Hospitality
RECORD-BREAKING SUCCESS FOR HORECA RIYADH AND SALON DU CHOCOLAT ET DE LA PÂTISSERIE RIYADH
The 14th edition of HORECA Riyadh and the third edition of Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh concluded, capping off a historic week that positioned Riyadh as the beating heart of global hospitality and gastronomy.
Held under the strategic partnership of the Culinary Arts Commission (CAC), the renowned and highly anticipated events transformed Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center into the largest hospitality and foodservice gathering ever staged in the kingdom.
Spanning 42,000 sqm, the events — held concurrently with Host Arabia and Saudi Elite Chefs — brought together over 500 exhibitors, representing more than 4,200 brands. Indeed, 51,000 professional visitors from the Middle East, Asia, Europe and beyond explored the exhibition aisles and watched rising talents in action.
Jad Taktak, CEO of Semark Group, the organizer, commented: “We marked a new chapter for Saudi Arabia’s hospitality scene. The success of HORECA Riyadh, together with Host Arabia’s debut and the return of Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh, reflects the strength of our industry and the Kingdom’s growing position as a global hub for hospitality and culinary excellence.”
HORECA Riyadh once again reaffirmed its role as the definitive platform for innovation, learning and networking, paving the way for a new era of growth in Saudi Arabia’s hospitality and foodservice sectors. The rich program featured an array of competitions and experiences, including the Hospitality Salon Culinaire, Barista and Mocktail Competitions, alongside The Talks, organized in collaboration with Hospitality News Middle East and Hodema Consulting Services.
Meanwhile, Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh created a buzz, with 40 masterclasses, live demonstrations and pastry competitions led by 30 international and regional pastry chefs.
This year also saw the presentation of three special honorary awards recognizing outstanding contributions to the global and Saudi hospitality landscape. The Gastronomy Diplomacy Award was presented to Guillaume Gomez, president of Groupe Gastronomie and former French ambassador for gastronomy, for strengthening France’s culinary ties worldwide. The Visionary Award honored Pierre Marcolini, world-renowned Belgian chocolatier, for his exceptional contribution to global chocolate craftsmanship. The Leadership Award was bestowed upon Mayada Badr, CEO of the Culinary Arts Commission, for her pivotal role in advancing Saudi culinary arts and nurturing the nation’s next generation of chefs.
Adding to the excitement, the second edition of Saudi Elite Chefs, organized by the Culinary Arts Commission, brought together some of the kingdom’s most talented chefs, celebrating the creativity, precision and innovation that define Saudi culinary excellence.
Joumana Dammous-Salamé, managing director of Hospitality Services, the company behind the HORECA brand and co-organizer of Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh, added: “HORECA Riyadh continues to be a driving force for regional growth; a true platform that connects people, ideas and opportunities. Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh once again honored craftsmanship, quality and passion, attracting major international brands while also showcasing local confectionery.”
Hospitality
RAMADAN NIGHTS: IFTAR UNDER THE STARS AT LA PISCINE, AL RAHA BEACH RESORT & SPA
Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa has announced its Ramadan Iftar offering, “Ramadan Nights: Iftar Under the Stars,” available throughout the holy month at La Piscine.
The Iftar is priced at AED 245 per person on weekdays and AED 260 per person on weekends. Children aged 5 to 12 years receive 50% off, while children below 5 years dine complimentary.

Guests can enjoy favourites such as Arabic hot and cold mezzeh, an Ouzy corner, and an Arabic mixed grill and carving station. The experience is hosted at La Piscine’s beachfront and poolside outdoor restaurant lounge, featuring private gazebos and a relaxed, open-air setting.
A range of special offers is available during Ramadan. Guests can enjoy 15% off with the Early Bird offer when bookings are confirmed with a deposit before the start of Ramadan. For group bookings, one guest dines complimentary for every 10 full-paying adults.
