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IRISH FOOD PRODUCERS SHOWCASE STRENGTH AND DIVERSITY

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6 months ago

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Man in a navy suit and pink shirt wearing an Irish Food Board (Bord Bia) lapel pin, standing outdoors on a green lawn with trees in the background.

Exclusive interview questions with Jim O’Toole CEO of the Irish Food Board (Bord Bia)

This year, 15 Irish companies are exhibiting at Gulfood — what makes this group particularly strong or diverse?

The strength of this group lies in both its diversity and depth. We have companies represented across dairy, meat, ingredients and value-added food, serving retail, foodservice and manufacturing customers.

What is particularly notable is the mix of long-established exporters alongside companies that are newer to the region, all united by a focus on quality, reliability, and customer partnership. Together, they showcase the breadth of Ireland’s food offering and our ability to meet a wide range of market needs.

How important are traceability, provenance, and quality assurance for buyers in this region?

These factors are fundamental for buyers in the Middle East. Customers here place a strong emphasis on health and nutrition, knowing where food comes from and how it is produced.

Irish food and drink performs well in this context because our systems provide high levels of traceability and quality assurance, giving buyers confidence in both product integrity and consistency of supply.

You’ve led Bord Bia through a period of major global change — from Brexit to supply chain disruptions. Looking back, what has been the most defining moment of your tenure as CEO?

One of the most defining periods was navigating the immediate aftermath of Brexit while also managing global supply chain disruption. It reinforced the importance of market diversification, strong customer relationships and adaptability.

It also underlined the value of having a long-term strategy focused on building resilience for Irish exporters, rather than reacting to individual shocks in isolation. 

 Is there a moment from your travels or trade missions that really crystallized for you the global potential of Irish food and drink?

 What consistently stands out is seeing Irish products on shelves, menus and in foodservice operations in markets far from home. That visibility reflects years of work by exporters and agencies alike.

Trade missions like this one often crystallise the opportunity — when you see buyers from multiple regions engaging with Irish companies, it reinforces the truly global potential of Irish food and drink.

Which sectors — such as dairy, meat, seafood, or beverages — are seeing the strongest demand in the region?

 Dairy continues to perform very strongly in the region, particularly in ingredients and value-added consumer products. Meat is also seeing solid demand across retail and foodservice channels.

In addition, consumer foods and Irish beverages — particularly whiskey — continue to gain traction, supported by premium positioning and growing brand recognition.

How important is storytelling — origin, farming practices, sustainability — in influencing hospitality purchasing decisions today?

Storytelling has become increasingly important. Buyers are looking for products that not only meet quality and price requirements, but also align with consumer expectations around origin, production standards and sustainability.

Irish producers are well positioned here, as these stories are rooted in real practices rather than marketing alone, which resonates strongly with both buyers and end consumers.

What role can Irish producers play in supporting food security and consistency of supply in the Middle East?

Irish producers can play a meaningful role by offering reliable, high-quality supply from a well-regulated and export-focused food system.

Consistency, long-term planning and strong partnerships are key in this region. Ireland’s ability to deliver at scale, while maintaining quality and sustainability standards, makes us a dependable partner in supporting food security objectives across the Middle East.

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Hospitality

AMAYA Dubai Combines Business Dining, Landmark Views and Elevated Cuisine in the Heart of Downtown

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1 hour ago

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August 13, 2026

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Located on the first floor of Dubai Mall, overlooking the iconic Dubai Fountain and positioned beside the mall’s renowned indoor waterfall, AMAYA offers a refined yet welcoming dining destination designed for every occasion. From elevated breakfasts and weekday business lunches to relaxed family gatherings, the restaurant blends exceptional cuisine, a thoughtfully designed setting and unforgettable views in the heart of Downtown Dubai.

An Elevated Breakfast Experience

Start the day with an elevated breakfast experience at AMAYA, where international flavours meet a serene, design-led setting with front-row views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain. Served daily from 10:00 AM, the breakfast menu is designed for everything from quick morning meetings to leisurely social gatherings with family and friends.

Guests can enjoy a diverse selection of dishes ranging from comforting classics to elevated favourites, including Shakshuka, Eggs Benedict, customisable omelettes, French Toast, Lotus Croissant and pancakes. Signature offerings such as Truffle Toast, Smoked Salmon Croissant and Burrata Toast add a premium touch, while lighter options including oatmeal pancakes and fresh breakfast plates cater to those seeking a balanced start to the day.

With its calm atmosphere, scenic surroundings and spacious indoor setting overlooking the Dubai Mall waterfall, AMAYA provides the perfect backdrop for relaxed mornings, family breakfasts and memorable catch-ups.

A Refined Business Lunch Experience

Available Monday to Friday from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, AMAYA’s business lunch offers a sophisticated setting for client meetings, team lunches and relaxed midday dining.

The curated menu features a selection of starters, mains and desserts, bringing together international flavours in a refined yet approachable way. Guests can begin with Yellowtail Carpaccio, Tuna Tartare, Burrata or Quinoa Avocado Salad, followed by mains including Tiger Prawns, Truffle Smash Burger, Mushroom Risotto, Black Cod or Grilled Seabass with mashed potato. Desserts such as Lotus Mille Feuille, Matcha Cake and Chocolate Tartlet complete the experience.

Guests can choose between outdoor seating with uninterrupted views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain show or the elegant indoor dining space overlooking the Dubai Mall waterfall, offering an iconic backdrop for every business occasion.

