Latest news with #Greek-Mediterranean
Gulf Insider
4 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Amriya Group's Khalid Al Rumaihi: Building Experiences
Khalid Al Rumaihi is the Executive Chairman of Amriya Group, a Bahrain-based hospitality operator that introduced iconic F&B names such as Masso, The Orangery, and Lyra to the island. In this interview, Al Rumaihi talks to us about mastering the art of building original dining concepts that rival global names, navigating challenges and how entertainment, data, and talent are shaping the future of hospitality. Now in its third edition, Business Leaders in the Middle East brings together sharp insights from across the region. These aren't mere interviews; they're windows into how leadership is evolving in a world shaped by rapid digital transformation. Technology touches nearly every industry now, and these leaders show us how to navigate change with purpose. Right from the outset, our aim at Amriya Group was to create unique hospitality and dining experiences that rival those we encounter in Europe when travelling. Generic brands dominated hotels in the country, and restaurants lacked the ambience, chefs, and service levels found abroad. We saw a gap that could be filled – and that was the inspiration behind the Palmyard Hotel. Building on that same vision, we set out to create F&B concepts that reflected the same commitment to quality, originality, and atmosphere. This led to the birth of Masso, the Orangery, Circa, and more recently, Lyra. Our F&B brands have exceptional food at their core – nothing short of what you'd find in London or elsewhere – and we aim to hire the best chefs and managers to deliver first-class experiences to our guests. Our vision is to take these independent, home-grown Bahraini brands abroad and prove that Bahrain can be a creator and exporter of world-class concepts, not just a consumer of them. We've had an amazing journey since COVID. We were very proud to see Masso recognised as one of the top 50 restaurants by 50 Best in MENA in 2023 – one of only three restaurants in Bahrain to make the list that year. We opened our third branch of Orangery in Liwan in 2023, and in 2024, we launched our newest Greek-Mediterranean brand, Lyra, at Vida Hotel in Marassi. With Lyra, we hand-picked Chef Ilias (a European-trained Greek chef) to lead the kitchen team, and collaborated with a London-based designer to create a stunning venue. We believe Lyra has global potential – much like Masso and Orangery – and it truly has to be experienced to understand how proud we are of this latest addition to our portfolio of brands. We take great pride in building these home-grown concepts, which we believe can compete with the best global F&B brands entering the country. COVID was a shock to the hospitality industry globally. For nearly 12 months, hotels and restaurants had hardly any customers. Although Bahrain remained open and typically relies on visitors from Saudi Arabia, the absence of international travellers deeply affected the sector. It was a critical period for hospitality, and many restaurants didn't were very fortunate in Bahrain to have the support of the government for businesses, as well as the decision not to impose a full lockdown like many other countries. At Amriya, we recognised the situation was only temporary – and that taking care of our team was essential if we were to return stronger when the world reopened. Rather than sending staff back home, we ensured they had food and accommodation, even during periods when they weren't working. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we knew they'd be instrumental in our recovery once guests started coming back. This downtime also became an opportunity to reinvent. Menus at Masso and the Orangery were thoughtfully reimagined – with weeks spent developing and testing new dishes to delight returning customers. By staying true to our principles and supporting our people, we emerged from COVID stronger than ever. Communication is key. You have to explain to your team why you're making changes and what purpose they need to share the vision of where you're going and how those changes will help you get there. Organisational change is often difficult, and people don't always respond well, especially to new reporting lines. But I've found that in these moments, two things matter most: first, you need to over-communicate so people clearly understand what you're trying to achieve; and second, you need to hire great people who genuinely make a difference to how you operate. I believe it's the second part that's critical. Organisational change tends to be problematic when you hire the wrong people. But when you hire the right ones, you gain far more acceptance and belief in both the changes and the direction you're heading. That's why I take recruitment very seriously. I consider it one of my main responsibilities as a leader to find and recruit the best people for the organisation. That's a difficult question to answer, especially because there are many truly world-class F&B operators in the region. I'd rephrase it by saying what we do exceptionally well – and what