Dubai: The Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME), a segment of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has unveiled The Emirati Chef’s Table. This initiative is a sector-specific mentorship program created in collaboration with Kitopi, a prominent regional player in the food and beverage (FandB) industry, aiming to support homegrown brands.
According to Emirates News Agency, the initiative is part of Dubai’s strategy to fulfill the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. This agenda aims to position Dubai as a leading business hub for SMEs and local champions by empowering Emirati entrepreneurs. The Emirati Chef’s Table will provide five Emirati FandB entrepreneurs, who are part of its inaugural cohort, with expert mentorship and guidance from industry specialists. This support will equip them with essential skills and networking opportunities to expand their businesses.
The program will also include a major marketing campaign to highlight the creative journey of each chef, from their inspirations to their culinary creations. Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of Dubai SME, emphasized the importance of human capital in driving the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. He noted that The Emirati Chef’s Table is committed to developing talent that aligns with market needs. Almheiri stated that the collaboration with Kitopi is about more than mentorship; it is about offering Emirati chefs the confidence, guidance, and growth opportunities necessary for success.
Mohamad Ballout, Co-founder and CEO of Kitopi, remarked on Dubai’s growing status as a dynamic food capital. He expressed Kitopi’s commitment to shaping the future of the industry by empowering Emirati founders. This partnership with Dubai SME aims to provide these entrepreneurs with the scale, expertise, and technology needed to develop distinctive homegrown brands that can compete on a regional and global scale.
The FandB sector is a significant economic pillar for Dubai, contributing 4.1% of GDP in Q1 2025, equivalent to AED4.9 billion, with growth driven by innovation and global consumer demand. Within Dubai SME, about 12% of members are involved in the FandB sector, highlighting its strength and the interest among Emiratis to play a leading role in its development.