Dubai concluded the first edition of the 'From Heritage to the Table' Emirati Culinary Competition, organized by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and the International Centre for Culinary Arts in partnership with Dubai's Culture and Arts Authority, Sikkat Arts and Design Festival 2026, and with the support of the Foodvers platform. The initiative celebrated the rich Emirati cuisine and the diversity of its authentic local ingredients. The competition called upon emerging chefs residing in Dubai of all nationalities to showcase their creativity by presenting traditional and heritage Emirati dishes in a new and innovative style, using a selection of authentic local ingredients. From hundreds of online participants, eight exceptional finalists were chosen to compete in live-streamed finals. The talented chefs gathered at the International Centre for Culinary Arts in Dubai to prepare their final dishes before a jury panel of top experts. First place was awarded to Aisha Khouri, who won a prize of 40,000 dirhams. Second place went to Aliya Al Ali, who received 20,000 dirhams. In addition to the monetary prizes, the winners will get the opportunity to showcase their winning creations at the Sikkat Arts and Design Festival 2026 and Dubai's Taste Festival, giving them a strong platform to launch their careers in the world of food and culinary arts. Ahmed Al Khaateesh, Executive Director of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, affiliated with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, said: 'The 'From Heritage to the Table' Emirati Culinary Competition affirmed Dubai's commitment to preserving its deep-rooted cultural heritage while continuing its journey towards a prosperous future. We congratulate the two winners and all the participating chefs for the high levels of creativity and innovation they have demonstrated.' He added: 'The competition aims to empower emerging chefs, encouraging them to utilize authentic Emirati ingredients and traditional dishes in innovative ways, which contributes to preserving the identity of Emirati cuisine and highlighting its rich treasures, and elevating culinary arts. It also provides a supportive platform that allows promising talents real opportunities for development and progress in the food and beverage sector. These initiatives play a role in cementing the culture of Emirati cuisine, enhancing awareness and interest in national cuisine, alongside supporting the sustainable growth and development that the food and beverage sector is witnessing in Dubai.' Ahmed Al Khaateesh: 'These initiatives contribute to cementing the culture of Emirati cuisine, enhancing awareness and interest in national cuisine.'