A Dining Destination for Every Occasion

Beyond breakfast and business lunches, AMAYA welcomes guests to enjoy an all-day dining experience suited for families, friends and social gatherings. The restaurant offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a dedicated kids’ menu and colouring activities, allowing younger guests to stay entertained while parents enjoy their dining experience.

Combining a central Dubai Mall location, exceptional cuisine and a unique setting surrounded by some of Dubai’s most recognisable landmarks, AMAYA creates a seamless transition from a relaxed morning escape to a vibrant daytime dining destination.

For reservations and enquiries: +971 4 587 1000, +971 58 682 6787 | Location: Amaya, 1st Floor, near the Waterfalls, The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai

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Hospitality

Mövenpick JLT Taps Family Occasions and Indoor Leisure to Drive Late-Summer Hospitality Demand

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1 hour ago

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August 13, 2026

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Some months call for staying close to home, and Mövenpick JLT is leaning into that with two very different reasons to spend an evening at Cluster A. At Rohini, Raksha Bandhan becomes an excuse to slow down and share a table with family, while next door at UBK, the summer heat becomes the perfect alibi for a string of low-key, feel-good nights out that never require stepping outside.

Rohini: Sibling Stories – A Raksha Bandhan Celebration

There’s something about Raksha Bandhan that gets lost in a quick voice note or a rushed video call between siblings pulled in different directions by work and routine. Rohini is bringing the celebration back to where it belongs, around a table, over good food, with time that actually feels shared. The occasion sets the tone for a month packed with reasons to linger, from retro nights with live music to long, easy weekday lunches.

  • Sibling Stories Set Menu: AED 200 – Buy 1 Get 1 Set Menu for Brothers & Sisters | 23–30 August
  • 90’s Retro Live – Cassettes, Curry & Kulcha: AED 99 – 1 Curry, 1 Kulcha| Every Thursday, 7 PM – 11 PM
  • Tandoori Tuesdays: Veg Kebab Platter AED 89 | Chicken Kebab Platter AED 139 | Non-Veg Kebab Platter AED 199 | Every Tuesday, 5 PM – 11 PM
  • Ladies Day Out Wednesday: AED 99 – Main Course | Every Wednesday, 12 PM – 11 PM
  • Chaat & Chatter: AED 49 – 1 Tea/Coffee + 1 Food Item | Tue 5 – 7 PM, Wed – Sun 3 – 7 PM
  • Gupshup & Gulp – Ladies Kitty Party (Min. 6): AED 129 – 3-Course Set Menu with Water/Mocktail/Tea/Coffee | AED 149 – 3-Course Set Menu with Water | Tue 5 – 7 PM, Wed – Sat 12 – 7 PM

UBK: Summer’s Better Indoors Anyway

There’s no shame in admitting the heat has won this round. UBK has built an entire week around that reality, turning “let’s just stay in” into the best plan going. Whether it’s a Monday that’s really about decompressing, a Tuesday girls’ night, or a Sunday spent with pets underfoot and a pint in hand, UBK makes the case that summer indoors was never a compromise, it’s simply the better option.

Venue: Mövenpick JLT, Cluster A, Dubai
Pre-booking required | Complimentary valet parking available

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Hospitality

NEW SIGNATURE BRUNCH EXPERIENCE LAUNCHES ACROSS DUBAI AND ABU DHABI

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21 hours ago

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August 12, 2026

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Society UAE, the premier lifestyle dining destination, is thrilled to announce the launch of its highly anticipated new Brunch offer, going live across both its Dubai and Abu Dhabi locations on August 15th.

Society Unveils A Signature Brunch Across Dubai And Abu Dhabi

Served exclusively on Society’s signature wooden brunch board, the new offering is a meticulously curated feast crafted from the finest, freshest ingredients. Each board is designed to deliver a complete and balanced culinary experience, featuring one hearty main course, one freshly baked pastry, one savoury side dish, and one indulgent dessert. The selections of main dishes include a creamy roasted chicken and mushroom pie, truffle soft scramble on a warm croffle, and huevos rancheros. Desserts include a range of Society’s classic French Toast, Syrniki and creamy dessert cups by MAD Hospitality’s nostaligc dessert concept, HAZE. Fresh pastries include mini garlic bread, mini shio pan and almond croissant while guests can indulge in their favorite side dishes including french fries, chicken sausage or arugula salad. To complement the meal, guests can select one classic beverage of their choice, featuring premium coffee or fresh juice to savour throughout the brunch.

The wooden board concept is designed to be the ultimate centerpiece for social gatherings. Whether it is a relaxed weekend morning with the family or a long catch-up with friends, Society’ Brunch offers a communal, high-quality dining experience tailored for sharing and savoring.

Offer Details:

  • Launch Date: August 15, 2026
  • Locations: Society Dubai, Jumeirah 1 and Society Abu Dhabi, Al Mamsha, Al Saadiyat
  • The Menu: The signature wooden brunch board includes 1 Main, 1 Pastry, 1 Side Dish, 1 Dessert, plus 1 Classic Drink.
  • Pricing: AED 120 per board (including drink)
  • Availability:  Saturday and Sunday from 8:00AM until 2:00PM
  • For reservations and more information, please call: +971 56 408  7099 for Society Abu Dhabi, and +97150 210 0096 for Society Dubai.
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