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.
The Guild is bringing its popular Sandwinch Collection beyond DIFC, with a new weekend pop-up launching on November 7th at Splendour Fields in JLT. Located in the venue’s downstairs area, the pop-up will serve The Guild’s signature chicken, lamb and beef sandwiches every Saturday and Sunday, giving JLT residents and visitors the chance to enjoy one of DIFC’s lunchtime favourites closer to home.
Inspired by The Guild’s much-loved Sunday Roast, the sandwiches bring together quality ingredients, generous portions and carefully prepared accompaniments in a more casual, on-the-go format. Guests can choose from three options. The Chicken (AED 55), The Lamb (AED 65) and The Beef (AED 70), with roast potatoes or duck fat fries available on the side for AED 15 each.
Available in limited quantities, the sandwiches will be served on a first-come, first-served basis, so guests are encouraged to arrive early to avoid missing out.
Located in Gate Avenue, DIFC, The Guild has established itself as one of Dubai’s leading dining destinations, known for its ingredient-led menus and signature dining experiences. The JLT pop-up brings a taste of The Guild to a new neighbourhood, making its Roast Collection accessible to even more sandwich lovers across the city.
Whether you’re planning a dream wedding, an important corporate gathering or a special celebration with loved ones, Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers offers an elegant setting for every occasion. Overlooking the picturesque Dubai Creek, the hotel combines timeless charm, warm hospitality and versatile event spaces with personalized services and thoughtfully curated dining experiences. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, the hotel provides a beautiful backdrop for creating unforgettable moments, with dedicated event specialists ensuring every detail is taken care of. Discover some of the best ways to host your next event at Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers, with tailored packages designed to make every occasion truly special.
1. Say ‘I Do’ by the Creek: Celebrate Your Dream Wedding at Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers
Every love story deserves a beautiful beginning, and Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers offers a romantic setting to turn your dream wedding into an unforgettable celebration. With the picturesque Dubai Creek as its backdrop, the hotel brings together timeless elegance, warm hospitality and the charm of a waterfront setting, making it a wonderful choice for couples looking to celebrate their special day in style.
Whether it’s an intimate ceremony surrounded by loved ones or a grand wedding reception, the hotel offers elegant event spaces, thoughtfully curated dining experiences and personalised menus to suit every celebration. What makes the experience even more special is the dedicated events team, who work closely with couples to bring their vision to life, ensuring every detail reflects their unique love story. The festive season adds an extra touch of warmth and magic, creating a beautiful atmosphere for moments worth cherishing.
With wedding packages starting from AED 200 per person, couples can enjoy a thoughtfully curated experience featuring (catering, wedding cake, and other inclusions). The hotel’s Ballroom (venue/ballroom name) can accommodate up to 500 guests, making it a beautiful choice for celebrations of all sizes. Price: From AED 200 per person | Capacity: Up to 500 guests | Package Includes: catering, wedding cake, and other inclusions
2. Where Business Meets Elegance: Host Your Next Corporate Event by Dubai Creek
Great business ideas deserve an inspiring setting, and Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers offers the perfect blend of professional hospitality, comfort and timeless elegance. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Dubai Creek, the hotel provides a welcoming environment where meaningful conversations, fresh ideas and successful collaborations come to life.
Whether you’re hosting an important boardroom discussion, a large-scale conference, an interactive team workshop or a corporate celebration, the hotel offers versatile meeting spaces designed to suit different business needs. What makes the experience stand out is the personalised approach, with a dedicated events team assisting with every detail, from venue arrangements to thoughtfully curated food and beverage experiences, allowing guests to focus on what truly matters — connecting, collaborating and achieving their goals.
With half-day meeting packages starting from AED 250 per person and full-day packages from AED 300 per person, businesses can enjoy tailored experiences featuring 2 (coffee breaks, lunch, AV equipment, Wi-Fi and other inclusions). The hotel’s Deira meeting rooms can accommodate up to 75 delegates, supported by a dedicated events team to ensure seamless planning and execution. Businesses can also benefit from Marriott Bonvoy Points (corporate group offers or complimentary benefits). Price: Half-day from AED 250 | Full day from AED 300 per person | Capacity: Up to 75 delegates | Package Includes: Up to 2 coffee breaks, lunch, AV equipment, Wi-Fi and other inclusions
3. Celebrate Life’s Special Moments at Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers
Some moments deserve more than just a celebration they deserve a setting that makes them truly unforgettable. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a special anniversary, an intimate family gathering or a stylish private celebration, Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers offers an elegant escape where beautiful memories are made against the charming backdrop of Dubai Creek.
Combining timeless surroundings with warm hospitality, the hotel provides versatile event spaces that can be transformed to reflect the personality and spirit of every occasion. From thoughtfully crafted menus and tailored dining experiences to personalised event arrangements, every detail is designed to make guests feel special. With the support of the hotel’s dedicated Events Booking Centre team, hosts can enjoy their celebrations while the finer details are taken care of, creating an effortless experience from beginning to end.
With private event packages starting from AED 250 per person, guests can create their ideal celebration with personalised menus, entertainment and other inclusions. The hotel’s flexible event spaces can accommodate up to 100 guests, while the dedicated Events Booking Centre team provides personalised planning assistance to ensure every occasion is thoughtfully organised. Price: From AED 250 per person | Capacity: Up to 100 guests
This UAE National Day, treat yourself to a relaxing getaway without leaving Dubai. Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers is offering UAE residents an exclusive 15% discount on its regular half-board rate, valid for stays from 27 November to 6 December 2026, with no minimum stay requirement.
Set along the picturesque Dubai Creek in Deira, the iconic five-star hotel combines timeless elegance with modern comforts. Guests can choose from beautifully appointed Deluxe Rooms with city or Creek views, Club Rooms with exclusive lounge access, and spacious Junior and Executive Suites, offering a comfortable retreat for couples and families alike.
Dining is equally inviting, with Italian flavours at Vivaldi, British favourites at The Chelsea Arms, relaxed poolside dining at By the Bay, and casual refreshments at the Lobby Café. Guests can also unwind by the outdoor swimming pool, enjoy a rejuvenating treatment at Spa, or make use of the 24-hour fitness centre.
Adding a touch of festive magic, the hotel will be adorned with seasonal decorations throughout the holiday period. Guests staying on 4 December 2026 can also experience the hotel’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in the Lower Lobby, accompanied by a Christmas choir, creating a memorable start to the festive season.
With the flexibility of no minimum length of stay, guests can plan anything from a spontaneous overnight escape to an extended waterfront retreat. Combining comfortable accommodation, delightful dining experiences and a charming Creekside setting, this exclusive UAE National Day offer is the perfect opportunity to celebrate in style. To enjoy this exclusive UAE residents’ National Day half-board offer, book online using the promotional code ES2.
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