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 Borghol Building, 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.
Guillaume Gomez, Personal representative of the President of the French Republic for Food and Gastronomy
FRANCE: A GASTRONOMIC PIONEER GUILLAUME GOMEZ, personal representative of the President of the French Republic for Food and Gastronomy, explains how France is leading the way in global gastronomic diplomacy, while championing the nation’s core values and transmitting cultural heritage through food. In the realm of gastronomy, the adage ‘eating is a political act’ resonates deeply. It underscores the profound impact of food choices on personal wellbeing, economic landscapes and ecological footprints. France champions the consumption of locally sourced, organic produce, encouraging mindful decisions that reflect a commitment to ethical farming practices and environmental stewardship. Beyond restaurants French gastronomy transcends mere dining experiences; it embodies a rich tapestry of culinary craftsmanship and ethical sourcing. From the bustling kitchens of renowned chefs to the artisanal techniques of local producers, France celebrates the intricate balance between taste, tradition and sustainability. Each meal tells a story of meticulous care for ingredients, animal welfare and minimizing food waste. Educating through gastronomy Through acclaimed recipe books and innovative diplomatic endeavors, France shares its culinary legacy with the world. These initiatives not only preserve timehonored recipes, but also promote global awareness of sustainable practices and cultural diversity. Global platforms On the world stage of major sporting events like the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics, France shines a spotlight on its gastronomic prowess. These occasions serve as global showcases for regional specialties, emphasizing the use of locally sourced ingredients, organic farming practices and strategies to minimize plastic waste. Through these efforts, France reaffirms its commitment to culinary excellence and environmental responsibility. Future plans Looking ahead, France aims to expand its culinary influence through educational initiatives and strategic collaborations. By promoting food literacy and sustainable practices, France seeks to address global food security challenges, while maintaining its status as a premier destination for culinary tourism.
Life without good food would undoubtedly be just as poor as life without good art and indeed, culinary arts have earned a rightful place alongside the other arts.
Nouhad Dammous (December 2020) Late editor-in-chief Docteur Honoris Causa
AUG-OCT 2024 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME
3
In this issue AUG - OCT 2024
HORECA NETWORK 8 10 11
HORECA Oman raises the bar once again HORECA Jordan unveils exciting new features for its ninth edition Looking ahead: Saudi HORECA Riyadh
8
HORECA Oman
14
SIAL Paris
20
HE Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi
EVENTS WHERE TO BE SEEN 12 13 14 15 15
New location and new features for Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Dubai Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh on the horizon SIAL Paris to mark 60-year anniversary Future Hospitality Summit World reveals first speakers for 2024 Calendar
NEWS 16
INDUSTRY L'École Valrhona Dubai to open its doors in September 2024
BUSINESS INTERVIEW 20
Putting Ajman on the travel map With HE Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi
22
3 key takeaways for hoteliers eyeing long-term success
OPINION
INFLUENCERS 26
10 hoteliers share their formulas for sustainable success
40 42 44 46 48
52
Regional hotel pipelines: from vision to reality Why third-party operator contracts are gaining traction To refurbish or to build new? How to go the extra green mile in hotel development The future of investments and financing: hospitality sector trends A region ripe for industry investment: experts share their insights MENA’s impressive 40+ hotel project pipeline
60
Designing standout spaces for today’s guests
Special report: NEW PROJECTS
50
ARCHITECTURE TOURISM 62
Why tourism must be for all and not the few
64
Saudi Arabia’s transformation: a new chapter unfolds
MARKET UPDATE
4
HOSPITALITY NEWS ME | AUG-OCT 2024
CONTRACT
Now Open EMU Beirut Store, 108 Allenby Street, Downtown Beirut Tel: +961 1 986 987
emu.it
