight doesn’t stop at the stage—it extends to every dish. Executive Chef Mohamed Rifky ensures the kitchen plays just as vital a role in the performance. His approach? Be part of the show, not just support it. From humble beginnings in Sri Lanka to leading one of Dubai’s most theatrical dining venues, Rifky has mastered storytelling through food.
From Peeling to Purpose: A Journey in Motion
Chef Rifky’s path began beside his mother in their Sri Lankan kitchen. Years later, a manager in Abu Dhabi noticed how carefully he prepped ingredients and told him, “You do everything with care.”
“That remark stuck with me,” Rifky says. “It showed me that even the smallest actions can carry meaning.”
Since then, each step in his career has added a new layer to his culinary mindset. While working at a fine-dining Mediterranean restaurant, he realized how food could become art. Later, his time with Alain Ducasse in Dubai taught him to value every ingredient for its purpose. These moments, stitched together, built the foundation of his current philosophy.
Designing Plates That Move With the Performance
At DREAM, the theatrical energy flows into the food. Rifky doesn’t aim to compete with the show—instead, he complements it.
“We add theatrical elements—smoke, vibrant colors, even glow-in-the-dark effects—to mirror each season’s theme.”
Moreover, he draws creative fuel from color, contrast, and emotion. Every dish contributes to the mood, the momentum, and the magic. In this way, the dining experience becomes a seamless part of the spectacle.
A World of Influence, One Story on the Plate
Having trained in Chinese, Indian, Arabic, French, and Mediterranean cuisines, Rifky speaks many culinary languages. But DREAM’s menu isn’t about fusion—it’s about harmony.
“Strong foundations in technique let me move between styles freely,” he says.
Thanks to years of discipline, he’s able to blend global touches into Mediterranean roots without losing the integrity of either. As a result, the food feels familiar yet fresh, bold yet balanced.
Staying Ahead in a City of Evolving Palates
Dubai’s culinary landscape has transformed dramatically. Rifky arrived when options were limited. Today, the city rivals top dining destinations worldwide.
“Guests here want more than great flavor. They want emotion, artistry, and meaning,” he explains.
Naturally, staying ahead requires more than creativity. It demands awareness, flexibility, and continuous learning. Rifky listens closely—to guests, to his team, and to the shifting rhythm of the industry. Still, he never strays from the core identity of DREAM, believing innovation should be guided, not random. curve.
Mentorship, Mindset & the Art of Patience
Known for his approachable leadership, Rifky trains chefs by working alongside them.
“I guide through observation and repetition. Real growth comes from persistence—not perfection.”
Instead of standing above, he stands beside. He sees mistakes as valuable lessons and believes real mentorship begins with understanding. Ultimately, his goal is to help each young chef discover their rhythm in the kitchen—and their voice.
The Dish That Says It All: Josper-Grilled Prawns
Rifky’s personal favorite? The Josper-grilled prawns. The aroma instantly transports him to childhood seaside moments in Sri Lanka.
“It’s simple yet strong. It shows who I am, where I started, and what I value.”
Charcoal-grilled and rich with flavor, the dish reflects his roots, refined by experience. More importantly, it reminds him—and his guests—that food is memory in motion.
Dave’s Hot Chicken, the cult-favorite LA-born brand known for its Nashville-style hot chicken, has officially landed in Abu Dhabi with the grand opening of its newest branch at Marina Mall. This highly anticipated launch marks the brand’s debut in the capital, bringing its bold flavors and signature heat to one of the UAE’s most vibrant culinary hubs.
Walid Hajj, CEO of Lavoya Group, stated: “We’re incredibly excited to open our doors in Abu Dhabi, especially in a landmark location like Marina Mall. This marks our first location in the capital, and it’s a significant milestone for the brand’s journey in the UAE. The response to Dave’s Hot Chicken across the UAE has been overwhelming, and expanding into the capital is a natural next step in regional growth. We’re here to bring fans our crave-worthy menu, while also introducing new audiences to the bold experience that defines Dave’s Hot Chicken.”
The Abu Dhabi launch reinforces Lavoya Group’s commitment to catering to its growing fan base across the UAE and expanding its presence in key markets. With a continued focus on accessibility and innovation, the new Marina Mall branch is strategically positioned to serve both residents and tourists in the heart of the city.
Known for its Hot Chicken Sliders, Tenders and Dave’s Bites, the brand offers a build-your-own-heat experience with seven spice levels, from No Spice to the infamous Reaper, a fiery challenge that even comes with a signed waiver. Sides like creamy Mac & Cheese, fresh Kale Slaw, Top-Loaded Fries, and loaded milkshakes round out the menu, making it a destination for flavor seekers of all kinds!
