< Previous20 / CATERERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MARCH 2025 Sunset Hospitality Group Raising the bar How the women at Sunset Hospitality Group’s Daylife Division are transforming Dubai’s hospitality industry Writer and actress Vannna Bonta once said there is no hospitality quite like understanding; taking the time to know a guest, what they need, and the environment they crave. In Dubai, guests are spoiled for choice. Glittering lights? An easy fi nd. A cosy beach spot with a vibrant night life? A few taxis and you’re there. Fusion cuisine while lounging in a pool sipping the fi nest cocktails mocktails? Right this way. In their eyes, anything is possible – especially when you add a feminine touch. Dubai welcomed more than 17 million tourists from all over the world in 2024, a nine percent increase compared to 2023. Each one of them expects a unique, captivating experience no matter where they go. The female powerhouses of Sunset Hospitality Group make sure they get just that when visiting any of the group’s acclaimed venues. SHG has a plethora of successful lifestyle and hospitality brands under its belt and a signifi cant focus on female leadership. From restaurants to beach clubs and nightlife venues, each off ering is as unique as it is upscale – exactly what the residents and tourists ordered. Solidifying its notable and continued commitment to constantly adapting to prioritise guests and foster a balanced environment for women to thrive in leadership roles, SHG has taken it upon itself to recognise the crucial role female leaders have to play in Dubai’s hospitality space. From amplifying creativity to enhancing the sector by using fresh ideas, empathy and attention to detail, SHG’s stamp of approval for women in leadership roles goes far beyond guests checking out of their impressive venues – it creates a lasting impression that keeps them coming back for more. Making female voices heard SHG’s culture of support and empowerment means female voices are not just recognised, they are expected, brand ambassador for Bâoli Dubai Kamelia Sobati tells Caterer. “It’s not about ticking a diversity box; it’s about creating a team that thrives on diff erent perspec- tives and strengths.” Female leadership in the hospitality space brings with it a unique approach to service, guest experience, and how teams are managed, giving professionals a real change to grow professionally, knowing that contributions are valued. “It’s not about ticking a box, it’s about harnessing different perspectives” CAT_2103_20-25_COVER FEATURE_SUSHISAMBA_13542533.indd 20CAT_2103_20-25_COVER FEATURE_SUSHISAMBA_13542533.indd 2028/02/2025 18:5428/02/2025 18:54MARCH 2025 / CATERERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 21 xxxxxxxxxxxx (L-R) Daylife Division senior marketing manager Charlotte Bellot, head sommelier Agathe Plantade, graphic designer Nour El Khazen & senior marketing director & head of corporate MARCOM Iliana Orietta CAT_2103_20-25_COVER FEATURE_SUSHISAMBA_13542533.indd 21CAT_2103_20-25_COVER FEATURE_SUSHISAMBA_13542533.indd 2128/02/2025 18:5428/02/2025 18:5422 / CATERERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MARCH 2025 Sunset Hospitality Group SHG’s approach to supporting female leadership by investing in mentorship, career development, and equal opportunities creates a collaborative environment, says DRIFT reservations and recep- tion manager Maria Dabos. “This not only enhances the workplace culture but also drives innovation and excellence in hospitality. Working for an organisation that values female leadership is truly empowering. It is inspiring to see how female leadership enhances the overall business success.” Putting guests fi rst is the priority of any hospi- tality brand, and with women at the helm, their experiences are enhanced in a way only a diversi- fi ed environment can provide. “The industry requires constant adaptability, especially when handling last-minute requests and ensuring a smooth experience, particularly during high seasons. It also involves working during holidays, weekends, and vacation times, which demands a high level of dedication and passion for the industry,” Dabos adds, saying she fi nds joy in hearing stories of guests who visit from all over the world. Not only are they capitalising on traits that make women unique, they are paying it forward for future generations as well, one of reservations and events manager Gemma Santonja’s favourite parts of the job at Ammos Greek Restaurant, she tells Caterer. “Mentoring eight fantastic women and seeing them grow within our company, knowing I’m contributing to a more empowering future for women in hospitality – that’s the best part of my job. “At SHG, the women in management create more inclusive teams, mentor future talent, and bring a diff erent perspective, especially thanks to femininity and female touch added to the guest experience. It’s inspiring to see more women step- ping into