Arada Enters Collaborative Venture with Tashas Group to Revolutionize GCC Dining Scene
In an exciting move set to reshape the dining landscape in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Arada, a prominent real estate developer, has announced a strategic partnership with the internationally renowned Tashas Group, founded by visionary entrepreneur Natasha Sideris. This alliance aims to establish a series of invigorating new dining experiences across the GCC, with an initial investment of AED 100 million.
The partnership will primarily focus on launching two distinct restaurant brands: the upscale café, Tashas, which has garnered acclaim for its vibrant cuisine and aesthetic appeal, and the fresh concept, Café Sofi. Within the next two years, Arada and Tashas Group plan to inaugurate at least ten outlets, with the first five already under construction. Notably, Tashas Aljada is slated to open its doors in Sharjah this December, marking a significant milestone in this culinary expansion.
The prevalence of non-alcoholic establishments in this project represents a deliberate decision to cater to prevailing community norms and preferences within the UAE, particularly as the region sees a budding interest in healthier, family-friendly dining environments. This venture reflects a broader societal shift toward creating premium lifestyle experiences in suburban areas, extending beyond the traditional gastronomic centers of the cities.
Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, articulated the significance of this partnership, stating, “This collaboration with Tashas Group embodies our ambitious vision to cultivate spirited and community-oriented destinations where superior design, wellness, and authentic hospitality converge. Food and beverage play an integral role in Arada’s lifestyle initiatives, and we are proud to partner with a brand that echoes our dedication to quality, innovation, and enriched experiences. This venture not only expands our portfolio but fortifies our commitment to developing well-knit communities that encourage connection and togetherness.”
For Natasha Sideris, who has transformed Tashas Group from a singular café in South Africa to a global phenomenon with nearly forty locations, this collaboration signifies an alignment of values and long-term aspirations. She stated, “Working with Arada provides us the opportunity to position both Tashas and our upcoming concept, Café Sofi, in new locales throughout the region. Our mission is to deliver exceptional dining experiences that blend exquisite cuisine, thoughtfully curated environments, and a commitment to high-quality service.”
Café Sofi, set to debut in South Africa in September 2025, promises to offer a unique culinary experience drawing inspiration from Sideris’s mother, Sophia. The café aims to capture an intimate and elegant atmosphere, serving classic favorites ranging from fresh salads to delectable cakes. This emphasis on personal storytelling in their offerings is what distinguishes the brand, making it not merely a dining venue but a narrative thread woven into the tapestry of community life.
The expansion of Tashas Group into GCC markets complements Arada’s ongoing initiative to diversify its portfolio, particularly within the hospitality and retail sectors. Arada’s array of food and beverage brands already includes popular names such as Boost Juice, Hungry Wolves, The Reformatory Lab, Kashtat Amina, and Em Sherif, diversifying the culinary experiences available within its communities. This strategic move signals a robust approach to enhancing lifestyle offerings and enriching community life in the region, an essential development as the UAE continues to grow into a global hub for trade, culture, and tourism.
This venture not only underscores the high demand for innovative dining experiences in emerging suburban areas but also represents a pivotal moment for both Arada and Tashas Group, as they collaborate to create spaces that foster social interaction and community building. As they embark on this journey, the gastronomy landscape in the GCC is poised for a significant transformation, promising exciting culinary ventures that highlight quality, wellness, and community orientation.
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