Published March 12, 2026
The Dubai restaurant industry is continuing to welcome diners despite regional tensions, with operators saying customer demand remains strong and venues across the city are operating normally.
Hospitality leaders told Arabian Business that while some diners have naturally become more cautious during periods of heightened alerts, Dubai’s reputation for stability and the UAE’s clear safety protocols have helped maintain confidence across the city’s dining sector.
“While the overall atmosphere has naturally shifted, we’re very fortunate to be operating in Dubai, where the government has implemented clear protocols that give residents and businesses a strong sense of security,” said Maxime Lejuez, Group General Manager of Salvaje Dubai and Arrogante Dubai.
“We’re still welcoming guests who feel comfortable dining out, and that really speaks to the confidence people have in the safety and stability of the UAE,” he told Arabian Business. “While behaviours may adjust, the appetite for dining out certainly remains.”
Dubai has built one of the world’s most dynamic hospitality markets, supported by a strong tourism ecosystem and a population with an established dining culture. Operators say that foundation has helped restaurants maintain momentum even during periods of regional uncertainty.
Praba Manickam, Chief Operating Officer of FoodFund International, which operates more than 24 restaurants across the region including SAN Beach and Clay Dubai, said venues across the group continue to operate as normal.
“While our restaurants continue to operate normally, we are still seeing diners coming in and enjoying the experience,” Manickam told Arabian Business. “Dubai has always proven to be a very resilient city with a strong dining culture.”
Based on past experience, he said confidence typically returns quickly as situations stabilise.
“Over the years we have seen the city navigate multiple global and regional challenges, from financial crises to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Manickam said. “Each time Dubai has demonstrated remarkable resilience supported by strong leadership, clear communication from the government and well-organised infrastructure that allows businesses to continue operating with confidence.”
Leadership and teams keeping operations steady
Restaurant leaders say maintaining stability for staff has been just as important as maintaining the guest experience.
For many operators, clear communication and structured management practices have helped keep teams focused and confident as developments unfold.
At Salvaje Group, staff are regularly briefed on verified information and the safety protocols implemented in the UAE.
“From the very beginning of the conflicts in the region, our team was educated on the facts and informed about the protocols the UAE has put in place,” Lejuez said. “We encourage everyone to stay updated with the news and ask questions. It’s important that they know we are facing this together as a team.”
Structured briefings are now held every second day across the group’s venues to provide updates and maintain operational clarity.
“Our goal is to guide them through it and make sure they feel supported,” he said.
Flexible scheduling has also been introduced to help staff manage stress in different ways.
“Some people find peace at home during uncertain times, while others prefer being at work with their team,” Lejuez said. “We respect both perspectives.”
Dubai’s hospitality workforce is highly international, and operators say maintaining cultural awareness and team unity remains a priority during global developments.
Confidence in Dubai’s hospitality ecosystem
Industry leaders say their confidence ultimately stems from Dubai’s long-standing track record of resilience.
The city’s hospitality sector has grown into one of the most competitive and dynamic dining markets globally, supported by tourism, infrastructure and a strong ecosystem of restaurants and hotels.
Manickam said that track record continues to underpin operator confidence.
“What gives operators confidence is the trust that residents, visitors and businesses place in the city’s ability to manage complex situations while maintaining stability,” he said. “The hospitality sector here is incredibly dynamic and supported by a strong tourism ecosystem that allows the industry to adapt quickly and continue moving forward.”
International restaurateurs have echoed that sentiment.
“I strongly believe that during difficult times it is important to stand together,” he said in an exclusive interview. “Dubai will continue to shine as the pearl of the region, just as it always has.”
For operators across the city, maintaining strong teams and stable operations remains the central priority.
“At FoodFund International we employ more than 1,500 people across our restaurants, so our first priority is always the wellbeing and safety of our teams and guests,” Manickam said.
Lejuez said the experience has reinforced a core principle of hospitality leadership.
“While hospitality is often defined by the guest experience, moments of uncertainty have shown how important leadership behind the scenes really is,” he said. “For us the key principle remains simple. Strong teams create strong restaurants.”