key roles and forming the industry in a way that feels more progressive.” And instead of waiting for opportunity, Santonja, mirroring SHG’s commitment to female empowerment, says although being a woman in the hospitality industry can sometimes be a challenge, it also aff ords her an opportunity to empower herself and her future career. “Talent, ambition and innovation matter more than anything else here” (L-R) AURA Skypool's guest relations and retail manager Sofia Tkachenko, head chef Millena Kristie Dahino & events manager Iuliia Kharytonchuk CAT_2103_20-25_COVER FEATURE_SUSHISAMBA_13542533.indd 22CAT_2103_20-25_COVER FEATURE_SUSHISAMBA_13542533.indd 2228/02/2025 18:5428/02/2025 18:54MARCH 2025 / CATERERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 23 Sunset Hospitality Group “Working at SHG means being part of a culture where talent, ambition, and innovation matter more than anything else. It’s inspiring to be in an environment that genuinely supports women,” she adds. Women making their mark These women are making their mark in a once male-dominated industry, infusing guest experiences with empathy, understand- ing, patience, and a healthy dose of multitasking. Daylife Division head sommelier Agathe Plantade says during her career, breaking into a space traditionally reserved for men required resilience, confi dence, and a deep commitment to proving her expertise. “The landscape is evolving, and I’m proud to be part of some- thing that’s making the industry more inclusive and diverse,” she says, adding that SHG’s prioritisation of diversity, inclusion, and merit has fostered a culture where women are given oppor- tunities to lead, setting new standards for one of the fastest growing sectors in sunny Dubai. In just over a decade, the region’s hospitality space has changed from a select few women representing top brands to companies taking a more balanced approach. The women at SHG are in good company, relying on each other’s strengths and unique contributions to the hospitality space. And like any good wine, patience is key, a trait AURA Skypool events manager Iuliia Kharytonchuk has leaned into throughout her career. “As a woman in hospitality, I’ve faced challenges, but I believe my experience has been shaped positively from those. I feel empowered and supported by my team, which makes a big diff erence,” she tells Caterer. “Our management empowers women at every level, making it easier for us to lead our teams and shine in our roles. This culture of support and collabora- tion is great for everyone involved.” The part SHG is playing in allowing the hospitality industry to adapt by taking an inclusionary approach is vital to the sector’s lifeblood: evolution. “It has allowed Dubai’s hospitality sector to solidify itself firmly as a must-visit destination for tourists from around the globe. “The industry has evolved a lot. While it was once more male-dominated, women today are redefining what hospitality means – new ideas, stronger engagement strategies, and a focus on experience-driven luxury. It’s an excit- ing shift, and I’m proud to be part of it,” Sobati says. The feminine touch Every hospitality professional, regardless of gender, brings something unique to the industry. This is what keeps it fresh and adaptable, making Dubai a destination able to cater to virtually any guest’s needs. There are however notable female contributions that are amplifying the sector’s ability to ensure that people go home with an experience they can reminisce of fondly. Dabos says in her experience, the impact of women on the hospitality industry has resulted in it being even more dynamic and globally competitive, proving, she adds, that diversity in leadership does drive more innovation, and excellence. “Female leadership has had a signifi cant impact on Dubai’s hospitality industry, bringing fresh perspectives and raising service standards. “As the city continues to grow as a global luxury destina- tion, more women are stepping into leadership roles, rede- fi ning industry norms through collaboration, mentorship, (L-R) Bâoli Dubai's general manager Jennifer Vasquez, brand ambassador Kamelia Sobati & reception and reservations manager Katarina Bajic CAT_2103_20-25_COVER FEATURE_SUSHISAMBA_13542533.indd 23CAT_2103_20-25_COVER FEATURE_SUSHISAMBA_13542533.indd 2303/03/2025 11:5303/03/2025 11:5324 / CATERERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MARCH 2025 Sunset Hospitality Group and team empowerment. Their approach creates a supportive work culture, and enhances both guest satisfaction and oper- ational success.” In Kharytonchuk’s words, women stepping into various roles, from hotel management to sommelier positions, are doing “amazing things”. “Their presence not only brings fresh ideas, but also inspires younger generations to pursue their passions. It’s wonderful to see how this shift encourages more inclusivity and creativity in our industry,” she says. Adding a feminine touch to each