Hozpitality Unveils the Best 30 Chefs in the Middle East 2025
Honoring culinary excellence and celebrating the visionary chefs shaping the future of the Middle East hospitality industry.
When you walk into a restaurant or hotel and savor the flavors of a beautifully crafted dish, you're not just satisfying your hunger — you're experiencing a work of art. Every plate is the result of countless hours of dedication, skill, and passion from the chefs who pour their hearts into each creation. With every bite that delights your taste buds, a silent reward is sent to the chef who has made it their life's mission to create unforgettable culinary experiences.
For many chefs, this journey begins in their childhood kitchens, watching their mothers or grandmothers prepare meals with love and care. That spark of inspiration ignites a lifelong passion that drives them to bring joy to others through their food. Regardless of why guests dine at their establishment, a chef’s ultimate reward is the happiness reflected in a satisfied guest’s smile. Behind that smile, however, is a story of immense hard work — long hours on their feet leading to varicose veins, lifting heavy pots like it's second nature, and navigating high-pressure environments with relentless determination.
Hozpitality Group deeply appreciates the dedication and resilience these culinary artists bring to the hospitality industry. Through Hozpitality's Best 30 Chefs in the Middle East Powerlist, we aim to spotlight these extraordinary chefs and celebrate their remarkable contributions. Our goal is to acknowledge their achievements but inspire them to continue pushing boundaries and setting new standards in their craft.
To compile this prestigious list, Hozpitality invited hospitality companies to nominate their top chefs, after which the nominees were voted on by their peers and industry colleagues. Being named in Hozpitality's Best 30 Powerlist is more than just an accolade — it’s a recognition of years of dedication, creativity, and culinary excellence.
This year, the chefs who made it to the Powerlist will be honored at the Middle East Chef Excellence Awards, hosted by Hozpitality Group on June 2nd at Address Sky View, Dubai. The gala ceremony promises to be a memorable evening, celebrating the brilliance and passion that these chefs bring to their kitchens every day.
We are thrilled to announce the winners of Hozpitality's Best 30 Chefs in the Middle East for 2025. In addition to the Best 30, we also recognize 10 chefs who stood out in the voting and have been commended for their outstanding contributions.
Chef Powerlist Winners – 2025
- Alan Corcoran – Executive Chef, Emirates Flight Catering
- Alper Adiller – Executive Chef, Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah
- Aoun Mohamad – Executive Chef, Aloft Abu Dhabi - Marriott International
- Clive Micallef – Cluster Director of Culinary, Marriott Marquis Dubai at Jewel of the Creek
- Darren Andow – Culinary Director, Fairmont The Palm
- Dip Shrestha – Executive Chef, Wyndham Garden Ajman Corniche
- Dwarika Bhatt – Executive Chef, Zero Gravity
- Emanuele Ditullio – Executive Chef, Novotel Dubai Al Barsha & Adagio Premium Al Barsha Dubai
- Hareesh Gopalan – Executive Chef, Dusit Thani Dubai
- James Hitchens – Executive Chef, Topgolf Dubai
- Jarvis Dong – Executive Chef, SLS Hotel and Residences Dubai
- John Carlin Redding – Commercial Executive Chef, IFFCO
- Juber Shaikh – Culinary Director, AB International Restaurant LLC
- Kapil Chauhan – Executive Chef, The Canvas Dubai – MGallery Hotel Collection
- Kuldeep Singh – Executive Chef, Radisson Blu Resort, Fujairah
- Kushan Perera – Executive Chef, St. Regis Hotel Abu Dhabi
- Ludovic Garnier – Executive Chef, Paramount Hotel Dubai
- Luigi Giovanni Goytizolo Vasquez – Executive Chef, Hilton Doha The Pearl
- Marley Flattley – Executive Chef, InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa, an IHG Hotel
- Michael Kreiling – Executive Chef, Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah
- Mohammad Ali – Complex Executive Chef, The Westin & Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain
- Muchie Masunungure – Executive Chef, Soul Hospitality Restaurant LLC