The Marina Mall branch delivers the unmistakable Dave’s Hot Chicken vibe. Designed to welcome both groups and solo diners, the space offers energetic indoor seating alongside a relaxed outdoor area, perfect for everything from weekend hangouts to mid-shopping fuel-ups. This opening marks another milestone in the brand’s UAE journey, with more exciting expansions on the horizon, including a second Abu Dhabi location set to open soon in Yas Mall.
Moscow travel GCC is growing rapidly, as more tourists from the UAE and Gulf countries discover the city’s unique blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. In this exclusive Q&A, Regina Gleim, Head of the International Cooperation Division of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, shares insights with Hospitality Integrator on why Moscow is becoming a top destination for Middle Eastern travelers.
1. Growth in GCC Tourism to Moscow
Q: How has Moscow experienced growth in tourist inflow from the UAE and GCC in recent years? Over the past few years, Moscow has seen consistent growth in inbound tourism from the Gulf region. In fact, in 2024 alone, the city welcomed 337,400 visitors from the Middle East — a 1.4-fold increase compared to the previous year. Notably, the UAE is among our fastest-growing markets, with arrivals rising from 18,200 in 2019 to over 62,100 in 2024.
This upward trend is no coincidence. It is supported by improved air connectivity, simplified entry procedures, and tailored travel experiences. Moreover, satisfaction levels are high, with Middle Eastern visitors giving Moscow an average rating of 8.2 out of 10, according to our research. Clearly, we are moving in the right direction when it comes to accessibility, comfort, and hospitality.
2. Why GCC Travelers Should Visit Moscow
Q: Why should travellers from the UAE and GCC consider Moscow as their next holiday destination? Moscow offers a compelling mix of centuries-old landmarks and modern flair. For example, Red Square, the Kremlin, the Bolshoi Theatre, and the Tretyakov Gallery are iconic sites that continue to attract Emirati and GCC visitors.
In addition, families enjoy attractions such as Dream Island Park, the Moscow Zoo, and the Central Children’s Store. Meanwhile, art lovers are increasingly drawn to the GES-2 House of Culture and the Museum of Russian Impressionism. Furthermore, Moscow City, with its skyscrapers and luxury shopping, provides a distinctly contemporary experience. Additionally, green urban spaces like Zaryadye Park and VDNH showcase ecological design and interactive museums.
Ultimately, the diversity of experiences — whether it’s exploring historic estates, cruising along the Moskva River, or enjoying panoramic views from Europe’s tallest Ferris wheel — makes Moscow a destination that appeals to all ages and travel styles.
3. Initiatives for Middle Eastern Tourists
Q: What initiatives has Moscow introduced to cater to Middle Eastern tourists? To better serve Middle Eastern visitors, we’ve launched several targeted initiatives. These include regional marketing campaigns, strategic partnerships with tour operators, and active participation in key travel industry events.
For instance, in 2024, we hosted UAE Culture Days in Moscow, which welcomed more than 300,000 attendees and celebrated cultural exchange. Additionally, we developed the Muslim-Friendly Guide to Moscow, offering information on halal restaurants, prayer facilities, and cultural points of interest.
Moreover, five major tourist centres across the city now assist in Arabic and English. Over 100 certified guides are available in multiple languages. We also introduced a Welcome Pack for Middle Eastern guests, featuring discounts on accommodation, wellness, restaurants, and local experiences.
Thanks to the Discover Moscow portal and our official Snapchat account, visitors can easily access up-to-date tips and recommendations in both English and Arabic. As a result, planning a trip to Moscow has never been more convenient for GCC travelers.
4. Family-Friendly Experiences in Moscow
Q: How does Moscow cater to family experiences? Moscow is increasingly recognized as a family-oriented destination. The city offers a wide variety of experiences for all ages — from nature-filled eco-parks and green boulevards to aquaparks, interactive museums, and amusement parks like Dream Island.
One of the highlights is the ‘Summer in Moscow’ festival. Designed with families in mind, it includes open-air theatre, live music, creative workshops, and cultural markets. These events are held in parks, estates, and central boulevards, encouraging families to explore the city together in a festive atmosphere. Best of all, most events are free and open to everyone — from Muscovites to international guests.
Consequently, with its safe infrastructure, welcoming hospitality, and child-friendly programming, Moscow continues to position itself as a top choice for families from the UAE and the broader GCC.
5. New Attractions in Moscow This Summe
Q: What are the newest attractions or experiences that Moscow is offering this summer season? Summer is the perfect time to visit Moscow. From June to August, the city hosts the annual ‘Summer in Moscow’ festival, featuring over 1,000 outdoor events across parks, cultural venues, and heritage sites. Key highlights include:
Moscow Estates Festival – Over 40 historic estates host theatrical performances and immersive heritage activities.
Theatre Boulevard – A 92-day cultural season with more than 600 live shows across 14 open-air stages and over 3,000 performers.
