Hakkasan Group development

“We believe the KSA is really a burgeoning market. With Saudi Vision 2030 and all the recent progressiveness happening in the country, it really is the right moment to become part of the fabric of change in the country and really add to its culinary scene,” said Angela Lester, executive vice president of business development for Hakkasan Group in an exclusive chat with HN. She said the population is well-traveled and

“understands and appreciates what we do and offer.” The opening of their latest outlet in Riyadh, Yauatcha, brought extremely positive feedback. “We have a very niche concept within the fine dining arena and are really fortunate to be able to expand this brand into the Middle East for the first time, and Riyadh really is the perfect place to start that journey for Yauatcha.” According to their philosophy, fine dining can set a foothold in the KSA. Whereas the UAE has been hosting most fine dining venues for years, the KSA is in a position to leap forward and show itself to the world as being more cosmopolitan and innovative, they believe. “There is a great deal of untapped talent and innovation happening in the country, and has been for years, but now the outside world can finally come in and experience it firsthand,” she explained. The group is planning to expand its presence in the Kingdom, bringing in different brands from its portfolio. On the operations level, she said that working with local partners is key to the success of such international concepts. Lester believes that working with like-minded local partners allows for the best usage of local knowledge and experience, which is essential in fruitful ventures. Hakkasan Group currently partners with Al Khozama, which operates one of the most successful luxury hospitality companies in the Kingdom.