A new chapter in the region’s growth story
Strategic master plans and reforms point to a growing appetite for hospitality investment and development across the GCC, bringing opportunities to benefit from attractive returns and contribute to the growth and diversification of regional economies. f, president, HVS Middle East, Africa and South Asia, maps out the openings and challenges, and crunches the numbers.
Why budget lifestyle hotels are breaking the mold
With travelers seeking out better lodging experiences and affordable deals, cheap, chic offerings are proving to be the new industry disruptors, as Nada Alameddine, managing partner at Hodema Consulting Services, explains.
Data: today’s essential tool of navigation
Abdul Kader Saadi, founder and managing director of Eighty6 Shop, explains why building a data-led organization is crucial for success in an ever-evolving business environment.
Trials and tribulations of the Lebanese arak market
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.
How to work with Influencers
In today’s landscape, one of the most effective ways to elevate your brand and reach your audience is by working with influencers. Influencers have become key opinion leaders, with the power to influence their followers through the content they share, including their favorite restaurants, products and experiences. For the hospitality sector, tapping into this influential network can be a game-changer, offering unique opportunities to connect with potential customers and increase brand visibility, according to Zena Hamdan, founder and CEO of Against All Odds. Here, she tells us more.
Emerging trends in the Middle East beer market
Shambhu Nath Jha, associate vice president of Fact.MR, helps companies envision the future and understand the evolving business landscape. In this article, he explores the beer market in the Middle East and the trends that are shaping its future.
Green waves: plant-based seafood on the rise
The plant-based seafood market is experiencing significant growth, driven by various factors, such as the rising popularity of veganism, environmental concerns, health considerations and animal welfare issues. With almost a decade of experience in the new food business, Vera Oswald of Vegconomist tells us more.
Levantine cuisine fab or fad by Michelin Starred chef Greg Malouf
Michelin-starred chef Greg Malouf, recognized as the master of modern Middle Eastern food and co-author of several internationally acclaimed cookbooks, tackles the question of how Levantine cooking has pushed the boundaries to become an iconic cuisine.
Pulse check Egypt
As the Ukraine war is dragging on into another year, so are the economic troubles of Egypt, highly dependent on imports of wheat and all types of non-food commodities. The Egyptian treasury market was also badly hit, as investors withdrew billions of dollars. The Central Bank could not prevent inflation from reaching an annual surge of 33.9 percent in March, with the Egyptian pound plunging to unprecedented levels. Nada Alameddine, managing partner at Hodema Consulting Services, explains the country’s current state and forecasts its future.
Growing with the Middle East
With regional tourism in the midst of a robust rebound, the timing is ideal for businesses across the industry to put their own expansion plans into practice. It’s all about seizing the moment, according to Naim Maadad, chief executive and founder, Gates Hospitality.