Credit By: Caterer Middle East
Ecole Ducasse, the globally renowned French culinary school founded by the esteemed chef Alain Ducasse, is poised to make a significant impact in Abu Dhabi. In partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT – Abu Dhabi) and Earth Hospitality, Ecole Ducasse will inaugurate its Abu Dhabi Studio in December. This culinary institution is celebrated worldwide for its excellence in teaching culinary and pastry arts, bearing the illustrious reputation of its founder, Alain Ducasse, a holder of 21 Michelin stars. With institutes already established in France, India, the Philippines, and Thailand, the Abu Dhabi location will be Ecole Ducasse’s debut in the Middle East and is now part of Sommet Education, a leading global network of hospitality management and culinary arts schools.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The Ecole Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio will be situated within the Cultural Foundation, offering a contemporary and friendly learning environment. This purpose-built space spans 418 square meters, meticulously designed to meet the highest standards. It features a generous classroom area, a fully equipped workshop show kitchen, a bespoke chef’s table, and a spacious outdoor terrace overlooking the Abu Dhabi skyline. With a focus on personalized attention, classes will have a small group of students, ensuring an intimate and engaging learning experience.
Empowering Culinary Enthusiasts
The Ecole Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio will cater to a diverse range of culinary enthusiasts, from beginners to experienced chefs looking to enhance their skills. With professional equipment and expert instructors, the studio will provide short and professional courses to meet the needs of all abilities. This inclusive approach to culinary education reflects Ecole Ducasse’s commitment to fostering culinary excellence at all levels.
A Transformative Impact
The arrival of Ecole Ducasse in Abu Dhabi is expected to bring a transformative change to the culinary sector while also contributing significantly to the growth of the hospitality industry in the region. Saleh Mohamed Al Gezer, Director-General for Tourism at DCT – Abu Dhabi, commented on the impact of this culinary institution: “By nurturing local talent and fostering creativity and innovation, we aspire to create a lasting impact on the culinary scene in Abu Dhabi and beyond.”
Culinary Investment Fund and Official Licensing
The launch of Ecole Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio coincides with the unveiling of the Abu Dhabi Culinary Investment Fund, an initiative with a budget of more than Dh360 million. This fund aims to attract leading brands to the UAE capital over five years and bolster Abu Dhabi’s status as a gastronomical hub. Earth Hospitality is set to serve as the official license partner of Ecole Ducasse, solidifying its commitment to fostering culinary brilliance in the region.
A Culinary Hub in the Making
Abu Dhabi is increasingly establishing itself as a burgeoning culinary hub, ready to host and inspire talents from Emiratis and beyond. The CEO of Earth Hospitality, Shaikha Al Kaabi, affirmed this, stating, “This collaboration not only solidifies our commitment to fostering culinary brilliance but also reaffirms Abu Dhabi’s status as a burgeoning culinary hub, ready to host and inspire talents from Emiratis and beyond.”
A Vision for the Future
Apart from the launch of Ecole Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio, Sommet Education, the parent organization, has partnered with the Boutique Group, a hospitality company wholly owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. This collaboration will encompass training programs, recruitment, and internships, further enhancing the development of hospitality professionals in the region.
The establishment of Ecole Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio represents a culinary milestone for the Middle East. With a commitment to excellence, personalized learning experiences, and a focus on fostering local talent, this institution is poised to enrich the local gastronomic scene and encourage culinary skills to flourish. Abu Dhabi, with its cultural diversity and welcoming environment, provides the ideal backdrop for Ecole Ducasse to empower the next generation of culinary innovators, setting the stage for a vibrant future in the world of gastronomy.
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