From AI to IoT, to big data and robotics, Saudi Arabia’s hotel and hospitality sector is staying ahead of the curve by investing in new technology to optimise their revenue, guest-experiences and operational efficiency.

Saudi’s tourism drive to see rise in adoption of new technology in hospitality.

According to Nadeem Zaman, Chief Strategy and Transformation Advisor for the Minister of Investment in Saudi Arabia, the country’s efforts to boost tourism will see a rise in the adoption of cutting-edge technologies.

“As the industry looks to differentiate itself, the fourth industrial revolution – and in particular – AI and IoT are looking to make their impact. Expect to see enhanced guest experiences through personalised services, streamlined operations and efficient energy management solutions,” he said.

Tackling themes around digital solutions, AI, IoT and big data is the Hotel & Hospitality Expo and its three-day conference, the Hospitality Leaders’ Summit, which takes place at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Centre from the 10^th – 12^th September. Co-located with Index Saudi Arabia and the Lighting Design & Technology Expo, the show will connect manufacturers and suppliers in the hotel and hospitality industry with buyers in the Kingdom, all while showcasing the latest technological advancements disrupting the country’s hotel sector.

Zaman will be one of the speakers at this year’s Hospitality Leaders’ Summit, where he and industry experts will discuss how the hotel sector in the Kingdom will leverage big data, AI and IoTs to maximise revenue and energy efficiency.

AI to improve the overall guest experience.

According to Manit Narang, Vice President, India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey, Hospitality, at ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions, one of the exhibitors at this year’s Hotel & Hospitality Expo, both AI and IoT technologies represent game changers in hotels’ abilities to meet guest demands for faster, more convenient and personalised services.

“We are already seeing several industry businesses adopt solutions such as AI-based chatbots, IoT-enabled motion sensors and lights. These adoption trends are sure to continue increasing at faster paces as both technologies continue to improve and as more solutions become available,” he said.

Zaman agrees. He believes the future of the hotel and hospitality landscape in the country lies with the rapid adoption of new technological solutions, some of which can be seen in the industry today. From smart room controls, voice-activated assistance like Amazon Echo or Google Home, Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality to provide guests with a more immersive experience before arrival, and robotic concierge.

“Robots are expected to become more commonplace. The UK’s YOTEL Hotel is expected to open its doors in Oxagon NEOM in 2025 and will feature robotic concierge, motorised smart beds, and a plethora of other high-tech options,” he added.

Leveraging big data and IoTs to maximise revenue & energy efficiency.

Nimirta H Lulla, Vice President of Operations, Middle East and Africa at FutureLog Middle East FZ LLC, one of the exhibitors at this year’s Expo, believes that the growth of Saudi Arabia’s hospitality industry signals a massive opportunity and appetite for sustainable technological solutions.

“Since sustainability is a key trend in the hospitality industry, it’s the perfect opportunity to make eco-conscious decisions in the construction and design of new properties, with IoT playing a huge role in the management and monitoring of water and energy consumption, and smart technology instrumental in optimising in-room guest preferences for lighting and climate control,” she said.

Lulla also noted that optimisation of spend will continue to be a key driver of technology in the Kingdom, and opportunities for cost-saving will remain a key focus when evaluating investments in tech solutions.

This year’s Hospitality Leaders’ Summit will feature the industry’s foremost experts who will discuss the industry’s major trends and reveal what’s on the horizon in the Kingdom’s hotel sector. Speakers include Tom Stevens, Vice President, Operations Rotana Hotel Management Cooperation, Imran Changezi, Senior Director, Hospitality Development, Diryah Gate Company and Waleed Fawzy, General Manager, Saudi Arabia Arena.

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UNOX MENA, the leading combi-oven manufacturer, is proud to announce its expansion into Qatar with the launch of a state-of-the-art demo kitchen. The new demo kitchen officially opened in Doha on the 11th of July, 2023, in collaboration with The Cooking Academy. This step marks an exciting milestone in UNOX’s journey to revolutionize the culinary industry.