TECHNOLOGY 66
5 reasons to include TV in your hotel marketing strategy
68
Portugal: a genuine culinary compass
EYE ON TRENDS 72
6 dining-out trends to watch
76 78
Tareq Ziad Taha: an all-star is born How to create a culinary landmark
F&B
SOLUTIONS
38
New projects
82
Why inspiration is the new motivation
96
Classic chocolate madeleine
MANAGEMENT 80
5 top tips for exporting to new markets
81
Pinterest: a marketing tool full of possibilities
82
Why inspiration is the new motivation
83
6 ways to elevate your well-being offering
MARKETING HUMAN RESOURCES GREEN
PRODUCT ZONE TECHNOLOGY 84
Why the online travel booking industry is flying high
FOOD 88
5 experts on why we’re saying ‘Yes please’ to cheese
BEVERAGE 92
In praise of the mighty white stuff
ON THE MARKET 95
New products
CHOCOMANIA 96
Classic Chocolate Madeleine
FOR UP-TO-THE-MINUTE NEWS FROM THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY, VISIT
HOSPITALITYNEWSMAG.COM HospitalityNewsME
@Hospitality_Mag
Hospitality-news-middle-east
Coming issue NOV 2024 - JAN 2025 • Special report Luxury travel • Influencers Nightlife • Equipment Tableware • Food Chocolate • Beverage Spirits
6
HOSPITALITY NEWS ME | AUG-OCT 2024
HOSPITALITY SERVICES delivering valuable business BUSINESS, FOOD & LIFESTYLE EVENTS 18-20 SEP 2024
8-11 apr 2025
TBA
3rd edition
29th Edition
9th Edition
SALON DU CHOCOLAT | DUBAI Salon du Chocolat Dubai is a show dedicated to those passionate about chocolate. Bringing together professional chocolate tasters, chocolatiers and chocolate enthusiasts. salonduchocolatdubai.com
BEIRUT COOKING FESTIVAL
HORECA lebanon
The ultimate culinary event highlighting the country’s top chefs, leading food and beverage brands, artisanal products and the art of living. beirutcookingfestival.com
The business meeting place for the hospitality and foodservice industries.
horecashow.com
21-23 APR 2025
SAUDI HORECA | JEDDAH 3rd Edition
1-3 OCT 2024
HORECA JORDAN 9 Edition th
Bringing together professionals and exhibitors from Jordan and the wider region. horeca-jordan.com
KSA's largest food, beverage and hospitality exhibition. saudihoreca.com/jeddah
Publications & DIGITAL PLATFORMS
27-29 May 2025
HOSPITALITY NEWS MIDDLE EAST
HORECA OMAN 3rd Edition
25-27 NOV 2024
SAUDI HORECA | riyadh 13th Edition
The biggest international food, beverage & hospitality exhibition. saudihoreca.com
Focusing on the latest news, innovations and trends within the region’s hospitality and foodservice sectors. Daily news bulletins on hospitalitynewsmag.com
Bringing hospitality professionals and industry experts together for the only show of its kind in Oman. horecaoman.com
TASTE & FLAVORS
TBA
The ultimate English language food and lifestyle reference, packed with recipes, chefs’ picks, gift ideas, home and gardening tips, and lifestyle advice. Daily updates on tasteandflavors.com
THE GARDEN SHOW & SPRING FESTIval
25-27 NOV 2024
SAlon du chocolat | RIYADH 2nd Edition
The largest event in the world dedicated to chocolate and pastry held concurrently with Saudi Horeca Riyadh. salonduchocolat-ksa.com
17th Edition
An essential destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plants, flowers and ideas to enhance and decorate outdoor spaces. the-gardenshow.com
LEBANON TRAVELER
Lebanon’s key tourism reference, highlighting the country’s best kept urban and rural secrets, top destinations and activities. Daily updates on lebanontraveler.com
TBA
TRAVEL LEBANON
4-6 DEC 2024
whisky live beirut 7th Edition
A must for whisky enthusiasts and connoisseurs, showcasing the finest and rarest whiskies on the market. whiskylivebeirut.com
7th Edition
An annual celebration of Lebanon's magnificent beauty spots, travel destinations and the best summer activities. lebanontraveler.com
INITIATIVES TBA
A social initiative that reinforces Beirut’s global reputation as a center of excellence, talent and creativity.
SALON DU CHOCOLAT | BEIRUT
14-16 JAN 2025
HORECA KUWAIT 13th Edition
Kuwait’s annual hospitality and foodservice event. Horecakuwait.com
6th Edition
Dedicated to chocolate, the salon welcomes the country’s top chocolatiers and hosts the finest chocolate brands and chefs from around the world. salonduchocolatbeirut.com
Celebrating the finest culinary experiences across Beirut.
COntact us ! BEIRUT +961 1 480 081
participate@hospitalityservices.me
hospitalityservices.me
DUBAI +971 0585848018 Hospitality Services
hosp_services