guest’s experience is Santonja’s secret behind making sure her brands stand out. Whether this means paying attention to minute details or being empathetic, she brings a diff erent approach by trying to step into her guest’s shoes. “I give the best of me, and that’s what I would like to feel as a guest.” SHG fostering a unique environment on merit also means raising the bar within the hospitality industry, Plantade says, which is contributing signifi cantly to the sector’s fast-paced nature. “It’s an inspiring, forward-thinking environ- ment that’s setting new standards in hospitality. Women are now taking on key roles, contributing to a more diverse and dynamic hospitality scene in Dubai.” Being intuitive and creating relationships is an aspect Sobati feels women are doing diff er- ently in the sector as well. “I feel that women bring a different energy to hospitality – one “It’s an inspiring environment that’s setting new standards” that’s detail-oriented, intuitive, and relation- ship-driven. “We’ve helped shape an industry that’s not just about luxury but about connec- tion, which is what keeps people coming back.” Women of SHG spill the tea on their secrets to success No analysis of the endless list of positive traits women bring to the hospitality industry would be complete without a few tips on how females have created and maintained success in their respective fi elds. They revealed some industry secrets to Caterer on how they keep thriving in their roles, and are setting new standards in excellence. On creating unforgettable guest experiences, Dabos prioritises going beyond her guest’s expectations “with genuine care and attention to detail”. She adds: “What makes DRIFT Dubai unique is our commitment to innovating, with new activations, pop-ups, and exclusive events - for example, we create seasonal pop-ups at our new DRIFT Sea Lounge, transporting guests into unique experiences, such as our Aprè s-Ski and Little Paris takeovers.” Kharytonchuk at AURA Skypool says guests leave happy because of her team’s dedication and passion to create special experiences. “We’ve already hosted thousands of happy guests, creating memorable moments that keep them coming back,” she explains. “Together with the team, we focus on the little details that make a big diff erence, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile. This commitment helps us become well- known and loved not just locally, but internationally.” Bâoli Dubai’s brand ambassador has curated a noteworthy rolodex of VIP guest connections, which she reveals is about brand ethos, “and getting it right”. Sobati adds: “Bâoli’s VIPs don’t just seek luxury - they want a sense of exclusivity and belonging. Building trust means understanding their preferences, anticipating their needs, and creating an experience that feels eff ortless yet unforgettable. When that connection is genuine, they continue to choose Bâoli time and time again.” For Santonja, it’s about leaning in to a healthy dose of femi- ninity to prioritise her guests, by being empathetic and understanding. She also inspires her team to be genuine and authentic in all aspects of their jobs, saying “that is the energy” at the venues she looks after. For Plantade, the pride in working at SHG’s Daylife Division lies in seeing happy guests soak- ing up the venues and their drinks. “The greatest joy icomes from seeing our venues full of guests who are genuinely enjoying them- selves – sipping excellent wine and immersing themselves in the experiences we’ve created. It’s fulfi lling to witness the energy of a lively space and to see my team passionate about serving excep- tional bottles,” she concludes. (L-R)DRIFT's marketing manager Isabel Calandrini & reservations and reception manager Maria Dabos CAT_2103_20-25_COVER FEATURE_SUSHISAMBA_13542533.indd 24CAT_2103_20-25_COVER FEATURE_SUSHISAMBA_13542533.indd 2428/02/2025 18:5528/02/2025 18:55Cover feature MARCH 2025 / CATERERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 25 xxxxxxxxxxxx (L-R) Azure Beach and AMMOS Greek Restaurant head hostess Anastasia Baidaliuk, reservations and events manager Gemma Santonja & marketing executive Laura Lauria CAT_2103_20-25_COVER FEATURE_SUSHISAMBA_13542533.indd 25CAT_2103_20-25_COVER FEATURE_SUSHISAMBA_13542533.indd 2528/02/2025 18:5528/02/2025 18:55REACHING Gen Z CAT_2103_26-33_GEN Z_13543723.indd 26CAT_2103_26-33_GEN Z_13543723.indd 2628/02/2025 15:2728/02/2025 15:27Gen Z feature MARCH 2025 / CATERERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 27 The next generation of hospitality pros on what’s in, what’s out and what’s next for the region’s culinary industry By Misbaah Mansuri CAT_2103_26-33_GEN Z_13543723.indd 27CAT_2103_26-33_GEN Z_13543723.indd 2728/02/2025 15:2728/02/2025 15:2728 / CATERERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MARCH 2025 Gen Z dining Gen Z is stepping into the F&B industry with a diff erent playbook. They aren’t following outdated notions of fi