Hospitality
ROHINI AT MÖVENPICK JLT PRESENTS A REPUBLIC DAY SET MENU, FEATURING TRICOLOUR-INSPIRED DESSERTS
This Republic Day, Rohini at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers is adding a cheerful tricolour moment to the table with three new desserts inspired by the colours of the Indian national flag. Created especially for the Republic Day weekend, the desserts bring a playful and visually striking element to the dining experience, giving guests a fresh reason to stop by.
Drawing from familiar Indian sweets, the dessert selection offers a lighthearted nod to the occasion. The trio includes Tiranga Kalakand, Pistachio Malai ke Motichur, and Jalebi with Kesar Rabdi, adding a sweet finish that feels both nostalgic and timely. Served as part of Rohini’s Republic Day set menu, the desserts stand out as a highlight worth saving room for.
Available from 24th to 26th January, the Republic Day set menu also features a well-rounded selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian starters and mains. Guests can choose from popular favourites such as Dahi Bhalla, Zafrani Murgh Tikka, Dal Makhni, Rajasthani Laal Maas, Paneer Methi Malai, and Purani Dilli-style pulao, offering plenty of choice across classic Indian flavours.
A familiar name for Indian dining in JLT, Rohini offers a comfortable and welcoming setting for those dining out over the long weekend. With its Republic Day set menu and tricolour-inspired desserts, it makes for an easy and enjoyable way to mark the occasion.
Hospitality
CHRIS HEMSWORTH AND ELSA PATAKY’S FAMILY-FRIENDLY ABU DHABI ITINERARY
Looking back on their recent visits to Abu Dhabi, Chris Hemsworth shared how it’s the perfect choice for family travel, with days that mix high-energy fun with quality time you’ll remember for years to come.
“I love travelling to Abu Dhabi with the kids because there’s so much on offer. From action-packed thrills to calm, immersive and educational moments, Abu Dhabi has it covered. Experiencing nature, culture, and adventure together reminds us of what really matters: time shared, moments made, memories locked in.”
For Elsa Pataky, the easy mix of experiences makes travelling here so enjoyable as a family: “Abu Dhabi has this beautiful balance: thrilling adventures for the kids, cultural experiences for the adults, and endless opportunities for the whole family to connect and enjoy time together.”
Here’s where Chris and Elsa went on their latest visit
- CLYMB Abu Dhabi
Try indoor climbing and skydiving on Yas Island. During their visit, Chris and Elsa’s family tried it all, with routes for all ages and experience Challenge yourself in the skydiving chamber or try to tackle progressively harder climbing routes, from beginner level to advanced.
- Surf Abu Dhabi
On Hudayriyat Island, Surf Abu Dhabi offers controlled wave conditions suitable for first-time surfers and almost every age. Sessions can be tailored to different abilities, so it’s an easy way for parents and children to try a new sport in a relaxed, with plenty of options for food and drinks.
- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
The fast-paced rides and indoor attractions are designed for all ages, making it easy for families to spend an entire day together. Families can move between high-energy experiences and gentler rides, entertaining little ones alongside adults with a need for speed.
- Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
Explore themed lands inspired by well-known characters, from Batman to Scooby Doo and The Flintstones, with rides and interactive experiences designed for all ages. It’s a colourful and fun space for families looking for a full day of entertainment together.
- teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi
Art meets innovation with this interactive environment where immersive digital art installations respond to your every move. The unique spaces encourage curiosity and exploration, making it a natural stop for families looking to slow their pace and enjoy creative moments.
- Yas Waterworld
Inspired by Emirati pearl-diving heritage, Yas Waterworld has a wide range of slides, wave pools and family-friendly rides. With 60+ attractions designed for different age groups, there’s space for both high-energy fun and relaxed downtime.
Beyond Chris and Elsa’s itinerary, families can explore new cultural highlights, like Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum, or take a short trip to Al Ain Region, where culture, nature and heritage offer even more ways to spend time together—just 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi City or Dubai.
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