Hospitality News ME 151 (November/December/January)

INTRODUCING THE NEW

VAN HOUTEN COMPOUND

info@emf-me.com www.emf-me.com +961(0)9 938732

EDITORIAL

Managing director Joumana Dammous-Salamé Publication manager Randa Dammous-Pharaon Publication deputy manager Rita Ghantous Sub-editor Miriam Dunn Account managers Maha El-Khoury, Josette Hikri advertise@hospitalitynewsmag.com Subscription executives Houayda Haddad-Roumman, Mirna Maroun subscribe@hospitalitynewsmag.com Circulation coordinator Rita Nohra-Kejijian Graphic designer Ibrahim Kastoun To advertise advertise@hospitalitynewsmag.com Published by Hospitality Services LEBANON Dekwaneh Tel: +961 1 480081 UAE HSME Tel: +971 585848018 info@hospitalitynewsmag.com www.hospitalitynewsmag.com All the information disclosed in the magazine was provided by the parties concerned by each publication and checked to the highest possible extent by the editors. However, the magazine cannot ensure accuracy at all times of all information published and therefore could in no case be held responsible should any information reveal to be false or insufficient.

We welcome views on any subject relevant to the hospitality industry, but request that letters be short and to the point. The editor reserves the right to select and edit letters.

Hospitality News ME is distributed to trade professionals in the catering and lodging industry in the Middle East.

In the hospitality industry, we are immensely proud that we take pleasure in serving people. Without passion it would be very hard to reach the top and remain happy. Service not servitude - is the key to success.

Nouhad Dammous (December 2020) Late editor-in-chief Docteur Honoris Causa

ALAN GEAAM ON CELEBRATING LEBANESE CUISINE AND WINNING MICHELIN STARS IN FRANCE The Michelin-starred chef Alan Geaam is known for transporting Lebanese culinary excellence to France with resounding success, earning him the most prestigious industry recognition. Here, he shares some of the secrets to winning not only culinary awards, but also French hearts and minds, through food from the Levant.

I cannot overstate just how important Lebanese cuisine is in my culinary philosophy. With its rich tapestry of flavors, I view Lebanese cuisine as a treasure trove of balance and generosity, with every dish telling its own story of sharing and community.

Flavorsome creativity I think about and plan my strategies carefully for introducing Lebanese dishes to the French palate, opting for a subtle approach. I’m especially keen on incorporating emblematic ingredients, such as hummus, labneh and spices from the Levant, into revisited French dishes. Tasting menus, which feature many of these ingredients, are proving extremely popular at my traditional Qasti restaurants, since they allow guests to fully explore the richness of authentic Lebanese mezze.

The response from the French public has been overwhelmingly positive, which is fantastic to see, reaffirming the nation’s hallmark curiosity and enthusiasm for discovering new things. I believe diners truly appreciate the winning combination of freshness, flavors and conviviality that Lebanese cuisine offers. There is also recognition among diners that by integrating vibrant flavors like zaatar and sumac into French dishes, I’m creating a culinary dialog that honors both cultures.

A culinary love story That’s not to say there haven’t been challenges in our efforts to promote Lebanese cuisine in France. One of the main obstacles is undoubtedly ensuring that we maintain authenticity while adapting dishes to meet French tastes. At times, it can be difficult to source specific ingredients, meaning that there is no option but to recreate traditional flavors using local products. On some occasions, I also find myself having to educate customers about the diversity of Lebanese cuisine, explaining that it extends way beyond the most popular dishes of hummus and falafel!

But overall, there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic. Among these is a shared love of produce and gastronomic authenticity which unites the two countries and their cuisines. I believe this helps to explain why Lebanese cuisine is so well received in France, even if the flavors and ingredients are different.

Michelin-starred chef Alan Geaam

NOV 2024-JAN 2025 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME

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In this issue

NOV 2024 - JAN 2025

10 12

HORECA NETWORK

HORECA Jordan 2024 hailed a resounding success Horeca Kuwait’s 13th edition is set to impress with new and exciting features

EVENTS

10

HORECA Jordan

14

Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Dubai

24

Nightlife entrepreneurs

SEEN AND HEARD 14

16

Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Dubai concludes its third edition Industry trends spotlighted at Private Label Middle East & ISM Middle East Gulfood Manufacturing marks 10-year anniversary

17

2025 trade shows around the world

16

WHERE TO BE SEEN

BUSINESS INTERVIEW 18

Zurab Pololikashvili on why the time is ripe to reshape the global tourism industry

20

Why innovation is the new buzzword in hotel asset management

OPINION

INFLUENCERS 24

5 nightlife entrepreneurs on the power of experiential entertainment

TOURISM 34

Sustainable luxury tourism: at what cost?

COUNTRY REPORT 38

Egypt: from tough times to ambitious tourism targets

TRENDS 40

Hoteliers reveal tech spend priorities: and it’s good news for guests

TECHNOLOGY 42

10 ways to boost direct bookings via mobile apps

EYE ON 44

Greece: an enduring culinary heritage

46

The top bistro interior design trends for 2025

48

A 12-step guide to taking your F&B brand global

ARCHITECTURE F&B

FOR UP-TO-THE-MINUTE NEWS FROM THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY, VISIT

HOSPITALITYNEWSMAG.COM HospitalityNewsME

@Hospitality_Mag

Hospitality-news-middle-east

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HOSPITALITY NEWS ME | NOV 2024-JAN 2025

CONTRACT

Now Open EMU Beirut Store, 108 Allenby Street, Downtown Beirut Tel: +961 1 986 987

emu.it

51 52 54 56 58 62 64

Special report: LUXURY TRAVEL

Profiling the MENA luxury traveler What today’s luxury traveler wants 8 trends driving luxury travel Pinpointing the regional luxury hotel market’s investment opportunities 4 experts on why, where and how to invest in regional luxury travel Hafawa: how MENA is winning over luxury travelers The 5 Cs of modern luxury travel

SOLUTIONS

50

Luxury travel

67

The power of data driven HR

84

Chocolate trends

MANAGEMENT 66

How to reinvent commercial spaces for added value

67

The power of data-driven HR

HUMAN RESOURCES GREEN 68

7 ways to synergize wellness and sustainability in luxury hospitality

69

How to unlock the power of LinkedIn

MARKETING

PRODUCT ZONE EQUIPMENT 70

7 experts on what’s trending in tableware

FOOD 74

11 experts unwrap the latest chocolate trends

80

5 experts on what’s causing ripples in the spirits industry

BEVERAGE

CHOCOMANIA 84

Classic chocolate brownies

ON THE MARKET 85

New products

FOR UP-TO-THE-MINUTE NEWS FROM THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY, VISIT

HOSPITALITYNEWSMAG.COM HospitalityNewsME

@Hospitality_Mag

Hospitality-news-middle-east

Coming issue FEB - APR 2025 • Special report Franchising • Influencers Restaurateurs • Equipment AI • Food Meat & poultry • Beverage Sparkling spirits & flavored sparkling water

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FUTURE HOSPITALITY SUMMIT 2024

CELEBRATES LANDMARK ACHIEVEMENTS Milestone partnership agreements signed and industry awards presented to hospitality pioneers at three-day Dubai investment conference.

The 2024 edition of Future Hospitality Summit (FHS World) drew to a close on October 2 at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, with investors, industry leaders and other participants describing the annual event as a resounding success.

Organized by The Bench, the three-day conference once again provided an ideal setting for industry-related activity and a highly anticipated awards ceremony, recognizing the achievements of pioneering hospitality leaders.

Milestone partnerships for major projects September 30 - the opening day – brought news that Accor and The Summary Executive Properties had agreed a major deal for Swissôtel’s first stand-alone Branded Residences project at Dubai Islands. Hyatt also announced its plans to build two hotels in Magna, Neom's luxury coastal destination. In a separate development, Mohammed Abdullah Al Muhanna Hotels Ltd inked an agreement with Marriott International to open Four Points by Sheraton Jeddah, with Aleph Hospitality appointed as operator.

Cavendish Maxwell also released a report on hotel rating systems.

The day additionally brought news that Skyline University College had signed agreements with HAMA MEA and UAE Restaurants Group.

The activity continued on day two, bringing several key developments, including a commitment from RAK Properties and Minor Hotels to expand their partnership with Anantara Branded Residences in Mina Al Arab. Other highlights included news that ELAF Group had signed a partnership agreement with guestsupply. Accor, meanwhile, announced its plans to increase the brand’s UAE portfolio with Grand Mercure Dubai Downtown, in partnership with Gulf Hotels Group.

Insightful reports The second day also witnessed the release of two key real estate reports: one on the prospects for tourism in Saudi Arabia by consultants Cavendish Maxwell; and the second by consultancy Knight Frank titled ‘The Future of Hotels.’

On the final day, Windmill Real Estate Lease & Management Services announced a strategic collaboration with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to bring two new hotels to Abu Dhabi under the Ramada by Wyndham and Wyndham brands. There was also news of a major USD 70-million partnership signed between Kamah Hotels & Resorts and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to develop four new hotels, under the Trademark Collection by Wyndham.

Additional industry insights were provided in a report released by Kearney, before the focus turned to recognizing the contribution made by hospitality innovators and leaders at the highly anticipated awards ceremony.

Recognition for hospitality leaders Marking its 10th year, the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge for 2024 was won by Francine Aclan, Emma Doherty and Roodabeh Elavia from Cornell University for their Pyro innovation.

The winners of the three prestigious FHS Leadership Awards 2024, which honor hospitality leaders and recognize their achievements, were then announced.

Errikos Christodoulou, hotel operations manager, MarBella Collection, Greece, won the FHS World Future Leader Award a new category for 2024 - while Rizwan Kassim, founder and managing partner, RIKAS Hospitality Group, received the Leadership Award, selected in partnership with Hospitality News Middle East.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded to Selim El Zyr, vice chairman and co-founder, Rotana. The awards were presented

by Jonathan Worsley, chairman and CEO of The Bench, and selected by award partners HN Middle East (Leadership Award), EHL Hospitality Business School (Future Leader Award) and industry peers (Lifetime Achievement Award). futurehospitality.com/ae

NOV 2024-JAN 2025 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME

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What’s your

mood today?

Recreate, or get inspired by any of these beautiful cheese platters. Express your culinary mood with the endless variety of French cheeses.

So, what will it be today? Brie de Meaux, Bleu d’Auvergne, Tomme de Savoie or Comté?

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or FranceAgrimer. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Photography & food styling by TheKateTin.com

Cheeseboard

Craving for Comté

Fall-ing for Tomme de Savoie

Grumpy Blue

Brie-lightful mood

HORECA NETWORK

REVIEW

HORECA JORDAN 2024

HAILED A RESOUNDING SUCCESS The ninth edition of HORECA Jordan concluded on October 3, 2024, at the Jordan International Exhibition Center – Mecca Mall in Amman. Set out across 6,000 square meters, the three-day event proved to be an unprecedented success, attracting more than 17,000 trade visitors.

As the country’s top hospitality and foodservice business event, HORECA Jordan showcased an impressive array of products and services from 360 exhibitors. In addition, the event’s highlight was the Vegan, Gluten-Free & Organic Food Festival, which featured top-tier products in these categories and offered valuable insights on healthy eating.

Joumana Dammous-Salamé, managing director of Hospitality Services, the firm behind the HORECA Network, reflected on the event’s success, stating: “HORECA Jordan 2024 successfully showcased Jordan’s rich traditions and vision, bringing together distinguished talents from across the globe. We are thrilled with the results and proud of our role in advancing the hospitality sector.”

The competition aspect of HORECA Jordan was particularly vibrant, with participants showcasing their skills in the Hospitality Salon Culinaire, Jordanian Barista Competition, Bed Making Competition and Mocktail Competition.

Thuraya Al Husseini, chairperson and CEO of Lawrence & Husseini Consult, co-organizer of HORECA Jordan, said that the event exceeded all expectations. “We welcomed the largest number of visitors in HORECA Jordan’s history. Indeed, the exhibition was full.

Not only did we have international pavilions, we also hosted several embassies, a first for HORECA Jordan. Other embassies have already expressed their interest in being part of the event next year.”

With new sponsors from across the region, HORECA Jordan also provided a go-to platform for extensive networking and knowledge-sharing. The Buyers’ Program created numerous business opportunities and promoted valuable connections.

Furthermore, HORECA Talks was held for the first time in Jordan. The two sessions covered hot topics, including one with executive chefs from 5-star hotels and another delving into cloud kitchens as a business model.

Besides professionals, the coveted event welcomed tourism and hospitality students from colleges and universities throughout Jordan to learn more about the industry from leaders.

The 10th edition of HORECA Jordan will be held from September 16-18, 2025. horeca-jordan.com

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HORECA NETWORK

PREVIEW

HORECA KUWAIT’S

13TH EDITION IS SET TO IMPRESS WITH NEW AND EXCITING FEATURES HORECA Kuwait, the premier annual event for the hospitality and culinary industries, is returning to Kuwait Fairground, from January 14 to 16, 2025. The much-anticipated event is an important meeting place for industry professionals, offering a comprehensive platform to explore the latest trends, technologies and innovations. We learn more about some of the events and exciting new features.

Forecast to welcome 8,000 visitors from Kuwait and the region, HORECA Kuwait promises an immersive experience with a multitude of rich activities, displays and competitions.

Indeed, the three-day event will gather key players from the global hospitality sector, including over 80 exhibitors, offering attendees the opportunity to explore a wide spectrum of 500 brands and services.

HORECA Kuwait 2025 will span more than 7,000 square meters, showcasing every facet of the hospitality industry. It will not only facilitate efficient networking and knowledgesharing among industry leaders and professionals, but will also spotlight young talents in hospitality and the world of culinary arts. Highlights will include the renowned Hospitality Salon Culinaire, Bed Making Competition and Barista Competition, bringing together over 300 participants, who will go head-tohead for the chance to win awards in around 30 categories.

Joumana Dammous-Salamé, managing director of Hospitality Services, the company behind the HORECA Network, commented: “HORECA Kuwait continues to be a reference platform for the hospitality sector, bringing together a dynamic mix of tradition and innovation. This year, we are excited to run a program that celebrates excellence and explores new perspectives in the industry. We look forward to another exceptional edition that will drive growth and fruitful collaborations within the sector.”

Mohamad Najia, executive director of Leaders Group for consulting and development, the organizer of HORECA Kuwait, said: “You can’t talk about hospitality and foodservice, and not mention HORECA. The word has become iconic for so many and it is recognized as the annual event for industry professionals, where they gather to share their expertise and provide solutions for the industry.” He added that the 13th edition is set to host even more competitions and challenges, making it the most engaging and dynamic trade event of the year. horecakuwait.com

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Advertorial

MAKING GREATER THINGS HAPPEN IN JORDAN WITH

MAJöRA Mario Jr. Appiani, Jonas Low and Raed Khoury, the masterminds behind MAJöRA Wine & Cocktails, are revolutionizing Jordan’s hospitality scene. We sat down with them to learn more about how the three partners have combined their varied F&B journeys to create an exciting, culturally diverse dining experience.

An inspired story

Varied talents, a collective vision

Established in 2024, the MAJöRA Wine & Cocktails dining experience represents the vision of three friends with distinct expertise in food, drink and hospitality.

The name MAJöRA derives from Latin, translating as ‘toward greater things.’ It also combines the names of the partners – Mario Jr. (Appiani), Jonas (Low) and Raed (Khoury) - reflecting their personalities and roots, with the trio of friends hailing from Italy, Hawaii and Jordan respectively.

MAJöRA was created through the vision and passion of the three business partners, with each bringing their own individual expertise in food and beverage.

Appiani’s strength lies in his extensive wine knowledge and ability to host wine-themed nights, tastings and food pairings. Recently, he has expanded into mixology, working behind the bar and further refining his craft.

Born and raised in Hawaii, Low developed his passion and creativity working in restaurants worldwide, including time spent at several Michelin-starred venues. Khoury, meanwhile, holds a degree in hospitality, with expertise in food and daily restaurant operations, honed through extensive experience gained in various bar and restaurant consultancies.

As expected, the food at MAJöRA is a culturally diverse, refined blend of seasonal ingredients, while beverages draw inspiration from emotions and memories.

Service is driven by experience and passion, enhancing the guest experience with each interaction. Recommended dishes include the popular Tuna Poke, Hash Brown, Bone Marrow and Japanese Fried Chicken. For drinks, the Eden, Spicy Pineapple Margarita and Truffle Negroni stand out, alongside an extensive selection of wines from around the world.

Brimming with distinctive features Walking through the blue-gate entrance, customers will immediately notice the cozy and intimate feel that is a hallmark of MAJöRA. Visitors will find a welcoming and relaxing space that’s ideal for friends and family to sit and talk with each other.

The cocktail, drinks and wine selections are specially selected for their exotic and complex notes, while the food dishes combine the flavors of the world in one bite. Menus are changed with the seasons, when fresh, new ideas and ingredients are incorporated into dishes.

What really sets MAJöRA apart, however, is the fact that the owners are always on hand, working to maintain an authentic family atmosphere from the top down among partners, staff and customers, ensuring friendly smiles all round.

Incorporating local Jordanian culture The team have taken several steps to ensure that local Jordanian culture is seamlessly incorporated into MAJöRA’s dining experience. Firstly, the menu takes the form of a family-style shared format that reflects Arabic traditions like cold and hot mezzas, allowing guests to enjoy an array of small dishes and bold flavors.

The aim is to generate a fun, interactive experience for guests as they order their various dishes, while sharing stories and connecting with loved ones. The team also embrace local and seasonal ingredients, both in the food and cocktails available, which enhance the menus and giving the offerings a creative twist. The offerings undergo subtle changes four times a year, based on the season’s best produce, including innovative options. One example is a unique crème brûlée, in which the team have creatively incorporated the beloved Jordanian herb zaatar. Most importantly, MAJöRA embodies Jordanian hospitality through exceptional service, welcoming guests as they arrive. The friendly and knowledgeable team set out to ensure that everyone fully experiences the venue’s warmth and charm. majorajo.com majorajordan NOV 2024-JAN 2025 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME

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EVENTS

SEEN AND HEARD

SALON DU CHOCOLAT ET DE LA PÂTISSERIE DUBAI CONCLUDES ITS THIRD EDITION

The third edition of Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Dubai, the region’s most anticipated event dedicated to chocolate, pastry, gelato and coffee, officially closed its doors after a remarkable three-day run. Held at Madinat Arena, Madinat Jumeirah, from September 18-20, the event welcomed over 7,000 visitors.

This year’s edition was a true celebration of the art of chocolatemaking and pastry, featuring over 360 brands from around the world. Set out over 3,000 square meters of exhibition space, more than 90 exhibitors showcased an array of exquisite products, from artisan chocolates to the latest pastry masterpieces, offering visitors a chance to sample delicacies, while learning from and being inspired by the top pastry chefs and innovators in the industry.

During the opening ceremony, a recognition award was awarded to guest of honor Guillaume Gomez, personal representative of the president of the French Republic for food and gastronomy, for raising the profile of French gastronomy in the Middle East.

In addition, Victor Delpierre, barista, mixologist, world champion and gastronomy consultant, presented ‘Treasure of Cocoa,’ a cocktail made specially for Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Dubai.

Among the many highlights of the event was the Chocolate Fashion Show, which featured 13 spectacular chocolate dresses created by renowned pastry chefs in collaboration with ESMOD Dubai students.

Aside from mesmerizing attendees, these edible masterpieces

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highlighted the extraordinary creativity and skills of the participants.

Throughout the event, The Talks provided a platform for industry leaders to discuss the latest trends and innovations in the world of pastry, chocolate, coffee and sustainability.

Furthermore, Coffee in Good Spirits Championship, organized in collaboration with the Specialty Coffee Association-UAE, debuted, with some of the best baristas and mixologists highlighting their skills in front of a professional jury and large audience.

A total of 43 competitions and masterclasses formed part of the rich program. Competitions included: the Best 3D Cake Design, Best Chocolate Showpiece and the KitKat Dessert Challenge. Visitors were also able to enjoy live culinary demonstrations at the Choco Demo and interactive workshops led by world-renowned chefs at the Pastry Show.

Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Dubai returns for its fourth edition from September 30 - October 2, 2025. salonduchocolatdubai.com

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EVENTS

SEEN AND HEARD

INDUSTRY TRENDS SPOTLIGHTED AT PRIVATE LABEL MIDDLE EAST AND ISM MIDDLE EAST

September expos showcase latest FMCG developments and sweet offerings.

Bringing together food and non-food suppliers, private label and contract manufacturers from over 40 countries, Private Label Middle East 2024 took place this year from September 24-26 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. An established annual industry event, the expo attracted over 8,000 buyers, product innovators

and brand developers from MENA and Asia. Visitors had the opportunity to connect directly with manufacturers of fully customizable fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs) and discover cuttingedge branding and packaging solutions.

They were also able to network with representatives from top companies and view a diverse portfolio of brands.

Highlights this year included an Experts Stage and the Private Label Meetings Programme.

Running concurrently at the same venue, ISM Middle East reaffirmed its status as a key industry event, offering outstanding opportunities for sourcing sweets and snacks in the market. The 2024 edition of this definitive platform for industry trendsetters drew prominent brands, influential thought leaders and top craftspeople from across the globe.

Participants and attendees included retailers, wholesalers, distributors and importers from the confectionery, snacks and sweets sectors. This year’s event boasted double the exhibition space, enabling over 500 exhibitors from various segments, including chocolate products, snack foods, biscuits and cakes, to take part and interact with more than 30,000 buyers. Talking points included the always popular Awards segment, the Sweet Connections Meeting Programme and the Festive Showcase, spotlighting the latest in festive product lines. prime-expo.com ism-me.com

GULFOOD MANUFACTURING MARKS 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY new and learn about the innovations shaping the industry’s future. Attendees were treated to culinary arts displays by celebrity chefs and up-and-coming talents. Gulfood Manufacturing also featured live demonstrations, tasting sessions and a variety of workshops.

Other highlights included a culinary competition for young chefs and Dubai World Cuisine, a new feature dedicated to local chefs, which showcased the emirate’s culinary prowess on the world stage.

Showcasing the latest developments in food production and setting new industry standards for the future, the 2024 edition of Gulfood Manufacturing took place from November 5-7 at Dubai World Trade Centre.

a more sustainable, resilient, agile and efficient future. Over 100 of the industry’s decision-makers and global experts came together to explore the latest trends and challenges, while setting out strategies to capture business opportunities.

