Saturday 30 / August / 2025
Dhofar: The first phase of the sixth edition of the “Oman Chef” competition concluded on Saturday at Hawana Salalah, coinciding with the Khareef tourism season.
Organised by Oman Tourism College in partnership with Omran Group and Muriya, and in collaboration with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the competition aims to spotlight Omani culinary talents and showcase local cuisine in innovative ways that preserve its authenticity.
The initiative reflects Omran Group’s commitment to social investment and the development of national talent in the tourism and hospitality sector.
The competition featured chefs from Dhofar and Al Wusta Governorates who presented dishes inspired by local ingredients, ranging from traditional to modern fusion.
Beyond the spirit of competition, the event sought to inspire young chefs to develop creative recipes and acquire professional skills that contribute to strengthening Oman’s culinary and hospitality industries.
Dr. Hamad bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Dean of Oman Tourism College, said: “The Oman Chef competition represents a national platform to document and showcase Omani culinary arts, presented in a professional manner aligned with international standards.
"Through this initiative, the college aims to empower young chefs, ensure the sustainability of Omani culinary heritage, and increase the global competitiveness of national talents.”
Mohammed bin Hamad Al Rasbi, Social involvement lead at Omran Group, added: “Omran Group is proud to organise initiatives that support and empower Omani youth in the tourism and hospitality sectors. The ‘Oman Chef’ competition reflects the Group’s commitment to social investment and to promoting authentic tourism experiences that highlight the richness of Oman’s cultural heritage.”
Talal bin Humaid Al Khusaibi , Director General of Heritage and Tourism in Dhofar Governorate, emphasised the importance of the initiative, saying: “We are working to enhance career pathways for chefs, encourage innovation and entrepreneurship, and build qualified national talent that contributes to the growth of the tourism economy while strengthening the competitiveness of Omani human capital.”
Eng. Wael Al Lawati, CEO of Muriya, commented: “Hosting the competition at Hawana Salalah reflects our commitment to empowering Omani talent and creating real opportunities for chefs to achieve new levels of excellence. This initiative is central to our vision of supporting sustainable tourism and reinforcing the cultural and culinary identity of Oman.”
At the conclusion of the event, the winners were announced as follows: First place went to Ammar Al Harthy , second to Maryam Al Maani and Azzan Al Balushi came third.
The winners will be awarded an accredited training programme with Le Cordon Bleu, one of the world’s leading culinary institutions, to help them advance their professional careers with international expertise.
The “Oman Chef” competition will continue its journey in Muscat from October to December 2025,
culminating in the grand finale that will bring together the top chefs from across the Sultanate.
