Spotlight on cocoa Asia

Dubai’s influence in cocoa grows with opening of Barry Callebaut’s CHOCOLATE ACADEMY in Burj Khalifa

21-Oct-2021 - Last updated on 21-Oct-2021 at 09:33 GMT

Barry Callebaut's new CHOCOLATE ACADEMY in Dubai. Pic: Barry Callebaut Group

Dubai’s influence in the growing cocoa sector in Middle East region has been further strengthened by the announcement that Barry Callebaut has inaugurated a new CHOCOLATE ACADEMY at the foot of Burj Khalifa, one of the world's most iconic landmarks.

Earlier this year the Emirati city announced plans to launch a Cacao Centre in the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre's (DMCC) as a global hub for trade in cocoa beans.

The CHOCOLATE ACADEMY’S new location and facility will serve as a creative platform where chefs and artisans can showcase and develop their talent and skills.

Barry Callebaut has 24 such academies across the globe, and its latest, in Burj Khalifa, will be the premier platform for bringing renowned chefs to Dubai to inspire, train and advise local artisans as well as offering inspiration, training and support for professionals to help them succeed in the market.

The group hopes it will also play an important role in driving innovation as consumption patterns shift towards premiumisation and new concepts in terms of design, colour and flavours. Courses and events with physical attendance resumed on 21 October, the Barry Callebaut announced.

“The chocolate market is recovering in the Middle East region. The CHOCOLATE ACADEMY Center Dubai supports local businesses in finding the right chocolate solutions to help them win in the market. From empowering women and young talents, to supporting new concepts: The CHOCOLATE ACADEMY Center Dubai is the place to be in the Middle East region for everything related to chocolate,” said Amine Mebrouki, BC General Manager Middle East & North Africa.