Moving to the UAE or Saudi for restaurant work? Here’s what to expect
Every year, thousands of hospitality professionals relocate to the UAE and Saudi Arabia for higher earnings, career growth and the chance to work in some of the most dynamic restaurant environments in the world. The opportunities are real, but so are the adjustments. If you’re considering a move to Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Riyadh, it’s important to know what life and work in the Gulf are really like.
CV tips for waiters, hosts, and baristas aiming for premium venues
At Radiant Hospitality, we work closely with some of the region’s most prestigious restaurants and cafés. We’ve reviewed thousands of CVs and spoken with just as many chefs, GMs and HR managers. The good news? Most job seekers can improve their chances significantly with just a few smart adjustments.
How to impress in a trade test at a luxury restaurant in the Middle East
Trade tests are the gateway to some of the most coveted kitchen roles in the Gulf. In Dubai, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, and Bahrain, luxury restaurants don’t just hire based on a CV or an interview. They want to see you in action.
From kitchen porters to CDPs: How to build a career in the Middle East
The hospitality industry in the Gulf is expanding fast. New restaurants and café concepts are opening every month, backed by serious investment and global talent. Unlike in saturated markets, there’s real room for growth here, especially for kitchen staff who show promise, dedication and maturity.
What it’s really like working at a high-end venue in Riyadh or Bahrain
But what’s it really like to work in a high-end restaurant, café, or bar in Riyadh or Bahrain? At Radiant Hospitality, we place candidates across both markets and stay close to what employers and staff are experiencing. This guide gives you a recruiter’s view of daily life, expectations, and the unique challenges and rewards of working in these two cities.
How to land a job at a luxury café or fine dining restaurant in Dubai
The Gulf region offers some of the most exciting opportunities in global hospitality. From high-end cafés serving single-origin pour-overs and elevated brunches to fine dining restaurants with international acclaim, the demand for talent never slows down. But standing out in this market takes more than a polished CV
What top restaurants in Dubai look for when hiring staff
At Radiant Hospitality, we work closely with some of the most respected restaurants and café groups in Dubai. In this post, we draw on that experience to break down exactly what top venues look for when hiring both chefs and front-of-house staff.
Key traits of successful hospitality candidates in the Middle East
A guide to the soft skills that matter most in high-end Middle Eastern restaurants: cultural awareness, language fluency, and exceptional customer service.
10 actionable tips for greater career fulfilment in hospitality roles
Working in hospitality is both exciting and challenging. Demanding customers, fast-paced shifts and long hours can test your resilience. Try these 10 tips to boost happiness in your role.
The 2025 James Beard Awards semifinalists
The 2025 James Beard Awards semifinalists have been announced: Full listing with web links.
Global hiring trends in 2025: Shifting expectations
The trends in hiring highlight a dynamic shift towards more inclusive, flexible, and employee-centric practices. Technological advancements, a focus on soft skills, diversity and inclusion efforts, the rise of the gig economy, and the emphasis on employee well-being are shaping the future of work.
The origin and setup of the kitchen brigade
Discover how the visionary system of the Chef's Brigade, crafted by culinary legend Auguste Escoffier, revolutionised professional kitchens and remains a foundational element in the world of gastronomy.
Changing workforce expectations in the hospitality industry
How does an industry known for its long hours and shift work adapt to new generational expectations?
How to livestream the 2024 James Beard Awards ceremony
Watch the 2024 James Beard Awards live online.
Why professional chefs should showcase their work on social media
In today's digital age, where visuals play a crucial role in decision-making, chefs artistry, skill, and passion for food can reach a global audience with just a few clicks. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest come into play, offering a canvas for culinary professionals to showcase their work, build their brand, and engage with a broader community.
Bahrain: The revival shaping its restaurant landscape
Fatima bint Jaffar Al Sairafi, the Tourism Minister, has emphasized the success of the 2022-2026 Tourism Strategy and expressed confidence in achieving even greater progress.
Navigating LinkedIn for new job opportunities
The war on talent has come to an end, with highly skilled workers adopting a new approach to catch the attention of hiring managers: thoughtful and well-constructed job applications.
10 traits of exceptional front desk candidates
Guest service agents play a pivotal role in shaping the reputation of hotels. They stand at the forefront of guest interactions and are an important guest touchpoint, often determining the overall guest experience.
How to tailor your job application to attract attention
Tailoring a job application to a specific job posting is crucial to increase your chances of standing out to hiring managers. Here are some effective ways to do so.