Marking its 10th anniversary, Gulfood Manufacturing once again garnered interest from top production players across sectors in processing, packaging, ingredients, supply chain solutions and control and automation, to chart a course toward

Taking place under the banner ‘A Decade of Powering Food Production,’ the event brought together a mix of retailers, food suppliers, distributors, wholesalers, chefs and thought leaders from over 120 countries to connect, discover what’s

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Gulfood Manufacturing once again proved to be a decisive destination for accelerating technology adoption, spotlighting the efficiencies and productivity needed to meet the new challenges currently faced by the global industry. The event provided a comprehensive showcase of solutions for professionals aiming to stay at the forefront of innovation. It also offered a prime opportunity for attendees to network and form global partnerships. gulfoodmanufacturing.com gulfood.com

WHERE TO BE SEEN

2025 TRADE SHOWS AROUND THE WORLD JANUARY 2025

7-10 Jan. TURKEY ANFAS HOTEL EQUIPMENT Anfas Antalya Fuarcilik Isletme ve Yatirim A.S. anfas.com.tr 14-16 Jan. KUWAIT HORECA KUWAIT Leaders Group Hospitality Services horecakuwaitexpo.com 18-22 Jan. ITALY SIGEP Rimini Fiera sigep.it 22-26 Jan. SPAIN FITUR Ifema Madrid ifema.es/en/fitur

FEBRUARY 2025

2-5 Feb. GERMANY ISM Koelnmesse ism-cologne.com

5-7 Feb. TURKEY EMITT ISTANBUL Hyve emittistanbul.com/Home 5-7 Feb. GERMANY FRUIT LOGISTICA Messe Berlin GmbH fruitlogistica.com/en 7-11 Feb.GERMANY AMBIENTE Messe Frankfurt ambiente.messefrankfurt.com 10-12 Feb. DUBAI WORLD OF COFFEE DUBAI SCA – Specialty Coffee Association dubai.worldofcoffee.org 10-12 Feb. SAUDI TRAVEL MARKET STM stmksa.com 17-21 Feb. DUBAI GULFOOD DWTC gulfood.com

MARCH 2025

4-6 Mar. GERMANY ITB BERLIN The World's Leading Travel Trade Show Messe Berlin GmbH itb-berlin.de

14-18 Mar. GERMANY INTERNORGA Hamburg Messe + Congress internorga.com

26-28 May OMAN HORECA OMAN Al Nimr Expo & Hospitality Services horecaoman.com

16-18 Mar. GERMANY PROWEIN Messe Dusseldorf prowein.com

27-29 May DUBAI THE HOTEL SHOW Dmg: Events Middle East thehotelshow.com

APRIL 2025

SEPTEMBER 2025

8-10 Apr. Riyadh – KSA HOTEL & HOSPITALITY EXPO SAUDI ARABIA KAOUN ARABIA & DMG EVENTS thehotelshowsaudiarabia.com

8-11 Sep. AUSTRALIA FINE FOOD AUSTRALIA Diversified Communications Australia finefoodaustralia.com.au

8-11 Apr. LEBANON HORECA LEBANON Hospitality Services horecashow.com

16-18 Sep. JORDAN HORECA JORDAN Laurence & Husseini Consult & Expo Jordan horeca-jordan.com

8-11 Apr. SINGAPORE FHA FOOD & BEVERAGE Informa Markets fhafnb.com

30 Sep.-2 Oct. DUBAI SALON DU CHOCOLAT ET DE LA PATISSERIE HSME salonduchocolatdubai.com

13-15 Apr. 2025 Riyadh-KSA SAUDIFOOD MANUFACTURING KAOUN ARABIA & DMG EVENTS saudifoodmanufacturing.com 14-16 Apr. KSA FHS RIYADH Bench futurehospitalitysummit.com 21-23 Apr. Jeddah KSA SAUDI HORECA Semark saudihoreca.com 28 Apr.- 1 May DUBAI ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET Reed exhibitions arabiantravelmarket.com

MAY 2025

12-14 May KSA THE SAUDI FOOD SHOW DWTC thesaudifoodshow.com 17-20 May USA NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION SHOW Winsight nationalrestaurantshow.com 18-22 May GERMANY IBA GERMANY GHM iba.de/en/

OCTOBER 2025

4-8 Oct. GERMANY ANUGA KOELNMESSE anuga.com/trade-fair/anuga/ 17-21 Oct. ITALY HOST MILANO FIERA MILANO host.fieramilano.it 27-29 Oct. DUBAI FHS DUBAI Bench futurehospitalitysummit.com

NOVEMBER 2025

4-6 Nov. UK WORLD TRAVEL MARKET RX GLOBAL wtm.com/london/en-gb.html 4-6 Nov. DUBAI GULFOOD MANUFACTURING DWTC gulfoodmanufacturing.com Nov. Riyadh KSA SAUDI HORECA Semark saudihoreca.com

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BUSINESS

INTERVIEW

ZURAB POLOLIKASHVILI ON WHY THE TIME IS RIPE TO RESHAPE THE GLOBAL TOURISM INDUSTRY

World tourism is in the midst of a sea-change, with the Middle East proving to be a frontrunner in the industry’s recovery. Zurab Pololikashvili, secretary-general of UN Tourism, shares his thoughts on what’s needed to create a future-proof global tourism sector.

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What is your assessment of the current global tourism landscape?

The current global tourism landscape is undergoing significant transformation following recent challenges. The impact of these events has underscored the vital need for resilience and sustainability within the sector. Encouragingly, we are witnessing a shift toward sustainable practices, with travelers increasingly seeking eco-friendly options and immersive experiences that respect local cultures and environments. Tourism is not just an economic driver; it is a powerful means for sustainable development, community empowerment and cultural exchange. Moreover, tourism must embrace digital transformation and innovation, ensuring that our industry is equipped to respond to future uncertainties. We should also emphasize inclusivity, ensuring that marginalized communities benefit from tourism development. By focusing on these key areas, the tourism sector can emerge stronger and more equitable, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

What emerging trends do you see shaping the future of tourism?

In 2023, the Middle East emerged as a frontrunner in the tourism recovery, becoming the only region to exceed prepandemic levels, with arrivals 122 percent higher than in 2019 and reaching 87.1 million international tourists. As global tourism is projected to grow drastically by 2030, investments will be essential to develop the necessary accommodation, transportation and other tourism-related services and infrastructure.

The rise of technology and digitalization continues to transform the sector. From virtual reality experiences to seamless online booking systems, destinations should invest in innovative technologies to enhance visitor experiences. Additionally, wellness tourism is gaining traction, with more people prioritizing mental and physical well-being during their travels. Destinations should develop wellness-centered programs that promote relaxation and rejuvenation, whether through nature experiences, wellness retreats or local health initiatives.

Resilience has emerged as a critical attribute for destinations. The challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic reinforce the necessity for adaptability and robust crisis management frameworks.

How important is sustainability within the tourism industry?

Sustainability is crucial in the tourism industry as it aligns economic growth with environmental protection and social responsibility. It is essential for fostering responsible travel practices, protecting

our planet and ensuring that tourism remains a positive force worldwide.

By adopting sustainable practices, the tourism sector can significantly contribute to the preservation of ecosystems and biodiversity. This involves minimizing pollution, reducing waste and using resources efficiently, ensuring that tourist destinations remain vibrant for future generations. Sustainable tourism also promotes the well-being of local communities, as it creates job opportunities and supports the economy, while respecting cultural diversity.

Saudi Arabia's recent agreement with UN Tourism to develop global online courses through the UN Tourism Online Academy exemplifies the region's commitment to capacity building.

The Middle East boasts a rich tapestry of cultural and natural assets that can be strategically leveraged to enhance international tourism.

Investing in sustainable tourism initiatives is fundamental to this strategy. By protecting natural wonders and heritage sites, Middle East countries can ensure that these assets remain attractive for future generations.

What specific opportunities and challenges do you see for tourism in the Middle East?

The tourism industry in the Middle East presents a distinctive array of opportunities and challenges that require a strategic vision for maximizing its potential, while effectively addressing inherent obstacles. A significant opportunity lies in the region’s rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes and historical sites. Countries like Egypt, Jordan and the Gulf states are positioning themselves as premier travel destinations.

Moreover, the Middle East has the advantage of being at the crossroads of global trade and tourism, which can facilitate growth in business travel and international events. Collaborations between nations can enhance regional connectivity, making it easier for tourists to explore multiple destinations.

Between 2018 and 2023, the Middle East witnessed the announcement of 254 greenfield tourism projects with a total investment of USD 15.2 billion, creating approximately 33,629 jobs. This substantial investment underscores the growing role of the tourism and travel sector in economic diversification efforts.

However, the region also faces challenges that must be addressed to ensure sustainable growth. Security concerns, political instability and environmental issues can deter potential visitors. To navigate these challenges, UN Tourism advocates for comprehensive strategies that prioritize health, safety and sustainability. This includes investing in infrastructure, promoting intraregional tourism and fostering publicprivate partnerships.

How can Middle Eastern countries leverage their unique cultural and natural assets to attract more tourists?

The Middle East boasts a rich tapestry of cultural and natural assets that can be strategically leveraged to enhance international tourism. To attract more international visitors, it’s essential to promote authenticity and create immersive experiences that reflect the unique heritage of each nation.

Integrating sustainability into tourism practices will appeal to the increasing number of travelers who prioritize responsible travel. Additionally, fostering partnerships between local communities and the hospitality sector can enrich visitor experiences. Engaging locals as guides, artisans and hosts allows travelers to experience genuine customs and traditions, thereby deepening their connection to the region. This approach not only promotes cultural exchange, but also stimulates local economies. Targeted marketing campaigns that highlight cultural festivals, gastronomy and natural beauty can inspire potential visitors.

What initiatives is the UN Tourism prioritizing to support tourism growth?

Firstly, we are enhancing our focus on sustainable tourism practices. This includes advocating for responsible travel that protects cultural heritage, conserves natural resources and promotes local economies. In addition, we are dedicated to advancing digital transformation within the sector. By promoting the use of technology in tourism, such as digital marketing, smart destinations and data analytics, we aim to equip stakeholders with the tools necessary to innovate and reach new markets. We are also committed to ensuring that tourism benefits all segments of society, including marginalized communities and small enterprises. Lastly, we are focused on strengthening global partnerships to address challenges. Together, we can create a resilient and sustainable tourism sector that not only rebounds, but flourishes, in alignment with the UN SDGs. unwto.org zurabpololikashvili

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OPINION

In collaboration with

WHY INNOVATION IS THE NEW BUZZWORD

IN HOTEL ASSET MANAGEMENT A transformation is taking place in hospitality asset management, propelled forward by technological advancements. Bastien Blanc, CEO and board member at TroKadero Hospitality Global, explains how owners can tap into innovation to optimize their returns and stay ahead of the crowd. forums. These platforms can foster deeper relationships with clients and lead to crossselling opportunities, especially in mixeduse products.

Spotlight on operational efficiency

A transformative shift is underway in asset management across the hospitality industry, driven by technological advancements and the evolving expectations of investors.

Owners are understandably seeking to optimize their returns and ensure their products remain competitive, which has raised several topical questions. For example, should innovation be used primarily to generate new revenue streams or focused on improving operational efficiencies? And how do emerging trends in space utilization fit into the equation?

Pursuing new revenue streams Innovation has the potential to unlock new revenue streams for hotels, thereby benefiting asset managers by delivering better returns. For example, the development of sophisticated algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) offers opportunities to create customized investment products, tailored to specific investor needs. This, in turn, can play a part in attracting new clients and increasing revenue. Blockchain technology can also be leveraged to streamline processes, reduce costs and introduce new financial instruments.

Significantly, when we asset manage a property, we invariably explore innovative ways for our team to engage with clients and look at how to generate additional income, from the development of digital platforms that support personalized services to educational content and community

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While innovation can drive new revenue streams, it is equally important for asset managers to ensure their products and their partners benefit from improved operational efficiency. Automation, for example, can streamline back-office tasks, reduce errors and free up resources for more strategic activities. Cloud computing can enhance scalability, improve data security and lower costs in fields that range from reservations to managing the overall customer journey.

Of equal importance, advancements in data analytics can help asset managers gain deeper insights into their properties’ spending trends, therefore identifying investment opportunities that have the potential to generate revenue and optimize overall return of their portfolio. This can lead to improved risk management, enhanced performance and reduced operational costs.

Innovation is a powerful tool that can help asset managers navigate the modern investment landscape.

Key role for space utilization The concept of space utilization is a particular favorite of mine, perhaps, in part, because it is so often overlooked. But it is now becoming increasingly relevant for efficient asset management. At a time when brands are seeking to optimize their physical footprint and reduce costs, asset managers

need to assume the role of gatekeeper, ensuring they are exploring innovative ways to use their overall space, starting with the office area. This includes looking at coworking arrangements, flexible workspaces and the adoption of technology-enabled solutions that facilitate remote work.

A balanced approach While the pursuit of new revenue streams is essential for the long-term success of asset managers, it is equally important to focus on improving operational efficiency.

A balanced approach that leverages innovation to achieve both goals is likely to be the most effective.

For example, we and other asset managers are investing in AI-powered tools to automate back-office tasks, while simultaneously developing new investment products that leverage the same technology.

This can help owners to reduce costs and increase revenue at the same time.

There’s no doubt that innovation is a powerful tool that can help asset managers navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern investment landscape. By focusing on both revenue generation and operational efficiency, owners can position themselves for long-term success and stay ahead of the competition. tkh.global

Advertorial

FORM PART OF MARRIOTT BONVOY: HOTEL, A HIDDEN GEM IN DUBAI'S AL JADDAF CULTURE VILLAGE

FORM Hotel Dubai has rapidly established itself as a premier destination for both business and leisure travelers – an accomplishment that has been recognized at the past three editions of the World Luxury Travel Awards.

Houssam Mansour, FORM Hotel Dubai’s general manager, shares his thoughts on how the top-tier, 4-star property has achieved such impressive success.

FORM Hotel Dubai is a member of the Design Hotels collection. How does this prestigious affiliation benefit your guests?

Design Hotels is an exclusive, curated collection of luxury hotels catering to the needs of modern travelers. Each hotel within the portfolio tells a captivating story, shaped by the vision of an original trailblazer. FORM Hotel Dubai is the first and only hotel in the Middle East certified by the Design Hotels group, showcasing timeless design and elements, spacious and modern rooms, and custom-designed furniture by contemporary artists. In a city renowned as a global business hub, we are also recognized as a premier destination for professionals, thanks to our 24/7 tailored business centers.

FORM Hotel Dubai is also affiliated with Marriott Bonvoy. What services are you able to offer Marriott members under this additional partnership?

As a distinguished member of Marriott Bonvoy’s premium portfolio, FORM Hotel Dubai is able to offer key benefits to its members. For example, Elite Ambassadors and Elite Titanium members earn 10 points for every USD 1 spent and enjoy exclusive benefits like late checkout, complimentary breakfast and room upgrades. Many members then return, having discovered our personalized service, cozy atmosphere and enhanced privacy.

What do you regard as the key contributors to FORM Hotel Dubai’s rapid success?

In a short space of time, FORM Hotel Dubai has made remarkable progress by positioning itself as a top-tier, 4-star hotel within the Marriott brand in the Al Jaddaf area. We cater to the needs of both leisure and business travelers with meticulous, personalized attention to detail. Our focus on direct bookings has enhanced customer loyalty. Guests also benefit from a seamless check-in service and personal parking spaces with direct, private access to their rooms, ensuring convenience and privacy.

What can you tell us about the Al Jaddaf area, where FORM Hotel Dubai is located?

Al Jaddaf is a vibrant neighborhood, undergoing an exciting transformation.

Ambitious projects include the development of the world’s largest Urban Tech District along Al Jaddaf Creekside. FORM Hotel Dubai’s strategic spot in this prime location means we offer a peaceful retreat but are still just moments away from Dubai’s dynamic sights. All of our accommodation features acoustically sensitive windows that provide stunning views of the Culture Village and the Creek.

Can you share some insights from your personal hospitality journey?

I began my career in hospitality aged just 21 as a management trainee at Forte Grand in Abu Dhabi, now known as Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working around the world with several esteemed international chains.

Recently, as a seasoned Lebanese hotelier with over 25 years of experience in MENA, I celebrated my third anniversary with FORM Hotel Dubai, which I consider the pinnacle of my career. I am incredibly grateful for the support of our owners, whose commitment and care have been vital to our success, and our hardworking, handpicked team.

Form Hotel has been recognized at the World Luxury Hotel Awards for three consecutive years. What do you believe to be behind this continued success?

Our continued success at the World Luxury Hotel Awards stems from our unwavering commitment to innovation, personalized service and attention to detail. FORM Hotel Dubai stands out because we combine contemporary design with cultural heritage, creating a distinctive experience for our guests. Our team’s dedication to excellence and our focus on guest satisfaction are at the heart of everything we do. These awards highlight our consistent efforts to elevate the guest experience, ensuring that every stay is memorable.

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NIGHTLIFE

ENTREPRENEURS

ON THE POWER OF EXPERIENTIAL ENTERTAINMENT The MENA nightlife scene is rapidly evolving, with established destinations still setting trends and untapped markets poised for growth.

Five industry experts share their thoughts on what’s making waves in the world of late-night entertainment, from trendsetting to storytelling.

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Championing local connectivity Sustainability and well-being are definitely top priorities for us. We’re taking small steps toward incorporating these considerations into our venues, from transitioning to digital business cards to implementing bamboo straws in some venues. Utilizing local resources from the Egyptian market is another key focus for us, ensuring that we stay connected to our roots, while innovating in the industry. We are keen to explore pop-up concepts beyond Egypt, which will inject a dynamic and everevolving element into our venues.

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AYMAN BAKY Founder and CEO Baky Hospitality bakyhospitality.com aymanbaky

More than just dining The nightlife scene in the Middle East is truly dynamic and full of potential. Countries like the UAE and Lebanon have already made significant strides in offering top-notch experiences. However, when it comes to untapped potential, Saudi Arabia shines brightly. With its recent reforms and focus on tourism, the Kingdom is poised to make a significant mark on the nightlife map.

Egypt, too, is a vibrant market hungry for growth and new venues, which is where our focus lies. In today’s market, the experience

is paramount. We ensure our venues are more than just places to dine in by making them immersive environments. To do this, we focus on creating multi-sensory experiences that immediately engage our guests. This includes meticulously designed interiors, curated music and unique culinary offerings that reflect the local culture, while maintaining global standards. By focusing on details, we aim to cater to the wishes of guests who want to not only eat, but to connect, celebrate and be inspired.

Plenty on the horizon Exciting things are happening for us! We are gearing up to open Reif Kushiyaki Seasons, New Cairo, before the end of 2024, an upcoming dining experience that will focus on high-quality ingredients. In 2025, we have a new location for Reif in New Giza, which will continue the brand’s commitment to street-style Japanese cuisine in a new, exciting setting. Sachi Swanlake Residence is our latest addition, offering refined dining with elegance. We also have a grand reopening planned for Lexie’s, with a new look and a potential menu update.

In addition, there’s a new concept in the pipeline for One Ninety, where we will introduce a novel dining-lifestyle concept.

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A sustainable, supportive setup Sustainability is integral to our operational ethos. We are implementing eco-friendly practices, such as introducing recycled materials and reusable straws in our venues, and are proud of our dedication to ocean conservation in the UAE. Through our efforts, we've prevented more than 350,000 straws from entering oceans and landfills in just three months. We also prioritize the well-being of our team members, fostering a supportive work environment that promotes personal and professional growth.

These efforts underscore our commitment to responsible business practices and community engagement.

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RABIH FAKHREDDINE

Founder and CEO 7 Management 7management.me rabihfakhreddine, sevenmanagement

Beyond the traditional The nightlife scene in the Middle East is vibrant, diverse, thriving and ever evolving, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that blend music, cuisine and ambiance. As hospitality entrepreneurs, it’s important to keep our fingers on the entertainment pulse of each country and get a good feel for what the people want, including how they’ll respond to particular concepts. We

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prioritize crafting immersive and inimitable experiences that go beyond traditional dining and nightlife. Years of experience have given us a real understanding of what our clientele want, enabling us to be bold, driven and daring. Our venues are designed to ensure that each visit is memorable and unique for clients. We make it a point not to follow trends – it’s what sets us apart.

Regional expansion in the pipeline We have plenty of exciting ventures on the horizon, including the recent opening of Lucia’s Mare, in a new beachfront location at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, offering an iconic view of Burj Al Arab. Before the end of 2024, we will also launch Bagatelle in the prestigious Astir Marina in Athens. In a huge win for us, we’re also delighted to confirm that we are operating seven distinct restaurant concepts with culinary icon Joël Robuchon in Sindalah, Neom’s luxury island in Saudi Arabia. At home, we’re preparing for the launch of Dubai’s inaugural Meat The Fish, in partnership with NBL Group, located in the new Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab.

We’ve also expanded our reach with the Em Sherif brand by partnering with ADIHH, successfully acquiring the franchise rights for both Em Sherif Restaurant and Em Sherif Sea Café in the UAE.

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SALIM GHANEM CEO and owner Standalone Group standalone-group.com standalonegroup

Opportunities across borders The nightlife scene in the Middle East has evolved rapidly, particularly in cities like Dubai, Riyadh and Doha, where there is growing demand for premium experiences.

Key markets are focusing on enhancing regulatory frameworks to promote tourism and entertainment, while maintaining cultural values. Changes are evident, even in more conservative countries, with more liberal policies being slowly introduced.

With its Vision 2030 initiative, Saudi Arabia represents the greatest untapped potential

for nightlife development in the region.

The Kingdom’s shift toward more relaxed social norms includes the introduction of music festivals and mixed-gender venues, reaffirming the opportunities it offers to become a thriving market for nightlife entrepreneurs.

Creating interactive, eco-friendly environments Today, venues must go beyond simply offering a service or a product and create immersive, memorable experiences. This involves carefully curating the ambiance,

from the aesthetic design and sensory elements to personalized interactions and digital integrations. The focus should be on storytelling, creating a narrative that aligns with the brand’s values and connects with guests. The rise of immersive experiences, driven by augmented reality and virtual reality, presents an exciting frontier for creating memorable, interactive environments that captivate audiences in new ways. Additionally, the shift toward sustainability is reshaping expectations, encouraging venues to integrate ecofriendly practices. In our venues, we prioritize sustainability and well-being by sourcing local and organic ingredients whenever possible, reducing food waste through efficient practices and supporting eco-friendly initiatives. By offering healthy menu options, promoting ethical sourcing, and implementing green initiatives, we strive to contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future for our guests and the environment. We also focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that promotes social connections and community engagement.

Eye on Lagos and Dubai Our pipeline of projects includes the upcoming debut of Mr. Panther, an elegant restaurant and lounge bar, which is scheduled to open its doors in Lagos, Nigeria, before the end of the year. This new venture promises to combine sophistication with a lively ambiance, creating a distinctive dining and social destination. We are also thrilled to announce our plans to take Spine into the UAE. The expansion includes a scheduled opening for the lounge-bar in Dubai in October 2025.

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a welcoming ambiance, alongside the music. We believe that this experience is founded on three main pillars programming, architecture and design – which, together, craft unforgettable experiences for our guests. Rather than following trends, we prefer to set them.

Sustainability is also a key concern for us in terms of both our operations and our people. We are phasing out singleuse plastic across all of our venues and implementing the use of compostable items where possible. In addition, we are investing in several training and education programs for our staff. Their personal enrichment and understanding of and commitment to our sustainability practices, is a vital part of us being able to achieve our sustainability goals.

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RIZWAN KASSIM Founder and CEO RIKAS Hospitality Group rikasgroup.com rikasgroup

Diverse choice of markets The nightlife scene in the region is robust. You only have to look at cities like Beirut, Istanbul, Bodrum and Cairo, where nightlife is the backbone of the hospitality scene, to see evidence of this.

In Dubai, where most of our concepts operate, the nightlife segment is going from strength to strength, thanks to its sizeable, young and upwardly mobile population. When it comes to other markets, Egypt is one we’re watching, due to the expansion of its hospitality

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industry. We are also keeping a close eye on Saudi Arabia, given the development underway there, alongside smaller niche markets, like Bahrain.

Crafting unforgettable experiences We always endeavor to go beyond an excellent food and beverage offering, aware that this, alone, isn’t enough.

Ways in which we set ourselves apart include offering an immersive look and feel at our venues, deep storytelling, an attentive and preemptive service, and

Destination Dubai We are in the process of opening five new venues in Dubai which will all be up and running before the end of 2024. These are: Gigi Rigolatto, a beach house, and Ninive Beach, a Middle Eastern and North African-inspired beach club, both at J1 Beach; and La Cantine Beach, Maison Revka and Gohan restaurant at the Delanot, all of which are on Bluewaters Island. Our catering department is also expanding, aligned with growing demand from luxury brands, corporate guests and groups of loyal customers looking to host dining and social events at our venues.

Storytelling key to success Experience is everything today. We live in an era when customers expect immersive experiences. Whether it’s the lighting, entertainment, service, sound design or seating arrangement, every detail needs to fit with the broader aim of providing customers with a curated, high-end, memorable experience. At our venues, we aim to build a narrative - a story - from the moment our guests arrive, whether it’s through the ambiance, the performances or the service and personalized interaction we provide.

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CLAUDE SABA

Managing partner and COO ADDMIND addmind.com claudesaba, addmindhospitality

GCC ripe for expansion The nightlife scene in the Middle East has evolved significantly over the past decade.

Cities like Beirut and Dubai have really stepped up in terms of offering world-class experiences. Despite its challenges, Beirut remains a cultural hub, where trends are born. When it comes to untapped potential, I believe Saudi Arabia is the market to watch. With the government’s investments

in entertainment and the hunger that is emerging for high-end, curated nightlife experiences, it is definitely a destination that’s ripe for creative and bold concepts.

We have some exciting projects on the horizon. Currently, we are working on expanding into new markets within the GCC and Europe, and also have several new openings in the pipeline for Beirut and Dubai, among other markets.

Pushing boundaries in mixology “Galaxy Bar’s distinct personality has evolved through years of dedication and innovation, establishing the venue as a go-to destination for both refined cocktail experiences and vibrant late-night entertainment. Our brand’s success is rooted in organic growth and a commitment to excellence in every drink we serve, creating memorable moments and genuine connections with each guest.

