The Cove Rotana Resort in Ras Al Khaimah has appointed Chadi Saloum as its Director of Culinary, marking a return to the five-star property where he previously served as Executive Chef. Saloum brings more than three decades of international culinary and hospitality experience to the role, with a mandate to elevate the resort's food and beverage operations.
In his new position, Saloum will oversee culinary operations across the resort's restaurants, dining venues, and banqueting facilities. His responsibilities include menu development, operational management, and culinary innovation, working closely with the resort's leadership team to maintain consistent quality and introduce fresh concepts that reflect the coastal setting and Rotana's commitment to genuine hospitality.
A proven track record in Gulf hospitality
Saloum joins The Cove from Rotana's Al Jaddaf Hotel Complex in Dubai, where he served as Complex Executive Chef. In that role, he led culinary operations across three hotels and achieved significant growth in food and beverage revenue. His leadership also secured Gold-level food safety ratings and certifications including Travelife and Green Key.
His career is decorated with accolades, including Chef of the Year - MENA at the Hospitality Excellence Awards. He is a certified judge with the World Association of Chefs' Societies and a co-founder of the Syrian Culinary Guild. His return to The Cove Rotana Resort brings a wealth of expertise and a commitment to mentoring culinary talent, supporting the resort's focus on delivering memorable dining experiences.
The appointment comes as Ras Al Khaimah continues to expand its hospitality offerings, with several new resorts and developments underway. The emirate has become a key destination in the UAE's tourism landscape, attracting both leisure and business travelers. Rotana operates multiple properties in the region, and The Cove remains one of its flagship beachfront resorts.
Saloum's return is expected to strengthen the resort's position in the competitive UAE dining scene. His experience in both standalone and complex operations will be valuable as The Cove looks to enhance its culinary reputation. The resort's leadership has expressed confidence in his ability to drive innovation and maintain high standards.
For travel professionals, this appointment signals Rotana's continued investment in culinary excellence as a differentiator. The company has been focusing on elevating its food and beverage offerings across its portfolio, and Saloum's track record suggests he will play a key role in that effort at The Cove.
Saloum's international background includes stints in Europe and the Middle East, giving him a broad perspective on global culinary trends. He is known for his ability to blend local flavors with international techniques, a skill that should resonate with the resort's diverse clientele.
As the hospitality industry recovers and evolves, culinary leadership remains a critical factor in guest satisfaction and property performance. The Cove Rotana Resort's decision to bring back a proven executive underscores the importance of consistent, high-quality dining in driving repeat business and positive reviews.
Saloum's appointment is effective immediately, and he will work alongside the resort's general manager and executive committee to implement his vision. The resort is expected to announce new dining concepts and initiatives in the coming months.
