Celebrating Emirati Culinary Excellence: The Launch of the Emirati Chefs Grant Program

Nurturing Talent in Culinary Arts

In a significant stride towards enhancing the culinary landscape of Dubai, the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has successfully wrapped up the inaugural edition of the Emirati Chefs Grant program. This initiative, designed to showcase the talents of Emirati chefs, aims to empower participants by refining their culinary skills and deepening their understanding of the rich cultural heritage of Emirati cuisine.

The program, which spanned three months, took place in partnership with the esteemed International Centre for Culinary Arts in Dubai (ICCA Dubai). Its primary goal is to celebrate the authentic culinary traditions and the renowned hospitality that is synonymous with Emirati culture while promoting its presence on a global stage.

Comprehensive Training and Skills Development

The first edition of the Emirati Chefs Grant program included specialized culinary modules that culminated in the awarding of diplomas in culinary arts to six promising Emirati chefs: Noora Al Awadhi, Alia Al Ali, Asayel Al Marzouqi, Rashid Al Nuaimi, Huda Al Ghafli, and Mitha Al Ghafli. Upon completing a series of hands-on training workshops led by ICCA Dubai’s expert chefs, these participants not only honed their cooking skills but also gained invaluable insight into various culinary disciplines.

Throughout the program, participants engaged in both foundational and advanced cooking techniques, gaining experience in preparing appetizers, main courses, baked goods, and desserts utilizing cutting-edge kitchen equipment. The curriculum emphasized menu design, hospitality etiquette, food presentation, and essential aspects of food safety and public health. Additionally, the program covered cost calculation, dietary planning, and the operational elements required to effectively manage a professional kitchen.

Expanding Opportunities for Women in Culinary Arts

In November 2025, the Dubai Culture announced the launch of the program’s second edition, focusing on empowering ten talented Emirati women chefs. The distinguished participants include Ayesha Khoory, Auhood Waleed Alzarooni, Hamda Adil Abdulhamid Abdulla Alkhoori, Hind Mohammad Almulla, Khawla Omar Alghefli, Meera Jasem Ghanem Obaid Alzaabi, Naima Al Mulla, Salwa Salim Eisa Al Jallaf Al Ali, Aisha Alkhoori, and Shadha Alhosani. With the potential to earn a Diploma in Culinary Arts, these women are set to further enrich Dubai’s culinary scene.

Supporting Creative Growth and Cultural Identity

Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, the CEO of the Arts, Design & Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, highlighted the importance of the Emirati Chefs Grant in nurturing culinary talent. She emphasized that the program not only equips chefs with essential skills but also encourages them to explore diverse dishes that blend Emirati, Arab, and international flavors. Al Suwaidi noted, “Through this grant, the Authority seeks to provide a unique platform that supports creative Emirati chefs, opens new horizons before them, and encourages them to unleash their ideas.”

She added that food plays an integral role in expressing the rich tapestry of Emirati culture, serving as a medium for talent to reflect the community’s values, traditions, and generosity. This commitment to cultural authenticity is increasingly important in the global culinary landscape.

Commitment to Cultural Heritage

Sunjeh Raja, the Director and CEO of ICCA Dubai, echoed these sentiments, stating the significance of fostering a new generation of Emirati chefs who remain connected to their roots. “Being homegrown in the UAE for the world means carrying a unique responsibility,” he remarked. “At ICCA, we take great pride in training a new generation of Emirati chefs and refining their skills while ensuring they stay true to their cultural identity and culinary heritage.”

By investing in the training of these chefs, the Emirati Chefs Grant program not only promotes individual growth but also advances the broader culinary narrative of Dubai, highlighting its rich culinary history and vibrant present.