Showcasing Culinary Talent, and Innovation The Fifth Edition of Oman Chef Competition Kicked-off
The fifth edition of Oman Chef Competition successfully kicked-off, highlighting a significant milestone in the celebration and advancement of Omani culinary talent and creativity. Organized by Oman Tourism College (OTC) with support from the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and the Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group), this prominent event brought together skilled chefs from across the Sultanate of Oman—from passionate students to seasoned professionals—celebrating the artistry, depth, and evolution of Omani cuisine.
The Oman Chef Competition has steadily gained prominence as a major platform for showcasing Omani cuisine, inspiring chefs to craft exceptional dishes using local ingredients in innovative ways. This year’s edition emphasizes sustainability, challenging participants to explore Omani flavors through eco-conscious techniques that honor the nation’s culinary heritage. Structured as a multi-stage event, each round is designed to inspire creativity, pushing participants to redefine traditional Omani cooking with fresh, inventive approaches.
“This competition is a tribute to Omani culinary heritage and serves as a platform that inspires innovation among our chefs,” shared Dr. Hamad Mohammed Almuhrzi, Dean of Oman Tourism College. “By blending tradition with modern culinary techniques, participants are not only preserving the essence of Omani flavors but are also reimagining its future. We are thrilled by the talent and passion we’ve seen as these chefs’ honor and redefine our cuisine in new and exciting ways.”
Amira Iqbal Al Lawati, Director General of Tourism Development at the Ministry of Heritage & Tourism, commented, “This annual event not only celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Oman but also highlights the exceptional talent and creativity of our young chefs. Through this competition, we aim to inspire innovation in both traditional and modern Omani cuisine, supporting our vision to position Oman as a premier destination for Gastronomy tourism and Omani culinary arts. The Ministry is dedicated to elevating Omani cuisine to the global stage. Through the comprehensive programs and initiatives, we are fostering a vibrant culinary scene, supporting our chefs, and inspiring innovation. This commitment aligns with the Ministry’s broader vision of positioning Oman as a premier destination for cultural tourism.”
Aligned with its strategic goals, OMRAN Group supports initiatives that foster local talent and contribute to community development. Badriya Abdulrahman Al Siyabi, Director of Sustainability and Local Content at OMRAN Group, emphasized the significance of the Oman Chef Competition in empowering Omani youth and enhancing Oman’s tourism sector: “OMRAN Group is proud to support initiatives like the Oman Chef Competition, which empower Omani youth and create valuable career pathways in the culinary arts. This competition aligns with our sustainability goals and commitment to tourism development, creating authentic, sustainable experiences that showcase Oman’s unique resources and potential.”
The event celebrated the evolving potential of Omani cuisine and showcased the creative vision of this new generation of chefs. The 5th edition of Oman Chef competition consists of three rounds and witnesses the participation of more than 50 aspiring Omani chefs. The first round featured an impressive display of flavors and craftsmanship, with chefs presenting reimagined Omani classics through fusion techniques and inventive presentations.
As part of OMRAN Group’s broader community development initiatives, the Oman Chef Competition exemplifies the organization’s commitment to fostering long-term, sustainable growth in the tourism and hospitality sectors. The event supports the foundation for an authentic, globally recognized culinary culture while expanding opportunities for young Omani chefs and culinary enthusiasts.