The dedicated demo space provides chefs in the region with an exceptional platform to host cooking demonstrations and put UNOX ovens to the test. This new launch showcases the brand’s commitment to delivering superior performance and innovative solutions. Additionally, students of The Cooking Academy will have the opportunity to incorporate the latest technologies into their sessions, further enhancing their culinary education and preparing them for the industry’s evolving demands. The collaborative approach ensures that professionals and aspiring chefs can benefit from the advanced functionality and performance of UNOX ovens.

“The launch of our demo kitchen in Doha represents a significant step forward for UNOX as we expand our presence further into the Middle East,” said Matt Roberts, Managing Director of UNOX. “We are thrilled to bring our cutting-edge cooking technology and expertise to Qatar, enabling chefs to explore the possibilities of data-driven cooking. This new venture further solidifies our commitment to customer satisfaction and positions us as a leading provider of top regional training and support.”

From charcoal and fire to modern stoves and burners, and now the revolutionary combi ovens. The Cooking Academy Kitchen celebrates the integration of advanced technologies that have reshaped kitchens worldwide, making them indispensable in every culinary establishment. Founder of The Cooking Academy, Mohamed Abdulmalik Al-Hammadi, said “Together, we create a space that thrives on collaboration, trust, and continuous innovation. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Unox for fostering this trust, starting with Rabah, and for their unwavering support throughout our journey. Corporate Chef Giacomo and Area Country Manager James Russell’s exceptional demonstration of this groundbreaking technology has shown us its incredible potential. To all the talented chefs who contributed their efforts, your dedication to excellence makes our kitchen truly remarkable.”

Rabah Hamzah, the Marketing Development Specialist of UNOX Qatar, is at the forefront of this expansion. Since joining the UNOX Qatar team in December 2022, Rabah has played a pivotal role in ensuring the effective marketing and sales of UNOX’s products and services in the region. His leadership skills and extensive experience have been instrumental in building strong customer relationships and providing exceptional after-sales support and training.

UNOX’s expansion into Qatar represents a significant regional investment, solidifying the brand’s position as the first oven manufacturer in the Middle East. With the upcoming Dubai Experience Center and the new office in Riyadh, UNOX continues to spearhead advancements in the culinary industry. These are all driven by a unified vision of data-driven cooking, top training, and sustainability. As anticipation builds for the opening of the Dubai Experience Center by Q4 2023, UNOX invites industry professionals and culinary enthusiasts to witness the future of cooking firsthand. The center will serve as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and inspiration, establishing UNOX as a pioneering force in the Middle East market.

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During the meeting with Agthia and Al Foah’s leadership, the delegation interacted with Mubarak Al Mansoori, President – Snacking & Government Relations, and discussed ways to expand collaboration, commercial ties, and trade, as well as Al Foah’s pivotal role in promoting dates and their ingredients as a superfood in the region. The populous nation is the world’s fifth-largest country and home to more than 200 million people. It is also a key market in Al Foah’s new market entry strategy, alongside the US, Japan, and other countries. Al Foah’s products are currently present in more than 1000 stores across Brazil and achieved a tenfold increase in its exports to the country since 2021.

Carlos Fávaro, Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply in Brazil, said, “Brazil is the business and cultural gateway to South America, is an important trade partner for the UAE and Agthia. Today’s meeting with the Agthia and Al Foah team underscores the growing trade relationship between our two great nations, which has reached new heights in the past years”.

Mubarak Al Mansoori, President – Snacking & Government Relations, Agthia, said, “The accelerated expansion of Agthia Group’s exports to Brazil, particularly Al Foah dates, reflects our close relationship. Our partnership with the Brazilian government extends beyond commercial relations, as we cooperate to transfer Al Foah’s expertise in the dates processing industry. We look forward to collaborating closely with Brazilian experts and forging a mutually beneficial strategic alliance.”

Al Foah serves a network of more than 24,000 date farmers across the UAE, bringing knowledge, technology, and support to nurture high-quality crops. The company produces between 120,000 to 130,000 metric tonnes of dates per year, with approximately 90% of its production exported to over 48 countries worldwide.

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Rixos Hotels UAE is proud to announce that it has been awarded the esteemed certification by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), making it the first hotel brand in the region to attain such prestigious recognition. This achievement underscores Rixos Hotels Gulf’s commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism practices, aligning seamlessly with the UAE’s initiative to declare 2023 as the “Year of Sustainability.”