Gardens and Flowers Festival – Rare botanical installations and vibrant floral displays transform city parks and public spaces.
Music in the Parks – Live jazz, rock, electronic, and acoustic music in iconic venues like Gorky Park and VDNH.
Forum Moscow 2030 – A citywide forum-festival designed to immerse youth and families in the technologies, culture, and lifestyles of tomorrow’s world.
In conclusion, these seasonal events allow visitors to enjoy Moscow’s artistic and cultural energy in a refreshing and engaging environment. For those looking beyond the summer months, Moscow in winter is equally enchanting — with snow-covered streets, sparkling decorations, festive markets, and traditional seasonal events. Therefore, whether in summer or winter, Moscow is a year-round destination offering unforgettable experiences.
The Coop House is turning weekdays and weekends into mini occasions. With the Coop House weekly offers, the Mediterranean-meets-Italian favourite at Mirdif City Centre now pairs comfort dishes with sharp value and a touch of theatre. Moreover, the space mixes rustic textures and modern lines, so families, foodies, and casual diners feel instantly at home. Meanwhile, the menu still delivers its signatures—wood-fired pizzas, rich pastas, coastal seafood, and playful crossovers like the Risotto Biryani—yet the new line-up adds a rhythm to every day.
Coop House weekly offers: Pizza & Pasta Night (Thursdays)
Every Thursday from 6 PM, dinner shifts into comfort mode. Guests choose from creamy Penne Alfredo, bubbling Lasagna al Forno, classic Spaghetti Bolognese, or aromatic Truffle Mushroom Risotto. For pizza lovers, options include a blistered Margherita, smoky Pepperoni, and earthy Spinach & Mushroom Bianca. Even better, the Live Pasta Station brings flair as the chef finishes dishes to order—steam, sizzle, and all. Each main comes with a soft drink for AED 69, so you can wind down the week with flavour and fun.
Coop House weekly offers: Seafood Nights (Fridays)
Fridays from 3 PM, the kitchen leans into seaside comfort. The Seafood Linguine is generously tossed with prawns, calamari, and mussels in a light cherry-tomato sauce. Meanwhile, the Pan-Seared Salmon with herbed roast vegetables keeps things wholesome. For bolder palates, Chargrilled Prawns with lemon butter or Grilled Calamari with spicy salsa deliver a satisfying kick. Naturally, each seafood dish with a soft drink is AED 79, turning Friday into your coastal reset.
Business Lunch that feels special (Mon–Thu)
Weekdays from 12 PM to 3 PM, the Business Lunch brings a three-course menu that’s anything but routine. Start with Figs & Walnut Salad or creamy Tomato Burrata, then move to Rotisserie Chicken with velvety hummus and freshly baked fuchsia bread, or Basil Pesto Linguine. To finish, pick a rich Chocolate Fondant or a light Tiramisu. Thoughtfully portioned and swiftly served, the set menu lands at AED 79—perfect for colleagues, client catch-ups, or a solo upgrade to your workday.
Happy Hours, happier afternoons (Mon–Wed)
From Monday to Wednesday, 4 PM to 6 PM, take a well-earned pause. With 40% off the total bill, you can graze on crispy Dynamite Prawns, Feta & Beetroot Salad, golden Fried Calamari, or indulgent Truffle Fries topped with cheese and herbs. Pair your picks with an iced tea, a classic mocktail, or a freshly brewed coffee. Because the window sits before dinner, it’s an easy meet-up slot for friends and families alike.
Breakfast Tray for Two (daily)
From 9 AM to 1 PM, mornings start strong. The Breakfast Tray for Two blends Mediterranean and Arabic favourites: fluffy scrambled eggs, warm shakshouka, creamy labneh, hummus, foul medames, mini croissants, soft breads, jams, and marinated olives. It arrives with freshly brewed coffee or signature iced tea—all for AED 99. It’s abundant, shareable, and perfect for a relaxed start.
Spin the Wheel surprises (select days)
On quieter days, spending AED 75 or more earns a spin at The Coop House prize wheel. You might land exclusive discounts, complimentary bites, or a sweet treat to take home. It’s a simple touch, yet it keeps the experience playful and rewarding.
Plan your visit
You’ll find The Coop House at Mirdif City Centre, an easy stop for families and after-work diners. Because the venue is equally suited to quick lunches and long catch-ups, it works for almost any plan. And since the Coop House weekly offers run across multiple dayparts, you can pick the moment that fits—Thursday pasta theatre, Friday seafood, a weekday power lunch, or a leisurely breakfast.
Ultimately, the new offers are about more than price points. They’re about rhythm—adding dependable moments of flavour to your week. Come for the pizzas and pastas; stay for the seafood and sweets; return for the service and the way the room feels when the plates hit the table. That’s how regulars are made.
Have a question? +971 56 404 0503
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