Being recognized by the World’s 50 Best Bars for three consecutive years is a true honor and a testament to the passion and

All about anticipation For me, the key is to anticipate what people will want before they even know they want it. This requires a deep understanding of global trends, technological advancements and cultural shifts. Whenever we identify a new concept that resonates with a fresh group of audience members, we strike effectively and build an immersive experience around it. At the same time, we constantly enhance the experience in our venues to anticipate and adapt to these new trends, all while maintaining the core identity of our brands. People nowadays are increasingly conscious of the impact of their decisions, even when it comes to their nightlife experiences. They want to feel confident that their choices align with their values, and we recognize this. We do our best to prioritize energy-efficiency and waste reduction, which can be very challenging in our industry. However, we are committed to making responsible decisions across all of our operations.

commitment that drive our efforts. I am immensely grateful to everyone who has contributed to our success, from our devoted guests to the dedicated team at Galaxy Bar. We look forward to the future and remain committed to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in the world of mixology in the UAE and beyond.”

Natasha Sideris, founder and CEO Galaxy Bar/Tashas Group galaxy-bar.com

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Standalone Group is a renowned hospitality and F&B management company that excels in creating exceptional experiences at its captivating nightlife venues and restaurants across the Middle East and Africa. Since its inception in 2017, the group has curated a remarkable portfolio that includes concepts such as SPINE, ELSE, ANU in Beirut, and the vibrant HIDE in Doha.

ELSE, a fusion restaurant and cocktail bar, offers a culinary journey that blends flavors and artistry, creating a harmonious dining experience.

ANU, nestled between the sea and the peaks of the North mountains, is a captivating bohemian restaurant bar on a rooftop, offering a delightful blend of Mediterranean cuisine.

SPINE, an award-winning unorthodox lounge bar concept, has garnered international acclaim, receiving prestigious awards in 2019 in London and 2021 in Germany. This innovative venue sets the stage for a unique and immersive experience, enticing guests with its avant-garde atmosphere.

HIDE is a premier nightclub and events venue, renowned for its dynamic entertainment experiences that captivate guests.

The latest addition to the Standalone Group family is Mr. Panther, a highenergy restaurant bar in Lagos, Nigeria. Epitomizing sophistication and innovation, this new venture promises to elevate Lagos’s dining and nightlife scene, offering a vibrant ambiance where every moment is electrifying.

QATAR TOURISM AWARDS 2024

Recognition for businesses and individuals providing service excellence across Qatar’s tourism sector.

WINNERS REVEALED

More than 30 organizations, businesses and entrepreneurs that have played a part in helping Qatar’s tourism industry to achieve unprecedented levels of success were honored on October 27 at the 2024 edition of the Qatar Tourism Awards.

Now in its second year, the awards took place at the Raffles Doha Ballroom in a celebratory ceremony that recognized recipients across seven categories.

The ceremony was attended by HE Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, chairman of Qatar Tourism and chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, who opened the event with a keynote speech. Other high-profile representatives present included Natalia Bayona, executive director of UN Tourism, and Basma Al- Mayman, UN Tourism regional director, Middle East.

Celebrating remarkable contributions Developed in partnership with the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), the Qatar Tourism Awards were created to celebrate and recognize the remarkable contributions made by businesses and individuals that aspire to exemplify service excellence in customer service delivery.

The award is designed to recognize all industry participants who directly, or indirectly, deliver experiences to

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visitors, while emulating exceptional initiatives characterized by uniqueness, sustainability, accessibility and highquality service.

Higher applicant numbers In his opening remarks, and after welcoming attendees, Al Kharji highlighted the growing interest that the Qatar Tourism Awards were generating, as evidenced by the high number of applicants.

“We are gathered for the second edition of the Qatar Tourism Awards to celebrate the outstanding contributions of businesses and individuals in creating exceptional tourism experiences,” he told guests. “We evaluated over 1,200 applicants, reflecting the growing interest from the public to participate in such prestigious awards.”

Al Kharji added that the Qatar Tourism Awards had become a benchmark of excellence, highlighting the best offerings, services, innovations and achievements in the tourism sector. He thanked the panel of judges for their work, noting the transparency, objectivity and accuracy they displayed during the evaluation process. In his closing remarks, he also encouraged tourism professionals to apply for the next edition of the awards, noting the many advantages that the initiative

offered, which include full access to the Winners Alumni Network.

In addition, Al Kharji highlighted the relevance of the awards to Qatar Tourism’s broader strategic target of making the country one of the region’s fastest growing destinations, pointing out that service excellence is a core priority within these plans.

New categories added The Qatar Tourism Awards featured four new categories this year, in a bid to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive representation of the visitor experience.

The seven categories for 2024 consisted of: Service Excellence; Gastronomic Experiences; Iconic Attractions and Activities; World-Class Events; Digital Footprint; Smart and Sustainable Tourism; and Community Leadership. A new Tourism Influencer Award was added to the Digital Footprint category to celebrate the talented content creators who have brilliantly showcased Qatar’s vibrant culture and unique experiences to the world.

Winners were selected by a distinguished panel of judges, who meticulously evaluated the businesses and individuals excelling in each category.

Advertorial

FULL LIST OF QATAR TOURISM AWARDS 2024 WINNERS The Service Excellence category recognizes outstanding businesses and individuals within the tourism sector that epitomize excellence in customer service. The 2024 winners were: Outstanding 3-Star Hotel

Premier Inn Doha Education City

Outstanding 4-Star Hotel

Embassy Suites Doha Old Town

Outstanding 5-Star Hotel

Mandarin Oriental

Exceptional Spa Experience

Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som

Exceptional Resort Experience

Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som

Exceptional Holiday Home Experience

The Cottage

Outstanding New Tourism Accommodation

Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay

The ‘Heart of Hospitality’ award

Hala Eh Sayegh

Tour Guide of the Year

Karolanne Pacheco

Leading Destination Management Company

Q Moments

The Gastronomic Experiences category recognizes venues that transform dining into an art form, crafting unforgettable culinary journeys. The 2024 winners were: Outstanding Fine Dining Experience

Hakkasan

Exceptional Casual Dining Experience

Bayt El Talleh

Premier Quick Service Experience

Evergreen Organics

Noteworthy Cafe Experience

Qinwan Premium Dates

Outstanding Authentic Qatari Dining Experience

Belhambar

Outstanding New Restaurant

Yun

The Iconic Attractions and Activities category recognizes Qatar’s most captivating and essential tourist destinations, activities and experiences. The 2024 winners were: Outstanding Cultural Tourism Experience

Old Doha Port

Unforgettable Adventure Tourism Experience

National Cruise Tourism

Leading Local Retail Brand

Hiraat

Premier Shopping Mall Experience

Place Vendôme

Premier Theme Park Experience

Doha Quest

Iconic Local Attraction

Msheireb Museums

The World-Class Events category recognizes small, medium and major events that have a significant impact on tourism and elevate Qatar’s profile on the global stage. The 2024 winners were: Top MICE Event of the year

Doha Forum

Leading Event Celebrating Local Culture

Old Doha Port

Premier Sport Event of The Year

AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023

Outstanding Multi-purpose MICE & Events Venue

Doha Exhibition and Convention Center

The Digital Footprint category recognizes those who effectively use digital tools and platforms to enhance the visibility and reputation of Qatar’s Tourism sector. The 2024 winners were: Outstanding Destination Campaign

Hamad International Airport

‘Capture Qatar’

Ahmed Mohamed Hassan

Tourism Influencer (Content Creator) of the Year

Saoud al-Kuwari - Shljadwal

The Smart and Sustainable Tourism category recognizes the visionary initiatives that are revolutionizing Qatar’s tourism landscape with innovative and environmentally conscious practices. The 2024 winners were: Tourism Innovation Award

Hayya

Accessibility Initiative of the Year

AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023

Leading Sustainable Attraction

Msheireb Downtown

Leading Eco-Friendly Accommodation

Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel

The Community Leadership category is a tribute to extraordinary individuals who inspire and catalyze positive change within Qatar’s tourism landscape. The 2024 winners were: Tourism Personality of the Year

Dr. Khalid Ibrahim al-Sulaiti, CEO of Katara Cultural Village

Emerging Leader in Tourism (Future Leader in Tourism)

Jassim Mohammed el Emadi, vice president of Al Hazm Mall and CEO Mc Laren Automotive

Lifetime Achievement in Tourism

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SUSTAINABLE LUXURY TOURISM: AT WHAT COST? Offering the promise of extravagance with a conscience, sustainable luxury tourism has become an industry buzzphrase in recent years, ideally suited to today’s experiencefocused, environmentally aware travelers. However, delivering it is far from challenge free. Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, looks at what’s needed to ensure this growing segment brings benefits all round.

In recent years, the global tourism industry has witnessed a growing trend; sustainable luxury tourism. Once viewed as contradictory terms, sustainability and luxury have converged in a way that promises extravagance with a conscience.

Tourists today are not only seeking luxurious experiences, but also demanding that these experiences align with their values of environmental stewardship and social responsibility. However, as this trend grows, it raises important questions about the true costs and benefits of sustainable luxury tourism.

Luxury redefined

All about giving back

Sustainable luxury tourism aims to marry high-end travel with sustainability principles.

This involves offering exclusive experiences that minimize environmental impact, support local communities and preserve cultural heritage. From eco-friendly resorts in remote destinations to wildlife conservation safaris and farm-to-table dining, the offerings in this sector are diverse and appealing. Yet, as this niche market grows, it’s worth examining whether it is as sustainable as it claims to be.

At the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, (the Alliance), we bring together engaged hospitality companies and the wider hospitality value chain, along with strategic partners, to address key challenges affecting the planet, people and places around the world. One of these challenges is ensuring that luxury hospitality is truly sustainable.

Through our strategic initiatives and global networks, we develop practical programs and resources to create a prosperous and responsible hospitality sector that gives back to the destination more than it takes.

Our members represent over 55,000 hotels spanning 300 brands - totaling over 7 million rooms. Our network, of over 50 members, also includes other parts of the hospitality value chain, including owners, investors, suppliers and other partners.

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The concept of luxury has evolved significantly over the past few decades.

Traditional luxury was often characterized by excess, exclusivity and a detachment from the everyday. Today, luxury is increasingly defined by experiences that are authentic, meaningful and aligned with a higher purpose. This shift is partly driven by a new generation of tourists - millennials and Gen Z - who prioritize experiences over material goods and are acutely aware of the environmental and social impact of their choices.

Environmental balancing acts One of the central pillars of sustainable luxury tourism is reducing the environmental footprint of travel. High-end hotels, resorts and tour operators often emphasize their use of renewable energy, waste reduction strategies and conservation efforts. For example, many luxury hotels now boast LEED certification, indicating that their

buildings meet certain environmental standards. Others might highlight their commitment to reducing plastic use or sourcing food locally.

However, the question arises: is this enough? Critics argue that many sustainable luxury offerings amount to little more than greenwashing - a superficial commitment to sustainability that is more about marketing than meaningful impact. For instance, a resort might promote its solar panels and organic toiletries while ignoring the carbon emissions associated with the private jets and long-haul flights that bring guests to remote locations.

In addition to this, the construction and maintenance of luxury resorts in fragile ecosystems can cause significant environmental damage. Deforestation, habitat destruction and the strain on local water resources are just a few examples.

Even the presence of tourists in large numbers can disrupt local wildlife and ecosystems, regardless of how ‘sustainable’ the resort claims to be.

Another key aspect of sustainable luxury tourism is its promise to benefit local communities. This can take many forms, such as employing local staff, sourcing materials and food from local producers, and investing in community development projects. The idea is that tourism should not only avoid harm but actively contribute to the well-being of the people who live in the destinations being visited, known as ‘Net Positive.’

In collaboration with Respecting communities and cultures In practice, however, the impact on local communities can be mixed. While some luxury tourism projects provide jobs and economic opportunities, others may exacerbate inequality and lead to cultural commodification. For example, local workers might be employed in menial, low-paying jobs, while the bulk of the profits from tourism flow to international corporations. Additionally, the influx of wealthy tourists can drive up the cost of living in local communities, making it harder for residents to afford basic necessities.

Cultural exploitation is another concern.

In some cases, the demand for ‘authentic’ experiences can lead to the commercialization of cultural practices and traditions. What was once a meaningful ritual or tradition might be turned into a spectacle for tourists, stripping it of its original significance and reducing it to a mere commodity. In recent weeks tens of thousands of protesters have taken to the streets in Spain’s most popular destinations again, calling for curbs on mass tourism and a rethink of a business model that they say has pushed up housing prices and driven local people out of cities. Undoubtedly, we will see more protests, globally.

While luxury tourism can generate significant revenue, it does so by catering to a privileged few. The high price tag of these experiences often means that the benefits of sustainable tourism are not widely distributed. Instead, they are concentrated among the wealthy, both in terms of the tourists who can afford such experiences and the developers and investors who profit from them. Furthermore, the focus on luxury can sometimes undermine broader sustainability goals. For example, the

emphasis on exclusivity and personalized service might lead to higher resource consumption per guest, which could offset the environmental benefits of sustainable practices. Similarly, the pursuit of evermore unique and remote destinations can encourage the development of tourism infrastructure in pristine areas, with potentially harmful consequences.

Stakeholders must work together to prioritize genuine sustainability over superficial greenwashing.

Transparency: a must Despite these challenges, there is no denying that sustainable luxury tourism has the potential to drive positive change.

When done right, it can lead to significant environmental conservation efforts, support local economies and offer tourists meaningful, transformative experiences.

Transparency is crucial. Hotels and resorts must be honest about their sustainability claims, providing clear and verifiable information about their environmental and social impacts. Certifications and independent audits can help ensure accountability, but they must be credible.

The hospitality industry must work closely with local communities, governments and environmental organizations to ensure that tourism development aligns with broader sustainability goals. This includes respecting local cultures and traditions, providing employees with fair wages and working conditions, and investing in long-term community development.

Eyeing ‘Net Positive Hospitality’ Collaboration is a key tactic at the Alliance to accelerate the pathway to ‘Net Positive Hospitality.’ Hospitality companies are increasingly reporting on environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria, providing transparency on their sustainability efforts and impact. Harmonization of metrics across environmental and social impacts to have industry standards, including measurement methodologies, is vital. The management and curation of data and the drive to simplify and coordinate reporting methodologies, in line with regulatory and stakeholder expectations, will ensure that all hotels are working to one standard. The ambition is to arrive at a set of standards that are relevant, relatable, consistent and comparable across the whole industry.

Sustainable luxury tourism represents a promising but complex set of planning and execution. While it offers the potential for positive change, it also carries risks of environmental degradation, social inequity and cultural exploitation. To ensure that this trend delivers on its promise, all stakeholders, from developers and operators to tourists and local communities, must work together to prioritize genuine sustainability over superficial greenwashing.

Only then can sustainable luxury tourism be truly sustainable, offering not just luxury for the few, but benefits for all. sustainablehospitalityalliance.org

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MERCURE HOTELS MARKS 1,000 ADDRESSES WORLDWIDE

WITH EPIC CULINARY CELEBRATION Mercure Hotels’ commitment to delivering genuine, locally inspired hospitality worldwide has proved to be a winning formula, enabling the brand to celebrate one successful opening after another. The monumental milestone was marked at Mercure Dubai Deira, where the flagship hotel unveiled the brand's innovative 1,000-Hours of Local Flavours (42 Days) concept, launching at select Mercure hotels worldwide. Here’s a glimpse of what the brand has planned for this special feast, with local produce to the fore.

Guests ranging from hospitality VIPs to journalists and influencers gathered together on October 30th at the Mercure Dubai Deira to mark the milestone that took the brand’s portfolio to an impressive total of 1,000 addresses.

Mercure Hotels, part of Accor, the leading hospitality Group, marked the monumental milestone with several activities throughout the day, culminating in a lavish dinner for invitees which spotlighted both the 1,000-landmark theme and the brand’s focus on utilizing local produce in its F&B offerings.

1,000-Hours of Local Flavours (42 Days) The diverse menu featured several dishes that are available to guests at select Mercure hotels for a limited time as part of a celebratory gastronomic initiative titled ‘1,000-Hours of Local Flavours.’ Featuring a combination of inspired drinks, together with a wealth of appetizing savory and sweet delicacies, the initiative was launched on

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November 1 and runs until December 11, which equates to 42 days, or 1,000 hours.

Commenting on the creative gastronomic campaign, Paul Stevens, chief operating officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy Division, Middle East, Africa and Türkiye at Accor, said: “The unique culinary experience shines a light on local food and beverages, reaffirming Mercure’s dedication to discovering and sharing the authentic tastes of each destination, with unique dishes and beverages available for a limited 1,000-hour period.”

Guests were treated to a vibrant showcase of local cuisine on the celebration menu, created on a ‘Discover Local Elements’ theme. The menu consisted of several dishes and beverages that had been carefully curated in collaboration with local producers and suppliers, including Fresh on Table.

Beverages available included an Agarwood Fashioned, a fragrant cocktail infused with

homemade date syrup, spice bitters and a garnish of locally sourced dehydrated pomegranate, enhanced by oud wood chips from Coral Perfumes. Another option was Project ChaiWala’s Masala Carat Tea, made with locally sourced spices and milk, garnished with 24-karat gold leaf.

Carefully curated cuisine For the food, the chefs embraced both traditional cooking methods and local produce by presenting guests with a rack of lamb, sourced locally within the UAE, infused with cinnamon and cooked until tender in a clay pot.

Another savory highlight of the meal was a desert salad, which included leaves from the ghaf tree, a national symbol in the UAE representing prosperity, peace and longevity.

Pistachio chocolate, a current on-trend combination in kitchens worldwide, was a key ingredient in the dessert, adding a mouthwatering twist to a delightful traditional honey cake that invitees got to sample.

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Stevens explained that the carefully curated menu formed part of Mercure Hotels’ commitment to providing visitors with a warm welcome inspired by local customs and cuisine.

“Mercure ensures guests are immersed in locally inspired atmospheres with our recognized high standards of hospitality,” he said. “These dishes and their ingredients are a reflection of our commitment to giving back to the community and to showcasing Dubai’s rich diversity and culture. We are so excited to be welcoming guests to this gathering tonight at Mercure Deira on the occasion of the 1000th Mercure opening.”

Earlier in the day, guests were treated to several activities that celebrated Dubai’s rich, diverse heritage and culture, and also dovetailed with Mercure Hotels’ philosophy of encouraging travelers to ‘explore the world and feel local everywhere.’

A warm welcome These included a delightful ride around Dubai Creek in an abra, a traditional ferry boat whose name means ‘to cross’ in Arabic, a traditional weaving workshop and visits to the Gold Souk and Spice Souk. Gastronomy was also on the schedule in the form of an in-house cooking class, where guests had the opportunity to make delicious traditional Arabic ‘luqaimat’ (sweet dumplings) and enjoy a lunch where the topical issue of sustainability was on the menu.

Firmly established as a mid-scale brand, Mercure Hotels opened its first property in 1973 and today, following the opening of Mercure Dubai Deira, is proud to be welcoming guests at 1,000 properties across 65 countries.

“Reaching 1,000 addresses is not just a milestone, it’s a testament of Mercure’s dedication to delivering authentic, locally

inspired hospitality across the globe,” Stevens added. “The ‘1,000-Hours of Local Flavours’ embodies a dedication to cultural immersion and community connection, offering guests a unique and memorable culinary journey that celebrates the heart and soul of each destination.”

Mercure hotels are known for providing a welcome portal to destinations, offering a warm invitation to discover and explore local surroundings. The network takes pride in delivering high-quality standards infused with a deep sense of locality. Every detail, from the decorative arts to the curated local food and beverage delights, reflects the unique essence of each location. With the largest development pipeline in Accor’s portfolio, Mercure is set to welcome guests to more than 200 new hotels by 2028, continuing its mission to make travelers feel local everywhere.

NOV 2024-JAN 2025 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME

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BUSINESS

COUNTRY REPORT

EGYPT: FROM TOUGH TIMES TO

AMBITIOUS TOURISM TARGETS Having staved off an economic crisis in early 2024, Egypt is now looking to a raft of new mega-projects and tourism expansion to take the country forward. Nada Alameddine, managing partner at Hodema Consulting Services, maps out both the economic turbulence and the initiatives aimed at helping Egypt reach its goal of attracting 30 million visitors annually by 2028.

Economic turmoil Egypt may have narrowly averted a severe economic crisis at the beginning of 2024, when the IMF and a number of countries came to its rescue, but it is still trying to bail out its massive losses in foreign exchange reserves. Times have been tough for the country recently, with inflation reaching an all-time high of 38 percent in September 2023.

The authorities have been reluctant to loosen their grip on the exchange rate, despite repeated requests from the IMF to restore investors’ confidence.

After months of international pressure, the Central Bank eventually agreed to a flexible exchange rate in March of this year. The move also lowered the value of the US dollar on the informal market, providing a welcome lull in the hike of imported food and commodity

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prices. Millions of Egyptians have been struggling to make ends meet - a difficult situation made worse by a recent rise in the price of bread, which increased by 400 percent, after the government slashed subsidies. Egypt is, along with China, the world’s top wheat importer.

An averted freefall The IMF USD 8-billion bailout loan, associated with a USD 35-billion investment deal with the UAE, is thus preventing a nosedive for now, but the country urgently needs to tame the inflation that has been crushing Egyptians for years and introduce an era of austerity. And the country still has to honor a heavy foreign debt repayment schedule.

The foreign currency shortage has weighed heavily on business activity, with

the Egyptian pound plunging, payment delays and bankruptcies. Remittances from Egyptians abroad - the country’s main source of foreign currency - have dropped sharply, with people worried about the pound crashing. The Egyptian pound has already lost two-thirds of its value against the dollar since 2022. The war in Gaza, and its consequences on Suez Canal traffic, has also started to cut the flow of currencies. Taking all of this into account, the IMF has revised down its real GDP growth forecast for 2024/2025 by 0.3 percent to 4.1 percent.

Mega-projects taking shape Against this backdrop, the government has been spending millions on megaprojects and is betting big on ambitious ventures. On the Mediterranean coast, a new development project

In collaboration with

called South Med is being rolled out

by Egyptian real estate giant Talaat Moustafa Group Holding, in partnership with the government. They hope to attract investments worth USD 20.7 billion and create 1.6 million direct jobs. The UAE is involved in two other major projects on the north coast: New Alamein City and the Ras el Hekma.

The former is advertising itself as the region’s new sustainable tourism hub.

The USD 183-billion seaside mega-city project plans to compete with other Mediterranean destinations, such as Athens and Nice. The second is a USD 35-billion deal with the UAE, aiming to turn the Ras el Hekma peninsula into a luxury complex. Hospitality giant Accor has already chipped in and plans to open

Egypt's tourism industry, which accounts for 12.8 percent of the economy, is seen by the authorities as both a lifeline and means of escape from economic turmoil.

two establishments: Swissôtel Ras El Hekma and Swissôtel Residences Ras El Hekma. But critics are also increasingly making their voices heard. Local Bedouins, in particular, fear for their houses and olive and fig production, as the land formerly run by the Egyptian military is handed over to Emirati investors and houses removed.

An unwavering popularity Egypt is closely looking after its tourism industry, which accounts for 12.8 percent of the economy. The sector is seen by the authorities as both a lifeline and means of escape from economic turmoil.

A new five-year, multiple-entry visa for foreigners introduced in 2023, allowing visitors to stay for up to 90 days per trip, has added to Egypt’s enduring popularity.

Visitors flocked to the country, even as the Gaza war was raging. Nearly 15 million people visited Egypt in 2023 - the highest number of tourists since 2010 - while revenues rose by 8 percent year on year to about USD 13 billion. The

first half of 2024 also showed promise, with USD 6.6 billion in revenue and 7.069 million tourist arrivals, up on the same period last year, according to the Ministry of Tourism. The number of nights spent in hotels in the first six months also rose to reach 70.2 million, topping last year’s record of 67.6 million for the same period. Hundreds of new hospitality establishments have opened, and more airline seats made available, as authorities step up efforts to reach their target of welcoming 30 million tourists annually by 2028. At the end of 2023, the country’s hotel capacity had reached 220,000 rooms.

Several infrastructure and transportation improvements are also planned within the framework of Egypt’s Vision 2030.

The Ministry of Tourism has announced fresh investments to promote yacht and ship tourism, with new marinas and easier entry and exit procedures.

Another piece of good news for the sector comes from its tour guides; a court ruling has recently allowed them to form a council, ousting the governmentappointed committee and paving the way for better wages and conditions.