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With the convenience, speed, and accessibility offered by these platforms and over 100 stores nationwide, customers are invited to discover and enjoy Switch Foods’ diverse range of 100% clean-label, healthy, and nutritious meat alternatives. These products are meticulously crafted to be GMO-free, soy-free, allergen-free, gluten-free, vegan, and halal-certified, ensuring a guilt-free and flavourful experience for all.

Edward Hamod, Switch Foods’ Founder & CEO, highlighted the commendable efforts of retailers and online platforms in supporting locally produced & sustainable foods. He said, “It has been a true pleasure to witness the excitement and willingness of the leadership and management of prominent retailers and online platforms across the UAE to support locally produced and sustainable foods like the ones we produce at Switch Foods.”

“I was pleasantly surprised by the drive of these retailers to accept, taste, evaluate, and list our products at such a rapid speed. It demonstrates their commitment to the ambitious sustainability targets set by their companies and their recognition of the importance of locally produced food in reducing the region’s carbon footprint,” added Hamod.

Each of Switch Food’s products stands as a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to quality and culinary excellence. From the succulent Kabab and aromatic Kafta to the savoury Soujuk, luscious Minced Meat, and mouthwatering Burger Patties, consumers can browse from a selection priced from 18.75 AED/pack. Providing a wholesome alternative to conventional meat products without compromising on taste, Switch Foods’ variety highlights the company’s commitment to preserving and celebrating regional culinary traditions.

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Syrve MENA

Based on comprehensive data collected from over 1,300+ restaurants and cafes across the UAE, Syrve’s MENA research showcases the reliance on these digital solutions among Emirati food and beverage venues. The top 5 tech solutions identified by Syrve MENA’s study include:

1. API integration with third-party platforms – 89%
2. Waiters’ mobile terminals for quick order taking – 40%
3. Web and mobile dashboard – Online Reports for Restaurants – 27%
4. Face and finger ID – attendance log and dangerous operation control – 9%
5. Call Center – centralized order taking and registration – 7%

“The UAE is dominating in the Middle East food tech and POS software market due to surging growth of hospitality and food and beverage industry, increasing focus toward the tourism. The evolving market is creating a growing interest in innovative technological solutions and digital transformation and the need for effective management of restaurant operations by using advanced technologies. I believe that these cutting-edge tech solutions will be able to speed up the UAE food industry development opening new possibilities for the restaurateurs,”

— Alexander Ponomarev, Syrve MENA CEO commented.

API integration with third-party platforms emerges as the most useful tech tool for UAE restaurateurs (chosen by 90% of study participants), allowing them to tap into e-commerce support partners, and connect with leading delivery services and aggregators. Waiter mobile ordering apps have emerged as one of the most favoured digital tools for the UAE restaurant market (40%) enhancing service speed and communication between staff and customers. Dashboard web-mobile apps (used by 27%) with online reports provide real-time analytics and monitoring for restaurant owners on their smartphones. Face and Finger ID systems (9%) are in demand for their secure streamlined authentication using biometric data saving restaurants from fraud. Internal call centre systems (utilized by 7% of restaurateurs) enhance customer service with centralized order-taking and registration, customer data storage, order monitoring, and quality control.

According to State of Restaurant Tech Report data, 75% of food operators are willing to adopt new technology in the next year (among fine-dining restaurants, that number rises to 85%). Moreover, a staggering 71% of restaurants have expressed their intention to boost technology spending in 2023, demonstrating a clear and growing demand for contemporary restaurant technology solutions. On the global level, the Point-of-Sale Software market size is expected to reach $20 billion by 2028, rising at a market growth of 10.6% CAGR during the forecast period, according to KBV Research. Restaurants, cafes, and other businesses are driven to seek new tech solutions and cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) software to manage cashless transactions, monitor sales and inventory data, and enhance sales strategy using analytics.

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With around USD 110 billion pegged for the hospitality industry and a further 310,000 hotel rooms in the pipeline, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is undergoing a transformative boom as it aggressively looks to lead the global travel and hospitality industry.  

Over the last few years, as part of its social and economic blueprint Vision 2030, the Kingdom has made significant strides in its hospitality industry with the government looking to attract 100 million visitors per year within the next decade, investing billions in hotel construction and infrastructure, and building brand new sustainable cities along its coasts and deserts while attracting a swathe of foreign investment. Today, the country leads the Middle East and African region and is behind only China and the US in the global hotel construction market. 