- Muhannad Al Shemali – Executive Chef, Swissotel Al Murooj Dubai
- Ruan Potgieter – Executive Chef, Emaar Arabian Ranches
- Rudolf Eichele – Vice President - Culinary, Emirates Flight Catering
- Steven Smalley – Executive Chef, Hilton JBR
- Stuart Sage – Executive Chef, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah
- Thirumalai Murugan – Executive Chef, Movenpick Hotel JLT & Riva Beach Club, The Palm Jumeirah
- Thomas Frisetti – Regional Executive Chef, Bateel International LLC
- Vikesh Singh – Executive Chef, JW Marriott Dubai Marina
Commended List
- Andre Ghanimeh – Executive Chef, Sodexo Kelvin Catering Services & Facilities
- Atim Suyatim – Executive Chef / Brand Development Chef, Taaza Quality Foodstuff Trading
- Elie Lteif – Culinary Advisor, Nestle Professional
- Gaurav Gaur – Director of Culinary, Kitopi
- Mohamad Chabchoul – Executive Chef, Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai
- Mohamed Mansour Ismail Gadou – Cluster Executive Chef, Signature Hotels
- Prashant Aripirala – Group Executive Chef, Uniglobe Holding / McGettigan’s Ajman
- Robin Kozhissery Venugopal – Executive Chef, Stella Di Mare Dubai Marina
- Suresh Kannan – Executive Chef, The Tower Plaza Hotel Dubai
- Vivek Huria – Chef and Owner, Jalfrezi by Vivek Huria
Congratulations to all the winners and chefs are commended for their exceptional contributions to the hospitality industry. Your dedication, creativity, and passion for your craft continue to inspire us all. The hard work and innovation you bring to the kitchen not only elevate dining experiences but also set new standards for excellence in the culinary world.
Alan Corcoran
Executive Chef
Emirates Flight Catering
With 25+ years of culinary expertise, Alan Corcoran, Executive Chef at Emirates Flight Catering, leads a team of 800+ chefs, producing 25,000 kg of food daily. Recognized in Hozpitality's Best 30 Chefs Powerlist 2025, he excels in large-scale operations and mentoring future chefs.
Alper Adiller
Executive Chef
Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah
With over 15+ years of culinary experience, Alper Adiller, Executive Chef at Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah, is celebrated for his innovation and leadership.
Aoun Mohamad
Executive Chef
Aloft Abu Dhabi - Marriott International
With over 25 years of culinary expertise, Chef Aoun has crafted exceptional dining experiences across Marriott International properties. His journey spans Lebanon, UK, Algeria, and the UAE, where he continues to elevate culinary standards.
Clive Micallef
Cluster Director of Culinary
Marriott Marquis Dubai at Jewel of the Creek
Boasting 20+ years of experience, Chef Clive has mastered Mediterranean cuisine and large-scale operations. His leadership has transformed dining experiences at iconic properties like Marriott Marquis Dubai and Hilton Dubai Creek.
Darren Andow
Culinary Director
Fairmont The Palm
With 15+ years of global experience, Chef Darren has led luxury kitchens in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. His innovative approach and sustainability initiatives have redefined culinary excellence at Fairmont The Palm.
Dip Shrestha
Executive Chef
Wyndham Garden Ajman Corniche
With 20+ years of culinary expertise, Chef Dip has transformed Wyndham Garden Ajman into a seafood destination. His dedication to quality and guest satisfaction has earned him multiple accolades.
Dwarika Bhatt
Executive Chef
Zero Gravity
With 16+ years of experience, Chef Dwarika has led culinary teams at iconic properties like Jumeirah Group and Zero Gravity. His innovative menus and leadership have set new benchmarks in Dubai’s dining scene.
Emanuele Ditullio
Executive Chef
Novotel Dubai Al Barsha & Adagio Premium Al Barsha Dubai
With 15+ years of culinary expertise, Chef Emanuele has championed sustainability and innovation. His leadership at Novotel and Adagio Premium has elevated dining experiences across the UAE.
Hareesh Gopalan
Executive Chef
Dusit Thani Dubai
With 27+ years of experience, Chef Hareesh has mastered diverse cuisines and luxury hospitality. His leadership at Dusit Thani Dubai reflects his commitment to quality and innovation.