However, this year’s main headline is the upcoming opening of the highly awaited Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, which has been more than 10 years and USD 1 billion in the making. hodema.net

NOV 2024-JAN 2025 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME

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BUSINESS

TRENDS

HOTELIERS REVEAL TECH SPEND PRIORITIES:

AND IT’S GOOD NEWS FOR GUESTS

Tech adoption is booming across the hospitality sector, with hoteliers keen to capitalize on the many benefits technology offers, as research commissioned by Amadeus Hospitality confirms. Joy Ghosh, Head of commercial Indian Subcontinent, Middle East, Africa and Turkey, Hospitality, Amadeus, shares some of the key findings on hotels’ tech-investment plans and demands.

In today’s travel and tourism landscape, hotels need technology more than ever to help with not only consumer-facing, but, also, behind-the-scenes tasks.

Guests expect hotels to make it easy for them to search, shop, book and pay for their stay. On property, they expect their visit to be personalized, with many wanting technology-driven services to co-exist with the human touch.

Simultaneously, hotels need to optimize operations, at a time when staff recruitment and retention remains an issue. A more efficient back-office set-up means hotel staff can focus on the guest experience.

Elsewhere, cost control is imperative; sustainability is front of mind for guests and owners; and sales and marketing are increasingly driven by digital strategies. The list goes on, but technology is on hand to help, and hoteliers have got the message.

Spending is trending Amadeus recently commissioned research which provides data-driven insights into what hotel technology leaders from 10 markets, including those from the UAE, are thinking about technology – how much to spend, where to invest and why.

The top line finding reveals that, on average, hoteliers are planning to increase their tech spend by 16 percent in the coming year,

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with one in five planning to boost their tech spending by more than 20 percent.

So, what do hotels want from their increased investment? More than half (52 percent) said their most pressing objective is improving efficiency. This aim is slightly more of a driver than improving margins, improving occupancy, creating differentiation, enhancing the on-property experience and reducing costs, each of which was specified by four out of 10 participants.

Let’s take a look at what the research says about some specific use cases for technology across the hospitality spectrum.

The personal touch The most effective way for hotels to deliver a personalized, on-property experience is through attribute-based selling, also known as menu-pricing or merchandizing. Allowing guests to select and pay an additional fee for specific products and/or services is the sweet spot for many hotels - they can increase their revenue per guest, while also giving that guest a better overall experience.

Hoteliers understand this. More than nine out of ten (92 percent) recognize the importance of providing guests with a tailored experience, while 85 percent of respondents see personalization as a surefire way to deliver more than 5 percent in incremental revenues.

Elsewhere, more than 40 percent also think personalization is an effective way to meet guest expectations in a global market where, generally speaking, hoteliers surveyed in the research believe that average daily rates (ADRs) are increasing.

AI gets real Artificial intelligence (AI) has been around for a while. But over the past 18 months, generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) - AI capable of creating fresh content from existing sources - has emerged as a mission-critical technology for businesses, including hotels.

Almost every hotelier (98 percent) confirmed their belief that AI has the potential to deliver significant benefits for their business. Nearly half want it to help them identify and deliver upsell opportunities to travelers during booking, with GenAI seen as a way to build the personalized, end-to-end experiences that today’s guests demand.

GenAI and chatbots emerged as the priority tech spend over the next 12 months for more than one-third (37 percent) of the sample. Hoteliers also identified AI and machine learning as the most important technologies over the next five years, with customer predictive intelligence one of the most eagerly anticipated outcomes.

In collaboration with

Marketing forces GenAI is a new subject for hoteliers to explore, unlike advertising and media, which have been part of the industry for decades.

Today, hoteliers have many options when it comes to marketing and media campaigns.

AI has a role to play here as well, giving marketing teams access to granular data and analytics to gauge how effective a particular campaign is, channel by channel, source market by source market.

Some 40 percent of marketing departments are using AI to identify the most effective ways to target, retain and upsell to loyal customers. At the same time, 41 percent plan to use AI-driven marketing techniques to target new customers.

However, only 36 percent of marketing teams are using business intelligence tools - solutions which provide a look at both historic performance and forwardlooking insights for a holistic view, upon which data-driven actions can be undertaken and analyzed.

Distribution’s data dilemma Like their marketing counterparts, distribution teams are reassessing strategy in response to the opportunities afforded through new technologies.

Again, hotel tech leaders see AI and machine learning as the most effective way to manage third-party channels. Hoteliers want to merchandize their properties when selling indirectly, but there are tech challenges to overcome.

Data is currently the strongest distribution headwind, with data fragmentation (33 percent), data efficiency (32 percent) and data integrity (30 percent) raised as concerns.

However, the study showed that relatively few (23 percent) of hotel distribution teams use business intelligence on a regular basis, like their marketing colleagues. Any hotelier not using business intelligence is advised to have a look at what this technology can do and how it can help across all activities, not just marketing and distribution.

Sustainability through AI Sustainability, including environmental, social and governance (ESG) policies, touches every aspect of hotel operations and guests are watching. Hoteliers are tapping into tech, with almost nine out of 10 saying that sustainability is an important driver of technology investment decisions.

Again, AI is cited as the primary technology to help deliver sustainability objectives.

More than three out of four are looking at GenAI as a way to suggest sustainable options for guests.

As an aside, some 42 percent of respondents thought that indirect distribution channels would help to enhance their sustainability credentials, perhaps by giving hotels the chance to showcase their ESG initiatives to a broader audience.

Embracing technology Technology is, or should be, front of mind when hoteliers are considering their investment priorities. Over the years, hotel technology providers such as Amadeus and its peers have developed technology which allows hotels to optimize how their business is run, on their terms, for the type of guest they want to attract.

Overall, the report reveals that the hotel industry is very much embracing what technology has to offer. The net result of tech adoption across the hospitality sector should be happier guests, higher occupancy rates and ADRs, improved net promoter scores and enhanced brand loyalty. This, all in the context of a world where guests not only expect hotels to commit to sustainability, but also to demonstrate it.

Technology is, or should be, front of mind when hoteliers are considering their investment priorities.

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TECHNOLOGY

10

WAYS TO BOOST DIRECT BOOKINGS VIA MOBILE APPS In a competitive market, hoteliers are doubling down on direct bookings to attract both new customers and repeat business. Now an essential tool of the trade, mobile apps have a key part to play in helping industry players meet their direct booking targets. Lovetto Nazareth, CEO of Prism Digital, shares his top 10 tips for getting the best out of mobile apps, from targeted marking to offering mobile-only deals.

Faced with an increasingly competitive environment, a move is underway among hotel managers to prioritize direct bookings. With mobile devices now being used routinely to access the internet for travel purposes, mobile applications (apps) have become a crucial tool to capture and retain customers.

There are several specific strategies that hospitality businesses can adopt to help increase direct bookings via mobile apps, led by the following:

1 Prioritize a smooth user experience Creating a clear focus and making the user experience as smooth and uninterrupted as possible when designing and developing an app is essential to building a suitable user flow. The app should be easy to use, enabling would-be guests to make a booking quickly.

Design and usability: the design must be precise and closely aligned with the branding. Use high-quality images that reflect the property and facilities to elevate the feel of the app and first impressions.

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Functionality: options like the oneclick ‘booking’ button, the ‘help and support’ button, and ‘my preferences’ can significantly improve customer satisfaction and drive more direct bookings.

2 Offer real-time pricing and availability updates In today’s market, giving customers as much information as possible about a store’s inventory and price changes is a must. A mobile app with live data provides the customer with quick, information-based decision-making, minimizing the chances of losing bookings to other service providers.

Dynamic pricing: applying dynamic pricing models, which set the room rates as a function of demand, seasonality and competitors’ prices, can help boost revenues. Prices can be set to increase automatically during times of high demand, for example, and reduced during low-demand periods to encourage bookings.

Availability alerts: features such as sending push notifications giving the latest information about free rooms or new offers, for example, are highly effective ways to realize this.

3 Incorporate personalized marketing strategies Finding innovative ways to attract clients and accommodate their bookings is the new normal. A mobile app is an ideal solution for targeted marketing based on customers’ activities and interests.

Targeted promotions: collect user data and behavior, and offer targeted products that recipients are likely to be interested in. If a guest makes a number of reservations at the spa, for example, the app should offer them a specific discount as a gesture of appreciation.

Loyalty programs: incorporating a loyalty program within the app’s operation can help extend bookings. Research has indicated that 78 percent of travelers opt to use direct booking channels if they are allowed to join membership programs that offer free nights or other opportunities such as upgrades.

4 Keep booking and payment processes simple Complicated booking processes are known to be a disincentive for customers, highlighting the importance of keeping things seamless to maximize conversions.

In collaboration with

Streamlined booking engine: the app should have a booking engine functionality that accommodates a variety of languages, currencies and payment methods.

Event-based notifications: alerts on local events or other activities within the hotel are an ideal way of encouraging guests to stay longer or even book another visit.

Security features: with cybercrime on the rise, adopting robust safety features, such as encryption and two-factor authentication, can offer reassurance, helping to instill confidence in customers.

Time-sensitive offers: using push notifications to give information about a limited-time opportunity or a flash sale will increase the likelihood of immediate bookings.

5 Utilize customer reviews and ratings

Promotional visual content is highly effective in hospitality, especially when it comes to marketing a new property. For this reason, the quality of the images and videos can make or break a booking decision.

Customer reviews, particularly ratings, help potential guests in the decision-making process. Positive reviews displayed on the app can make a difference, encouraging guests to book directly.

In-app review requests: these will encourage guests to share their experience immediately after checkout, helping to increase the ratio of positive reviews.

Displaying testimonials: the preliminary booking page should spotlight the number of positive reviews and high ratings, encouraging potential guests to book directly.

6 Make use of push notifications Push notifications are welcomed by many guests and are known to actualize direct bookings. They can also invite guests to return, advertise specific promotions and introduce recipients to local events.

Research shows that bookings made through apps that contain virtual tours are 16-percent higher when compared to apps without this facility.

7 Visuals: an essential addition

Virtual tours: enabling would-be guests to tour rooms and other facilities helps them to really envision being in the space. Research shows that bookings made through apps that contain virtual tours are 16-percent higher when compared to apps without this facility.

Instagrammable moments: in an era when social media is an integral part of the lives of so many travelers, it makes sense to present or advertise areas within the hotel that offer ideal settings for photo-sharing opportunities.

8 Offer exclusive mobile-only deals Making key offers available through a mobile app only is a particularly effective way of encouraging direct sales. These offers can attract both new and repeat customers.

Mobile-only discounts: offering deals or attractive extras if a booking is made through the app, like a free breakfast or the possibility of a late checkout, can help a hotel to stand out from the competition.

Limited-time offers: flash sales for app users are an ideal way of encouraging use of the app, especially off peak or out of season.

9 Keep changes and cancellations hassle-free Schedule flexibility is a crucial aspect of the booking process for customers. Having an app that allows customers to reschedule or cancel bookings in a simple, seamless way will go a long way toward building and retaining customer relations.

User-friendly rescheduling: the option to reschedule bookings from within an app is not only practical, but helps to instill confidence in customers.

Transparent cancellation policies: having cancellation policies clearly visible and offering an easy-to-use booking cancellation system can be key in fostering trust and encouraging customers to consider making future bookings directly with a hotel.

10 Continually update the app to maximize performance App updates need to be done frequently to ensure the app remains relevant and secure, and content continues to catch the attention of users.

Feedback-driven improvements: ask users to share their feedback about their experience with the current version of the app. Hotels that improved their app based on guests’ suggestions increased the number of positive reviews.

Regular feature enhancements: innovative new additions, like recommendation systems, AI or chatbot sections for customer support, can add value to an app and give it an edge in the market. prism-me.com

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BUSINESS

EYE ON

GREECE:

AN ENDURING CULINARY HERITAGE Steeped in ancient history and famed for its authenticity, Greek cuisine has certainly stood the test of time, thanks to the abundance of flavorful, fresh ingredients found across its mainland and many islands. Vlassia Anagnostou, head chef at Avli by tashas in Dubai, has the lowdown on Greece’s rich culinary legacy and how its classic dishes are being reinterpreted for today’s diners.

Balancing the flavors

Island delights

Tried and tested traditions

Greek cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients and rich culinary traditions, reflecting the country’s cultural history and diverse regional variations. A key characteristic is the way we combine and balance the flavors and ingredients of our main staples. These include the aromatic and wild herbs, spices, garlic, olive oil and citruses, all of which are essentials in the Greek-Mediterranean diet. You then have the dairy, the rich seafood offerings, meat on the mainland, legumes and grains, which have also all collectively contributed to the birth of Greek Cuisine.

The eastern Aegean islands offer numerous culinary delights, each with its own unique flavors and specialties, from fresh seafood and aromatic herbs to delightful sweets. Diners can indulge in a sumptuous selection of dishes like local fish soups, herb-filled cheese pies and mouthwatering desserts, soaked in honey syrup. The Ionian islands have a diverse cultural history, which includes influences from both ancient Greece and Venice.

The Venetian rule, in particular, has left a lasting impact on the local cuisine, which blends traditional Greek ingredients with Italian culinary techniques. Cycladic cuisine is a culinary ark, with the sea around the Cyclades offering the islands wonderful and abundant treats. These include divine seafood and grilled fish, dried or salted, and cooked with vegetables. Sheep and goats are few in number, but provide milk which is rich and excellent for cheese. One of the main ingredients of the Cycladic pastry is honey, which is in plentiful supply, thanks to the low vegetation and thyme available there. Aromatic plants and herbs also play their part by adding those delightful flavors that are immediately recognizable on the palate.

From the era of the ancient Greeks until not so long ago, it was common to use simple cooking methods over an open fire, such us grilling, roasting and stewing. The preserving technique of pickling, drying, salting and smoking was developed out of necessity, to serve people’s daily needs, since there were no refrigeration options. In the northern region of Greece, you also found the less common technique of 24-hour cooking in an underground fire, mostly used for meat dishes. This method relied on the length of time and the soil to enrich the flavors and tenderize, giving the meat a mellow texture.

Cooking took place in a clay pot, which is sealed tight, allowing for a subtle evaporation and caramelization to take place, enhancing the aromatic flavors and taste.

Rich produce from diverse regions Greek cuisine has a rich, ancient history and includes several regional variations, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped the culinary landscape. Cuisine from northern Greece is heavily influenced by neighboring countries, resulting in dishes rich in flavor. The region is known for its hearty and meat-focused dishes, with bold spices and seasonings featuring in the many specialties. In Cretan cuisine, the integral components include aromatic herbs and vine leaves. Importantly, the high-quality olive oils contribute to the unique flavors and aromatic profiles of Cretan dishes, making them true representatives of the region’s culinary heritage.

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Outside influences Over time, Greece became a melting pot of cuisines, with neighboring civilizations introducing new ingredients and culinary techniques. The incorporation of fish, seafood, meats and various vegetables into dishes expanded, creating a more diverse and sophisticated flavor palate. The 20th century marked a new stage in Greece’s culinary history, with the promotion of local products, a return to traditional cooking techniques and an emphasis on quality ingredients. These became the fundamental pillars of our culinary revolution.

Good food, good company A central aspect of Greek food culture is the shared approach toward meals. Greek cuisine is a testament to its people’s love for good food and good company. Eating is a social event, where family and friends gather to share food, stories and laughter.

This tradition of shared meals fosters a sense of community and belonging. It’s not uncommon for meals to last several hours, especially during weekends or celebrations, reflecting the value Greeks place on hospitality and togetherness. We should also mention the bread here as well, which is an essential staple and present at any meal on a Greek family’s table.

Supporting small-scale producers Modern interpretations of classic dishes are becoming increasingly popular, thanks to a surge in creativity among chefs who are reimagining these traditional dishes and giving them a modern twist, whilst staying true to the essence of Greek culinary heritage. Sustainability, meanwhile, has

inspired Greek chefs to embrace local, seasonal ingredients to not only enhance the freshness and flavor of dishes, but also support small-scale producers. From freshly caught seafood to sun-kissed vegetables, the emphasis on local sourcing is transforming the Greek dining experience.

eateries. In 2024, diners can expect to find high-end dining experiences that rival the finest establishments around the globe.

Showcasing everything from Michelinstarred restaurants to chic rooftop bars, Greece is emerging as a glorious culinary destination.

As the world becomes increasingly health-conscious, Greek cuisine is also sharpening the focus on products such as olive oil, whole grains, legumes and fresh produce. We’re seeing increased demand for Mediterranean-diet-inspired dishes, reflecting a growing awareness of health and wellness.

Meeting diners’ changing demands

Fusion flavors and global influences are another trend that has been embraced by Greek chefs, alongside elevated dining.

Gone are the days when Greek cuisine was confined to rustic tavernas and seaside

Chefs are reimagining traditional dishes and giving them a modern twist, whilst staying true to the essence of Greek culinary heritage.

Today, Greek cuisine continues to evolve and captivate palates worldwide. Greek gastronomy is an authentic, high-quality and long-lasting cuisine, currently on a path of redefinition. As we edge closer to 2025, I believe demand for healthy food will continue to rise and more vegan and vegetarian concepts will appear in hospitality. Organic fusions and sustainability will lead the way in both restaurants and food markets. As a chef, I view diversity as key in my work, which comes with knowledge of the product and its source.

As a consumer, my expectations are aligned with this. We can expect to enter a new chapter of wellness on the culinary scene, driven forward by growing awareness. vlassiaanagnostou avlibytashas.com

NOV 2024-JAN 2025 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME

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BUSINESS

ARCHITECTURE

THE TOP BISTRO INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS FOR 2025 Chris Barnes, founder and owner of Broadway Interiors, has the lowdown on the bistro interior talking points for the coming months and beyond.

Layered textures, versatile spaces and ethical practices are just some of the ones to watch.

As the Middle East’s restaurant industry continues its rapid growth - projected to reach a market size of USD 1,852.72 million by 2030, with a CAGR of 21.74 percent designers and restaurateurs are seizing the opportunity to design spaces that offer more than just a meal. The following are what we at Broadway Interiors design studio regard as the major trends set to shape bistro interiors in 2025, drawing on our observations and key designs created for iconic UAE restaurants and night venues.

Warm color palettes and layered textures While warm color palettes have been a staple in bistro design for some time, 2025 will see an evolution toward more complex, layered textures. These textures add depth and personality, transforming spaces into inviting environments that resonate with warmth and comfort. Expect to see materials like soft velvets, paired with roughhewn woods, creating a tactile experience that encourages guests to linger longer.

All about interaction and experience The line between the physical and digital realms will continue to blur, with bistros integrating technology in innovative ways.

Tablet technology and touchscreen pointof-sale (POS) terminals will become more commonplace, but the real star will be the open kitchen concept.

Here, chefs become performers and meal preparation becomes part of the dining experience. This trend is all about making the act of cooking a spectacle, engaging diners in a multisensory journey from start to finish.

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Ethical design and sustainably sourced materials

Industrial aesthetic: raw, real and redefined

With sustainability remaining at the forefront of design, bistros in 2025 will place a greater emphasis on ethical practices. This includes the use of repurposed and reusable materials, as well as locally sourced food and décor elements. The story behind these choices - rooted in authenticity and a genuine care for the environment - will be as important as the aesthetics themselves.

Customers are increasingly drawn to spaces that reflect their values and these design choices make a powerful statement.

The industrial style, characterized by exposed materials and a raw aesthetic, will continue to evolve. In 2025, it will be less about stark minimalism and more about embracing the natural forms of materials.

Think polished concrete floors, exposed brick walls and fixtures made from untreated wood and metal. This approach celebrates the beauty in imperfection, creating spaces that feel both authentic and grounded.

In 2025, bistro design will be about more than just aesthetics; it will be about creating environments that connect with guests on a deeper and more meaningful level.

Community-driven restaurants A growing trend in 2025 will be communitydriven restaurants that cater to the local populace by serving multiple purposes throughout the day. These versatile spaces might start the morning as cozy cafés, offering croissants and coffee to mums, transition into lunch spots for students and workers in the afternoon and transform into lively sports bars by evening. The design of such spaces needs to be flexible, creating an environment that effortlessly shifts its ambiance to suit the time of day and the needs of its guests.

Navigating the challenges of in-app purchases As in-app purchases (IAP) in the food and drink market become more prevalent, bistros will face the challenge of offering distinct experiences in their physical spaces.

While digital convenience is here to stay, the physical restaurant must still deliver something unique, whether it’s through ambience, personalized service or the opportunity to witness culinary craftsmanship first hand. Balancing these elements will be key to maintaining a competitive edge in an increasingly digital world.

In summary, bistro design in 2025 will be about more than just aesthetics; it will be about creating environments that connect with guests on a deeper and more meaningful level. Whether through the warmth of a layered texture, the thrill of an interactive dining experience or the authenticity of sustainable choices, these spaces will continue to evolve, offering experiences that are as memorable as the meals themselves. broadwayinteriors.com

In collaboration with

Central, Kazan Russia

261 Restaurant, Els Club Dubai

Indi 16, CityMax Business Bay Dubai

Indi 16, CityMax Business Bay Dubai

Ula Dubai

Zafran Kitchen, Dubai Hills Mall

Zafran Kitchen, Dubai Hills Mall

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation

NOV 2024-JAN 2025 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME

47

BUSINESS

F&B

A 12-STEP GUIDE TO TAKING YOUR F&B BRAND GLOBAL

Expanding into international markets presents challenges, but also offers significant rewards for Middle Eastern F&B brands, if planned and researched thoroughly. Diogo Ildefonso, general manager of Glee Hospitality Solutions, shares his essential guide for businesses eyeing new opportunities across borders.

The Middle East’s F&B sector is brimming with potential, with many ‘locally grown’ brands not only thriving domestically, but also making their mark on the international stage. This expansion is more than just a strategic maneuver - it represents an opportunity to diversify risks, enhance global brand presence and tap into new revenue streams. As more Middle Eastern brands venture abroad, understanding the dynamics of this journey becomes crucial for sustained success.

1-Strategic market research and selection Selecting the right market for expansion is critical. Comprehensive research into consumer preferences, culinary trends and local regulations forms the foundation of a successful market entry. When Sunset Hospitality Group expanded its portfolio beyond the Middle East, it meticulously analyzed market conditions to ensure that its concepts resonated with the local audience. Such thorough due diligence is indispensable as it helps avoid costly missteps, ensuring a smoother and more successful market entry.

2-Cultural adaptation and localization Balancing authenticity with local relevance is one of the most critical aspects of international expansion. There are numerous instances where failing to adapt a concept to local tastes has led to challenges. For example, a renowned Michelin-starred Indian chef launched a restaurant in

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London, but almost failed by not adapting to local preferences. This serves as a powerful reminder of the necessity to tailor offerings to meet market demands. A more positive example is Kinoya, a popular Japanese restaurant from Dubai. Firmly established after being awarded a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide and recognized as one of the top restaurants in the Middle East and Africa, it still adapted its offerings to meet local tastes when expanding to London. The ability to maintain a brand’s core identity while making necessary adjustments is key to success in new markets.

3-Operational differences Each market presents unique operational challenges and understanding these differences is paramount for success.

For instance, Baker & Spice, a brand that originated in Dubai, had to adjust its service models and operating hours to align with local customs and consumer behavior when entering new markets. Flexibility in business operations can significantly impact the success of a brand as it navigates diverse markets. Being adaptable not only enhances customer satisfaction, but also improves operational efficiency.

4-Regulatory compliance and supply chain management Compliance with local regulations is a non-negotiable aspect of international expansion. This includes adhering to food safety standards, navigating import regulations and understanding local

labor laws. Brands like KCal, known for its commitment to healthy dining, have successfully managed their supply chains to ensure consistent product quality across borders. Whenever possible, sourcing ingredients locally not only reduces costs but also supports sustainability, which is increasingly important to consumers worldwide. Managing supply chain logistics efficiently while adhering to local regulations can make or break a brand’s international success.

5-Standing out amongst the competition Entering new markets invariably means facing established local and international competitors. Differentiation through unique offerings, superior customer service and consistent quality becomes crucial. Alshaya Group, with its diverse portfolio of dining concepts, stands out in competitive markets by offering distinctive experiences and maintaining high standards. Their approach highlights the importance of understanding local competition and finding ways to offer something uniquely appealing. Standing out in a crowded marketplace requires a deep understanding of local consumer behavior and a commitment to excellence.

6-Innovation and learning Exposure to diverse markets fosters innovation, allowing brands to learn from different consumer preferences and business practices. This can lead to the development of new products or services

In collaboration with tailored to local tastes. For instance, Just Falafel has used insights gained from various markets to continually refine its menu and service offerings, ensuring it stays ahead of trends and meets customer expectations.

