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EDITORIAL

Managing director Joumana Dammous-Salamé

Each of us can contribute, modestly or fully, by sharing our knowledge with those who have no access to education.

Publication manager Randa Dammous-Pharaon Editorial 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.

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

TAPPING INTO THE FLOURISHING KSA MARKET Starting a business in Saudi Arabia presents a unique combination of opportunities and challenges. While the kingdom’s structured legal and regulatory framework offers an ideal environment for potential investors across sectors, meticulous planning and adherence to local regulations are vital for success. Dagmar Symes, CEO of Hill Robinson Estates, shares her insights on navigating a journey with the potential for high rewards. While doing business in Saudi Arabia is certainly achievable, navigating local corporate regulations, obtaining necessary approvals and understanding licensing requirements are crucial for successful business entry. Financial considerations and compliance Financial aspects require due consideration, including tax obligations, intellectual property (IP) rights and conducting thorough due diligence on investments. Preparing a financial roadmap that aligns with Saudi regulations is vital to a smooth entry. Due diligence not only protects the business but also strengthens investor confidence in future operations. A booming market with government support Saudi Arabia’s flourishing market environment provides diverse opportunities across industries. The kingdom’s strategic location connects key regions, enhancing its global business relevance in the Middle East and beyond, while its rich resources and a stable economy attracts investors seeking a promising market environment. The government’s commitment to a business-friendly environment enhances the investment landscape, led by the Ministry of Commerce, which plays a pivotal role in regulating and fostering business growth, ensuring fair competition. A young generation committed to progress Vision 2030 marks a transformative chapter focused on youth empowerment, economic diversity and sustainable development, underscoring the kingdom’s commitment to its younger generation. Prince Mohammed Bin Salman’s words echo the optimism around their potential and ambition. Saudi Arabia’s youth are ambitious, educated and committed to national progress. Generation Z, the largest demographic, is well-prepared to contribute to the country’s transformation. Building local partnerships and respecting values Building partnerships with local businesses and stakeholders creates a network essential for long-term success. By aligning with Saudi culture, businesses can strengthen their market presence. Culturally respectful partnerships foster goodwill, helping companies establish a positive reputation and sustain growth in the Saudi market. Understanding and respecting local customs and both cultural and religious values, is not only courteous but instrumental in establishing trust. This approach fosters meaningful partnerships, helping to ensure the longevity and success of businesses in the kingdom.

Dagmar Symes, CEO of Hill Robinson Estates FEB-APR 2025 | HOSPITALITY NEWS ME

In this issue FEB - APR 2025

HORECA NETWORK 8 10 12 14 16

Record-breaking achievements at HORECA Riyadh Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Riyadh 2024: a sweet success HORECA Kuwait celebrates industry excellence HORECA Lebanon 2025: powered by passion HORECA Jeddah 2025 expands in scale and excellence

SDC Riyadh

Gulfood

Restaurateurs

EVENTS SEEN AND HEARD 18 18

Record-breaking international visitor numbers at SIGEP world 2025 World of Coffee Dubai celebrates fourth edition

WHERE TO BE SEEN 19 19 19

ATM 2025 to explore industry trends, tech shifts and traveler behavior FHS Saudi Arabia returns to Riyadh DWTC to host 30th edition of Gulfood

BUSINESS INTERVIEW 20

Saurabh Tiwari on creating luxury travel for a new era

OPINION 22

Tackling inflation: time to try a different approach

INFLUENCERS 24

8 restaurateurs serve up the dining trends for 2025

TOURISM 34

5 wellness travel and tourism trends to watch in 2025

COUNTRY REPORT 36

Qatar: a transformative gear change for the economy

F&B 38

Catering: rewarding opportunities and high growth potential

TECHNOLOGY 40

How to optimize AI technology in hospitality and event management

TRENDS 42

7 tech trends revolutionizing the restaurant scene

EYE ON 44

Peruvian cuisine: the ultimate fusion fiesta

ARCHITECTURE 46

Outdoor retreats: enchanting harmonious havens

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HOSPITALITY NEWS ME | FEB-APR 2025

Special report: FRANCHISING 49 50 52 54 56 58 62 64

F&B franchising in the MENA: stronger than ever Dare to be different in franchising Franchising in 2025: which are the best bets? Weighing up the options: franchise, management agreement or third-party operator? Negotiating a franchise agreement: a 5-point checklist 5 franchising trends to watch in 2025 8 homegrown franchise concepts with expansion potential 110+ hot concepts to watch

Franchising

Your 9-point checklist for hiring

Meat

SOLUTIONS MANAGEMENT 78

7 tips for tapping into the healthy F&B market

Your 9-point checklist for hiring and holding onto talent

HUMAN RESOURCES

GREEN 81

5 Ways to unlock profitability through sustainability

MARKETING 82

How to unleash the power of advertising, marketing and product claims management

PRODUCT ZONE TECHNOLOGY 84

3 experts on AI’s transformative role in hospitality

4 chefs on why meat is cutting it in 2025

3 specialists on why sparkling water is making a splash

FOOD BEVERAGE

CHOCOMANIA 90

Caramel brownies

New products

ON THE MARKET