James Hitchens
Executive Chef
Topgolf Dubai
With 18+ years of culinary experience, Chef James has worked across private chef roles, fine dining, and large-scale operations. His creative flair and leadership have made Topgolf Dubai a culinary hotspot.
Jarvis Dong
Executive Chef
SLS Hotel and Residences Dubai
With 16+ years of experience, Chef Jarvis has led culinary teams at luxury properties like Six Senses and Mandarin Oriental. His innovative approach continues to redefine dining at SLS Dubai.
John Carlin Redding
Commercial Executive Chef
IFFCO
With 40+ years of international experience, Chef John has excelled in product development and culinary innovation. His expertise spans fine dining, large-scale catering, and sustainable practices.
Juber Shaikh
Culinary Director
AB International Restaurant LLC
With 20+ years of experience, Chef Juber has redefined Indian cuisine at Asha’s Restaurant. His innovative menus and leadership have earned him multiple awards and accolades.
Kapil Chauhan
Executive Chef
The Canvas Dubai – MGallery Hotel Collection
With 16+ years of culinary expertise, Chef Kapil has led high-volume kitchens and fine dining operations. His focus on sustainability and innovation has set new standards at The Canvas Hotel.
Kuldeep Singh
Executive Chef
Radisson Blu Resort, Fujairah
With 30+ years of experience, Chef Kuldeep has led culinary teams at luxury hotels like Jumeirah Group and Radisson Blu. His expertise in banqueting and large-scale events is unparalleled.
Kushan Perera
Executive Chef
St. Regis Hotel Abu Dhabi
With 24+ years of experience, Chef Kushan has led Michelin-nominated restaurants and high-profile events. His leadership at St. Regis Abu Dhabi continues to set culinary benchmarks.
Ludovic Garnier
Executive Chef
Paramount Hotel Dubai
With 20+ years of culinary expertise, Chef Ludovic has led one of the largest culinary brigades in the UAE. His commitment to sustainability and innovation has shaped Emirates’ dining experiences.
Luigi Giovanni Goytizolo Vasquez
Executive Chef
Hilton Doha The Pearl
With 20+ years of international experience, Chef Luigi has mastered diverse cuisines, from Peruvian to French. His innovative menus and leadership have elevated dining experiences at Hilton Doha The Pearl.
Marley Flattley
Executive Chef
InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa, an IHG Hotel
With 20+ years of experience, Chef Marley has led luxury kitchens across the Middle East. His focus on sustainability and innovation has redefined dining at InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah.
Michael Kreiling
Executive Chef
Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah
With 20+ years of experience, Chef Michael has worked in Michelin-starred kitchens and luxury hotels worldwide. His leadership at Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah continues to inspire culinary excellence.
Mohammad Ali
Complex Executive Chef
The Westin & Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain
With 21+ years of experience, Chef Mohammad has led culinary teams at luxury hotels like Jumeirah Group and Marriott International. His expertise spans fine dining, banqueting, and sustainability.
Muchie Masunungure
Executive Chef
Soul Hospitality Restaurant LLC
With 20+ years of experience, Chef Muchie has transformed dining experiences at Soul Hospitality. His innovative menus and leadership have earned him multiple awards, including Best Healthy Eating Restaurant.
Muhannad Al Shemali
Executive Chef
Swissotel Al Murooj Dubai
With 18+ years of experience, Chef Muhannad has led culinary teams at luxury hotels like Swissotel and Fairmont. His innovative approach and mentorship have set new standards in Dubai’s dining scene.
Ruan Potgieter
Executive Chef
Emaar Arabian Ranches
With 20+ years of experience, Chef Ruan has led culinary teams at luxury hotels like Emaar Arabian Ranches and Caesars Palace. His innovative approach continues to redefine dining experiences.
Rudolf Eichele
Vice President
Culinary, Emirates Flight Catering
With 20+ years of experience, Chef Rudolf has led one of the largest culinary brigades in the UAE. His commitment to sustainability and innovation has shaped Emirates’ dining experiences.
