The Emirati Chef’s Table has evolved into an essential platform for showcasing local culinary talent. Building upon its success from previous years, this initiative now enters a new phase designed to bolster Emirati chefs and culinary entrepreneurs. The latest installment, known as the Founder Series, will take place from September to November and aims to support twelve innovative culinary founders.

Expanded Opportunities for Culinary Entrepreneurs

The Founder Series reflects a significant enhancement of the original Emirati Chef’s Table, which debuted in 2025. This year, the program will host twelve participants divided into three batches, each featuring four entrepreneurs. Over these three months, founders will gain invaluable experience through mentorship and access to Kitopi’s extensive operational network, as well as marketing support. Participants will have the chance to present their food concepts on Eatopi’s platform, allowing them to reach customers directly and fine-tune their offerings in real-time.

The first batch of founders kicks off on September 3, culminating on October 2. This inaugural group consists of diverse culinary personalities, including Wadeema Abdalla, who specializes in unique desserts at Saccharose Desserts; Rehab Al Ameri, known for innovative pizzas at Local Foundry; Abdulrahman Lootah, who focuses on fitness-inspired comfort food at One Made; and Zainab Al Mousawi, who presents Emirati flavors through a modern twist at To The Moon & Back.

Live Exposure in a Competitive Environment

Each concept in the first round is now accessible to customers via Eatopi, offering a fantastic opportunity for these entrepreneurs to build their brand presence. The subsequent batches will continue this momentum, running from October 2 to October 30 and from November 2 to November 30, respectively. Each new cohort promises to deliver additional culinary excitement and innovation to the local landscape.

Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, CEO of Dubai SME, articulated the organization’s commitment to empowering Emirati entrepreneurs. He mentioned that this initiative not only supports business development but directly contributes to Dubai’s growth in the food and beverage sector. Partnerships like this pave the way for actionable insights and real-world experience, thus enabling chefs to refine their business strategies and operational readiness.

A Collaboration for Long-Term Success

Mohamad Ballout, CEO and co-founder of Kitopi, emphasized the significance of homegrown culinary ideas in shaping Dubai’s food scene. The collaboration with Dubai SME through The Emirati Chef’s Table aims to provide essential support for local chefs, facilitating their journey towards success in a competitive market. By leveraging Kitopi’s resources, founders can access practical knowledge and exposure, which are instrumental in translating their culinary visions into thriving businesses.

The 2026 Founder Series builds upon the mentorship-driven model established in previous years. However, it places additional emphasis on hands-on experience and direct customer engagement, vital components for any successful culinary endeavor. As Dubai SME continues to champion initiatives like The Emirati Chef’s Table, it creates pathways for Emirati entrepreneurs to thrive, solidifying their roles in the flourishing F&B ecosystem of Dubai. Through these efforts, the Emirati culinary landscape is poised for growth, contributing to the city’s reputation as a vibrant destination for gastronomy and innovation.