Goal to nurture homegrown culinary talent
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has launched The Emirati Chef’s Table, a new sector-specific mentorship initiative delivered in partnership with Kitopi, one of the largest regional F&B players, focused on homegrown brands.
The initiative reflects Dubai’s commitment to advancing the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to become the fastest-growing and most attractive business hub for SMEs and local champions, by empowering Emirati entrepreneurs, supporting their businesses’ growth and sustainability, and developing talent in the food and beverage sector, according to a press statement.
Five Emirati F&B entrepreneurs, part of the inaugural cohort of The Emirati Chef’s Table programme, will benefit from expert mentorship and guidance provided by a group of specialists and professionals, equipping them with the needed skills and networking opportunities to grow their businesses.
Human capital
“Human capital is a key driving force behind the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and The Emirati Chef’s This is about creating pathways for national talent to thrive, and ensuring they have the support and exposure required to contribute to the ongoing growth of Dubai’s food and beverage sector,” commented Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO, Dubai SME.
“Through this first-of-its-kind partnership with Dubai SME, we’re empowering Emirati founders with the scale, expertise, and technology to grow distinctive homegrown brands that can compete regionally and globally—while staying true to their roots,” stated Mohamad Ballout, Co-founder & CEO, Kitopi.
The programme will run in three phases, beginning with a two-month campaign, followed by pop-ups and activations, including a showcase around the time of UAE’s Eid Al Etihad celebrations, and the launch of a second season – with a new cohort of Emirati chefs – in early 2026, the press communication concluded.
