Gates Hospitality CEO Naim Maadad believes that F&B success both now and in the future must be grounded in “value for money” with Dubai shifting swiftly away from big name international brands and chefs.
Maadad said in a statement: “The opening of Via Veneto close to the Burj Khalifa is the latest venue we have launched in Dubai – bringing the total to eight across the city. We now have the capacity to serve more than 1,000 people each and every day – something that has been achieved in the last five years in what is a very tough market.
"When developing a new concept, first and foremost we consider value for money. The days of throwing in a brand name with the supposed international wow factor is over in our opinion. Our venues are either a homegrown concept or one with a small but solid reputation in their own market.”
Support from local clientele has also been a key factor with figures showing that UAE residents account for approximately 80% of business throughout the year.
Maadad added: “Dubai residents and those from across the UAE do still want to go out two or three times a week but a major factor in that is cost. Times are tougher but what we deliver in all of our venues is a great time out of the house with fantastic food and drink at a price that is right.
"Of course there are special occasions when people want to spend more than normal and we have options to cater to that – but now and in the future we must deliver what the local market wants.”
The Gates Hospitality roster includes Reform Social & Grill, Ultra Brasserie, The Black Lion, folly by Nick and Scott, Publique, Bistro Des Arts and most recently, Via Venteto, an upper mid-scale Italian concept.
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