Looking to put the spotlight on the Kingdom’s multi-billion-dollar hospitality plans, and highlight game-changing trends is the Hotel & Hospitality Expo, brought to you by The Hotel Show, which takes place at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Centre from the 10th -12th September. With organisers rebranding The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia to the Hotel & Hospitality Expo to better reflect the current trends and landscape of the hospitality industry, the show will remain the leading event for all things related to the hospitality sector in the Kingdom. 

“To better focus and grow our attention in the hotel and hospitality industry, The Hotel Show Saudi Arabia has undergone a rebrand,” said Elaine O’Connell, Vice President Design and Hospitality of dmg events, which organises the Hotel & Hospitality Expo. “We’ve modernised the event to reflect the latest trends in the industry, and we’re confident that this fresh approach will make it an even more engaging and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. The rebrand also means that there is increased visibility and access to a highly engaged and relevant audience, which we believe will help our stakeholders and exhibitors grow their business and establish new partnerships.”

Co-located with INDEX Saudi Arabia and the Lighting Design & Technology Expo, the show connects manufacturers and suppliers in the hotel and hospitality industry with buyers in the Kingdom.

Revealing the headlining themes in the hospitality industry this year was the show’s advisory board which brought together the Kingdom’s foremost hospitality experts to discuss current market dynamics and trends, identify the industry’s challenges and solutions, and map out the future of the hotel and hospitality landscape in the country. The findings revealed that sustainability, Saudi tourism, supply chain and logistics,  developing funding and financing, cultivating skills and honing talent, and looking at how big brands can support and drive the local economy, are among the major trends in the hotel and hospitality industry in Saudi Arabia in 2023. 

Advisory board members comprised Saudi Arabia’s notable hospitality experts including: Richard Adam, Director Destination Strategy & Commercial Development AFI, NEOM; Tom Stevens, Vice President Operations, Rotana Hotel Management Corporation; Imran Changezi Senior Director Hospitality Development, Diryah Gate Company; Nadeem Zaman, Chief Advisor to the Minister, Ministry of Investment, Saudi Arabia; Saeed Albially, Vice President Development, Knowledge Economic City; Alessandro Maria Tedesco, Chief Operating Officer, Febc Group; Rabih Feghali, Senior Director Hospitality, Red Sea Global, Amit Nayak, Vice President, Hospitality Asset Managers Association, HAMA; Dr Ayman Alwaleedi, Project Development – Executive Director, Rua Al Madinah Holding Company; Jean-Baptiste Recher, Regional Vice President Development Luxury Brands MEAT, Accor.

The findings will be used to shape the agenda of the Hospitality Leaders’ Summit, which will be held over three days at the Hotel & Hospitality Expo. The Summit will feature government and private sector experts from across the Middle East and Saudi Arabia who will explore the current hospitality industry and offer insight into the industry’s future through presentations, panel discussions, and keynote addresses.

According to real estate consultant Knight Frank, there are currently 129,000 hotel and serviced apartment rooms in Saudi Arabia but predictions over the next seven years sees the figure jump to 212,000 rooms. 

“We’re seeing an increased demand in the hospitality sector in Saudi Arabia and it is creating immense opportunities for investment and global partnerships in key cities in the country,” added O’Connell. “At this year’s Expo, we want to highlight the opportunities available out there, look at solutions to any challenges, reveal what the future of the industry will look like and move the needle forward in the hospitality industry.”

Other features at this year’s Expo includes the popular 5th edition of the Chefs’ Mystery Box Challenge, which sees 8-12 teams from the region’s leading hotels and restaurants go head-to-head in a culinary battle as they create a three-course meal from a mystery ingredients box. The competition will be headed by Chef Yasser, President and Founder of Saudi Arabian Chefs Association and dmg Events and will feature a selection of judges who will score teams based on presentation and taste. 

Also, on the cards this year is the Saudi Hospitality Talent Awards, which recognises the skill, talent and sheer brilliance of hardworking individuals from Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector. From categories like Restaurateur of the Year, Housekeeping Star, and Front off the House, the awards provide an opportunity to honour Saudi nationals from the hospitality industry. 