we share with some of the operators I admire most – it's our ability to create independent brands from scratch that genuinely rival global industry leaders. We approach the creative process with deep intention, spending at least 18 to 24 months before opening avenue. Every detail is considered – from the menu development in close collaboration with the chef, to the design and layout, branding, uniforms, and overall guest experience. We collaborate with top-tier designers and consultants to ensure each concept stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the world's best. Very few operators take that time, or have the capability to build something original repeatedly. We started with Masso and asked ourselves: can we do this again? And Orangery was the result. Today, we believe Lyra is our third creation that will be just as successful as the first two. There are operators in the region I deeply admire for sharing our values – particularly those with a family-business mindset and an independent spirit. It would certainly be easier to franchise a global concept. But we take pride in building something from the ground up, and proving that Bahraini-born brands can be just as successful as franchise models. And to us, this is just the beginning. We hire employees who are as passionate as we are about refining each brand and realising the dream of seeing them thrive in some of the world's largest cities. I'm still exploring how AI could be relevant to our industry. But we're starting by ensuring we digitise as much of the data we collect as possible, so we can make smarter decisions. I believe AI will help F&B brands become significantly more efficient in areas like menu engineering, table bookings and seating management, targeted marketing, food cost control, and more. We've now almost fully digitised all the key information needed to mine data effectively and use it to enhance our guest experience while managing the business more efficiently. Finding the right tools and resources to analyse that data and generate meaningful recommendations is something I'm actively exploring. If we can't find off-the-shelf AI solutions that suit our needs, we may consider developing our tools. But I do not doubt that AI will positively impact our business. Probably the most glaring trend I've noticed is the shift away from formal dining experiences, like the Michelin-starred, 12-course tasting menus, and the growing desire for a more casual, sensory-driven experience. Nightclubs are seemingly fading away. Today, people want to eat and be entertained. They're looking for great food, good music (often live), and a space where they can socialise. That's why we're seeing the rise of private clubs where guests can dine and then stay on for live music or entertainment without leaving the venue. The growing number of small speakeasy-style spaces within restaurants also reflects this trend. In many ways, restaurants have become the new nightclubs. So, it's now essential to deliver not just great food, but a full entertainment experience. That's why DJs are increasingly present in restaurants. But it would be a mistake to think entertainment alone is enough. No matter how much a guest enjoys the ambience, what truly keeps them coming back is an exceptional dish or two that they crave to experience again. While trends may shift, one thing remains constant: successful restaurants must consistently deliver an outstanding food and service experience. Without that, no amount of entertainment will keep guests returning. More Insights
Emirates Woman
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
7 Greek restaurants in Dubai that transport you straight to the Aegean
Dubai's culinary landscape offers globetrotting foodies an impressive array of international flavors—no passport required. For those craving the sun-drenched simplicity of Greek cuisine, where olive oil flows freely and feta is treated as a way of life, the city boasts an impressive selection of tavernas, high-end eateries, and lively spots where plate-smashing is practically mandatory. From creamy tzatziki to smoky grilled octopus, these seven restaurants bring the authentic taste of Greece to your table with remarkable authenticity. GAIA View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gaia Dubai (@gaia__dxb) A crown jewel in Dubai's dining scene, GAIA by acclaimed chef Izu Ani elevates Greek-Mediterranean fare to an art form. The sophisticated, neutral-toned space—accented with tasteful pops of color—sets the stage for a menu that changes with the seasons. This summer's offerings sing with Mediterranean brightness: think tomato salad drizzled with Cycladic olive oil, marinated peppers with roasted garlic, and a sea bream carpaccio that's as photogenic as it is delicious. The modern take on moussaka is a revelation, while the hidden NYX Bar (a celebrity favorite) offers an exclusive nightcap spot. Perfect for: Special occasions when only elevated Greek will do. OPA View this post on Instagram A post shared by OPA Dubai (@opadubai) If your ideal Greek experience involves dancing on tables and shouting 'Opa!' at the top of your lungs, this