Latest news with #UAERestaurantsGroup
Khaleej Times
02-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Ramadan in UAE: Iftar buffet rates surge up to 30% due to weather, rent hike
Restaurants in the UAE have increased iftar buffet rates by up to 30 per cent due to rising costs of ingredients, rents and growing demand from the rising population and more people opting for dining out due to pleasant weather conditions during Ramadan this year. F&B industry executives say that four and five-star hotel restaurants have led the increase in the iftar buffet rates this Ramadan while standalone outlets tried to absorb some cost as well. Restaurants across the UAE roll out special dishes for iftar and suhoor buffet during the fasting month to cater to the demand from Muslims. Corporates, individuals and families book restaurants and Ramadan tents for gatherings for iftar and suhoor. 'This year, iftar buffets across the UAE have seen slight pricing adjustments, balancing enhanced guest experiences with evolving market dynamics. The industry continues to focus on value-driven offerings, ensuring that guests enjoy a memorable and high-quality iftar experience,' said Amit Nayak, vice chairman of UAE Restaurants Group (UAERG). Eti Bhasin, executive director for Majestic Hotels, The Permit Room, and Dhaba Lane, said an average 30 per cent increase can be expected in rates overall across the industry starting from the second week of Ramadan. She expects F&B outlets – especially those with an outdoor venue – to have at least a 50 per cent increase in their revenues this Ramadan which coincides with the last bit of winter in the UAE. According to Somya Jain, CEO of Chatori Gali Restaurants & Catering, the iftar buffet rates increased by about 10-15 per cent in 2025 compared to last year. Rising costs Jain attributed the constant rise in commodity products and rising rents to the increase in iftar buffet rates. 'From rents being at an all-time high to oil prices increasing by 15 per cent to vegetable prices increasing by 7 per cent, some burden eventually has to be transferred to the customer. F&Bs are not usually able to increase menu prices as soon as raw material prices go up, but are now taking a step in that direction,' she added. Eti Bhasin said the last of winter months again is a primary reason, unlike summer months where it was more of a norm to order online as compared to dining out at the outlet. 'As a result, F&B outlets are taking advantage of the expected surge in dining out before the onset of summer. Rising costs in ingredients have indeed been a reason, however, that cannot be limited to only Ramadan, but all year round. Rental increase is a phenomenon affecting all sectors including retail and hence a 10 per cent increase has been observed in all F&B outlets. We have plans at Dhaba Lane to increase rates location-wise considering this aspect,' she added. According to Amit Nayak, iftar pricing is driven by a blend of market demand and operational enhancements including many establishments investing in high-quality ingredients and speciality dishes that celebrate regional and international flavours, creating immersive and engaging atmospheres for families and friends to gather; global shifts in food procurement and logistics costs continue to shape pricing strategies, and a growing emphasis on responsibly sourced ingredients and eco-conscious dining experiences. Standalone vs hotel restaurants Somya Jain added that 4 and 5-star hotel restaurants 'are more at liberty to increase prices, and have done so this year.' She noted that it becomes difficult to completely transfer the increased costs to the customers for standalone restaurants because it is not received well in the market. 'While we do increase prices slightly, ultimately, we end up taking a hit in profit margins.' Eti Bhasin, noted that the majority of 4 and 5-star hotels with an outdoor space have surged their rates during the holy month of Ramadan compared to 1, 2 and 3-star hotels. 'This is due to the demand for fancy spreads and value for money from customers.'