Innovation driven by market insights is a powerful tool for brands seeking to establish a strong foothold in new territories.

7-Building brand perception and recognition Establishing brand awareness in a new market requires time, effort and investment.

Effective marketing and public relations campaigns are essential to building a strong brand presence. When Al Baik, a popular fast-food chain, expanded into new regions, it invested heavily in storytelling to highlight its brand values, helping to forge strong connections with local consumers. Building a brand’s reputation in a new market is a long-term endeavor, but it is crucial for sustained success.

8-Revenue diversification Operating in multiple markets reduces reliance on any single economy, thereby mitigating risks associated with local downturns. Arabica, a brand with Japanese roots and significant presence in the Middle East, exemplifies how geographical diversification can provide stable and predictable revenue streams, contributing to long-term financial health. Diversified revenue sources can help brands weather economic fluctuations and maintain financial stability.

9-Enhancing brand equity Successfully expanding into international markets significantly boosts brand equity.

Global recognition increases a brand’s value, attracting more customers and investors alike. By establishing itself in multiple, highprofile locations, Arabian Tea House, has enhanced its brand equity, positioning itself as a leader in the upscale dining segment.

Strengthening brand equity through international expansion is a strategic move that can pay dividends in the long run.

10-Economies of scale Expanding internationally can lead to economies of scale, since centralizing operations and bulk purchasing can lower production and marketing costs.

Café Bateel, a Saudi-grown concept, has streamlined its operations across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Oman, achieving cost efficiencies that make the brand more competitive. Economies of scale not only improve profitability but also allow brands to offer better value to customers.

Global recognition increases a brand’s value, attracting more customers and investors alike.

11-Financial risks and investments International expansion requires substantial financial investment. Careful evaluation of potential returns is essential to mitigate financial risks. Kinoya’s measured approach to growth, which prioritizes financial stability and a gradual build-up to profitability, illustrates how meticulous planning and patience can reduce financial risks. Sound financial planning is essential for sustainable growth in new markets.

12-Partnerships and joint ventures Collaborating with local partners can be a game-changer for brands entering new markets. Local partners bring invaluable market knowledge and help navigate complex regulatory landscapes. Sunset Hospitality’s strategic partnerships have allowed it to leverage local expertise, while maintaining brand standards, facilitating successful market entries. Partnerships can provide the local insights and resources needed for a successful market entry.

With careful planning, strategic partnerships and a willingness to adapt, the potential rewards for taking an F&B brand international can be immense. The lessons learned from successful international brands that have thrived in the Middle East provide valuable insights for local brands thinking about venturing abroad. Looking ahead, we can expect to see many more ‘local’ brands embarking on this exciting journey and contributing to the global culinary landscape. gleehospitality.com

NOV 2024-JAN 2025 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME

49

SPECIAL REPORT

LUXURY TRAVEL REDEFINED FOR A NEW ERA

Once synonymous with indulgence and extravagance, the luxury travel market is rapidly evolving to incorporate the changing preferences and expectations of today’s affluent travelers.

Extending well beyond traditional definitions of high-end travel, the segment is making a marked shift away from gratuitous luxury toward immersive, personalized, one-of-a-kind experiences with meaning. Skim-the-surface sight-seeing trips are being discounted in favor of stays that enable visitors to foster authentic connections with a destination and even give something back to local communities.

Our special report offers expert in-depth analysis of the latest developments in this dynamic industry and explains why the Middle East is ideally placed to attract the new wave of luxury travelers.

FEATURING P.51 PROFILING THE MENA LUXURY TRAVELER

P.58 4 EXPERTS ON WHY, WHERE AND HOW TO INVEST IN REGIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL

P.52 WHAT TODAY’S LUXURY TRAVELER WANTS

P.62 HAFAWA: HOW MENA IS WINNING OVER LUXURY TRAVELERS

P.54 8 TRENDS DRIVING LUXURY TRAVEL

P.64 THE 5 Cs OF MODERN LUXURY TRAVEL

P.56 PINPOINTING THE REGIONAL LUXURY HOTEL MARKET’S INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES

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HOSPITALITY NEWS ME | NOV 2024-JAN 2025

In collaboration with

PROFILING THE MENA

LUXURY TRAVELER In this infographic, Carla Saliba, founder of Infographic.ly, offers an insightful, at-a-glance profile of the MENA luxury traveler, from their spending habits to their preferred destinations.

THE MENA LUXURY TRAVELER IN 2024 IS...

LOOKING FOR EXPERIENCES AND WELLNESS

The UAE traveler is

GCC luxury travelers increasingly spend on

2x

1/2

experiences over things

as likely to stay in a health & wellness retreat 22% UAE

Over

of the GCC’s luxury travelers expect

Luxury-focused outbound spending outperformed retail spending for tourists (2019-2023)

v.s 11% world average

+53% for UAE

value-added experiences

+65% for KSA

INCREASINGLY STAYING IN THE MENA made it into the

In 2023,

TOP 10 destinations

KSA & Egypt

for MENA travelers for the 1 time st

MENA travelers increasingly go to other MENA destinations

AND SPENDING BIG MENA travelers spend a higher % of their income than European travelers MENA travelers

>1/4th

v.s

European travelers

1/5th

26.8% UAE

22.7% Italy

27.4% KSA

23.2% Germany

By 2028, Gen X will be the key segment in the total outbound market

41% in KSA

60% in UAE

Sources MasterCard Economics Institute (Travel Industry Trends 2023) WTM Global Hub (Gen X driving GCC outbound travel according to research, ATM, February 2024) YouGov (August 2023)

MENA travelers spend a lot more

Kuwaiti tourists spend

5x

than US tourists in Paris

more

www.infographic.ly | hello@infographic.ly NOV 2024-JAN 2025 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME

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SPECIAL REPORT

LUXURY TRAVEL

WHAT TODAY’S LUXURY TRAVELER WANTS Environmentally aware, with a sense of responsibility, and in search of one-of-a-kind experiences, the luxury travelers of today have very different ideas about what they want from their getaway. Daniel G. During, principal and managing director of Thomas Klein International, explains why hotels need to embrace the new definition of luxury travel to successfully attract the guests they have in mind.

Once upon the time, the traveling of the rich and famous was characterized by extravagant limos, loads of luggage sent on ahead and distinguished hotels or resort destinations defined by the size of their lobbies, the height of their atria and the richness of the finishes on their walls and floors.

That was at a time when no one cared about chopping down Thai teak or African ebony, when having real ivory tusks in the lobby was not just common, but commendable, and when pillows, duvets and quilts were made by plucking soft feathers from live geese. Thankfully, those days are gone and the new rich and famous travelers have moved simultaneously in two very distinctive directions: 1- they are now not just much more environmentally aware, but also softer and more responsible in relation to the world around them; and

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2- they are looking for unique experiences, rather than physical destinations.

With that in mind, let’s look at what today’s traveler is considering overall when making a booking.

Travelers with a conscience In a survey of 33,000 travelers around the world done by Booking.com, and published in the 2023 Sustainable Travel Report, the vast majority of respondents said they were looking to travel in a more sustainable manner. In addition, 76 percent wanted to travel sustainably over the next 12 months. The survey also found that travelers are exploring more ways to reduce their impacts while traveling, in ways that ranged from reusing linens to turning off the AC in their hotels. Some 43 percent plan their vacations so they can walk, ride bikes or take local public transport. And this includes luxury travelers.

Other findings highlighted travelers’ uncertainty over where to search for

holidays that promote environmental stewardship and support local communities, their distrust in the validity of sustainable claims and credentials, and a perceived lack of options in general. And over half of respondents (55 percent) travel with their own reusable water bottle.

Responsible solutions Is this the new luxury? Is the new wave of luxury travelers more responsible? Are they more conscious of the damage that money can do and more judgmental about it? The survey also revealed that 43 percent of all travelers asked said they were willing to pay more to support certified sustainable travel options. The question, surely, is: doesn't this give us an opportunity to be more creative, more sustainable and increase our occupancy and profits? With tourism, and more specifically tourism-related aviation, accounting for 8 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to nature.com, it must be high time to look at ways in which we can be more responsible - where we can have an effect - here on the ground.

In collaboration with All about the experience

Knowledge is king

But sustainability is just one element that the new luxury traveler is looking for. The other, which can go hand in hand with it, is experiential travel. For the new luxury traveler, a unique experience can mean many things: a one-of-a-kind adventure; an exceptional encounter; a strenuous physical activity; or even picking the brains of someone they would never have imagined meeting, from a Sioux elder to a bartender who is also a graphic artist and the son of a Hiroshima survivor.

Service levels, a clear defining factor in the luxury segment, have moved away from the old-style ‘Yes, Sir’ butler experience.

Today, what counts is the overall level of knowledge the service team has. This must include local and regional knowledge, in addition to an understanding of the arts and of the soft sciences. Because, inasmuch as we can train our team to ensure the guest comes back, the experiential offer will be a huge deciding factor when travelers come to make a booking. Even Airbnb has a section dedicated to experiences rather than just stays. The local and regional knowledge that today’s luxury traveler requests is what provides that sense of luxury and exclusivity. And they expect it from everyone they interact with, not only the concierge. The scenarios are numerous.

There’s the concierge who will go the extra mile to secure difficult-to-get reservations, the chef who’s willing to cook any meal, any time, on demand, the housekeeping staff sharing information on where locals go to do their shopping and the bartender who is a mine of information about what’s happening in and around the area - usual and unusual – because he is a longstanding local resident.

So how do we cater to the new flexible, independent traveler (FIT)? What should we offer? How do we attract the guest that doesn’t care about the marble, silk or gold in the lobby, but would, instead, choose a hotel or resort based on the experience that it can offer? Hoteliers can no longer rely on the level of luxury of the property inherited from the previous operator or how well they can train the team to anticipate the needs of their guests.

The local and regional knowledge that today’s luxury traveler requests is what provides that sense of luxury and exclusivity.

And they expect it from everyone they interact with.

A personalized service and then some So, instead of offering the standard group scuba diving trips, why not tailor-make the experience to align with a guest’s personal priorities? For example, you could combine a sailing lesson and a scuba dive with a hike in a lesser-known area, offered by a local

teacher who can give language lessons, while walking through the forest, as part of that exclusively curated experience. Today, we should be looking for opportunities and use data and research to offer a deeply personalized service. This could include building a custom menu around the guest dietary preferences or even stitching guests’ nicknames on their pushbikes and slippers.

So, whether you are offering a paragliding arrival experience, cooking classes with a visit to the local market, barefoot night walks into the desert or rebuilding the local school brick by brick, the level of success your resort or hotel achieves will come down to this: the memories that are etched in the minds of your guests and will remain with them in the years to come.

Making memories Those unique occasions you have created, those memorable moments, those rare events, one-of-a-kind life journeys different for each of your guests - are what will define your hotel as a true luxury destination and distinguish it from the onesize-fits-all masses. And for that, my dear colleagues, you need to understand the culture, history and communities of your location and the ethos, values and mentality of the traveler you are seeking to attract.

Without that thorough understanding and without offering guests the opportunity to experience the world in a more inclusive, responsible, respectful and mindful way, you are going nowhere. thomaskleingroup.com

NOV 2024-JAN 2025 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME

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SPECIAL REPORT

8

LUXURY TRAVEL

TRENDS DRIVING LUXURY TRAVEL Luxury tourism may be booming, but its definition is evolving, in line with the changing demands of today’s travelers.

Nagi Morkos, founder and managing partner at Hodema Consulting Services, pinpoints eight trends that are playing a part in the recalibration of this key industry segment, from coolcation concepts to local community engagement.

Even though inflation is pushing up prices, large numbers of people are still dedicating a significant part of their budget to visiting places, near or far.

Although final figures have yet to be issued, estimates from the United Nations tourism body UNWTO suggest that the number of overnight international tourists worldwide reached 1.286 billion in 2023, representing a 34 percent increase on the previous year’s figure. The luxury tourism segment is performing particularly well, with high-value travelers retaining strong purchasing power. So what are the luxury travel trends for 2025?

1- Avoiding the crowds With more than 1 billion tourists having packed their suitcases in search of new sites last year, and in keeping with an upward trend already recorded in 2024, the ‘luxury’ is avoiding overcrowded sites.

According to consulting firm McKinsey, 80 percent of travelers visit just 10 percent of the world’s tourist destinations. The higher-end clientele segment has always avoided the masses and, in the past, this was achieved mostly by picking secluded

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hotels or villas near to popular destinations or going on expensive trips such as safaris.

However, these travelers are now going one step further by opting for less mainstream vacation spots and off-the-beaten-track locations. Choosing the mountains in the summer, long neglected in favor of beach and warmer destinations, is one growing trend. According to global luxury travel agency network Virtuoso, traditional go-to hotspots are increasingly being shunned by wealthier visitors, in favor of less famous destinations, such as Slovenia, the Netherlands and Scandinavian countries.

2- Beating the heat Crowds are not the only thing that affluent tourists are trying to avoid. Hot weather, which used to be a sales pitch featured on posters with sunbathers on a beach, is becoming a turn-off for an increasing number of holidaymakers. The Alps, Switzerland, Canadian resorts and the Peruvian Andes are among the destinations now attracting tourists who are actively steering away from the heat. Scandinavian destinations have seen a 27-percent surge in bookings, along with Iceland. Northern

Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, Scotland and even Greenland and Lapland, are becoming vacation hotspots. With global warming contributing to persistently high temperatures, cooler summer-climate trips, or ‘coolcations’ as they are now called, are set to remain a strong trend next year.

3- Focus on wellness These unexplored destinations come with a variety of diverse and new activities.

Lounging by the pool or sunbathing on the beach are being replaced by local adventures, such as hiking, animal spotting and outdoor sports. Personalized wellness experiences - increasingly popular in the last few years among affluent travelers are expected to remain in demand next year. A growing number of tourists are in search of holistic havens to recharge their batteries. Asian countries, such as Thailand, the Maldives and Bali, are developing this segment, alongside key brands, such as Six Senses and Ritz Carlton. Digital detoxes are also being incorporated into programs, with more and more establishments offering secluded retreats to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature.

In collaboration with

4- Creating deeper connections This trend of mindfulness favors a shift in the behavior of luxury tourists, with many now valuing experience over tangible things.

Fueled by social media influencers sharing stunning destinations and experiences, this trend is especially evident among Gen Z travelers. Keen to avoid tourist traps in favor of authenticity, these visitors have different ideas about what they want from a vacation, such as engaging with local communities and taking part in social-impact activities.

Curated luxury is being redefined; it is no longer about the hotel’s standards and sightseeing, but is, instead, becoming about the emotional impact of the experience and the connection visitors create with the place and its people. This trend is also having an impact on hotel services. Traditional 5-star establishments are now competing with luxurious villas offering staff, or alternative lodging options, such as high-end glamping or traditional housing. But of course, not everyone wants the same thing. According to McKinsey, Asian and Gulf high-end tourists still favor iconic sights and shopping over experience. More than two-thirds (69 percent) of Chinese respondents said they plan to visit a famous sight this year when asked, compared to only 20 percent of Europeans and North Americans.

5- The eco-luxury boom The travel industry contributes up to 11 percent of global carbon emissions. An increasing number of people are aware of their environmental footprint and are

choosing to make the environment one of their top concerns when traveling, including tourists in the luxury segment.

While not forsaking high-end standards, hospitality professionals are sharpening their focus on sustainability. Eco-luxury accommodations, such as solar-powered villas and eco-lodges, are increasing and can now be found on all continents, from EcoCamp in Chile’s Patagonia and Wolwedans Lodges in Namibia to Bay of Fires Lodge in Tasmania. Regenerative travel is the next step and is already in evidence, with hoteliers beginning to take part in local initiatives, including reforestation projects, beach clean-up efforts and contributing to the preservation of endangered wildlife. The transportation sector is also on board with the changes. Companies are starting to promote greener modes of traveling, such as electric private jets and hybrid yachts.

6- Cruising to success Cruises are certainly a buzzword this year, with these vacations set to remain in demand, according to Virtuoso.

The luxury travel agency network has already seen a sharp rise in bookings of 34 percent in premium ocean cruise bookings. Bookings in other segments of the cruise industry are also up, including: luxury ocean (27 percent); river (22 percent); and expedition (15 percent).

Cruises to Northern cold spheres are on the rise, with companies partnering with hotels to offer tailored programs.

7- New categories of travelers Among the cruise clientele are growing numbers of solo female travelers, who are emerging as a new cohort of tourists. This trend is being fueled by the rising number of women who live alone and are taking the leap of traveling on their own. The increase in remote work is also supporting this trend.

In addition, we have Gen Z, or Zoomers, arriving on the travel scene. This group has more flexibility, environmentally friendly views and stronger core values when it comes to traveling. Favoring experiences and meaningful trips, they are expected to generate a new trend by taking their children on their adventures, with multi-generational travels seen as a strong upcoming trend.

8- The exclusive club In the realm of luxury, the one category in which tourists are showing few signs of changing their habits is the ultra-luxe segment. These mega-rich travelers want exclusive-use, tailored experiences, including transportation in jets, private cars, yachts and luxury residences with staff. Demand in this segment is surging, with Virtuoso reporting an 89 percent increase in requests. Fiji, the Maldives and African safaris top the list of most popular ultra-luxe destinations. hodema.net

Curated luxury is becoming about the emotional impact of the experience and the connection visitors create with the place and its people.

NOV 2024-JAN 2025 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME

55

SPECIAL REPORT

LUXURY TRAVEL

PINPOINTING THE REGIONAL LUXURY HOTEL MARKET’S

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES The Middle East’s successful efforts to carve a niche as a global hub for business and leisure tourism are creating significant openings for investors in the luxury segment. Hala Matar Choufany, president of HVS Middle East and Africa, dissects the MENA luxury hotel market by destination, sharing insights spanning performance and prospects.

The luxury hotel market in the Middle East is expanding rapidly, driven by economic diversification, tourism development and the region’s growing reputation as a global hub for business and leisure. Large-scale developments, often supported by sovereign wealth funds, are creating new opportunities for luxury hotels. Additionally, the region’s substantial population of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) is further boosting demand for ultra-luxury accommodations.

Destination drilldown The UAE: the UAE - notably Dubai and Abu Dhabi - is a leader in the luxury hotel market.

Combined, the two emirates are home to 98 luxury hotels and will see the opening of an additional 22 hotels, bringing total room inventory to 35,860. Dubai continues to lead the region with 76 properties and 22,979 keys, further supported by a pipeline of 22 properties adding 5,230 keys. Abu Dhabi will see a modest expansion, with three new properties contributing 546 keys to its existing 22 properties and 7,108 keys.

Saudi Arabia: the Kingdom is rapidly expanding its tourism infrastructure, with mega-projects like Neom, the Red Sea Project and Qiddiya boosting luxury hospitality investments. Currently, 23 hotels across Saudi Arabia fall into the luxury

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segment, with a proposed pipeline of 46 hotels, marking a staggering 200-percent increase in luxury hotels. Riyadh’s current supply of 10 luxury properties and 2,713 keys will see the addition of 34 properties and 6,550 keys. Jeddah will also experience significant growth, with 10 new properties adding 2,437 keys to its current stock of eight properties and 1,426 keys.

Qatar: Qatar’s luxury hotel market has been growing, supported by global events like the FIFA World Cup 2022. A total of 33 luxury hotels were added between 2014 and 2020, primarily within the ultra-luxury segment.

Qatar plans to add seven more properties and 1,642 keys to its current supply of 33 properties and 8,822 keys.

Oman: Oman’s market is characterized by a focus on eco-tourism and high-end resorts that blend luxury with natural beauty.

Muscat will see the addition of just one new property, with 200 keys, to its existing 12 properties and 3,088 keys.

Bahrain: this smaller market is also investing in luxury hospitality. Two new properties are earmarked for the kingdom, adding 148 new keys to its current total of eight properties and 1,583 keys.

Egypt: the current supply of luxury properties stands at 108, with a pipeline of 29 additional properties, indicating a strong growth trajectory. The total number of keys in Egypt’s luxury segment stands at 37,172, with a planned additional 7,480 keys in the pipeline. This reflects the significant investment in the high-end hospitality sector, ongoing tourism development projects and increasing demand for premium accommodation.

Morocco: while smaller in scale, Morocco’s luxury hotel market is also growing steadily.

Currently, Morocco has 66 luxury properties, with a pipeline of 13 new properties. The current supply includes 6,859 keys, with 1,444 more in the pipeline. Morocco's luxury segment maintains strong occupancy rates, with a current occupancy of 62 percent, suggesting a stable demand for luxury accommodation.

Varied market dynamics, recovery rates Data for 2019-2023 across the luxury segments suggests an aggregate occupancy of 55 percent, with Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR) at USD 140. When excluding the 2020 and 2021 performance, which was impacted significantly by Covid travel restrictions, the averages rise to 60 percent and USD 160, respectively.

In collaboration with

regional market was higher, at RevPAR of USD 229, driven by an increased average ADR of USD 408, even though occupancy fell to 56 percent.

In 2023, Dubai led the Middle East luxury hotel market, with a 73-percent occupancy rate and RevPAR of USD 306, underscoring its position as a top luxury destination.

Abu Dhabi followed, with a 63-percent occupancy and an average daily rate (ADR) of USD 258, driven by business and cultural tourism. Riyadh also performed well, with a 60-percent occupancy rate and a RevPAR of USD 176.

The luxury segment has shown resilience in the face of global economic challenges and the outlook for the region remains promising.

In contrast, Qatar faced challenges, with occupancy hovering at 54 percent, resulting in an ADR of USD 165 and a RevPAR of USD 88. The story was similar in Oman, where occupancy stood at 55 percent, the ADR at USD 92 ADR and RevPAR was USD 50. These figures illustrate the varied recovery and market dynamics across the region.

By mid-2024, Dubai’s occupancy had increased slightly to 74 percent, though its ADR dropped by 10 percent to USD 404, leading to a RevPAR of USD 298. Abu Dhabi saw growth, with a 68-percent occupancy, an ADR of USD 259 and a RevPAR of USD 177. Occupancy levels in Riyadh, meanwhile dropped to 57 percent, despite ADR rising to USD 313 and a steady RevPAR. The KSA

A competitive market, with promising prospects Despite solid growth in the luxury segment and ongoing expansion plans, some cities - particularly Dubai, Riyadh and Doha - are likely to face oversupply in the luxury hotel market. This could lead to pressure on room rates and occupancy levels over the next few years, affecting investment returns. The Middle East is also competing with other global luxury destinations, making it crucial to conduct thorough assessments of market dynamics and development opportunities to ensure long-term financial rewards and sustainability.

Egypt’s luxury hotel segment reached an ADR of USD 160, slightly outperforming Morocco, where the ADR was USD 154.

While both markets are expanding, the data reflects the aggressive growth strategy underway in Egypt, which is also home to a larger project pipeline.

Luxury Hotels Supply by Destination (by number of properties)

29

22 13 108 7 3 33

2

1

Bahrain

Qatar

Muscat

Abu Dhabi

Dubai

66

34

10

10

8

Riyadh

Jeddah

22

12

8

46

76

Current Supply By Property Number

23

KSA Regional

Egypt

Morocco

Pipeline Properties (until 2030)

Luxury Segment KPIs (2024 YTD July)

USD 450

90%

400 350

80% 73%

300

59%

59%

60%

70%

67.70%

63%

62% 54%

250

59%

60% 50%

200

40%

150

30%

100

20%

50 0

10% 422

306

Dubai

363

214

KSA Regional

330

193

Jeddah

293

176

Riyadh ADR

258

161

165

88

Abu Dhabi

Qatar

RevPAR

0cc%

161

109

Egypt

155

96

Morocco

94

55

While the yield on luxury hotel investments varies by location and market conditions, prime assets in key cities have demonstrated strong performance, characterized by high occupancy rates and ADRs. The luxury segment has shown resilience in the face of global economic challenges and the outlook for the region remains promising. Continued investment in tourism infrastructure, the development of new destinations and a focus on offering unique, high-end experiences are key drivers of this positive outlook.

However, to achieve optimal returns, investors must carefully consider market dynamics, potential risks and the evolving preferences of luxury travelers. hvs.com

0%

Oman

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SPECIAL REPORT

4

LUXURY TRAVEL

EXPERTS ON

WHY, WHERE AND HOW

TO INVEST IN REGIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL

The changing face of luxury travel was a key topic explored by industry leaders at Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) World, a high-profile regional conference held in Dubai from September 30 - October 2. Jonathan Worsley, founder and chairman of The Bench, FHS World’s organizers, caught up with four senior decision-makers from leading international hotel groups at the event and asked them for their perspectives on the opportunities for investment and expansion in this vital segment of the travel industry. Here’s what they had to say.