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Step into the world of 2040, where technological evolutions are reshaping the landscape of food delivery and dining experiences. From desktop to dining table, bench to beach, Deliveroo presents the SNACK TO THE FUTURE report, bringing together leading futurists and experts from the worlds of food, science, technology and innovation to offer a forward-looking glimpse into the forthcoming culinary revolution. 

The UAE’s vibrant F&B scene stands at the forefront of embracing technological innovations, spearheading remarkable transformation within the industry. Embracing the potential of technology, the UAE has been quick to adopt cutting-edge solutions to enhance customer experiences and streamline operations. 

Led by Deliveroo’s global team, and drawing upon the expertise of notable figures such as Georgie Barrat (Technology Journalist and TV Presenter on The Gadget Show) and Tom Cheesewright (applied Futurist), the Deliveroo-powered SNACK TO THE FUTURE report unveils groundbreaking predictions and remarkable technological advancements anticipated by 2040. These transformative developments are poised to revolutionise the way consumers savour their meals, transcending physical boundaries and redefining the very essence of dining itself. Key predictions and technological advancements that are set to rock consumers’ world by 2040 include: 

• BREATH-PRINTS: Expect personal tech devices to be enabled with BreathTech, meaning you can breathe on your device and get a deep level of insight into what foods you should be eating to have optimal impact on your individual health and wellbeing

• ME-GANSIM: Move over Keto, the predicted next big thing in dieting and set to be the mainstream diet of the future, is the Me-gan diet (Me-ganism); a hyper-personalised diet, powered by AI technology, which is fully bespoke to people’s individual mental, physical social, and environmental needs and goals. By 2040, people will live with certain technologies designed to combine information and receive personalised diet recommendations 

• PERSONAL AIs: A personal AI is a digital representation of an individual’s mind, constantly acquiring knowledge and insights from their personal experiences. Underpinning the Me-gan diet and lifestyle, AI technology will offer you your own personal AI (a lifelong AI buddy) which will help automate and tailor what you are eating based on preferences and needs at any given time. By 2040, it is anticipated that individuals will increasingly seek personalised insights into the development of their own body and mind throughout life. A personal AI will serve as a means to access such valuable information 

• CHALLENGED SENSES: Food that makes you feel… food delivery services will be using additional digital audio and visual content to elevate the meal enjoyment experience, so much so that it could take food pleasure to the next level by challenging customers senses

• EDIBLE BEAUTY: Get ready to see the food and beauty industry become more integrated than ever with a rise in edible beauty products like anti-ageing ice cream and the chance to dine from hormone-balancing and dopamine-driving menus

• 3D PRINTED MEAL PLANS: From packed lunches to printed lunches, the progress in 3D food printing could empower individuals to personalise the shape, density, appearance, and texture of their food according to their preferences. Consequently, we can bid farewell to the food not looking or tasting the way we want it to 

• VR DINNER PARTIES: Dine with celebrities, and royals, or recreate food moments from famous movies thanks to VR technology, which will simulate dining experiences from the comfort of your home – think: enjoying a delightful breakfast at Tiffany’s, while you’re tucking into a bacon sandwich on the sofa

• FAREWELL FUSSY EATERS: Thanks to VR and AR technology, your brains could be tricked into thinking you are eating something you are not, for example, if you are a fussy eater who doesn’t want to eat vegetables, you could put on smart glasses and think you are eating chocolate or sweets

• RESTORATIVE RESTAURANTS: New restaurant concepts will remove outside world distractions, with personal tech devices banned at entry and a rise in the popularity of silent cafés and restaurants, ONLY offering tables for one to encourage mindful eating

• PASS THE AMARANTH: Whole grain staples, such as corn or maize, are about to look very different with alternatives such as amaranth, fonio, sorghum, teff, khorasan, einkorn and emmer,  all likely to be mainstream in 2040
• ALT-OHOL: As the consumers increasingly seeks alcohol alternatives, we can expect to see a rise in popularity of ‘wine’ cordials that mimic the taste and flavour profile of real wine, without the negatives

QUOTE FROM WILL SHU, FOUNDER AND CEO OF DELIVEROO:

“I started Deliveroo in 2013 with a mission to connect people to the best quality food from local restaurants and deliver it directly to people’s doors. It has been an incredible ride over the past ten years and I am really proud of what we have built. As we look towards the next decade and beyond, Deliveroo will continue to create exciting new innovations in food delivery, build new and better consumer experiences and take Deliveroo beyond functionality and convenience to really capture the passion and emotion of food.”

