Exciting Culinary Operations Set to Elevate Dubai Airshow 2025

When the Dubai Airshow commences on November 17, attendees can expect not only stunning aircraft displays but also a remarkable culinary operation led by Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC). This extensive initiative aims to deliver over 300,000 meals to a global audience of aviation and aerospace professionals, government officials, and visitors from more than 98 countries.

Scaling Up for Success

To effectively cater to such a vast demographic, EKFC has embarked on building two state-of-the-art central kitchens. This effort involves deploying nearly 2,600 staff members and providing services to more than 150 chalets, country pavilions, and exhibition stands. The menu will reflect the diverse tastes of the international aviation community, featuring an array of culinary options.

So far, over 35,000 meals have already been pre-ordered for various setups. In preparation, EKFC has also recruited 74 interns from esteemed hospitality schools, and completed essential infrastructure within just two weeks. This rapid development speaks to the meticulous planning that has gone into making the catering operation a reality.

Commitment to Quality and Flexibility

Shahreyar Nawabi, CEO of Emirates Flight Catering, emphasized that by managing all catering in-house, EKFC can assure both consistent quality and tailored responses to any requests, enhancing customer experience. The team of expert chefs possesses not only culinary skills but also a deep understanding of cultural preferences, enabling them to authentically prepare dishes from a myriad of cuisines—ranging from Indian and Middle Eastern to Chinese and Japanese.

Nawabi stated, “Our culinary talent allows us to deliver dishes that honor the traditions and preferences of guests from nearly 100 countries.” This commitment to authentic cuisine paired with logistical excellence truly sets EKFC apart.

Infrastructure Built for Excellence

EKFC has strategically constructed two comprehensive kitchens located centrally between the exhibition center and the chalets, positioning them for efficient service delivery. The facilities are equipped with modern amenities, including cold storage, dedicated dishwashing areas, and specialized culinary zones for different cooking operations.

Moreover, infrastructure for staff has been built to accommodate their needs, including canteens, uniform distribution centers, and rest areas. This thoughtful setup allows EKFC to perform a dry run one week before the airshow, ensuring everything operates smoothly come the main event.

Diverse Culinary Offerings

Patrons at the Dubai Airshow can expect a world of flavors, reflecting the ethos of EKFC’s flexible menu design. A lineup of skilled culinary specialists will cater to the unique requirements of each pavilion, serving dishes like braised beef cheeks in black truffle sauce, Middle Eastern mezze spreads with lamb kofta kebab, and tandoori lobster with saffron rice, among others.

In addition to planned menu items, exhibition halls will feature on-demand services to fulfill real-time catering needs, another testament to EKFC’s airline catering heritage. Understanding diverse tastes and dietary restrictions plays a crucial role in their daily operations.

Innovative Partnerships Enhance Experience

To enrich the international offering, EKFC has collaborated with several brands to create unique dining experiences for Dubai Airshow attendees. This includes seven different food concepts such as Origami for Japanese cuisine, and Dibba Oyster Bar, which highlights local seafood producers.

Emirates Leisure Retail will also operate Costa Coffee and a vibrant food truck village in the SkyView area, adding another layer of variety to the culinary landscape at the event.

Building the Future Workforce

In an effort to strengthen its workforce, EKFC has onboarded 74 interns, including local Emirati talent, from notable hospitality institutions around the world. These interns have experienced a comprehensive six-month training program and will apply their skills across various functions, not limited to culinary services but extending into finance, HR, and event operations.

The overarching workforce consists of 1,800 core staff complemented by an additional 500 team members from Dubai World Trade Centre and 280 from Emirates’ kitchens, showcasing a large, well-coordinated team effort.

Sustainability Initiatives in Catering Management

EKFC is committed to sustainability, actively pursuing waste reduction strategies at Dubai Airshow. Plastic bottles have been removed from their operations, replaced with glass containers. A comprehensive recycling system is in place, and any leftover food will either be composted or donated to local food banks, reflecting their commitment to minimizing waste.

By sourcing ingredients locally and partnering with vendors such as Dibba Oysters and Mai Dubai, EKFC supports regional businesses while ensuring fresh, high-quality offerings are available throughout the event.

As Dubai Airshow 2025 approaches, the culinary mission led by Emirates Flight Catering is poised to make a significant impression, demonstrating the perfect blend of scale and quality.