is your spot. More than just a restaurant, OPA is a full-blown celebration of Hellenic hospitality, complete with Zorba dancing, napkin-twirling, and the occasional plate smashed in jubilation. The vibrant, foliage-filled space sets the scene for a feast of shareable classics—creamy tzatziki, slow-cooked lamb, grilled halloumi—best enjoyed with a group of friends and a bottle of ouzo. Perfect for: Late-night revelry and unforgettable group dinners. Avli by tashas View this post on Instagram A post shared by Avli by tashas (@avlibytashas) From renowned restaurateur Natasha Sideris, Avli brings a touch of Grecian elegance to DIFC. This chic spot is ideal for everything from power lunches to romantic dinners, with a menu that balances tradition and modernity. Start with an array of dips (the taramasalata is a must), then move on to grilled octopus or tender chicken souvlaki. The adjoining Galaxy Bar makes it easy to transition from dinner to cocktails in style. Perfect for: Impressing clients or dates with refined Greek flavors. Mythos Kouzina & Grill View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mythos (@mythosdubai) Despite the influx of new Greek spots, Mythos remains the gold standard for no-frills, authentic Hellenic cuisine. The original JLT location (now joined by a City Walk sibling) feels like a cozy taverna straight out of Mykonos, complete with a charming terrace for cooler evenings. The menu is a greatest-hits compilation of Greek comfort food: gemista (stuffed tomatoes), moussaka layered with velvety béchamel, and a mixed grill platter featuring succulent lamb chops. The baked feta, drizzled with honey and sesame, is legendary. Perfect for: A comforting, home-style Greek feast that won't break the bank. Taverna Greek Kitchen Tucked into the picturesque waterways of Souk Madinat Jumeirah, this relaxed spot offers a taste of Greece with a side of Dubai's signature waterfront charm. The menu sticks to the classics—crispy calamari, slow-roasted lamb shoulder, flaky cheese pies—with ingredients imported directly from Greece. The laid-back atmosphere makes it ideal for a leisurely lunch or a casual dinner after exploring the souk. Perfect for: A low-key Greek meal in one of Dubai's most scenic settings. AMMOS With its whitewashed walls, airy interiors, and marina views, AMMOS channels the breezy elegance of a seaside Greek taverna. The kitchen sources most ingredients directly from Greece, ensuring an authentic experience—standouts include the orzo seafood and perfectly grilled Greek sea bass. The weekly Greek Night brings an extra dose of authenticity (and plate-smashing) to the mix. Perfect for: A relaxed yet sophisticated taste of the Aegean. OIA Greek Restaurant Named after Santorini's most famous village, OIA brings a slice of the Cyclades to Dubai with its blue-and-white terrace, olive trees, and views of Ain Dubai. The menu is packed with Aegean flavors—grilled meats, fresh seafood, and mezze—all at surprisingly reasonable prices (even the ribeye stays under AED 200). The bright pink bougainvillea adds a pop of color, making this one of the city's most Instagrammable Greek spots. Perfect for: Affordable Greek with vacation-worthy vibes. Whether you're craving a refined seafood supper or just a simple plate of moussaka that tastes like a Greek grandmother made it, Dubai's Greek restaurants deliver it. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Pinterest
FACT
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
The FACT UAE guide to the week ahead: 7 to 13 July 2025
Get your calendars out – exhilarating adventures, brunch and culture await. Summer has officially arrived, and for those sticking around for the summer, the UAE is keeping things chill with an incredible lineup of brunches, concerts, and cultural events. Whether you're looking for moments of zen or high-energy activities, retreat indoors and read on for our picks of the best things to do this July in Dubai. Monday 7 July Spend an evening with Ricky 'The Hitman' Hatton Known for his fierce fighting style and larger-than-life persona, two-weight world champion boxer Ricky Hatton joins diners at Certo for an exclusive meet-and-greet over a gourmet four-course Italian dinner, complete with unlimited drinks. Expect photo opportunities, personal stories from inside the ring, and the chance to win signed memorabilia. Available on Monday, 7 July from 7:30pm to 10:30pm. AED 650 (soft beverages) or AED 950 (house beverages). GO: Call 04 366 9187 for reservations and more information. Tuesday 8 July Enjoy luxury lounging at Nobu by the Beach The stylish pool and beach club at Atlantis The Royal invites guests to spend their summer days in elevated fashion with new redeemable offers. Whether you're relaxing on a sun lounger or indulging in a private pool cabana, a portion of your expenditure goes towards food and beverages, including Japanese-Peruvian bites and the venue's signature cocktails. Available daily from 10am. Prices from AED 295 (Monday to Thursday) and AED 395 (Friday to Sunday) GO: Visit for more information. Wednesday 9 July Partake in a Greek feast Iliana, the Greek-Mediterranean restaurant