Dubai SME And Kitopi Collaborate To Nurture Homegrown Culinary Talent In Dubai

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME), under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has introduced The Emirati Chef’s Table. This initiative, in collaboration with Kitopi, a major regional food and beverage (F&B) player, aims to support homegrown brands. It aligns with Dubai's ambition to enhance its status as a thriving business hub for SMEs and local entrepreneurs.

Five Emirati F&B entrepreneurs are part of the first group in The Emirati Chef’s Table programme. They will receive expert mentorship and guidance from specialists, helping them acquire essential skills and networking opportunities to expand their businesses. A comprehensive marketing campaign will spotlight each chef's creative journey, from inspiration to culinary creation.

Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of Dubai SME, emphasised the importance of human capital in driving the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. He stated: "Human capital is a key driving force behind the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and The Emirati Chef’s Table reflects our commitment to developing talent in ways that are directly connected to market needs." This initiative aims to provide Emirati chefs with confidence and growth opportunities by sharing their stories and showcasing their skills.

Mohamad Ballout, Co-founder & CEO of Kitopi, highlighted Dubai's emergence as a dynamic food capital. He remarked: "Dubai is fast becoming one of the world’s most dynamic food capitals, and we see it as our mission at Kitopi to help shape that future." Through this partnership with Dubai SME, Kitopi seeks to empower Emirati founders with resources to develop unique homegrown brands that can compete globally while maintaining their cultural roots.

The F&B sector remains a vital component of Dubai’s economy. In Q1 2025, the accommodation and food services sector contributed 4.1% of GDP, amounting to AED4.9 billion. This growth is driven by innovation, entrepreneurship, and increasing global consumer demand. Within Dubai SME, around 12% of members are involved in the F&B industry, highlighting both its strength and the desire among Emiratis to lead its development.

This initiative not only supports individual chefs but also contributes to the broader goal of enhancing Dubai's F&B sector. By nurturing local talent and providing them with necessary tools and exposure, The Emirati Chef’s Table aims to ensure these entrepreneurs can thrive and significantly impact the industry.

With inputs from WAM