Bespoke and tailored offerings

LOKESH KUMAR

VP development Minor Hotels Middle East & Africa minorhotels.com minorhotels

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Investments in luxury travel and hotels are driven by a number of factors. Economic stability in key markets, along with rising disposable incomes in emerging economies, means more people can afford luxury experiences. Enhanced travel infrastructure and technology make it easier for travelers to access remote destinations, sparking interest.

There’s also a shift toward personalized, experiential travel - people want bespoke offerings, tailored to their tastes. Social media and influencers drive demand for unique, high-end experiences. Lastly, there’s a growing focus on wellness and sustainability, attracting travelers seeking rejuvenation and eco-friendly luxury options.

Diverse funding options In the Middle East, several financing sources are available for luxury hospitality and travel projects. Private equity and venture capital firms often invest in high-growth luxury ventures due to their strong return potential.

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) focus on hospitality properties, pooling funds from multiple investors. Sovereign wealth funds and development finance institutions provide backing, especially for projects aligning with national goals. Traditional bank loans are widely used and Islamic finance offers Sharia-compliant options like Sukuk and Murabaha. Family offices, joint ventures, government grants, environmental, social and governance (ESG) funding, and crowdfunding are also valuable sources, depending on the project’s focus.

Evaluating market trends and growth potential When evaluating the luxury hospitality and travel industry in the Middle East, we focus on multiple key factors. First, we examine market trends and growth potential, including demand, supply dynamics, visitor statistics and emerging markets. Economic and political stability are crucial, along with the level of investment and development activity. We also look at consumer preferences and the competitive landscape to understand market positioning. Regulatory and environmental factors, such as sustainability initiatives, are increasingly significant. Technological innovations are driving the industry forward by improving customer experience and service quality. Overall, these elements collectively shape the future of the industry.

Memorable, experiential travel Several exciting areas stand out when it comes to opportunities for investors in the luxury travel and hotel sectors. Unique and experiential travel offers high returns by providing tailored, memorable experiences.

The gaming and entertainment sector is also promising, appealing to affluent guests seeking immersive activities. There’s growing interest in sustainable luxury, reflecting the industry’s move toward environmental responsibility.

Luxury mixed-use developments, combining accommodations with residential and commercial spaces, offer diverse revenue opportunities. Additionally, exclusive cruise and yacht experiences, and boutique properties like palaces, attract discerning travelers seeking distinctive, high-end stays.

Financing partnerships on the rise

THOMAS B. MEIER COO and interim CEO Jumeirah jumeirah.com

Sovereign Wealth Funds, such as the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia and the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) are major players in funding luxury hospitality projects, but there is a growing trend for these funds to partner with international investors and hotel brands to leverage expertise and share risks. REITs have become more popular as a financing tool for luxury hospitality projects in the Middle East, as they enable smaller investors to gain exposure to the luxury hospitality market and offer liquidity and flexibility to operators and developers to pursue their projects.

Private equity firms and venture capitalists are also increasingly interested in the luxury hospitality sector, particularly in projects that offer strong returns and growth potential.

There is a focus on financing innovative hospitality concepts that cater to changing consumer preferences, such as wellness resorts and eco-friendly hotels.

A strong regional luxury proposition The luxury hospitality and travel industry in the Middle East is expanding at pace and is proving to be an important and growing contributor to the economy. In 2023, the UAE’s travel and tourism sector contributed AED 220 billion to GDP, representing 11.7 percent of the entire economy and a 15-percent increase on the contribution in 2019, which was already a record year. The Middle East has a strong

proposition. It offers diversity and is further expanding its pipeline of destinations with new experiential, cultural, lifestyle and well-being developments. This growth is supported by a growing number of resident high-net-worth individuals and its strategic location between Europe and Asia, which draws many transiting travelers. Visionary projects, like Saudi Arabia’s The Red Sea Development, and high-profile events, such as Expo 2020, the F1 Grand Prix and the FIFA World Cup, continue to showcase the region’s commitment to delivering exceptional and unique experiences, attracting high-spending visitors.

Promising long-term growth prospects Investing in luxury properties that emphasize unique experiences and sustainability taps into the increasing demand for responsible and experiential travel, providing strong, long-term growth prospects for investors.

High-growth markets, particularly in emerging regions like the Middle East, hold significant potential for investors, where demand for luxury and personalized experiences is growing. With the rising interest in longevity, work-life balance and personalized care, health-focused retreats and wellbeing resorts are also becoming increasingly popular. Additionally, the region is increasingly engaging in highprofile collaborations in culture, art and entertainment, opening up new avenues for investors to explore and further enhancing the destination’s appeal.

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SPECIAL REPORT

LUXURY TRAVEL Evolving beyond room stays

AGNÈS ROQUEFORT,

Chief development officer, Luxury & Lifestyle Accor all.accor.com accor

SANDEEP WALIA

COO, Middle East & Luxury Europe, Middle East & Africa Marriott marriotthotels.com marriotthotels

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From an economic perspective, the excellent performances of the sector over the last two years have reinforced the confidence of investors in the luxury travel sector, especially in the Middle East, where luxury hotels have reached worldwide record performances. Combined with stabilizing interest rates and capital availability across most markets, there is renewed appetite and enthusiasm among private equity for transactions and conversions of commercial real estate. The easing of visa procedures for many countries and continued substantial investment in infrastructures are also driving factors.

At the same time, luxury hospitality has evolved beyond room stays into the more compelling return-on-investment (ROI) case of multi-layered hospitality experiences.

Dynamic shifts in travel preferences

In collaboration with brands and expertise. While maintaining our position in Egypt in the family-friendly allinclusive segment, with the latest addition of Rixos Radamis, which opened early 2024, we are now expanding in this segment in Saudi Arabia and further increasing our footprint in the UAE. In response to growing demand for sustainable travel in the region, we are developing luxury eco-resorts and lodges, as well as immersive cultural experiences, under the Mantis brand, which focuses on conservation and eco-tourism. Upcoming openings include the Hawar Resort by Mantis in Bahrain, Mantis Al Baha in Saudi Arabia and Mantis Saij Mountain Lodge in the UAE. Moreover, the bleisure and staycation trends have further elevated demand for our resort properties. These offer luxurious facilities, while being easily accessible from central business districts, making them ideal for blending business and leisure travel.

Luxury hospitality continues to thrive in the Middle East, which benefits from strong travel-consumer demand and unrivaled tourism ambition from countries deploying new infrastructure and favoring tourism development. Globally, we are seeing dynamic shifts in travel preferences and consumer needs, such as growing interest in sustainable travel, family-friendly all-inclusive experiences, bleisure and staycations. Accor has built deep roots throughout the Middle East, especially in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar and Egypt. Today, the Middle East is a land of innovations with many flagships for our

Multi-faceted stays

Meeting new consumer preferences

expertise to support operations. Through continuous product innovation across design, F&B and programming, our curated, visionary luxury brands deliver the unique, personalized experiences expected from today’s luxury traveler. With a portfolio of over 170 luxury properties in operation across EMEA, including nearly 60 in the Middle East, we are creating the authentic, enriching experiences that the new luxury traveler craves.

As a company, we’re doubling down on luxury. We have seen strong luxury travel demand as a result of a growing middle class and rise in worldwide wealth. Research shows that travelers in the region continue to spend more on travel and we continue to focus on capturing these affluent consumers in our system. We continue to see strong opportunities to expand our portfolio and want to grow where luxury is growing. As a consequence, we are always looking for the right opportunities for each individual brand.

Marriott’s scale and breadth of distribution allows us to quickly identify and respond to trends taking shape across travel, creating an edge at a time when consumer habits, demands and desires are changing with unprecedented speed.

Making it personal Marriott International is established as one of the innovative leaders in luxury hospitality in the Middle East. Each of our globally recognized luxury brands offers owners long-term value through category leadership, engagement with loyal and coveted guests, and dedicated luxury

We see a vast opportunity for mixed-use developments that incorporate branded residences, as well as opportunities with co-working partners and collaborations with high-profile restaurateurs, wellness facilities and more. Accor is continuing to push boundaries in eco-responsible hospitality. Along with exclusive tented camps, conservation-led projects, allinclusive resorts, extended-stay and branded residences, we are eager to continue shaping the hospitality industry throughout the Middle East with innovative, multifaceted hospitality experiences.

Diverse offerings for discerning visitors Our luxury portfolio is diverse in terms of the type of experiences offered and also with regard to each brand’s individual footprint, the customer segment that they resonate with and the destinations they operate within. Overall, our global footprint, unrivaled luxury brands, operational expertise and customer intelligence, allows us to drive innovation and be a key player in creating the future of luxury travel. Our portfolio of eight luxury brands includes: The Ritz-Carlton; Ritz-Carlton Reserve; Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts; St. Regis Hotels & Resorts; EDITION; The Luxury Collection; JW Marriott; and W Hotels.

SPECIAL REPORT

LUXURY TRAVEL

HAFAWA:

HOW MENA IS WINNING OVER LUXURY TRAVELERS Long renowned for the warmth and hospitality it offers visitors, the Arab world is now building on this and other strengths to attract higher numbers of affluent tourists. Marco Rentsch, partner at PwC Middle East, tells us why the MENA region is ideally placed to help write the next chapter in luxury hospitality and tourism.

The Arab world has long been celebrated for its warmth toward guests. Against a backdrop of evolving expectations – and demographics – around luxury travel, countries around the region are building on their traditional strengths as they leverage public sector-driven development, supplyside innovation, eco-tourism and cuttingedge technology to welcome affluent global tourists.

'Hafawa,' the Arabic word for hospitality, warmth and the act of making guests feel at home, is a deeply ingrained cultural value in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). As the luxury travel sector evolves, this enduring value, complemented by a growing emphasis on eco-tourism, innovative developments and advanced technology, is redefining the region as a premier destination for affluent travelers seeking unique and authentic experiences.

Luxury, redefined To understand why the MENA region is thriving, we need to recognize that the concept of luxury isn’t static. Like anything else, it’s dynamic, shifting with the changing tides of consumer preference.

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While ‘traditional’ luxury offerings remain mainstays, the meaning of the term has expanded, incorporating conscious responsibility, exclusivity and sustainability.

This shift is particularly evident here, where the culture of 'hafawa' is driving a new era of affluent travel.

At a time where overtourism is rife, we see the MENA region’s commitment to authentic travel experiences beginning to pay dividends. According to the Mastercard Affluent Travel Report, the region is driving growth in this segment; arrivals are 22 percent higher than 2019 figures. Notably, Qatar has seen a 90 percent increase, while KSA is up 56 percent over the same period.

New demographics As the mindset of the luxury traveler shifts, so, too, does the demographic. Holistic, authentic experiences are no longer the exclusive preserve of ultra-high-net-worth individuals; a growing aspirational segment is looking for immersive trips, too.

India, in particular, represents a key part of this trend. With international departures from the country more than doubling

between 2009 and 2019, and their overseas spending tripling between 2010 and 2023, Indians, amongst nationals of other markets in the BRICs+ group, are becoming an increasingly critical audience for affluent destinations.

The GCC already has a major ‘home’ advantage, with over 9 million Indian residents. Countries in the region are actively developing a range of offerings that cater to the diverse needs of the visiting friends and relatives of this segment, increasingly in the luxury space.

Oman, for example, has seen a 70-percent increase in Indian tourists by positioning itself as a premier adventure destination.

Meanwhile, the UAE continues to draw Indian travelers through targeted campaigns around its popular destinations and by easing visa regulations for tourists.

Saudi Arabia, as part of its Vision 2030 agenda, is developing its key destinations to host mega-events, such as Riyadh Expo 2030 and the 2029 Asian Winter Games, targeting affluent travelers. These offerings highlight the ripe opportunities in MENA’s evolving luxury tourism landscape.

In collaboration with Middle Eastern strengths An experience of luxury isn’t just about the destination – the journey matters, too. And the region’s flagship airlines are pushing the boundaries of innovation to deliver unparalleled experiences. Leveraging the region’s strategic location, these carriers connect travelers to hundreds of destinations, enhancing the region's appeal as a key travel hub.

An ongoing cultural renaissance, along with its economic and environmental transformation, presents a unique opportunity to position the region in the global arena by bridging culture and sustainability. With ambitious netzero agendas, regional leaders are now striving to make culture more sustainable, encouraging the tourism sector to integrate sustainability into its operations.

Moreover, cultural immersion and the blending of luxurious elements into an authentic destination is on the rise across MENA. Historic sites in places such as Saudi Arabia’s AlUla are being renovated and repurposed as exclusive luxury venues — with dedicated teams ensuring these locales retain their authenticity.

On a more contemporary front, branded residences, blending luxury hotel amenities and residential properties, are also seeing significant growth across key GCC markets.

Moreover, emerging technologies are being used in the region to significantly enhance preservation, management and engagement with cultural heritage sites, as we have explored in a report titled ‘A digital renaissance: Redefining cultural and heritage conservation in the Middle East.’

Hotels across the region are also investing in technologies such as data analytics, AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) to streamline guest experiences.

Luxury eco-tourism The new-age consumer is also willing to pay more for ecologically friendly luxury, and the MENA region is serving up novel, compelling experiences to match this need. Saudi Arabia is planning an immersive barefoot luxury experience at the Red Sea. Meanwhile, away from the coast, the ancient city of AlUla has developed an offering that integrates sustainability, history and traditions of 'hafawa,' pioneering the preservation of intangible cultural assets with developing low-impact luxury.

Prime sustainably minded tourism experiences are on offer elsewhere in MENA, from solar-powered desert camps in Morocco to the thriving eco-lodges of Egypt. By using locally sourced materials and manpower while renovating existing architectural marvels — as opposed to building from scratch — the region reflects the growing consumer desire to experience luxury in harmony with environmental stewardship and cultural preservation.

As ultra-high-net-worth travelers seek to balance enjoyment of world-class amenities with a sense of giving back to people and planet, locations preserved for centuries — and seldom accessed by international visitors - represent a significant opportunity for the region.

Whether you’re a guest, hospitality industry professional or investor, the MENA region makes a compelling case as the next destination for luxury hospitality and tourism.

The new-age consumer is willing to pay more for ecologically friendly luxury, and the MENA region is serving up novel, compelling experiences to match this need.

Tech-ready Today’s affluent traveler prioritizes convenience, and technology plays a pivotal role here. MENA is leveraging tech to attract visitors across the board. From a travel convenience perspective, Qatar employed technology to ease the flow of 1 million people into the country during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, while the UAE is using advanced biometrics to speed up the movement of travelers.

Immersive technologies, such as the metaverse, are also elevating visitor engagement experiences in KSA, according to a recent PwC Middle East report on the integration of technology and tourism in Saudi Arabia. Through Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), visitors can now gain a richer understanding of the Kingdom’s architectural evolution, giving tourism a whole new dimension — literally.

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SPECIAL REPORT

LUXURY TRAVEL

THE 5 CS

OF MODERN LUXURY TRAVEL There is a seismic shift taking place in the world of luxury travel, marked by a move away from the indulgent and extravagant toward experiences that are immersive, personalized and more meaningful. Christian Salloum, managing director of BrandPortunity F&B Consulting, takes us through the five Cs that have become embedded in the concept of luxury travel today.

In the realm of modern luxury travel, the definition of opulence has evolved beyond traditional markers of extravagance, particularly in the wake of the pandemic.

Today’s discerning travelers are seeking immersive and personalized experiences that enable them to forge profound connections with their destinations. Central to this new standard are the 5 Cs of luxury travel: culture; cuisine; community; content; and customization. Among these, cuisine stands out as a particularly significant aspect, reflecting travelers’ deep curiosity about local food traditions and their desire for memorable gastronomic experiences.

1- Culture: deeper immersion Cultural immersion has become a hallmark of luxury travel, reflecting a desire among travelers to truly engage with the essence of a destination. It’s no longer sufficient to merely visit landmarks; travelers are seeking authentic experiences that offer insight into local traditions, the arts and a destination’s history. For instance, in Kyoto, Japan, luxury travelers may decide to partake in a

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traditional tea ceremony to gain a deeper appreciation of this ancient practice. In Florence, Italy, often dubbed the birthplace of the Renaissance, a private art tour could provide visitors with exclusive access to masterpieces from this era and discussions with art historians. Such experiences allow visitors to connect with the local culture in meaningful ways, enriching their understanding of the destination.

2- Cuisine: the heart of the journey Cuisine has emerged as a cornerstone of luxury travel, reflecting the profound importance visitors are placing on discovering and savoring local food.

For many, the culinary experience is not just about enjoying a meal, but truly immersing themselves in the flavors and traditions of a place. Travelers are increasingly gravitating toward authentic and high-quality culinary experiences that showcase local ingredients and cooking techniques. They are seeking out opportunities to enjoy traditional dishes that reveal the heart of a destination’s

food culture, as well as indulging in extravagant dining experiences that highlight innovative gastronomy. In Paris, for example, while luxury travelers could choose to savor a meal at a Michelinstarred restaurant renowned for its creative approach to French cuisine, they may also explore hidden bistros that offer classic French dishes made with locally sourced ingredients or dine at a traditional family-run establishment. In Tokyo, opportunities to experience an exclusive sushi-tasting with a master chef and discover the artistry and precision involved in Japanese cuisine are proving popular. Similarly, in Napa Valley, a private vineyard tour and tasting session with rare wines, paired with gourmet meals, offer a deep dive into the region’s culinary offerings. These gastronomic adventures are not just about enjoying the food, but also experiencing the story behind it, connecting with local traditions and benefiting from unique dining experiences that elevate the travel journey.

In collaboration with 3- Community: connection and engagement

4- Content: personalized and immersive experiences

In addition to culture and cuisine, the concept of community plays a vital role in modern luxury travel.

Travelers are increasingly seeking to engage with local communities in meaningful ways, moving beyond superficial interactions to forge genuine connections. Luxury travel experiences often include opportunities to participate in community-focused activities that benefit local populations and support sustainable tourism. Volunteering for environmental conservation projects is one example, alongside participating in educational initiatives or supporting local artisans and businesses. Many travelers are inspired to explore investment opportunities or enter into partnerships that contribute to the local economy, such as establishing a hotel chain or expanding a successful restaurant concept in new markets. Visitors may decide to join a local initiative to promote sustainable agriculture, for instance, or participate in a communityled project to restore a historic site.

Engaging with local communities in such ways fosters a sense of connection and contributes to the well-being of the destination, providing travelers with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Content has become increasingly important in the luxury travel landscape, with visitors looking for personalized experiences that align with their individual interests. This includes curated itineraries, exclusive events and immersive activities that resonate with personal passions. Luxury travel companies are leveraging technology and data to create highly customized experiences. For instance, visitors with an interest in art could be given exclusive access to private gallery viewings and meetings with local artists and nature enthusiasts offered the chance to experience a bespoke safari designed around their specific interests. Personalized content ensures that each aspect of the trip is tailored to the traveler’s preferences, enhancing the overall experience.

Customization allows travelers to design a journey that reflects their personal tastes and desires, resulting in a truly bespoke travel experience.

5- Customization: tailored to perfection Customization represents the pinnacle of modern luxury travel, reflecting the desire for experiences that are uniquely tailored to travelers’ needs and desires.

From bespoke itineraries to personalized services, customization allows travelers to design their journey according to their preferences. Luxury travel providers offer a range of tailored services, from arranging private jet travel and luxury yacht charters to designing custom wellness retreats and adventure experiences. For example, if a traveler chooses a wellness retreat, a program could be designed for them with personalized health treatments, gourmet meals tailored to their dietary preferences and exclusive access to tranquil locations

for relaxation. This level of customization ensures that every detail of the trip is crafted to perfection, providing a unique and unforgettable experience. It allows travelers to design a journey that reflects their personal tastes and desires, resulting in a truly bespoke travel experience.

The 5 Cs of modern luxury travel reflect a shift toward more immersive, meaningful and personalized travel experiences. Among these, cuisine plays a particularly significant role, highlighting travelers’ curiosity about local food traditions and their desire for extraordinary gastronomic experiences. By focusing on these elements, travelers can enjoy journeys that are not only luxurious but also deeply enriching, providing lasting memories and a profound connection to the destinations they explore. As the travel industry continues to evolve, these 5 Cs will remain central to the concept of modern luxury, ensuring that each travel experience is unique, personal and unforgettable.

Embracing these elements will help travelers create a journey that goes beyond mere indulgence, offering a rich tapestry of cultural, culinary and personalized experiences that define the essence of modern luxury travel. brandportunity.com

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SOLUTIONS

MANAGEMENT

In collaboration with

HOW TO REINVENT COMMERCIAL SPACES FOR ADDED VALUE Bringing hotels, retail and F&B outlets together in a multifunctional space can be beneficial for visitors, owners and investors alike. Duncan Fraser-Smith, CEO of Craft Hospitality Group, tracks the rise and rise of the commercial, hybrid space.

The commercial landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, where traditional boundaries between different sectors are becoming increasingly blurred. Nowhere is this more evident than in the commercial, hospitality, retail, hotel and F&B integrations that we now see so commonly amongst developments. These new-to-market, hybrid spaces not only provide enhanced experiences for customers, but also offer significant advantages for property owners, developers and businesses alike.

and opens up new revenue streams. Hotels are partnering with high-end fashion brands to create in-house boutiques. They are also collaborating with renowned chefs to open signature restaurants which often become attractions in their own right.

The merging of hotels, retail and F&B provides an appealing, integrated experience for both visitors and locals alike.

A single-location, holistic experience The rise of the digital age has drastically altered the expectations of today’s customers. Convenience, personalization and engagement have become key drivers of consumer behavior, forcing developers to rethink the traditional siloed approach to commercial spaces. Instead of offering a single service or product, there is now a growing trend to provide a holistic experience in one location.

A crucial role for F&B

A key example of this convergence is the integration of hotels with retail and F&B services. Previous distinctions are fading as businesses recognize the benefits of creating multifunctional spaces.

F&B outlets have also become crucial components of mixed-use developments, in many cases, acting as anchors that draw people into retail spaces or hotels. Food halls, in particular, can help to create a lively atmosphere which, in turn, benefits the other businesses within the space by increasing foot traffic and dwell time.

Many hotels now feature high-end retail stores, gourmet restaurants and ontrend bars, under one roof. In certain circumstances guests are even choosing the hotel based solely on its F&B provision.

The benefits of this integration are twofold: for guests, it provides convenience and a richer experience without having to leave the premises; and for hotel owners, it increases foot traffic, enhances brand value

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Retail is another sector undergoing significant transformation. With the rise of e-commerce, brick-and-mortar stores have had to adapt to stay relevant. Many retailers are now focusing on creating immersive experiences that cannot be replicated online. For instance, some high-end department stores now feature services such as personal shopping assistants.

Generating diverse revenue streams The merging of hotels, retail and F&B offers substantial advantages for property owners and developers. By combining different functions within one property, owners can generate multiple revenue streams from the same asset.

Importantly, hybrid spaces are better equipped to adapt to changing market conditions. For example, during economic downturns, when retail sales might decline, the F&B and hospitality components can help offset losses. This diversification of revenue streams makes the property more resilient and reduces the risk for owners and investors. From the customer’s perspective, the merging of hotels, retail and F&B represents a new level of convenience and engagement, providing an appealing, integrated experience for both visitors and locals.

Careful planning a must Admittedly, merging hotels, retail and F&B also presents certain challenges. These include ensuring a seamless integration of the different elements and that they remain ‘brand aligned.’ The design and layout of the space must be carefully planned to create a cohesive and enjoyable experience for customers, requiring collaboration between architects, interior designers and brand managers. Staying relevant and authentic in a rapidly changing market is another challenge, requiring regular updates, renovations and new experiences to keep customers engaged and returning.

As consumer expectations continue to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative concepts that push the boundaries of what commercial spaces can offer. Technology will play an increasingly significant role in everything from smart designs and personalized services to digital experiences. crafthospitality.group

HUMAN RESOURCES

In collaboration with

THE POWER OF DATA-DRIVEN HR HR leaders have a critical role to play in identifying and optimizing the AI tools that will help a business flourish, starting with the hiring process. Mark Dickinson, of DONE! Hospitality Training Solutions, explains the benefits of putting HR in the digital driver’s seat.

