Salon du Chocolat & Pâtisserie Honours Culinary Icons at Exclusive Awards Gala Ahead of Show Opening

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

On the eve of the highly anticipated Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie opening today, HSME hosted an exclusive gala dinner last night at the Murjan Ballroom, Madinat Jumeirah, celebrating excellence across the worlds of pastry, chocolate, and coffee. The event brought together culinary leaders, innovators, and media for a night of recognition, reflection, and refined indulgence.

Three prestigious awards were presented, shining a spotlight on individuals who are redefining culinary boundaries and elevating the UAE’s global gastronomic profile:

• EXCELLENCE AWARD: Honoured Karim Bourgi for his Outstanding Contribution to the World of Pastry. Celebrated for his craftsmanship and dedication, Bourgi continues to inspire pastry chefs worldwide with his artistry and pursuit of perfection.
• INNOVATION TRAILBLAZER AWARD: Awarded to Sarah Hamouda & Yezen Alani for “Putting Dubai Chocolate on the World Map.” Their visionary work and relentless innovation have positioned Dubai as a rising star in the international chocolate scene.
• LIFETIME AWARD: Presented to Khalid Al Mulla for his pioneering role in Elevating the Coffee Scene in the UAE. A true advocate for specialty coffee, Al Mulla’s contributions have deeply influenced the region’s thriving coffee culture.

Set against the elegant backdrop of the Murjan Ballroom, the evening featured a fine dining experience and an avant-première of the Chocolate Fashion Show, blending haute couture with edible artistry, a taste of the creativity set to unfold at the main event.

The awards gala not only celebrated individual brilliance but also marked the UAE’s growing reputation as a centre for culinary innovation, world-class talent, and hospitality excellence.

Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie officially opens today, 30 September, at Madinat Jumeirah, showcasing the finest in chocolate, pastry, and dessert artistry from the region and beyond.