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Thousands of international brands from 43 countries will be represented in the sold-out exhibition, which extends across 20,000 sqm of exhibition space at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre. For key players such as Pepsico, Americana, Al Jameel, Lactalis, GulfWest, Seara Foods, IFFCO, NADEC and hundreds more, as well as country pavilions USA, UK, India, Singapore, Italy, Jordan and Australia, the show will be an unrivalled platform to launch new products, services and technologies into the Saudi market.

At the heart of the show, the Saudi Food Summit will be a unique chance for participants to gain insights into market trends, uncover business opportunities and find out how to access the most dynamic market in the Middle East. On the opening day, 20 June, a panel including Ali Alomeir, VP Business Development, MODON – and Prince Waleed bin Nasser Al-Saud, CEO of Mukatafa, will give an overview of the welcoming business environment in Saudi Arabia, and tips for F&B market entrants to the Kingdom.

Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International and organiser of The Saudi Food Show, commented: “Vision 2030 seeks to create a dynamic trading hub for the Saudi Arabian F&B sector, and the significant socio-economic benefits arising from the F&B and hospitality sectors have been well recognised by the Saudi government, which has brought the industry to the fore, making great strides in laying the groundwork for investment in the sector. The Saudi Food Show will be a significant catalyst for these efforts, growing the economic impact of F&B and hospitality further and faster on the local, regional and international stages.”

Matt Denton, President of co-organiser dmg events added, ‘This inaugural Saudi Food Show is the first activation in our exciting plans to support the development of the F&B and Hospitality sector in the Kingdom. Over the next three days we will be finalising and sharing details of a full calendar of associated events addressing key aspects and sectors designed to help drive this impressive growth. From food manufacturing and food tech to franchise, hotels and hospitality, this Saudi Food Show, packed full of inspiring content and features, is the nucleus of a portfolio of dedicated events scheduled for the coming 12 months.”

Further summit sessions will address some of the most urgent challenges facing the F&B sector in Saudi Arabia and the wider region – food security, sovereignty and sustainability; and mitigating uncertainty and volatility around supply chain and costs. The opening day will also feature speakers including Ryan Lefers, Co-Founder & CEO of RedSea and Bobby Rajendran, CEO of Tamimi Markets, and the day concluding with a visionary keynote from H.E. Bandar Ibrahim Alkhorayef, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Government of Saudi Arabia.

The ministerial panel on day two, featuring H.E. Bandar bin Ibrahim Al-Khorayef, Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources and H.E. Abdulrahman Al-Fadhli, Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, will be a chance to gain insights into the F&B policy and regulatory framework in Saudi Arabia. The restaurant dining scene in Saudi Arabia will spark discussions on the final day of the Summit, with sessions looking at the regional and international brands seeking to enter – and expand in – the Kingdom.

Top Table Saudi

Top Table, sponsored by multinational food company, GoodyCo, will give visitors the opportunity to experience the latest dishes and techniques gaining popularity in the Kingdom, from an array of celebrated international and regional chefs, via over 40 masterclasses. The line-up of chefs is a crosssection of international and regional, established names and rising stars, and male and female, all of whom are working on the cutting edge of cuisine. It includes 2 Michelin-starred chef Paco Morales – one of Spain’s most progressive young avant-garde culinary masters; Albert Adrià, current head chef of Michelin one-star restaurant Enigma in Barcelona, and former head pastry chef of famed elBulli; Lebanese chef and entrepreneur Maroun Chedid; and Ian Pengelley from Myazu, twice winner of MENA’s Best 50. Furthermore, Chef Pierligui from Signor Sassi, an up-and-coming young chef with more than 1.3M followers on social media, and Saudi chef Rayan Alayesh, from Kayzo by Myazo.

Across the three days, Middle East food and lifestyle TV channel Fatafeat will bring 4 female chefs to present masterclasses – chefs Chahrazad Al Hajjar, Salma Soleiman, Sumaya Obaid, and Afnan Al Jaadi.

