Sahar Parham Al Awadhi, is a trailblazing Emirati pastry chef known for blending tradition with innovation. Self-taught and driven by passion, she transitioned from a career in advertising to working under top chefs, including Izu Ani, and trained in Paris to refine her skills in breadmaking.

As the first Emirati-born chef at Dubai’s Burj Al Arab, she led a large pastry team and created desserts that reflected UAE heritage with a modern twist. Her reimagined versions of traditional dishes, like umm Ali and Rangeena, became signature highlights of her work.

Al Awadhi emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing, aiming to support UAE agriculture and create desserts that reflect the country’s evolving food culture. She often incorporates ingredients like rosewater, cardamom, and chocolate in playful, thoughtful ways.

In 2022, she received the Middle East & North Africa’s Best Pastry Chef Award. Since leaving the Burj, she’s focused on projects that celebrate biodiversity and continue her mission to present a contemporary, meaningful take on Emirati cuisine.