Meet the UAE’s Top Female Chefs Changing the Culinary Scene
In recent years, the UAE’s Top Female Chefs have stepped into the spotlight, redefining what it means to be a leader in the kitchen. Traditionally a male-dominated industry, the culinary world is now witnessing a vibrant shift as women bring fresh perspectives, rich cultural roots, and world-class skills to the table.
These women are not only commanding kitchens in five-star hotels and fine dining restaurants, but they are also entrepreneurs, authors, and role models. Their influence goes beyond food—they are helping shape a new era of Middle Eastern cuisine.
The Rise of Female Chefs in the UAE
The United Arab Emirates has always been a melting pot of cultures, flavors, and experiences. In this diverse environment, female chefs are finding unique opportunities to rise. From Emirati culinary traditions to global fusion trends, women are bringing heart, heritage, and innovation to their dishes.
According to hospitality reports, the number of women in professional kitchens across the UAE has steadily increased over the past five years. The change has been driven by supportive platforms, global exposure, and the bold ambitions of talented women breaking barriers.
7 Female Chefs Who Are Transforming the UAE’s Culinary Scene
Here are seven incredible women whose stories and achievements are leaving a lasting mark on the UAE’s food industry:
1. Chef Khulood Atiq – The Emirati Cuisine Revivalist
One of the first Emirati Top Female Chefs to gain national fame, Chef Khulood Atiq is known for preserving and modernizing traditional Emirati recipes. Trained by globally recognized chefs, she blends authenticity and creativity in her dishes.
She has collaborated with the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority and participated in international food festivals. Her cookbook Sararid preserves time-honored recipes for future generations.
Quote: “Our food tells the story of our people—simple, strong, and soulful.”
2. Chef Marianna Loughnane – Five-Star Irish Flair in Dubai
Irish-born Top Female Chef, Marianna Loughnane, leads the culinary team at a luxury hotel in Dubai. She merges her European roots with regional ingredients to craft unforgettable dining experiences.
Known for her focus on sustainability and leadership, Chef Marianna empowers an all-female kitchen brigade and advocates for women in executive culinary roles.
3. Chef Abeer Al Suwaidi – Entrepreneur and Food Artist
From kitchen creativity to business savvy, Chef Abeer Al Suwaidi has built her brand with a strong local identity. Founder of “Sikka Gourmet,” she specializes in modern Emirati street food and often collaborates with homegrown businesses.
Her social media presence has made her a role model for young Emirati women with culinary dreams.
Focus Keyword use: Among the UAE’s Top Female Chefs, Chef Abeer is celebrated for blending heritage with modern aesthetics.
4. Chef Bethany Kehdy – Lebanese Roots, Global Reach
Chef Bethany Kehdy is a Lebanese-American culinary artist redefining how Middle Eastern cuisine is viewed. Based in Dubai, she organizes pop-ups and immersive culinary experiences that blend storytelling, heritage, and gastronomy.
As one of the Top Female Chefs in the region, her mission is to decolonize Middle Eastern food narratives and present the cuisine in its authentic complexity.
5. Chef Salam Dakkak – The Palestinian Powerhouse
Award-winning Top Female Chef Salam Dakkak is the founder of Bait Maryam, a homestyle Palestinian restaurant in Dubai. Her love for family cooking and hospitality has earned her a place among the Top 100 Chefs in the World.
Chef Salam’s culinary philosophy centers on warmth, memory, and community—making her one of the UAE’s most beloved Top Female Chefs.
6. Chef Dima Al Sharif – Food Consultant and Farmer
Chef Dima Al Sharif wears multiple hats—food consultant, sustainability advocate, and organic farmer. With over two decades in the industry, she educates others on mindful eating and supports restaurants with fresh farm produce.
As one of the Top Female Chefs, she champions food as a tool for both nutrition and social good.
7. Chef Reif Othman’s Protégé: Chef Feryal Ahmadi
Although still rising, Chef Feryal Ahmadi is gaining fame under the mentorship of celebrity chef Reif Othman. Her precision, technique, and artistic plating make her stand out in Dubai’s fine dining scene.
She represents the next generation of UAE-based female chefs ready to take over the global culinary stage.
Why the UAE is a Hotspot for Female Culinary Talent
The country’s hospitality industry is one of the most dynamic in the world. Major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are culinary capitals, offering world-class training, global exposure, and multicultural inspiration.
Government initiatives and private ventures now support women in hospitality through mentorship programs, female-led food festivals, and entrepreneurship grants.
Focus Keyword in content: These factors have created a launchpad for the UAE’s Top Female Chefs, allowing them to build global reputations while staying rooted in local identity.
Breaking Stereotypes and Inspiring the Next Generation
Women chefs in the UAE are challenging long-held beliefs about gender roles in the kitchen. Many of them not only lead restaurants but also train young chefs, conduct public workshops, and speak at international conferences.
Their success stories are vital for inspiring the next generation of food innovators—especially young girls who now see role models in white aprons and tall chef hats.
Final Thoughts
The rise of the UAE’s Top Female Chefs reflects a broader transformation in the region—one where talent, passion, and cultural pride matter more than gender norms.
As these women continue to break boundaries and build legacies, they also remind us of a simple truth: the future of food is female.
read more- Gulf’s Chefs, Food Influencers, and Restaurant Founders: 7 Powerful Stories You Must Read