As we enter fully into an AI-assisted world, we are privileged to have the greatest tools ever created at our fingertips. Never in the history of management have there been so many possibilities for styling our approach to leading our teams. However, before trying out these tools, it is essential to have the primary pillars of a business in place, meaning the mission, vision and values, and the strategic path for achieving them.

Aligning HR with business strategy Teams must be focused on what it is that a business wants to achieve, and in order to do that, they need to be aligned with the organization’s targeted outcome. Ensuring that every person in the business is the right fit for reaching these goals is one of the primary functions of HR. The choice of who is responsible for HR, therefore, is the most important decision that management can take, since this person will be the final filter to guarantee that every person hired has the potential to contribute to the business’s objectives.

As well as automating performance evaluations, goal management, talent retention predictors and succession planning, AI can now also produce exceptional learning experiences.

HR must be the first ambassador of the strategy. Not only must the team know and understand what the business does, to ensure that every hire is a fit, but they must also be able to develop an HR strategy that creates this alignment. Data, personality testing and predictive analytical tools combine to make this task a lot easier. Yet with more data comes more complexity, meaning it is of prime importance to ensure that HR leadership can identify digital tools that support efforts to make excellent hiring decisions.

Tackling resistance Whenever a business proposes a new system, there will always be resistance.

This stems from the way our brains are wired; we love certainty and the familiar.

Our role is to inspire the creativity needed to solve the challenges that new processes and systems bring us and one way of doing this is through mis-direction. A little like a magic trick, mis-direction involves instilling an enthusiasm in people to identify problems themselves and propose the solutions they believe will enable the business to grow, but infusing your suggestions within their process.

The outcome is immensely rewarding all round, since the team will generally come up with the solutions that you already have in mind for tackling key issues.

AI’s role in managing operations Most organizations use a collection of six or seven platforms to manage their business: accounting; point of sales; stock management; reservations management; learning & development; HR; and cash management. These will provide data that AI can then learn from and optimize your business strategy. As tools, they should be used to focus on optimizing task management, reducing paper, tracking performance and producing data insights.

When related to HR, the focus should be on the performance of team members, their contribution to revenue growth, identifying the top customer pleasers and most efficient schedules for collecting data about which team members and which work areas deliver optimal outcomes. AI can automate performance evaluations, goal management and talent retention predictors, as well as succession planning.

It can now also produce exceptional learning experiences.

Prioritize AI research HR teams must devote time to research what tools are available and have an allocated budget for testing different types of AI that can serve the organization.

Senior management should focus on providing the time and resources to HR to allow them the opportunity to discover what possibilities are available. This takes foresight and awareness of the leaps in technology that can directly improve the bottom line. done.fyi

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SOLUTIONS

GREEN

In collaboration with

7

WAYS TO SYNERGIZE WELLNESS AND SUSTAINABILITY IN LUXURY HOSPITALITY

Wellness and sustainability are shaking up the hospitality industry more than ever before, especially across the luxury segment. Judith Cartwright, founder and managing director of Black Coral Consulting, shares her top tips for unlocking the profit-driving opportunities that these powerful trends offer.

In the GCC, where F&B is the backbone of luxury hospitality, the industry is being reshaped by two powerful global trends: wellness and sustainability.

These movements are not only changing consumer preferences, but are also unlocking significant profitdriving opportunities.

The global wellness market is now valued at USD 1.8 trillion, according to McKinsey, with their data showing that wellness is prioritized in the daily lives of: 87 percent of consumers in China; 82 percent in the US; and 73 percent in the UK. This shift has transformed how people view food, with guests increasingly seeking dining experiences that go beyond mere sustenance. Today, their demands include meals that boost immunity, manage health conditions and enhance overall wellbeing.

Sustainability is equally important to today’s global citizens. PwC’s 2024 Voice of the Consumer survey found that 80 percent of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainably produced or sourced goods.

By leveraging smart revenue management tactics, offering premium products and services that align with these trends, and adopting strategic cost-saving measures, luxury hotels and their F&B venues in the GCC can effectively capitalize on both wellness and sustainability to drive profits.

Here are seven top tips for tapping into these key trends: 1. Farm-to-fork initiatives: by sourcing produce from local farms, hotels can reduce transportation costs and their carbon footprint. These initiatives not only support communities and offers guests fresher ingredients, but have proven to contribute to a 25-percent increase in local patronage, which is particularly important in the GCC.

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2. Menus matter: many luxury hotels now offer health-centric dishes with organic, local ingredients, resulting in a 30-percent boost in F&B revenue and increased guest engagement. Beyond that, a smaller, well-curated menu can reduce food waste and costs while offering diversity. Focus on quality over quantity, with wellnessoriented, high-quality dishes.

5. Educational experiences: providing immersive experiences related to sustainability and wellness can be a money-spinner. The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, offers cooking classes and farm tours that highlight sustainable practices and healthy cooking techniques. These initiatives have resulted in a 20-percent increase in guest participation in F&B activities and positive feedback.

Detailed menu descriptions, including local sourcing stories, and knowledgeable staff, can greatly enhance the dining experience.

6. Wellness-focused dining: many luxury hotels are now offering wellness-focused dining as a key selling point or ‘the’ reasons to stay. Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas launched the ‘Eat With Six Senses’ program, emphasizing organic, local and nutrient-rich ingredients. Reports indicate that properties featuring wellness-focused dining have seen a 20-percent increase in guest satisfaction and a 15-percent rise in repeat bookings.

3. Waste not, want not: hotels generate nearly 290,000 tons of waste annually, a third of which is food, according to businesswaste.co.uk. Effective waste management can reduce disposal costs and save on procurement. Hilton’s Green Ramadan 2024 reduced food waste by over 20 percent across 32 hotels in seven countries. Conrad Dubai composts food waste, distributing it to local farms and displaying it at buffets to encourage mindful consumption.

4. Be crystal clear: transparency is ethical and profitable. Detailed menu descriptions, including local sourcing stories, plus knowledgeable staff, can greatly enhance the dining experience and command a premium. Moreover, incorporating creative, plant-forward dishes that appeal even to meat lovers can cater to wellness trends, while also lowering ingredient costs.

7. The forecasting factor: forecasting customer trends - not just what guests prefer to eat, but the days and times they dine too – is crucial. By nailing down these details, hotels can optimize their procurement processes, ensuring they purchase just the right amount of highquality ingredients at the right time. This approach also factors in efficient staffing, reducing staff costs during quieter periods. blackcoralconsulting.com

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HOW TO UNLOCK THE POWER OF LINKEDIN A professional networking powerhouse, LinkedIn offers hospitality industry leaders a multitude of benefits, from attracting top talent to building guest loyalty. Riky Bains, strategist at Brash, shares his tips for leveraging this essential, business-focused social media platform to drive growth.

Universally recognized as a powerhouse for professional networking, LinkedIn is also a goldmine for hotels looking to elevate their brand, attract guests and recruit top talent.

Catching MICE The Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) segment provides a crucial revenue stream within the hospitality sector, with hotels relying heavily on this market for consistent occupancy and revenue. LinkedIn has become a vital platform for MICE professionals to connect and collaborate. Notably, decision-makers within the B2B sector, responsible for selecting venues and partners for corporate events and conferences, are highly active on the platform.

By consistently sharing valuable content and engaging with an audience, hotels can significantly increase their visibility and brand recognition on LinkedIn. Building a stellar hotel brand Building brand awareness on LinkedIn is crucial for hospitality businesses for several reasons. Firstly, it positions the hotel as a thought leader in the industry.

Secondly, LinkedIn allows for targeted audience reach. Thirdly, a strong LinkedIn presence enhances the hotel’s reputation and credibility, influencing booking decisions. Lastly, it serves as a platform for showcasing a hotel’s unique selling points, culture and guest experiences. By consistently sharing valuable content and engaging with an audience, hotels can significantly increase their visibility and brand recognition on LinkedIn. Brand-building checklist: • Craft a compelling company page - your hotel’s LinkedIn page is its digital storefront.

Use high-quality images that showcase your property’s unique charm, write a captivating description highlighting your amenities and location, and encourage guests to share their experiences.

• Curate engaging content - share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your hotel’s operations, highlight guest experiences, showcase your team and share local attractions. Use visuals, videos and interactive content to capture your audience’s attention.

• Leverage LinkedIn ads - target specific demographics like leisure travelers, business professionals or event planners with tailored ads. Promote special offers, packages or your hotel's unique selling points.

Connecting with guests, building loyalty LinkedIn offers a unique opportunity for hospitality businesses to connect with guests in a more professional and meaningful way. Unlike other social platforms focused on users’ personal lives, LinkedIn is centered on professional interactions.

Engaging with guests on this key platform will help hotels to: • Build stronger relationships - offering a more personalized touch through LinkedIn can foster loyalty and repeat business.

• Enhance guest experience - by addressing guest inquiries and feedback promptly on LinkedIn, hotels demonstrate a commitment to exceptional service.

• Leverage guest advocacy - satisfied guests can become brand ambassadors by sharing their positive experiences on LinkedIn, influencing potential customers.

• Gather valuable insights - guest interactions on LinkedIn can provide valuable feedback for improving services and amenities.

promptly, addressing concerns professionally and showcasing your commitment to guest satisfaction.

• Offer exclusive perks - reward your LinkedIn followers with exclusive offers, early access to promotions or personalized recommendations. Encourage guests to share their experiences with a dedicated hashtag.

Recruiting and retaining top talent LinkedIn is an indispensable tool for hospitality businesses seeking to recruit top talent. By showcasing a hotel’s culture and values, LinkedIn will help you to build a strong employer brand, attracting top talent and fostering employee loyalty.

Talent acquisition tips: • Attract hospitality professionals - use LinkedIn’s job posting features to reach a wider pool of candidates. Highlight your hotel’s culture, career growth opportunities and employee benefits to attract top talent.

• Showcase your employer brand - share employee stories, company values and behind-the-scenes glimpses to create a positive employer brand. Encourage employees to share their experiences on LinkedIn. • Build employee advocacy - empower your team to become brand ambassadors by sharing company content and engaging with the hospitality community.

By implementing these strategies, hotels can leverage LinkedIn effectively to enhance their online presence, build guest loyalty, attract top talent and ultimately drive business growth. brash.agency

• Increase brand visibility - engaging with guests on LinkedIn can expand the hotel’s reach and attract new customers.

How to strengthen engagement: • Join relevant hospitality groups participate in groups focused on tourism, hospitality and your local area. Share insights, answer questions and build relationships with potential guests.

• Engage with guest reviews - respond to guest reviews and comments

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EQUIPMENT

EXPERTS ON WHAT’S TRENDING IN TABLEWARE

The global tableware market is expected to reach USD 79 billion by 2030, with growth driven by increased consumer spending and a shift toward premium products. Seven industry experts share their thoughts on what’s top of the table in tableware, from vibrant mix-and-match combinations to authentic artisanal offerings that enrich the dining experience.

Porcelain neutrals a win-win The enduring appeal of porcelain tableware is evident in its resurgence within hotel and restaurant décor, mirroring current residential trends. Neutral shades are often preferred for their versatility, practicality and timeless appeal, while also, importantly, providing a budget-friendly solution.

Additionally, they allow restaurants to ensure that the food presentation remains the star of the show. Finally, customization, such as adding logos and designs, works well on porcelain in neutral colors, allowing for a clean and classic aesthetic.

A human element

ALAIN EID

Managing partner MHS Horeca Supplies (Lebanon, KSA, Nigeria) mhsmena.com mhshorecasupplieslb mhshorecasuppliesksa mhshorecasuppliesnigeria

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Marking a shift away from mass-produced items, handmade tableware is becoming highly popular in the culinary world, reflecting a growing appreciation for authenticity, individuality and a connection to the human element in design. These pieces evoke nostalgia and tradition, enriching the dining experience. Distinctive designs and shapes that exude uniqueness and authenticity not only enhance the

visual appeal of a dish, but also elevate the perceived value of the menu, allowing chefs to truly showcase their culinary artistry.

Irregularly shaped handcrafted tableware, in particular, represents a promising opportunity for small-scale producers to showcase their craftsmanship and the stories behind their creations. However, factors such as limited production capacity, extended lead times and higher costs are likely to moderate growth prospects.

Seamless, eclectic settings The mix-and-match trend offers a unique opportunity to infuse personality and individuality into a table setting, while embracing diversity. To achieve a cohesive yet eclectic look, begin by selecting a theme, color palette and mood. A neutral base can anchor the vibrant accents, while contrasting patterns and textures add depth and interest.

Experimenting with various materials, such as porcelain, stoneware, copper, wood and glass, helps to create a truly distinctive and entertaining table setting.

The power of personalized touches White and gray tableware sets are popular for several reasons, including the way that they dovetail well with so many table settings. Other advantages include their ability to frame and highlight dishes, capturing the light and giving volume and depth to light meals. Our preference is to add a personalized touch to make the venue stand out and the table-setting unique. Choosing one color from the décor or texture and incorporating it into the setting through the table accessories is one effective way of doing this.

In praise of perfect imperfection

CARLA FAISSAL

Owner and managing director Boutic’ Hotel boutic-hotel.com BouticHotel

The current trends of embracing imperfections in tableware and shifting toward more artisanal, handmade pieces resonate deeply with me and are strongly aligned with the brands I am proud to represent. I am convinced that the time is right to steer away from the mass-

Prioritizing quality The global tableware market is expanding due to increased consumer spending on dining experiences and a rising interest in premium products. More people are investing in quality tableware as they prioritize aesthetics and the overall dining experience, whether at home or in restaurants. Businesses can leverage this trend by offering high-quality, unique designs that stand out, focusing on both the luxury and artisanal aspects of their products to attract customers looking for something special.

Authentic dining experiences

BASSEM HALWANI

CEO, head distribution Wilmax England Wilmax ME Trading FZCO UAE wilmax.uk wilmaxmidlleeast

Handmade or irregular pieces add warmth and character to the dining experience.

They give the table a unique, crafted feel that enhances the connection between the diner and the meal. This shift toward artisanal pieces creates a more personal and authentic aesthetic, making the dining experience feel less formal and more inviting. It is likely to grow as consumers

produced, industrial-looking plate and focus on a more artistic approach. Handcrafted and hand-finished tableware is ideal for enhancing culinary creativity and allowing chefs to create a characterful table setting that reflects their personality. The uniqueness of this tableware helps to make each menu truly stand out. I like to describe each piece as ‘perfect imperfection!’

A balancing act Mixing and matching colors, shapes and patterns in tableware can be highly effective, but isn’t an easy fix or something to be done randomly. Achieving harmony in colors that align with the food and the interiors is a delicate balancing act and needs to be done with taste. Any combination should take account of several elements, from the menu, décor and ambiance of a venue to the chef’s personality. The right tableware will elevate the overall dining experience, also helping to make it an Instagrammable one!

seek more personalized, one-of-a-kind items, which will open up opportunities for artisans and small-scale producers to offer their unique designs to a market that increasingly values craftsmanship and individuality over mass production.

Creating harmony To create a cohesive yet eclectic table setting, start by picking a common theme, like a color palette or material, to tie everything together. You can then mix different shapes, patterns or colors, but make sure there’s balance. For example, bold colors can be paired with neutral tones, or smooth textures can be combined with more rustic, rough pieces. The goal is to create variety without clashing, ensuring a harmonious look. When working with bright, multicolored themes, choose one dominant color and use others as accents to keep things balanced. Combining warm and cool tones, such as pairing bright blues with warm oranges or yellows, can create a striking, yet balanced look.

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A distinctive, sustainable offering

SAHIL JAIN

General manager Renarte Hospitality Supplies renartellc.com theplateguydxb

Sustainability has been a growing focus in the Middle East’s hospitality sector in recent years. Having handmade artisanal pieces adds to the overall tableware aesthetic and accentuates the need for distinctiveness and sustainability in the industry. Handmade tableware often carries a unique character, with subtle flaws that can create a warm, welcoming environment as opposed to the more rigid formality of traditional table settings. It can also reflect a chef’s vision of how to present his food. In 2023, we introduced a handmade ceramics brand entirely handcrafted in the UAE and, this year, witnessed record sales.

F&B manager The Artisan UAE theartisan.ae theartisandubai

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Build on neutrals

Handcrafted tableware often tells a story which revolves around craftsmanship.

Rising demand for this type of tableware will encourage artisans to showcase their techniques and inspire a whole new segment of SMEs. The focus centers on brand identity and personalization of an establishment’s key elements. These

Mixing and matching can be a fantastic way to create a vibrant and eclectic table setting, but can become overly haphazard on a table if not done correctly. My suggestion is to establish a color palette first, keeping these three important elements in mind: lighting, flooring and table color. Try to use a neutral base and then wrap your color palette around it. Always incorporate some natural rudiments on your table which can unanimously unify the underlying color tones.

One word of caution – mixing and matching can be a challenge when it comes to inventory management.

Evoking an Italian ambiance

Vibrancy in vogue

We see the selection of tableware as an extension of our commitment to offering an authentic Italian experience. Each piece is carefully chosen to reflect the elegance and timelessness of Italy’s culinary traditions, while also complementing the restaurant’s modern, yet warm aesthetic. Our tableware aligns with our interior design, which showcases works by renowned visual artists.

This careful alignment ensures that every detail contributes to a cohesive experience, transporting guests to the landscapes of Italy.

We’ve observed a growing trend toward more vibrant, design-driven tableware, reflecting the increasing emphasis on the visual appeal of the dining experience. A mix-and-match concept is one means of crafting a distinctive, personalized aesthetic, offering a venue a vibrant way to introduce color, shape and pattern into the dining experience, while maintaining cohesion. We know our guests appreciate the artistry and distinctive style of our tableware, underscoring the role it plays in enhancing both the food and the atmosphere. Just as we carefully select ingredients from Italy, our choice of crockery adds another layer to the experience, helping us to create the ideal blend of taste and visual delight. In fact, the famous Italian saying ‘Mangiare con gli occhi’ (To eat with your eyes) comes to mind!

Springboard for artisans

Practicalities matter

BOHDAN KREVSUN

trends also invite opportunities for brand collaboration, with a growing number of notable chefs adding subtle design inputs when opting for handcrafted pieces.

Because artisans rely on design direction, the small-batch production method allows adaptation to evolving trends and diverse product lines.

Our approach to tableware selection begins with ensuring that each piece aligns with the mood and essence of our Italian-inspired menu and venue. A refined elegance defines our brand, but we also balance aesthetics with practicality, choosing durable designs that can withstand the demands of restaurant service. Collaborating closely with our chef is crucial to ensure that the tableware enhances the presentation of our dishes and seamlessly combines visual appeal with functionality.

Focus on brand alignment Deciding on the overall concept or theme for the tableware that we use in our various restaurant and bar concepts requires careful consideration and plenty of thought.

We make it a priority to ensure that the tableware selected aligns with the overall concept of the brand. If the hotel does not adhere to any specific concept mentioned, the criteria will be to select tableware that is modern, unique, stylish and attractive.

The key consideration is that the chosen tableware must complement the outlet’s overall theme.

Right for the job

ASSEM MAHMOUD

Director of food & beverage The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa radissonblu.com/diplomathotel-bahrain

The tableware needs to be contemporary and pleasing on the eye, but crucially, also functional and durable to withstand the demands of hotel operations. Distinct tableware will be chosen for banquets, casual dining or à la carte services. For the

Versatile color codes Neutral shades, like white and gray, maintain their popularity in tableware choices made by hospitality providers because they complement a wide variety of color schemes. Importantly, this allows them to be easily adapted to changing interior design trends. They also provide chefs with a versatile canvas that enhances the presentation of their dishes, offering them opportunities to showcase their culinary skills with greater impact.

A holistic sustainability drive

GUY MARKARIAN

Founder and managing director MG Hotel Supplies mghotelsupplies.com mg.supplies

Embracing imperfections in plate designs aligns with the growing broader sustainability trend we’re seeing across the industry. Specifically, chefs are incorporating imperfect (or ‘wonky’) fruits and vegetables into their dishes as part of a sustainable approach, in a bid to reduce waste and promote environmental responsibility.

This move dovetails well with the use of more artisanal, handmade tableware. It significantly influences the overall dining

primary dining outlets or banquet halls, where large gatherings are hosted, we know that it’s essential to choose tableware designed for heavy use. This particular specification can be obtained from the supplier. Given the scale of our operations, it is also imperative to make sure that the selected line of tableware will be consistently available from the supplier for a minimum of four years.

Marrying functionality with sustainability There are several innovations in tableware design and materials that we’ve observed recently. Some of these latest creations are showcasing a fusion of two key trends, which are functionality and sustainability. This includes a shift toward eco-friendly materials and minimalist designs, as well as an increase in the use of bold colors and textured surfaces.

experience by shifting the focus toward authenticity, uniqueness and a deeper connection to nature.

Enhancing the customer experience Several factors are contributing to the robust growth underway globally in the high-end tableware segment of the hospitality industry. These include an increasing willingness among travelers to invest more in their holidays and travels, reflecting their growing desire for experiences defined by quality and luxury. There are several ways in which establishments can go the extra mile and demonstrate their commitment to ensuring client satisfaction. These include adopting a more creative approach to the hospitality aspect of guests’ stays by investing in segments such as tableware. Doing so plays a crucial role in helping to enhance the overall customer experience and meet the rising expectations of guests.

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11

EXPERTS UNWRAP THE LATEST CHOCOLATE TRENDS

With significant growth forecast for the region’s chocolate market, it looks like there’s more sweet success in the pipeline for our favorite indulgence. HN asked 11 industry experts for their bite-size thoughts on what’s trending in the world of chocolate, from bean to bar.

Middle Eastern chocolate market. The integration of artisanal chocolates into fine dining and gourmet cafés is further enhancing the market’s appeal and elevating chocolate’s status as a luxury indulgence. This trend is not only driven by taste, but also by the desire for unique and memorable culinary experiences.

Personalized and plant-based options on trend

ELIE FEGHALI Chairman EMF Trading Ltd Middle East emf_middleeast

Dovetailing with the wellness drive The Middle East chocolate market is poised for significant growth, driven by a confluence of trends. Consumers are increasingly seeking healthier options, such as low-sugar and organic chocolates, while also embracing premium, artisanal products. This shift is evident in the

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growing popularity of brands renowned for their quality and unique attributes, like Barry-Callebaut. Marketing chocolate as a health product aligns well with the Middle East’s growing focus on wellness.

Significantly, social media platforms are playing a crucial role in promoting healthier options to a wider audience.

Fine dining focus As affluence rises, consumers are seeking high-end experiences, both at home and in restaurants, with premium chocolates becoming a cornerstone of the

Looking ahead, we can expect to see continued growth, driven by innovations such as personalized chocolates and a strong emphasis on e-commerce, such as our EMF Boutik, which is playing a big role in our B2C market in the UAE. The industry is adapting to meet evolving consumer demands, focusing on sustainability, ethical sourcing and healthier formulations. This alignment with consumer values is essential for long-term success in the Middle East market. The plant-based movement also aligns with broader consumer trends toward ethical sourcing and transparency in which EMF Middle East builds brand loyalty and trust among all its consumers. Brands like Barry-Callebaut are leading the way by emphasizing fair trade practices and environmentally friendly packaging. This shift toward more sustainable and inclusive options is not only beneficial for consumers, but also reflects the industry’s ability to adapt to changing preferences.

Higher cacao content in demand In the Middle East, health awareness is growing rapidly, especially around issues like diabetes and obesity. As consumers shift toward healthier lifestyles, there’s an increasing demand for chocolate that offers indulgence without compromising health. Belcolade’s dark chocolate, with its higher cacao content, lower sugar and natural ingredients, caters directly to this trend. Additionally, its sugar-reduced variety allows consumers to enjoy premium chocolate with less guilt. The clean-label movement - where consumers look for fewer additives and more transparency - matches the brand’s commitment to quality and sustainability through the ‘origin’ chocolate types it represents. This shift is particularly strong in the region’s premium market, where health-conscious consumers are willing to invest in better products.

MOHAMAD HACHWI CEO BanoPuratos banopuratos.com banopuratoslebanon

Ethical sourcing a priority Health-conscious, sustainable and premium products define the future of the chocolate market. Consumers are looking for options with lower sugar, plant-based ingredients and functional benefits, such as protein or fiber. Belcolade, with its focus on

Dairy-free innovations high-quality ingredients and sustainable sourcing, is well-positioned to meet these demands. Ethical sourcing is becoming critical and the brand’s commitment to sustainable practices through its Cacao-Trace program aligns with this growing consumer priority.

