3rd June 2026:— Following the historic first edition of the Gault&Millau Saudi Arabia Gala, Joumana Dammous-Salame, Managing Director of Hospitality Services Middle East (HSME), shared her insights on the landmark launch, the rapid evolution of the Kingdom’s F&B sector, and what the arrival of the prestigious Yellow Guide means for the region.

With over 30 years of experience organizing premier regional exhibitions—including HORECA, Salon du Chocolat, and Whisky Live—as well as helming industry-leading publications like Hospitality News Middle East, HSME has been a driving force behind the region’s hospitality and foodservice growth.

Question: You spoke about a dream that many dared to believe in. Looking at tonight’s launch, what does this moment represent to you and to Hospitality Services after years of working to elevate hospitality and gastronomy in the region?

Joumana Dammous-Salame: This moment represents much more than the launch of a guide. It is the culmination of years of work dedicated to celebrating hospitality, supporting talent, and creating platforms that help industries grow and gain international recognition.

For Hospitality Services, it reflects our commitment to showcasing the remarkable evolution of gastronomy across the region. We have always believed that the Middle East has extraordinary stories to tell, extraordinary talent to celebrate, and standards of excellence that deserve global attention.

Seeing Gault&Millau arrive in Saudi Arabia at a time when the Kingdom is investing so heavily in culture, tourism, and gastronomy is particularly meaningful. It is a recognition of how far the industry has come and, more importantly, a sign of where it is heading. We are proud to have contributed to this journey and excited to see the impact it will have on chefs, restaurateurs, and the next generation of culinary talent.

Question: In your speech, you said that Saudi Arabia’s culinary scene has arrived. What makes you say that?

Joumana Dammous-Salame: Because what we are seeing today is no longer a market finding its footing; it is a market defining its identity. Across the Kingdom, we are witnessing a remarkable combination of ambition, investment, creativity, and talent.

Saudi chefs are embracing their heritage while pushing boundaries. Restaurateurs are creating concepts that can stand alongside some of the world’s best. And diners are becoming increasingly curious, knowledgeable, and demanding.

When you combine all of that with the support of institutions such as the Culinary Arts Commission and the broader vision driving the Kingdom’s transformation, you have all the ingredients of a world-class gastronomic destination. That is why I believe Saudi Arabia is no longer emerging — it has arrived.

Question: Why was it important for Hospitality Services to bring Gault&Millau to Saudi Arabia?

Joumana Dammous-Salame: Because we saw an extraordinary opportunity to support and celebrate a culinary movement that is transforming the Kingdom. Gault&Millau is one of the world’s most respected gastronomic references, known for its focus on talent, creativity, and the dining experience.

Bringing it to Saudi Arabia creates a valuable benchmark for excellence while giving chefs and restaurants the recognition they deserve. More importantly, it helps tell the story of Saudi Arabia’s culinary evolution to a global audience. We believed the Kingdom was ready for this platform, and tonight proves that belief was well placed.