Zawya
12-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Nespresso and UAE Restaurants Group announce strategic partnership to elevate UAE's F&B sector
United Arab Emirates – Nespresso in UAE has entered into a strategic partnership with the UAE Restaurants Group (UAERG), marking a significant collaboration aimed at enhancing service standards across the country's thriving food and beverage sector. The official signing of this partnership took place on February 10th, 2025, during the UAERG Open Day that was held at the Dubai Chamber of Commerce Headquarters. As a Platinum Sponsor, Nespresso in UAE will work closely with UAERG's extensive network of restaurant owners, hospitality professionals, and key F&B stakeholders to drive industry-wide excellence. This collaboration will facilitate knowledge-sharing and create new opportunities across the UAE's dynamic food and beverage sector. UAERG, founded under the patronage of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, represents over 2,000 F&B outlets across the UAE and serves as a platform for cooperation between government entities and industry leaders to position the UAE as a global gastronomic destination. Adil Khammar, Country Managing Director of Nespresso in UAE, will be joining UAERG's advisory board, alongside influential leaders from major industry organisations, including IFFCO, Bateel, Foodiva, Emirates Culinary Guild, and the Global Restaurant Investment Forum (GRIF). As part of this role, Adil will participate in quarterly meetings, sharing strategic insights on key Food & Beverage industry developments and trends. 'Our partnership with UAERG comes at an important time as the UAE continues to strengthen its position as a hub for culinary excellence and sustainability. Our global out-of-home insights, local market customer centricity, and commitment to excellence complement the local knowledge and entrepreneurial spirit within our community. Through this collaboration, Nespresso will play an integral role in industry discussions, knowledge-sharing sessions, and exclusive activations that bring together thought leaders, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals,' comments Adil Khammar. Amit Nayak, Vice Chairman of UAERG, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership: 'This partnership with Nespresso UAE is an exciting step forward for UAERG, as it brings together a globally recognised brand with deep industry expertise and a network of local F&B leaders who truly understand the UAE's dynamic hospitality landscape. We look forward to working together to exchange ideas and drive meaningful progress in the UAE's ever-evolving food and beverage sector.' James Kabarity, Head of B2B at Nespresso in UAE added: 'We're thrilled to be partnering with UAERG and supporting the UAE's F&B sector. At Nespresso Professional, we're committed to helping hospitality businesses deliver exceptional coffee experiences to their guests. This collaboration gives us the opportunity to work closely with industry leaders, share insights, and create meaningful impact across the hospitality landscape.' The UAERG Open Day event served as the official launch of the partnership and featured Nespresso as an exclusive coffee sponsor, offering guests a curated coffee experience. The annual event is a key industry gathering that brings together top-tier decision-makers from leading hospitality brands, government bodies, and restaurant groups to discuss emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities within the UAE's F&B landscape. -Ends- For more information on UAERG, visit Follow @nespresso to keep up to date with all the latest Nespresso news. CONTACTS Ola Zachara ola@ Shrestha Sinha shrestha@ About Nestlé Nespresso SA Nestlé Nespresso SA is a pioneer and is widely regarded as one of the top references in the field of high-quality portioned coffee. The company works with more than 157,000 farmers in 18 countries through its AAA Sustainable Quality™ Program to embed sustainability practices on farms and the surrounding landscapes. Launched in 2003 in collaboration with the NGO Rainforest Alliance, the program helps to improve the yield and quality of harvests, ensuring a sustainable supply of high-quality coffee and improving livelihoods of farmers and their communities. In 2022, Nespresso achieved B Corp™ certification – joining an international movement of over 9,000 purpose-led businesses that meet B Corp's high standards of social and environmental responsibility and transparency. Headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland, Nespresso operates in 93 markets and has 14'000 employees. In 2023, it operated a global retail network of 791 boutiques. For more information, visit the Nespresso corporate website: About UAE Restaurants Group (UAERG) The UAE Restaurant Group (UAERG) was established in 2020 as the Dubai Restaurants Group and transitioned to its current form in 2022. As a distinguished not-for-profit organisation, the group unites some of the most renowned names in the food and beverage industry, working collectively to elevate the UAE as a global gastronomic hub. Guided by core values of integrity and innovation, UAERG seeks to promote excellence across the F&B sector while driving job creation and economic growth. The Group is equally dedicated to advancing sustainable practices within the industry. Through regular member meetings, advisory sessions, and panel discussions, it provides a platform for dialogue and collaboration, helping shape the future of the UAE's dynamic F&B scene. For inquiries about membership or sponsorship, please contact sherine@
