Dubai, a city known for its vibrant food culture and diverse cuisine, is also home to some of the best culinary schools in the region. Whether you’re an aspiring chef, a food enthusiast, or a professional looking to upgrade your skills, Dubai offers top-tier institutions with world-class facilities and instruction. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the seven best culinary schools in Dubai.
Table of Contents
- International Centre for Culinary Arts (ICCA Dubai)
- School of Culinary and Finishing Arts (SCAFA)
- Dubai College of Tourism (DCT)
- College of Tourism & Hotel Management (COTHM Dubai)
- HTMi Switzerland Dubai
- Top Chef Cooking Studio
- Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management
1. International Centre for Culinary Arts (ICCA Dubai)
Website: www.iccadubai.ae
Overview: Established in 2005, ICCA Dubai is a globally recognized culinary school offering professional programs for aspiring chefs, artisans, and cooking hobbyists.
Programs Offered:
- Professional Diplomas in Cookery and Patisserie
- Amateur and hobbyist cooking courses
- Artisanal and specialty workshops
Who Is This For? Ideal for beginners to professional chefs looking for accredited training and international placement opportunities.
Location: Dubai Knowledge Park
Other Key Features:
- State-of-the-art Facilities
- International Recognition (City & Guilds UK)
- Expert Instructors
- Networking & Industry Connections
- Workshops & Culinary Events
2. School of Culinary and Finishing Arts (SCAFA)
Website: www.scafa.ae
Overview: SCAFA offers intensive professional culinary programs combined with real-world restaurant experience through their in-house restaurant, Scafe.
Programs Offered:
- Pro Kitchen
- Pro Pastry
- Pro Finishing
- Short courses and amateur cooking classes
Who Is This For? Perfect for career changers, aspiring chefs, and professionals seeking fast-track entry into the culinary industry.
Location: Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), Dubai
Other Key Features:
- Live Training Environment at Scafe
- Industry Mentorship
- Career Support
- Modular Learning Flexibility
3. Dubai College of Tourism (DCT)
Website: www.dct.ac.ae
Overview: Operated by Dubai’s Department of Tourism, DCT offers accredited, industry-integrated programs in culinary arts.
Programs Offered:
- Certificate in Culinary Operations (1 Year)
- Advanced Diploma in Culinary Arts (2 Years)
Who Is This For? Great for students looking for comprehensive culinary education connected to Dubai’s tourism and hospitality sector.
Location: One Central, Dubai World Trade Centre
Other Key Features:
- Government Backing
- Industry Access through internships and site visits
- Professional Environment
- Scholarships for UAE Nationals
4. College of Tourism & Hotel Management (COTHM Dubai)
Website: www.cothm.ae
Overview: COTHM Dubai is part of a global network offering internationally accredited culinary, hospitality, and baking programs.
Programs Offered:
- Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Diploma in Baking and Patisserie
- Short-term culinary and barista courses
Who Is This For? Best suited for aspiring chefs and professionals aiming for global culinary careers.
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
Other Key Features:
- Global Certifications
- Wide Course Range
- Placement Assistance
- Professional Kitchen Access
5. HTMi Switzerland Dubai
Website: www.htmidubai.com
Overview: A Dubai branch of the Swiss hospitality giant HTMi, offering international culinary education and training.
Programs Offered:
- Diploma in International Culinary Arts
- Hospitality diplomas with culinary modules
Who Is This For? Perfect for those wanting Swiss-standard education with internship guarantees.
Location: Studio City, Dubai
Other Key Features:
- Swiss Accreditation
- Paid Internships
- Luxury Hospitality Links
- Modern Campus Facilities
6. Top Chef Cooking Studio
Website: www.topchefdubai.com
Overview: Focuses on recreational culinary classes for adults and children with a casual, friendly setup.
Programs Offered:
- Adult and kids cooking classes
- Private and group culinary events
Who Is This For? Perfect for families, hobbyists, and team-building events.
Location: Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeira 1, Dubai
Other Key Features:
- Home-Like Studio Setup
- Themed Cooking Nights
- Family & Kids Friendly
- Creative Events & Workshops
7. Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management
Website: www.emiratesacademy.edu
Overview: While mainly a hospitality management institute, it integrates culinary arts into its broader degree programs.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor’s and Master’s in Hospitality with culinary modules
- Culinary workshops and electives
Who Is This For? Ideal for students pursuing a career in hospitality with an interest in culinary foundations.
Location: Opposite Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah, Dubai
Other Key Features:
- Global Hospitality Rankings
- Paid Industry Internships
- Jumeirah Group Partnership
- Culinary Integration into Degree Pathways
Conclusion
From world-renowned academies to boutique cooking studios, Dubai offers a wide range of culinary schools tailored to every ambition and skill level. Whether you dream of becoming a Michelin-starred chef or simply want to master the art of cooking, there’s a place in Dubai to kickstart your journey. Each school brings something unique—be it global recognition, hands-on restaurant experience, family-friendly classes, or elite hospitality integration—helping you make the best choice based on your goals.
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