at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, brings effortless coastal charm to Dubai's dining scene. Helmed by Head Chef Andreas Gkipalis, the menu offers mezze, house-made dips, fresh salads, and grilled octopus. Mains span tender lamb chops, market-fresh fish fillets, and a refined take on the classic moussaka. To drink, expect Greek-accented cocktails and the largest Tsipouro selection in the UAE. Available Monday to Friday from 12pm to 5pm. AED 195 per person. GO: Visit for more information. Thursday 10 July Grab a drink at Rose Bar Straight from the sultry shores of South Beach in Miami, Rose Bar brings its marvellous mixology to Delano Dubai. Known for hosting the global jet set and Miami's who's who, the famed quartz-topped bar now finds a new home in Dubai, where it's infused with glamour, style, and an unmistakable edge. Whether you're sipping signature cocktails at golden hour or soaking up late-night beats, Rose Bar looks set to be the city's most alluring new address. GO: Visit for more information. Friday 11 July Swim in the sky at Cloud 22 This July in Dubai, Moonlight Sessions at Cloud 22 beckon guests to partake in an after-dark immersion beneath the starry sky at the venue's 90-meter sky pool. Dive into the shimmering waters for a refreshing dip, then recline on a floating bed or indulge in a luxury cabana. As you unwind, delight in sky-high sundowners at the Lotus Bar, nestled 96 meters above Palm Jumeirah, with live entertainment featuring a DJ, violinist, saxophonist, and cellist. Available on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7pm to 11pm. AED 300 per person minimum spend. GO: Visit for more information. Saturday 12 July Laugh out loud with Bill Bur Renowned for his razor-sharp wit and groundbreaking creativity, Bill Burr has forged a career as a comedian, actor, writer, producer, and podcaster. Burr's accolades include hosting Saturday Night Live twice, starring as JFK in Jerry Seinfeld's Netflix film Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story, and directing, co-writing, and starring in Old Dads on Netflix. In 2025, he will release his latest stand-up special, Bill Burr: Drop Dead Years, on Hulu before performing at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. GO: Visit for more information. Sunday 13 July Try the summer lunch at L'Olivo Al Mahara Jumeirah Burj Al Arab's most famous restaurant has launched a limited-time summer lunch menu. Set in one of Dubai's most iconic dining rooms, framed by a sweeping aquarium and golden oyster-shell interiors, the experience blends Mediterranean flavours with understated elegance. The three-course menu showcases Chef Andrea Migliaccio's Ischian heritage and farm-to-table philosophy. Highlights include Beef Tartare with coffee and hazelnut, Ravioli Capresi, and Tagliolini al Limone with red prawns and burrata. Sweet endings come courtesy of Chef Tom Coll's Albicocche e Pane, featuring almond cream, meringue and apricot sorbet. Available daily this July in Dubai from 12:30pm to 2pm. AED 390 per person. GO: Visit for more information.
Web Release
03-07-2025
- Business
- Web Release
RIXOS MAKES ITS GRAND ENTRANCE INTO SAUDI ARABIA WITH THE OPENING OF RIXOS OBHUR JEDDAH
RIXOS MAKES ITS GRAND ENTRANCE INTO SAUDI ARABIA WITH THE OPENING OF RIXOS OBHUR JEDDAH In a landmark moment for the Kingdom's hospitality sector, Rixos Hotels announces the official opening of Rixos Obhur Jeddah, Saudi Arabia's first true all-inclusive family and lifestyle resort. Located along the pristine shores of Obhur Bay, this highly anticipated destination ushers in a bold new chapter of experiential travel, enhancing Jeddah's position as a global leisure and tourism hub. As the first Rixos property in the Kingdom, the resort introduces the brand's renowned 'all-inclusive, all-exclusive' concept to Saudi Arabia, setting a new benchmark for immersive, inclusive, and family-centric stays. Combining contemporary refinement with the warmth of traditional Arabian hospitality, Rixos Obhur Jeddah presents a vibrant offering where every element, from dining and wellness to entertainment and children's activities, is carefully curated and seamlessly included. The resort features 250 thoughtfully designed accommodations, including 176 rooms and suites, and 74 private villas, crafted for families and discerning travellers seeking comfort, exclusivity, and connection. Set along the Red Sea, guests enjoy direct access to a private beach, exciting water sports, dedicated yacht marina facilities, and two main pools–one for adults and one for children. Rixos Obhur Jeddah invites guests on an exciting culinary journey across its range of dining venues, featuring three restaurants, two lounges, and three bars. Signature outlets include Turquoise, the resort's international all-day dining destination offering global flavours; Orient, serving authentic Turkish cuisine; and Kapnos, a vibrant Greek-Mediterranean restaurant inspired by coastal flavours. Guests can also enjoy relaxed beachfront dining at me Beach Club, or catch live match screenings in The Hub, Jeddah's first exclusive sports bar, combining social energy with live