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Partners
Proud and Grateful
These are the words that keep coming back to me as I think about the Emirates Salon Culinaire 2025. Proud that we were once again able to put on this incredible event. Kudos to every chef who participated. Grateful to every judge who gave their time and expertise and every marshal who helped behind the scenes. And most of
all, thankful to all the supporters of the Guild, our partners, the industry, and this community for their presence throughout the three days and the awards ceremony of Expo Culinaire 2025.
Over three exciting days, we witnessed something special. Chefs from all backgrounds, skill levels, and corners of the region came together to compete, learn, share, and to push each other to be better. This year’s competition was larger than we imagined. And yes, we are already looking ahead to 2026 with even more excitement.
Our cover story this month features a chef who never attended a formal hospitality school. Instead, he had something more powerful in the form of hands-on training experiences, a hunger to learn, and a mindset that never let him stop moving forward. He continues to chase knowledge to this day.
There is no single path to success. Your journey may look different. Perhaps you are still taking your first few steps. But if you continue learning, keep showing up, and hold on to the love for what you do, you are already on the right track.
As chefs, we carry more than the hat. We carry our values into every plate we serve.
This issue is filled with stories like his, so do not miss the chance to read them.
We invite you to visit issuu.com/ gulfgourmetmagazine to explore past issues and emiratesculinaryguild.net to stay updated on events and news. If you have not already, follow us on social media to see what chefs around the world are creating and perhaps connect with someone who inspires you.
Take a moment to explore the company profiles of our corporate members. Also, do look at the Friends of the Guild pages to see all of our amazing supporters. These are the people and companies that help us keep the spotlight where it belongs: on chefs.
A heartfelt thank you to all our advertisers and partners. Your support enables us to focus on the culinary arts while staying ahead of trends and innovations.
As always, if there is something you would like to see in a future issue, send us an email. Let us know what matters to you, what stories you want to be told, and what lessons you have learned along the way.
If you have any questions about the events, please reach out to us at emiratesculinaryguild@gmail.com.
Thank you for being part of this community. Let us continue to learn and improve, even in the face of setbacks. Listen to that inner voice that says, 'Just try one more time,' and keep raising the bar together.
Culinary Regards,
Alan Orreal
