SaladStop! Group, the Singapore-born healthy fast-casual brand and a pioneer of the healthy eating movement in Asia, today announced a strategic partnership with Mohamed Hareb Al Otaiba Investments (MHAOI), appointing the UAE-based investment group as its Master Franchise Partner for the United Arab Emirates. This partnership marks SaladStop!’s official entry into the Middle East, with the UAE serving as the brand’s regional gateway.

The first SaladStop! outlet in the UAE is scheduled to open in Dubai in 2026, introducing the brand’s signature range of fresh, nutritious and flavour-forward meals to one of the region’s most dynamic and health-conscious consumer markets.

Founded in Singapore, SaladStop! is a globally recognised healthy food brand with over 16 years of international operating experience. The brand is known for its uncompromising focus on product quality, made-from-scratch and built-to-order bowls, close collaboration with trusted farms, and globally inspired flavours. These offerings are supported by a technology-enabled platform designed to deliver smarter and more personalised dining experiences. With a footprint of over 80 outlets across Singapore, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Korea and Thailand, SaladStop! is well positioned for its next phase of international expansion, driven by the growing global shift towards healthier lifestyles.

The partnership with MHAOI reflects SaladStop! Group’s strategy of entering new markets through strong, long-term local partnerships that combine brand stewardship with operational excellence. MHAOI is a diversified UAE-based investment group with an established presence across food & beverage, FMCG and lifestyle sectors, and a proven track record in building, scaling and managing premium international brands in the region.

Under this partnership, MHAOI will lead the brand’s market entry and expansion strategy in the UAE, overseeing development, operations and local market adaptation. The rollout will focus on delivering a consistent brand experience while thoughtfully aligning with local consumer preferences, supported by integrated digital and operational systems to enhance customer convenience and engagement.

Commenting on the partnership, Adrien Desbaillets, CEO of SaladStop! Group, said:

“The Middle East has long been part of our global growth strategy, and the UAE represents a natural and strategic entry point for SaladStop!. Partnering with Mohamed Hareb Al Otaiba Investments allows us to combine our brand philosophy and international operating experience with deep local market understanding. Together, we are focused on building a meaningful, long-term presence in the UAE and establishing SaladStop! as a trusted destination for high-quality, healthier food.”

Younis Bishari, Genera Manager, Mohamed Hareb Al Otaiba Investments, added:

“We are pleased to partner with SaladStop! Group to introduce the brand to the UAE. Consumer demand for fresh, nutritious and thoughtfully prepared food continues to grow, particularly among urban professionals and business communities. SaladStop!’s strong global reputation, product integrity and scalable model align well with our long-term vision, and we look forward to building the brand’s presence across the UAE.”

As dining preferences in the Middle East continue to evolve towards more intentional and health-driven choices, SaladStop! aims to establish itself as a leading player in the fast-casual healthy food segment. The Dubai launch represents the first step in the brand’s regional journey, with future expansion opportunities across the UAE and wider region.

This Ramadan, The Big Chill Café at Dubai Hills Mall invites guests to slow down, gather, and break their fast with a specially curated Iftar menu that blends comforting classics with generous portions and familiar flavours.

Designed for families, friends, and casual Ramadan catch-ups, the Iftar offering reflects The Big Chill Café’s signature style – wholesome, indulgent, and feel good – served in a relaxed café setting.

Guests can begin their meal with a selection of starters such as Minestrone Soup, Mediterranean Mezze with Hummus and Muhammara, Crispy Calamari, Chicken Tenders, or Panko-crumbed Prawns. The menu then moves into hearty mains, featuring crowd favourites including Penne Primavera, Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta, Saffron Risotto with Prawns, Hand-tossed Pizzas, and flavourful grill options.

For those looking to elevate their Iftar, the grill selection includes Grilled Chicken Breast, Slow-cooked Lamb Shank, Flame-grilled Steak with Cowboy Butter, and Tuscan-style Salmon, available with a small supplement.

To finish, The Big Chill Café turns up the indulgence with a dessert selection made for lingering over conversations. Guests can dive into the signature Molten Dubai Lava Cake with its rich and flowing centre, enjoy the comforting sweetness of Banoffee Pie, or opt for the fragrant Saffron Tres Leches Cake. Lighter yet nostalgic options like Date Ice Cream and crowd-favourite Biscoff Ice Cream round off the experience, offering something for every kind of sweet craving after Iftar.

Whether it’s a relaxed weekday Iftar or a long catch-up after prayers, The Big Chill Café’s Ramadan menu offers a warm and satisfying way to come together this holy month.

Available throughout Ramadan 2026 (subject to official moon sighting, expected from 19 February 2026).

Al-Futtaim IKEA invites all food lovers to celebrate the Lunar New Year with a limited-time menu of beloved Chinese dishes. The brand is serving up traditional Chinese favourites, available until February 2, guaranteed to tantalise the tastebuds of adults and kids alike.

Ring in the Year of the Horse with a generous spread of classic Chinese favourites starting at AED 25, including Sweet & Sour Chicken, Kung Pao Prawns, Mongolian Beef Stir Fry, and Chili Chicken with Sautéed Capsicum. For those wanting to try something new this year, the Whole Seabream with Ginger Soya is aromatic and flavourful; soft, flaky flesh infused with gentle warmth and umami richness.

Customers can also enjoy Vegetables with Fried Rice and Stir-Fried Vegetables for just AED 15. Dim sum lovers can look forward to assorted Dim Sums as an add-on for AED 3 only. Soup stations will also be available, serving Chicken Sweet Corn Soup at AED 9 and Hot and Sour Soup at AED 7. But don’t fill up just yet! Save room for delicious noodles at a live station priced at AED 29.

Head over to any IKEA Restaurant in the UAE to celebrate the Lunar New Year with a delicious feast, available from 11:30am until 9:30pm.