“At Fatafeat, we’ve always striven to champion the diversity of Middle Eastern cuisines and talented chefs, which resonated with millions of families in the region. As Saudi Arabia’s culinary culture has always been, and continue to be a big part of our programs, we are excited to partake in the Saudi Food Show in celebration of the Kingdom’s rising food economy. During the event’s Top Table segment, our star-studded line-up of celebrity chefs will do a kitchen takeover and perform cooking demonstrations live off-screen,” commented Grigory Lavrov, Head of Fatafeat at Warner Bros. Discovery.

YouthX Saudi

At the inaugural YouthX Saudi, young talent from the Kingdom’s leading hotel chains – including the Ritz Carlton Riyadh, Grand Hyatt Al Khobar, JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh, and Four Seasons Riyadh – will compete against each other in the Young Chef Challenge, to present a three-course menu in 25 minutes. The themes will be sustainability and zero waste, and menus will be judged on vision and industry acumen, alignment with the themes, presentation and taste. The winning team will not only scoop a cash prize, but also win a place in the international finals set to take place at Gulfood 2024. Judging the competition is media personality, celebrity chef and host of the hugely successful ‘World Café’, Bobby Chin.

The inaugural Saudi Food Show is affiliated with Gulfood, the world’s largest, go-to event brand trusted by the global F&B industry. Over almost three decades, Gulfood has cultivated the credibility, loyalty, recognition, and support of the global food and beverage sector, through an unwavering commitment to delivering real global business outcomes and valuable trade deals for participants. The Saudi Food Show draws upon this legacy and powerful international foundation.

The Saudi Food Show is strictly is strictly for trade and business professionals only.

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Set to be a game changer for the industry, SpotQuest, a Singapore-based company, has built a platform that is revolutionary in its ability to provide food and beverage professionals, including operators, developers, and investors, with an in-depth assessment of millions of data points that takes the guess work out of selecting and managing restaurant locations as well as fully automating the process of menu pricing comparison with intelligence insights.

Founded by hospitality leader Hannes Bos, and tech innovator Sachin Chauhan,

the platform provides access to the world’s largest location intelligence data with actionable insights at the click of a button. It sources data from datapoints globally as well as at micro-neighbourhood level, curating the data which holds only the filtered 1%  gold data relevant to that specific Hotel or Restaurant location.

Customized map embedding, spot selection, location quests, area visualization, competitor analysis, destination analysis & more are available in a detailed, customised Location Intelligence Report within a few clicks.

SpotQuest F&B Menus was created after identifying a gap in the way restaurant operators determined the prices of their food & beverage menus. As they don’t have access to all their competitors’ pricing tactics, in many cases they follow a simple cost + % margin approach, and only take into consideration limited market data.

With the fast arrival of ChatGPT, the founders of SpotQuest saw an opportunity to utilise the millions of micro-location datapoints behind their SpotQuest location intelligence platform, to automate the pricing comparison process for the restaurant industry. With many industries such as airlines and hotels already benefiting from long-established competitive benchmarking solutions, restaurant operators will now also be equipped with fully automated pricing intelligence.

A Cutting Edge partnership

Hannes, SpotQuest CEO and Founder said “We are thrilled to partner with The Cutting Edge Hospitality Agency as distributors of SpotQuest’s revolutionary Location Intelligence and Menu Pricing Comparison AI platform for the restaurant industry in the Middle East.”

With over 25+ years in the hospitality business and an industry leader involved in many high profile and key projects in the Middle East, Duncan Fraser-Smith, Founder of The Cutting Edge Hospitality Agency said “It is a wonderful opportunity to provide access to these innovative cutting-edge products, rich in data driven information, to restaurant owners and developers and enable such a high level of intelligence to inform their decision-making process and ultimate success in their venture!”

“This provides timesaving, cost saving and profit enhancing tools for restaurant operators in location assessment for a new or existing development, determining what concept or cuisine to launch and accurate menu item pricing and benchmarking with competitors.”

SpotQuest is a revolutionary tool for Food and Beverage commercial and development teams, hotel chains, restaurant groups and consultancy firms, supporting and enhancing commercial performance reviews and (re)positioning initiatives, benchmarking, yearly budgeting and business planning.

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