“Everyone has written off Dubai at one point.” Dubai Tourism CEO Issam Kazim on how Dubai bounced back post-pandemic

This week Hashem and guest host Samantha Wood aka FooDiva catch up with Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM). “Not your typical government office,” as Issam puts it, DTCM catapulted the Emirate of Dubai from the early pandemic days through to the other side of lockdown with flying colors—all with stellar planning and marketing campaigns that involved the entire DTCM team.

Hashem and Samantha also ask Issam how recent accolades such as MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants and The Michelin Guides affect the F&B and tourism sectors in Dubai. Issam shares DTCM’s role in bringing this international recognition to the city, what lies ahead for homegrown concepts, how to encourage them to thrive, plus his favorite restaurants in Dubai.