Qatar: a transformative gear change for the economy
Building on the success of the 2022 FIFA World Cup and other high-profile international events, Qatar is targeting tourism as major driver of growth in its plans for the economy. Nada Alameddine, managing partner at Hodema Consulting Services takes us through the latest sectoral developments and explains why the future looks bright for this key Gulf state.
Tackling inflation: time to try a different approach
When it comes to finding solutions to challenges caused by inflation, restaurateurs often take the traditional route of either raising menu prices or reducing food costs. However, alternative strategies exist that are well worth exploring, as Bastien Blanc, CEO and board member at TroKadero Hospitality Global, explains.
8 restaurateurs serve up the dining trends for 2025
Dynamic and diverse, the region’s vibrant restaurant scene is expanding at an impressive tempo across both mature and emerging destinations. Eight business leaders share their thoughts on everything industry-related, from promising markets to the tech innovations, sustainability practices and experiential dining trends that restaurateurs cannot afford to ignore.
New horizons in F&B by Richard Cowling, director of Operations, Gates Hospitality
With over a decade of experience in the region, Richard Cowling, director of operations at Gates Hospitality, candidly discusses how the convergence of retail, dining and entertainment is reshaping the F&B landscape and driving transformation.
What lies ahead for Lebanon’s national drink
Arak is rapidly becoming the preferred spirit in bars in Lebanon and abroad. Salim Heleiwa, general manager of The Malt Gallery, explains why this popular drink is facing numerous challenges and what needs to be done to support its growth.
Navigating the grocery market in the UAE
Joe Abi Akl, a partner and the head of Oliver Wyman’s retail and consumer practice for IMEA, and Alexander Poehl, retail and consumer partner, outline the key components of the UAE’s grocery market.
Leadership in the hospitality industry: using five timeless principles
Robeir Sarofeem, sales country manager for Nestlé Professional, believes that great leaders are not defined by their titles or authority but by their experiences and wisdom. In this article, he explores strategies and core principles that drive success and sustainability in the hospitality sector.
The meaning of a five-star coffee in a hotel
Cleia Junqueira, coffee consultant at The Coffee Connoisseur Collective, believes that coffee is more than a drink in luxury hotels; it’s an experience. Here, she outlines the importance of specialty brews and unique coffee environments.
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.
Franchising in 2025: which are the best bets?
Well-established business models and numerous success stories have combined to make hospitality and food and beverage highly popular segments for prospective franchisees. However, in a competitive market, brimming with brands, making the right choice is critical. Nagi Morkos, founder and managing partner at Hodema Consulting Services, considers the key trends and new opportunities emerging this year.