match screenings. The resort is also home to Jeddah's only Rixy Kids Club, a dedicated family haven featuring six engaging activity rooms, an outdoor yard, and a private kids' pool. Specially tailored programmes ensure children of all ages can play, learn, and create unforgettable memories in a safe and enriching environment. Complementing the family focus is a suite of comprehensive wellness offerings. The resort features a state-of-the-art exclusive Sports Club, which includes a fully equipped gym, an outdoor open-air studio, a multipurpose court (for basketball, volleyball, and football), a padel court, and a daily schedule of fitness programmes designed to rejuvenate body and mind, making Rixos Obhur Jeddah the city's first resort to offer holistic wellbeing at its core. Entertainment is also at the heart of the Rixos experience. A dedicated stage hosts live performances, concerts, and shows, enriching the resort's dynamic energy and turning every stay into a celebration. With day-use options and signature dinner-and-show evenings available to outside guests, Rixos Obhur Jeddah becomes a destination not only for in-house residents but also for locals and visitors. Mohammed Al-Khatib, General Manager of Rixos Obhur Jeddah, said: 'At Rixos Obhur Jeddah, we aim to raise the standards of hospitality by creating a seamless blend of indulgence, inclusivity, and innovation. This resort represents the heart of our brand philosophy, where every guest finds something special, and where Saudi Arabia's rich culture is celebrated through all-inclusive experiences.' This flagship development also plays a pivotal role in advancing Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, aligning with national efforts to diversify the economy and position the Kingdom as a global tourism destination. For reservations and experiences, or more information, please click here.
What's On
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Review: Sirene by Gaia
It's been six years since Gaia made its smash hit debut on the DIFC dining scene. The star pairing of hospitality heavyweights Fundamental (then Bulldozer Group) – led by Evgeny Kuzin; and chef Izu Ani, formerly at the helm of foodie favourites like LPM and La Serre, put upscale Greek dining on the DIFC culinary map, paving the way for a slew of successful homegrown restaurants. Fast forward to 2025, and the two have unveiled Sirene by Gaia, a seaside iteration of the beloved Greek-Mediterranean restaurant, one of a dozen new additions to J1 Beach. And how does Sirene look to stand out in a sea of new beach clubs? Firstly, by being the world's largest – the sprawling space is part-restaurant, part-beach club, and the two are linked by whitewashed bars, a sparkling swimming pool, and a lounge arranged around a DJ booth where guests dine with their toes in the sand – it's all big, bold and beautiful. The neutral shades and endless white stone are laced with pops of colourful bougainvillaea in shades of cerise and orange – the whole aesthetic reminiscent of the oh-so-chic Cyclades. There's plenty of nods to the original Gaia in DIFC – a fresh fish display, lovely neutral uniforms worn by the team, and plenty of big tables covered in crisp white tablecloths that ensure the air of sophistication remains, even at the beachfront. There's a more chilled vibe at the pool and beach, where plump loungers all gaze down towards the water; so if you're here for the party, be sure to book the restaurant. Under the cover of the indoor space, there are more tables for two and four, while the ones down towards the DJ booth are designed for bigger groups, but the indoor-outdoor spaces seamlessly blend, and all command striking views of the sea. The menu isn't extensive, but there's lots we like the look of – starting with the bread, which arrives freshly baked and with a side of tangy tomato dip that's refreshing and light. We stick in familiar territory with the seabream carpaccio (Dhs225), and the fish is fresh and cut into slivers, served with a trio of dressings of fragrant truffle, zesty mandarin, and sour lemon, and each offers a complementary flavour. The Greek salad (Dhs135) is a generous glass bowl of neatly cut onion, cucumber and tomatoes, tossed in a traditional dressing and topped with a slab of barrel-aged feta that balances everything perfectly. From the mains, we opt for the king prawns and a sea bass (market price) cooked to order from the fresh fish display – the simple seasoning of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon lets the high-quality ingredients sing, and when paired with a bowl of crispy fries (Dhs50) and baked vegetables (Dhs50). We make a late afternoon reservation, and even mid-week as we're ordering dessert (go for the fried Greek donuts (Dhs75), drizzled in a sweet honey), the music is turning up and magnums of chilled rosé begin to pour at tables around us. Guests start to migrate to the bars, lingering for sunset drinks as day turns to night. Verdict: Go for the food, stay for the vibes. Sirene by Gaia, J1 Beach, daily 10am to 1am. Tel: (0) 4 570 4766 . @sirene_dxb > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
