The Middle East region has seen a substantial influx of international brands and celebrity chefs over recent years. Buddah Bar, Zuma, The Ivy, Hakkasan, The Hard Rock Café, Gauho and Mahiki are just some of the independent outlets that have arrived in the region of late.

With licensing law changes in various free zones, hotels that once had the upper hand due to their ability to serve alcoholic beverages are now having to reassess their F&B offerings to compete with the new independent restaurants on the market.

It is a change that is seeing hoteliers go head-to-head with restaurateurs, and the stakes are high – as the region, especially Dubai, is booming again.

Constant innovation and investment is revitalising both environments and an enhanced dining experience will be required to withstand the increasing competition.