ne dining or hospitality but rather rewriting them. Experience matters as much as food, energy is valued over exclusivity, and a strong digital presence can make or break a restaurant. This shift isn’t theoretical but is actually playing out in real time. Restaurants are rethinking how they design spaces, curate menus, and engage with guests. Following Caterer Middle East’s dive into how Gen Z is reshaping fi ne dining, we now hear from the industry’s next- gen professionals – the Gen Z talent working inside the F&B industry – to understand how these shifts are playing out and what the future looks like from those driving it forward. Dining that feels like an event For Gen Z, a meal isn’t just about what’s served on the plate, but rather how the entire experience makes them feel. Ambience, design, music and energy play just as crucial a role in creating a restaurant’s identity as the food itself. “As a Gen Z representative, I can confi dently say that dining today is about so much more than just great food,” says Ekaterina Larina, marketing manager at Salvaje, Arrogante, and Amor by Salvaje Dubai. “It’s an experience that starts long before you step into the restaurant – often beginning with a beautifully curated social media presence that catches your eye. Once you arrive, it’s the interiors, the energy of the people around you, and the visual appeal of every dish that complete the picture.” This generation craves immersion, and restaurants are increasingly engineering experiences that feel as dynamic and photogenic as they are delicious. Gone are the days when fi ne dining meant hushed tones and white tablecloths – now, it’s about bold, high-energy spaces that feel like an extension of a guest’s personality. “Restaurants today need to create an experience that draws people in, keeps them engaged and Dessert at Alaya CAT_2103_26-33_GEN Z_13543723.indd 28CAT_2103_26-33_GEN Z_13543723.indd 2828/02/2025 18:5628/02/2025 18:56MARCH 2025 / CATERERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 29 Gen Z dining makes them want to come back,” says Ayushi Kisani, senior PR account executive at Umami Comms, which represents F&B clients including LPM Restaurants, tashas group and more. “We prefer spaces that feel lively, open, and engaging. The atmosphere is just as important as the food.” For Alessio Cofone, assistant general manager at Alaya Dubai, the transformation is about creating multi-sensory experiences that go beyond traditional service. “A restaurant is no longer just a place to eat but a carefully curated journey that engages all senses. Ambience is everything. We dynamically adjust music and lighting throughout the evening to match the mood of our guests, creating an experience that feels eff ortless yet deeply intentional.” Gen Z’s preference for experiential dining is also refl ected in how they respond to restaurant design. A well-thought-out interior isn’t just a backdrop but a part of the attraction itself. “I’m captivated by beautiful interiors,” adds Larina. “I love when a restaurant’s design is so immersive that you momentarily forget you’re in a dining venue – it feels more like stepping into an art exhibition or a modern museum. That’s something Dubai does exceptionally well, blending culinary and visual experiences into one.” Kisani adds that a well-designed space should enhance, rather than overpower the experience. “I appreciate when a visit to a restaurant feels fluid and thoughtfully planned. “I love starting with a drink at the bar before moving to the dining area – it adds a sense of rhythm and movement to the experience rather than just sitting down for a meal.” Social media drives decisions If a restaurant doesn’t live online, it doesn’t exist at all. Instagram, TikTok, and infl uencer marketing now hold as much power as traditional restaurant reviews, and for Gen Z diners, social media is often the fi rst and fi nal decision point. According to Deliverect, Gen Z is heavily infl uenced by user content and peer reviews, so restaurants leverage hashtags, challenges, and geotags to insert themselves into Gen Z’s social feeds . “For me, social media is the first place I discover new restaurant openings,” says Larina. “Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are incredibly infl uential – they showcase not just the food and drinks but the entire identity of a venue. “Today, restaurants are defi nitely adapting to this digital-fi rst audience, knowing that their social presence can make or break that fi rst impression.” It’s no longer enough for a restaurant to have a social media manager – venues are actively designing their spaces, dishes and experiences to be shareable. From statement décor and dramatic plating to Instagrammable entrances Ekaterina Larina “We prefer spaces that feel lively, open and engaging. The atmosphere is as important as the food” CAT_2103_26-33_GEN Z_13543723.indd 29CAT_2103_26-33_GEN Z_13543723.indd 2928/02/2025 18:5628/02/2025 18:56Next >