Bahraini chef Roaya Saleh has been recognized as one of the 22 most influential restaurant owners in the Middle East by Forbes. Saleh, the founder of RS Management and the Villa Mamas restaurant chain in Bahrain, has expanded her culinary ventures to Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, and London. In 2024, she opened the highly regarded seafood restaurant Dawa in Bahrain and has gained prominence as a judge on culinary TV shows. Forbes attributes the success of the food and beverage industry in the region to the financial prosperity of residents and visitors, as well as its role in driving travel and tourism.
The Middle East and North Africa showcase a diverse range of cuisines, with Saleh standing out as the only Bahraini and Gulf woman on Forbes’ list of the 20 most powerful leaders of luxury restaurant owners in the region. This recognition highlights the esteemed level achieved by Bahraini women in entrepreneurship and the luxury restaurant sector. Saleh expressed her pride in this achievement, emphasizing the importance of providing the best dining experiences and embracing creativity at work. This recognition serves as motivation for her to continue expanding and developing her culinary ventures.
Saleh’s goal is to introduce Bahraini dishes and the heritage of Bahraini food to the world, while also expanding her Villa Mamas restaurant chain. Being recognized by Forbes as one of the most influential restaurant owners in the Middle East is a significant milestone in her career and reaffirms her commitment to excellence in the culinary industry. Saleh’s passion for Bahraini cuisine and commitment to showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region sets her apart as a leader in the industry.
The Forbes list of influential restaurant owners in the Middle East highlights the growing importance of the food and beverage industry in the region. The success of chefs and restaurant owners like Roaya Saleh is a testament to the evolving dining scene in the Middle East, attracting residents and visitors alike. Saleh’s innovative approach to hospitality and her dedication to providing unique dining experiences have solidified her reputation as a leader in the industry. Her presence on the Forbes list underscores the impact of Bahraini women in shaping the culinary landscape of the Middle East.
Saleh’s journey from founding Villa Mamas in Bahrain to expanding her culinary ventures internationally is a testament to her vision and passion for Bahraini cuisine. Her commitment to excellence and creativity in the kitchen has garnered her recognition as a leader in the industry. Saleh’s inclusion on Forbes’ list of influential restaurant owners in the Middle East is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her contributions to the culinary world. As she continues to expand her restaurant chain and showcase the flavors of Bahrain to the world, Saleh remains a pioneering figure in the regional food and beverage industry.
In conclusion, Roaya Saleh’s recognition by Forbes as one of the most influential restaurant owners in the Middle East is a testament to her dedication to culinary excellence and innovation. Her commitment to showcasing Bahraini cuisine and heritage on a global stage sets her apart as a leader in the industry. Saleh’s inclusion on the Forbes list highlights the growing impact of the food and beverage industry in the Middle East and her role in shaping its future. As she continues to expand her culinary ventures and provide unique dining experiences, Saleh’s influence in the industry is set to grow even further, solidifying her position as a trailblazer in the culinary world.