Steven Smalley
Executive Chef
Hilton JBR
With 15+ years of experience, Chef Steven has led culinary teams at Hilton JBR and Atlantis The Palm. His innovative approach and leadership have elevated dining experiences across Dubai.
Stuart Sage
Executive Chef
Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah
With 25+ years of experience, Chef Stuart has worked in Michelin-starred kitchens and luxury hotels worldwide. His leadership at Waldorf Astoria Dubai continues to inspire culinary excellence.
Thirumalai Murugan
Executive Chef
Movenpick Hotel JLT & Riva Beach Club, The Palm Jumeirah
With 20+ years of experience, Chef Murugan has led culinary teams at luxury hotels and large-scale events. His innovative menus and sustainability initiatives have earned him multiple awards.
Thomas Frisetti
Regional Executive Chef
Bateel International LLC
With 20+ years of experience, Chef Thomas has mastered French, Italian, and Japanese cuisines. His innovative approach and leadership have elevated Bateel’s culinary offerings across the GCC.
Vikesh Singh
Executive Chef
JW Marriott Dubai Marina
With 20+ years of experience, Chef Vikesh has led culinary teams at luxury hotels like Address Dubai Marina and JW Marriott. His focus on sustainability and innovation has set new benchmarks.
Commended List
Andre Ghanimeh
Executive Chef
Sodexo Kelvin Catering Services & Facilities
With 20+ years of experience, Chef Andre has led culinary operations at Sodexo Kelvin Catering Services & Facilities. His expertise in institutional catering and sustainability has earned him multiple accolades.
Read more: Hozpitality Group - Andre Ghanimeh Recognized in Hozpitality’s Best 30 Powerlist of Chefs in the Middle East 2025
Atim Suyatim
Executive Chef / Brand Development Chef
Taaza Quality Foodstuff Trading
With 30+ years of experience, Chef Atim has championed healthy food trends and sustainability. His leadership at Taaza Healthy Food Industries has set new standards in the culinary world.
Elie Lteif
Culinary Advisor
Nestle Professional
With 20+ years of experience, Chef Elie has worked with Michelin-starred chefs and luxury hotels. As Culinary Advisor for Nestlé Professional, he continues to shape culinary trends in the MENA region.
Gaurav Gaur
Director of Culinary
Kitopi
With 18+ years of experience, Chef Gaurav has led culinary operations at Kitopi and Emirates Flight Catering. His expertise in innovation and sustainability has set new standards in the industry.
Mohamad Chabchoul
Executive Chef
Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai
With 18+ years of experience, Chef Mohamad has transformed dining experiences at luxury hotels like Millennium and Grand Hyatt. His innovative approach and mentorship have earned him widespread recognition.
Mohamed Mansour Ismail Gadou
Cluster Executive Chef
Signature Hotels
With 20+ years of experience, Chef Mansour has led culinary teams at luxury hotels like Signature Hotels and Apparel Group. His innovative approach and mentorship have set new culinary benchmarks.
Prashant Aripirala
Group Executive Chef
Uniglobe Holding / McGettigan’s Ajman
With 20+ years of experience, Chef Prashant has led kitchens in 5-star hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and cruise lines. His innovative approach and mentorship have earned him multiple accolades.
Robin Kozhissery Venugopal
Executive Chef
Stella Di Mare Dubai Marina
With 10+ years of experience, Chef Robin has excelled in managing kitchen operations and leading culinary teams. His dedication to quality and guest satisfaction has made him a respected leader.
Suresh Kannan
Executive Chef
The Tower Plaza Hotel Dubai
With 20+ years of experience, Chef Suresh has transformed dining experiences at luxury hotels like Golden Tulip and IntercityHotel. His innovative approach continues to set new culinary standards.
Vivek Huria
Chef and Owner
Jalfrezi by Vivek Huria
With 30+ years of experience, Chef Vivek has left a flavorful imprint on global kitchens. His restaurant, Jalfrezi, celebrates his culinary journey and passion for farm-to-table dining.
Meela Seenarain
Dubai, United Arab Emirates UAE