Premiumization, especially single-origin and artisanal chocolates, will continue to attract sophisticated consumers, while innovations in alternative ingredients and digital experiences will shape the future of the market.

With demand for high-quality, artisanal chocolates increasing, Belcolade’s extensive range of couverture chocolates enables chefs and bakers to cater to consumers seeking premium experiences by creating luxurious desserts and confections. In another trend, the plant-based movement is having a significant impact on the chocolate industry. By continuing to innovate and explore dairy-free formulations using high-quality ingredients, Belcolade is well positioned to leverage its expertise to craft high-quality products and meet growing demand for plant-based options from health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.

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FOOD Social media: pros and cons “The latest trends in chocolate often gain visibility through social media, even when they don’t adhere to traditional standards or offer harmonious flavor combinations. Take, for example, a recent creation from Dubai featuring The Dubai Chocolate. This is composed of ‘osmaliyah’ dough, a crispy Middle Eastern pastry, filled with pistachio cream filling and covered in dark chocolate.

Social media plays a significant role in amplifying these trends, providing platforms for creativity, pushing

boundaries and introducing new audiences to chocolate in unexpected ways. However, many of these trends are short-lived, primarily serving as marketing tools to spotlight the brands behind them. While they create temporary excitement, they often lack the substance to become timeless classics. As consumers grow more discerning, there’s a shift toward quality, authenticity and innovation that respects the essence of the ingredients. Social media may boost a trend’s popularity, but it doesn’t guarantee its lasting success.”

CHARLES AZAR Concept developer CA Consultancy services charles_azar

Championing healthy indulgence “In the exciting world of culinary chocolate, I’m seeing a fascinating shift toward ‘healthy indulgence.’ Here at EMF Middle East, where we’re proud to distribute Callebaut and Cacao Barry’s premium Belgian chocolate, we’re witnessing a rise in demand for chocolates boasting functional ingredients and alternative sweeteners.

Consumers are no longer compromising on taste, but seeking treats that cater to dietary needs or offer additional health benefits. This trend is translating into some truly innovative applications. We’re

seeing the incorporation of superfoods, like açai berries, goji berries and matcha, into chocolate creations. There’s also a surge in plant-based chocolates, made with alternative milks like oat or almond, suitable for vegan or dairy-free palates. ‘Healthy indulgence’ presents a tremendous opportunity for hospitality professionals. By incorporating these innovative chocolates into their menus, chefs can cater to a wider audience, while still delivering the decadent taste and luxurious experience that chocolate is known for.”

ELIE BEJJANI Senior technical advisor EMF Trading Ltd emf_middleeast bejjanieelie

Focusing on the origins “Among the latest chocolate trends, the rise in use of bean-to-bar and singleorigin varieties are ones that stand out.

Consumers and chefs are becoming more focused on the origins and ethical sourcing of cacao, appreciating the unique flavor profiles of chocolates from different regions. Each region imparts distinct flavors depending on the soil, climate and cacao variety, allowing for more experimentation and pairing with other ingredients like spices, fruits and even savory elements.

Additionally, there’s a growing trend

FARAH HAMDANE Pastry chef instructor, consultant and professional ambassador Elle & Vire farah_hamdane

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toward sustainable and health-conscious chocolate. Artisanal and smaller producers are offering chocolate with higher cacao percentages, reduced sugar and plant-based ingredients, catering to vegan, lactose-intolerant and health-conscious consumers. Inclusion of superfoods, like matcha, turmeric or hemp seeds in chocolate creations is also on the rise, blending indulgence with wellness. Finally, chocolate is being incorporated in more innovative and unexpected forms, including in finedining savory dishes, such as chocolate with meats or cheeses.”

Fostering producer-consumer connections

PIERRE ABI HAYLA

“One of the most exciting trends in the world of chocolate is the rise of beanto-bar craftsmanship, which emphasizes ethical sourcing and transparent production. Consumers are seeking chocolates made from single-origin beans, often sourced from specific regions or even individual farms. This focus on quality and origin highlights the nuanced flavors of different cacao beans and also fosters deeper connections between consumers and producers. Alongside this, is a growing interest in dark chocolate with higher

cacao percentages, driven by a desire for more intense flavors and perceived health benefits. Chocolatiers are also experimenting with unconventional ingredients, such as savory spices, exotic fruits and fermented foods, to create innovative flavor profiles. This trend includes chocolate used in culinary applications, like savory dishes and craft beverages, where it adds depth and complexity. Overall, the trend reflects a broader shift toward sustainability, wellness and gourmet experiences, where chocolate is celebrated as an artisanal product, with cultural and ethical significance.”

Pastry chef and chocolatier pierreabihayla

Supporting cocoa-producing communities “I believe that beyond trends, the way chocolate brands are collaborating directly with cocoa bean farms is incredibly important. The efforts to improve local infrastructure and promote environmentally friendly practices are having a significant impact on these communities. By working closely with farmers, chocolate brands are not only supporting sustainability, but also enhancing the quality of life for the people involved in cocoa production.

When it comes to chocolate itself, I personally love the emerging trend of dark milk chocolates. One example is ‘hukambi,’ which combines the creamy, rich texture of milk chocolate with the more intense, less sweet flavor profile of dark chocolate. This balance provides a satisfying taste experience without being overly sweet, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy the complexity of dark chocolate, but still want a hint of milky smoothness. For me, it’s the perfect combination of both worlds.”

JULIEN JACOB Executive pastry chef Il Gattopardo, Bar des Prés, 1920 gattopardo.restaurant julien___jacob bardespres.dubai

Spotlight on single origin chocolate “Valrhona, the renowned ultra-premium chocolate brand, leads the way in shaping modern chocolate usage through its pioneering efforts at L’École Valrhona, including at its newest location in Dubai. This culinary school is a hub for innovation and creativity, where professionals and enthusiasts explore the art of chocolate making under the guidance of regional expert chefs. One trend driven by Valrhona is the emphasis on single-origin chocolates, showcasing the diverse cocoa profiles of beans from specific regions. Additionally, Valrhona

has become a leader in sustainable and ethical chocolate sourcing and production, making transparency and environmental stewardship core pillars of the brand. At L’École Valrhona Dubai, chefs experiment with groundbreaking techniques, incorporating chocolate into savory and sweet dishes, often with a focus on wellness and fine-dining experiences. Whether it’s through artisanal creations or educational initiatives, Valrhona continues to push the boundaries of how chocolate is perceived and used, solidifying its position as a trendsetter in luxury chocolate.”

BRICE KONAN-FERRAND Pastry chef Valrhona valrhona.com bricekonanferrand

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FOOD Delicious and nutritious plans “I’ve witnessed a growing tide of healthconscious guests and rising demand for sugarless desserts that cater to all dietary needs, including those of diabetics. At Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, we are currently exploring beanto-bar chocolate production. With the ability to focus on a single-bean origin and full control during the processing stage, we would be looking into a far finer quality of chocolate. Going a step further, date sugar has proven to be an excellent substitute for cane sugar, since

it is proven to be low on the glycemic index, making it safer for those managing blood sugar levels. When combined with high-quality bean-to-bar chocolate, it opens the door to creating new delicious and nutritious desserts. It’s exciting to see Dubai’s pastry scene embrace the bean-to-bar chocolate trend as the movement encourages both innovation and tradition. By incorporating ingredients like dates to chocolate, we are also reminded that food can help us bond with our environment.”

NICOLAS LAMBERT Senior executive pastry chef Four Seasons Hotels Dubai fourseasons.com/dubai nicolas_lambert fsdubai

Balancing indulgence with well-being “Chocolate plays a central role in our creations at Maison Asteria. Crafted with meticulous care, our exceptional chocolate, 100-percent plant-based and gluten-free, features in both our ice cream offerings and fresh pastries. When it comes to our ice cream varieties, you’ll find our chocolate in frozen treats like ice cream bars and small cakes, where each bite is a perfect indulgence. In our fresh pastries, our famous 100-percent cacao chocolate tart showcases the heart of

Maison Asteria’s expertise. Other highly popular offerings include our 64-percent Peruvian dark chocolate mousse, which combines the intensity of cocoa with a melt-in-the-mouth texture for a combination of flavors that will delight both purists and traditionalists, evoking a true sense of nostalgia. Every creation, whether frozen or baked, strikes a balance between indulgence and well-being, aligned with our commitment to offering products free from synthetic additives.”

JEAN-THOMAS SCHNEIDER Founder and pastry chef Maison Asteria by Jean-Thomas Schneide maison-asteria.com jeanthomas.schneider maison_asteria

Celebrating rich flavors and varied textures “I believe my latest dessert embodies what is trending in chocolate, balancing both texture and flavor in a way that keeps each bite exciting. The tonka chantilly, with its light and aromatic creaminess, provides a gentle, fragrant layer that complements the richer elements without overwhelming them.

Its subtle bourbon-vanilla-like notes from the tonka enhance the chocolate ganache, which adds smooth, decadent richness. The cherry marmalade is a perfect counterpoint, introducing a burst

JONATHAN TROIN Executive pastry chef Waldorf Astoria DIFC jonathantroin

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of tart, juicy freshness that balances the sweeter notes. The chocolate sponge offers a soft, airy texture that adds structure, while still allowing for a delicate mouthfeel. The crispy cocoa nibs and chocolate sablée provide crunch, creating a contrast and elevating the smoothness of the ganache and chantilly, while thin chocolate layers bring a satisfying snap. The chocolate rocher glaze ties it all together, adding a final layer of crunch and chocolate intensity to a dessert that celebrates both rich flavors and varied textures.”

Together

L E T ’ S CU LT I VAT E TAL E N T S "WHERE CHOCOLATE EXCELLENCE MEETS GLOBAL INSPIRATION" L’École Valrhona Dubai

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PRODUCT ZONE

5

BEVERAGE

EXPERTS ON WHAT’S CAUSING RIPPLES IN THE SPIRITS INDUSTRY

The international spirits industry is evolving rapidly to meet the changing demands of today’s consumers. Five industry experts get into the spirit of things and share their thoughts on the trends that are disrupting this key segment of the beverage market, which range from ready-to-drink and low-alcohol offerings to support for small-scale producers.

Savory successes

RAMINTA AMBROŽEVIČIŪTĖ Bar supervisor La Petite Maison Dubai lpmrestaurants.com/dubai/ lpmdubai

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New movements that stand out include the growing demand for low-alcohol and non-alcoholic spirits and cocktails, driven by consumers seeking healthier lifestyle options. Another notable trend is the rise in craft spirits, which are spotlighting local ingredients and distinctive flavors, adding a unique touch to the industry’s offerings.

We’re also seeing growing demand for savory drinks, such as our signature drink Tomatini. An all-time favorite, its popularity has inspired us to make November 12 Tomatini Day! This will now be celebrated annually at all our locations and, to kick things off, we’re dedicating a whole week to the drink from November 12-18, with a full calendar of events and activities.

Healthy options Consumers are increasingly willing to spend more on premium spirits, valuing quality over quantity. This has led to a rise in smallbatch and artisan distilleries. As part of the health-conscious drive, which has increased demand for lower-alcohol and non-

alcoholic options, we’ve noticed that lowcalorie cocktails and spirits are becoming more popular. These are often marketed as healthier alternatives. In line with these trends, we celebrate Dry January annually, offering a unique selection of non-alcoholic cocktails during the month.

Tapping into tech Today’s consumers are looking for more personalized experiences and we expect this trend to continue growing. Brands can tap into it by offering custom products, like personalized spirits or cocktail kits to suit individual tastes. Technology will also play an increasingly important role in the future. Innovations like augmented reality, blockchain for tracking ingredients and new distillation methods are expected to become more commonplace to improve production and connect brands with customers. We are using the latest technology in many ways, including a sous vide machine to infuse spirits and syrups with fantastic flavors, and a rotary evaporator (rotovap) that helps to take our cocktails to the next level.

Authentic offerings in demand

NAOMIE GAUCHAT Restaurant and bar manager Level 43 Sky Lounge level43skylounge.com n_aomie level43dubai

The spirits industry is increasingly moving toward premiumization, with consumers willing to pay for higher-quality products.

Alongside this shift, there’s growing interest in low- and no-alcohol options, appealing to health-conscious individuals and those who favor more mindful drinking habits as part of a balanced lifestyle. Consumers are also gravitating toward spirits with distinctive, innovative flavors, which has led to a preference for eco-conscious brands.

This shift is driving more people to choose artisanal distilleries, focused on authenticity and craftsmanship, over large producers.

Additionally, travel and exposure to different cultures have introduced consumers to traditional spirits from around the world, and these new discoveries are now appearing in the mainstream market.

Connecting with customers The pandemic led many consumers to experiment with making cocktails at home, boosting the popularity of versatile spirits.

Beyond home experimentation, there has also been a surge in demand for ready-todrink (RTD) cocktails, offering a convenient, yet premium experience. Social media

Blending scale with artisanal qualities

ZIAD KARAM

Head of corporate relations Diageo MENA diageo.com diageomena

Large spirits brands like ours are embracing the craft spirits trend through strategic acquisitions, enabling them to tap into authenticity and distinctive flavor profiles.

They are also innovating within their established brands by introducing limitededition products that appeal to artisanal consumer preferences. These companies prioritize transparency and storytelling to forge emotional connections with their audience and share key messages. By supporting local distilleries and nurturing craft ecosystems, brands can strengthen their market position. With the craft spirits market poised for significant growth, large brands recognize opportunities to blend scale with the artisanal qualities that consumers desire.

Sharpened sustainability focus Spirits brands are adopting innovative sustainability practices in response to consumer demand and regulatory pressures for greater environmental and social responsibility. We are transitioning to renewable energy, for example, aiming for carbon-neutral distilleries, while implementing advanced water stewardship programs to conserve this critical resource.

Sustainable sourcing of ingredients is central to our Grain-to-Glass initiative, promoting

has played a major role in shaping these trends. At the same time, it has become easier than ever to order spirits online, allowing consumers to connect directly with producers. This increased access has led to more personalized shopping experiences and closer relationships between brands and their customers.

E-commerce growth opportunities Technological advancements, such as virtual tastings, are bringing new experiences to the spirits industry. Consumers can now add a personalized touch by adjusting flavor profiles and blends. Emerging markets, especially in Asia and Africa, are expected to offer substantial growth opportunities.

Additionally, the trend of buying spirits online will grow, driven by the convenience and broader accessibility that e-commerce offers. Brands are investing more in directto-consumer models, which are likely to further fuel this shift. Sustainability will remain a major focus. Many brands are exploring carbon-neutral production methods and innovative ways to minimize their environmental footprint, while packaging is also evolving.

responsible farming practices. Additionally, the circular economy is embraced through waste reduction, recyclable packaging and initiatives like our plastic-free paper bottle for Johnnie Walker. By integrating these practices, spirits brands are not only enhancing their sustainability efforts, but also ensuring long-term viability in a competitive market.

AI: an essential tool Advancements in AI are transforming mass personalization and customization in the drinks industry, enabling brands to tailor experiences for consumers at scale.

AI-driven data analytics allow companies like ours to understand consumer preferences, enhancing targeted marketing and product offerings. Personalized product recommendations, such as our ‘What’s Your Whisky’ tool, suggest specific products based on individual tastes. AI also improves retail experiences with personalized recommendations and virtual assistants. Additionally, AI supports custom cocktail creation and accelerates product development by analyzing consumer feedback. Personalized packaging further enhances the customer experience, making AI essential for driving engagement and satisfaction in a competitive market.

NOV 2024-JAN 2025 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME

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PRODUCT ZONE

BEVERAGE

Quality a priority

MIKE KASSABIAN Head of mixology Groupe PIC anne-sophie-pic.com mike.kassabian

The spirits industry is evolving in exciting ways. One of the biggest current trends is the shift toward higher-quality spirits. People are willing to spend more for artisanal products that feel special and authentic.

Sustainability is also a major focus, with many brands working to reduce their environmental impact through eco-friendly packaging and sustainable sourcing. Another key development is the rise of low- or noalcohol options, driven by health-conscious consumers. In addition, the growth of online sales and digital engagement is reshaping how brands connect with consumers.

People are becoming more adventurous, seeking out new and unique spirits.

Home comforts The way in which people consume spirits has changed somewhat in recent years.

Whereas previously, consumers tended to mostly drink in bars or restaurants, they are now also enjoying spirits more at home - a trend that started during the pandemic and has continued. RTD cocktails have become increasingly popular. Health-conscious

Innovative drinking experiences

AYMAN ZAYOUR

Partner and beverage director Mii-Yao and Terre ayman_zayour

Current trends in the spirits industry include a rise in premium and craft spirits, with consumers seeking high-quality, artisanal products. There’s also growing interest in sustainability, prompting brands to focus on eco-friendly practices and packaging.

Low-alcohol and non-alcoholic spirits have definitely become more popular as part of the broader wellness trend. Innovative flavors and unique ingredients are also trending, with consumers exploring diverse tastes. We’re seeing an increase in the use of technology in production and marketing as well, such as blockchain for traceability and digital platforms for engagement.

These trends reflect a shift toward personalized, responsible and innovative drinking experiences.

Thoughtful, personalized consumption Consumers are increasingly leaning toward quality and authenticity when choosing spirits. The rise of unique, exotic flavors and artisanal production methods also reflects a growing desire for novel and diverse drinking experiences. Additionally, the convenience of RTD cocktails and the increasing use of digital platforms for purchasing and engaging with brands highlight a move

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drinking is another trend - people are choosing drinks with lower alcohol content or drinking smaller amounts, but focusing on better quality. Online shopping for spirits has expanded significantly, making it easier than ever for people to discover niche brands and explore new options from the comfort of their home.

A new chapter in storytelling The future of the spirits industry will continue to evolve, with sustainability playing an even bigger role as more brands adopt eco-friendly practices and transparent sourcing. Technology, such as AI and blockchain, will also be key in shaping the industry. Health trends look set to remain, with some brands likely to focus on mindful consumption. The desire for high-end experiences is also here to stay, so we can expect more emphasis on storytelling and personalization from brands. And, as people become more curious about global flavors, interest in spirits from different regions is likely to rise, giving consumers the chance to explore new tastes and traditions.

toward more accessible and personalized consumption. These changes indicate a shift in the direction of more thoughtful and varied drinking habits.

Premiumization a key disruptor The future of the spirits industry is expected to be influenced by several key trends, led by premiumization, with consumers increasingly seeking high-quality, premium products. This trend is driving growth in the market for aged spirits, artisanal brands and small-batch production. We are also seeing a growing interest in new flavors, innovative products and experimental blends, which is pushing up demand for craft spirits, unique infusions and non-traditional ingredients.

Additionally, environmental concerns are prompting many companies to adopt more sustainable practices, from eco-friendly packaging to energy-efficient production methods and the responsible sourcing of ingredients. Demand for lower-alcohol and non-alcoholic alternatives is set to continue rising, while e-commerce and direct-to-consumer models are becoming increasingly important, driven by the convenience of online shopping and the growth of digital marketing.

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PRODUCT ZONE

CHOCOMANIA

CLASSIC CHOCOLATE BROWNIES With winter fast approaching, there couldn’t be a better time to try these popular sweet treats, which are ideal with a warming mug of hot chocolate or cappuccino. This recipe from Chocolate Academy gives the classic brownie we know and love a touch of decadence, making it perfect for the holiday season.

Ingredients Base brownie mix: 208 g butter 82% fat 208 g Callebaut dark chocolate - 811 162 g sugar 162 g dark brown sugar 51 g cocoa powder 115 g all-purpose flour 62 g potato starch 2 g sea salt 231 g whole eggs, at 18- 20°C (64-68°F) Chocolate decoration: 200 g Callebaut dark chocolate – 811 Chocolate shaving decorations: 200 g Callebaut dark chocolate – 811 Assembly: 50 g Callebaut dark chocolate – 811 Preparation For the base brownie mix: Melt the butter and chocolate together in the microwave in 30-second bursts. Mix well using a spatula, until all the chocolate is melted.

Add the dry ingredients and whisk well between each addition.

Then, add the eggs at the end.

Place the batter into a piping bag and pipe into the molds.

Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 12 minutes.

Once baked, place in the freezer for about 30 minutes, until completely cold.

Once cooled, unmold the brownies and place them on a metal tray lined with parchment paper.

Place in the refrigerator and reserve for the assembly.

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For the chocolate decoration: Pour some pre-crystallized chocolate on a guitar sheet and, using an offset spatula, spread it out evenly to obtain a thin layer.

Allow to set for a few minutes until the chocolate no longer sticks to your fingers.

Remove from the guitar sheet and place the chocolate layer on a guitar cutter.

Using a metal scraper, press down the plastic on the the guitar cutter to make lines of 2 cm (0.8 inches).

Place the chocolate sheet on a marble table and, using the guitar cutter’s wires as guidelines and a knife, cut into rectangles of about 12 cm (4.7 inches) long.

Place a guitar sheet on top of the chocolate decorations and place between two metal trays.

Allow to crystallize in the refrigerator for about an hour at 16°C (61°F).

For the chocolate shaving decorations: Pour some pre-crystallized chocolate onto the marble table.

Using a spatula, spread it out evenly to form a thin layer.

Allow to crystallize for a few minutes, until the chocolate is almost solid.

Using a spatula, delicately scrape the chocolate layer and spread the decorations out onto a metal tray lined with a silpat.

Place in the refrigerator for at least an hour at 16°C (61°F).

Assembly: Remove the guitar sheet from the top of the chocolate decorations.

Using a paper cone, add a small dot of chocolate on top of each brownie. Then place a rectangle decoration on top, gently pressing, so that it sticks to the brownie.

Place a second dot of chocolate in the middle of the chocolate bar and add a shaving decoration on top.

EMF Middle East t. +961 9 938732 | info@emf-me.com www.emf-me.com

NEW PRODUCTS

ON THE MARKET A round-up of what’s new and causing a buzz on the region’s hospitality scene.

MAGGI KHALEEJ SEASONING Maggi has launched a Khaleej Seasoning range for professionals. Brimming with rich, authentic Arabian flavors, the range consists of two varieties: Smoked Seasoning and Truffle Seasoning. maggiarabia.com

FROZEN KUNEFE FROM ASI KUNEFELERI

JAREESH CHOCOLATE DEBUTS IN KSA

Known for producing its own kadayif and cheese, Asi Kunefeleri has added frozen kunefe to its list of offerings, which also includes kunefe, soufflé and katmer.

ASI KUNEFELERI asikunefeleri.com

Regional food artist Omar Sartawi has partnered Riyadh-based Diplomat Sweets to create Jareesh chocolate. The chocolate is bespoke, handcrafted and features cracked wheat from Qassim.

JAREESH CHOCOLATE diplomatsweets.com omar_sartawi

HOBART LAUNCHES CHEF’S COMBI The Chef’s Combi from Hobart offers efficient steaming, broiling, roasting and more, while maintaining low water and energy consumption. Available in gas or electric options.

HOBART hobart-export.com/yes-we-cook

AMBIANCE BY TALATA DEBUTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST Founded in Ghana, Ambiance by Talata recently opened its first store in the Middle East at Dubai Ladies Club, offering scents inspired by Africa’s heritage.

AMBIANCE BY TALATA ambiancebytalata.com

THE DALMORE’S CASK CURATION SERIES The Dalmore has launched The Cask Curation Series, culminating in a collection that showcases sets of three aged whiskies.

Debut editions will be unveiled in MENA. THE DALMORE thedalmore.com

RUBICON BRINGS SPRING RANGE TO MENA Rubicon Exotic Drinks’ Spring range is now available in MENA. The range features five sparkling spring waters, with an exotic, fruitjuice combo twist.

RUBICON EXOTIC DRINKS rubiconexotic.ca

LA MAISON ANI AND LA PETITE ANI BEVERAGE PARTNERSHIPS La Maison Ani and La Petite Ani have introduced organic beverages to their menus in partnership with local brands Shams Soda and Saba Kombucha respectively.

LA MAISON ANI AND LA PETITE ANI amaisonanibychefizu.com lapetiteanibychefizu.com

IZPRESSO FROM IZHIMAN’S COFFEE Offering an exceptional blend and overseen by a team of certified experts, Izpresso combines the rich heritage of Izhiman’s Coffee with the intense flavors of espresso.

IZHIMAN COFFEE izhimanscoffee.com

NEW BEVERAGE SOLUTIONS FROM DAVINCI GOURMET DaVinci Gourmet has introduced several new products to enhance beverages this season. New creations include matcha sauce and condensed milk, alongside Caribbean and ‘toffenut’ syrups. apmea.davincigourmet.com NOV 2024-JAN 2025 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME

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