Dubai’s thriving food and beverage industry is gaining recognition on the global stage, as several UAE-developed brands begin to expand internationally.
Fundamental Hospitality, Yolk Brands, and WOK BOYZ – three leading homegrown operators – have shared ambitious plans to take their locally crafted concepts to new markets in London, Miami, Toronto, and across the Gulf region in 2024
The expanding global footprint of these brands could instigate a wider trend in the UAE, transforming it from a destination that imported franchised chains to one that exports authentic homegrown creations worldwide. Industry experts see this as a significant step that could elevate the country’s status as a culinary hub.
Dubai-based Fundamental Hospitality is at the forefront of this transition, scaling its flagship dining brand GAIA globally with new beach clubs and restaurants planned for prime locations internationally.
“GAIA was perceived as one of the best performing restaurants in Duba, we decided we’re going to do the global expansion and always our flagship is GAIA,” said CEO Evgeny Kuzin.
“It is fair to say that GAIA is probably the most successful Dubai dining exports so far.”
The first international outpost recently opened in London to roaring success, while Marbella, Spain will see the Mediterranean brand’s European beach debut in Q3 this year. GAIA Miami Beach is now under construction for a September launch.
Kuzin attributes GAIA’s triumphs to crafting a scalable concept that resonates across diverse audiences in Dubai. “When you get it right here it’s quite easy to scale everywhere,” he said.
By the end of 2024, the group will launch four new brands which will bring its portfolio to 14 luxury dining destinations in total. The CEO also shared that Dubai can expect to see seven new venues opening this year and seven more planned to open internationally.
Fundamental Hospitality also owns some Dubai favourites like La Maison Ami, Cipriani, NYX and Shanghai Me. This year it is taking GAIA and NYX to Marbella and Miami and La Maison Ami to London, with several other launches planned including new Japanese and African-inspired outlets.
Building on GAIA’s achievements, the new expansions signal the group’s pivot to exporting Made in Dubai brands. “In London alone within a year you will have GAIA, Maison Ami, and Shanghai Me in the most prestigious venues,” said Kuzin.
“We are from Dubai, we are made in Dubai, and we are scaling to the world.”
With over $140 million invested in global expansion this year, Fundamental Hospitality is planning openings through 2029 – clear evidence the UAE can birth brands with international potential.
