Meet our new Young Professionals Director Saara Sabbagh

It is a pleasure to introduce myself as the new Director of the Young Professionals division of the Finnish Business Council.

Some of you may already know me from my time working at the Finnish Pavilion Shop during Expo 2020 Dubai in 2021, where I had the opportunity to be part of Finland’s presence at such a significant international event.

My name is Saara Sabbagh, and I am half Finnish and half Syrian, and was raised in the UAE before moving to Finland for my studies. Having grown up between cultures and later returning to Dubai, I have always found that some of the most valuable perspectives come from being able to see the world from more than one point of view. As a third-culture child, building connections between people, cultures and communities has naturally become an important part of how I see both my personal and professional life.

Today, I work in my family’s dental business as a Marketing and Strategy Manager, where my work sits at the intersection of business development, branding and the rapidly evolving dental industry. Alongside this, I have recently taken on the role of Secretary of the Dubai Finnish School (Suomi-Koulu). I am very excited about these new responsibilities and about contributing more actively to the Finnish community in Dubai as a whole.

For young professionals, these are interesting, and at times uncertain, years in which to be building our careers. Geopolitical shifts, technological transformation and the rapid development of artificial intelligence are changing the way we work and challenging some of the assumptions we have traditionally had about careers and professional development. The idea of following one clearly defined career path is becoming less certain, particularly as the skills and roles of tomorrow continue to evolve.

I believe that this makes community and conversation more important, not less. We need places where young professionals can openly discuss the opportunities and uncertainties ahead, exchange perspectives across industries and generations, and learn from one another. At the same time, professional communities should not always have to be about work. Having an inclusive and welcoming environment where people can simply meet, socialise, make new friends and enjoy shared experiences is equally important.

Through the Young Professionals division, I hope to create a space that brings these elements together, from meaningful professional discussions and networking to informal gatherings and social activities. My aim is to build an open community where everyone feels welcome, whether they are newly arrived in Dubai, have been here for years, are building their own business, developing their career or simply looking to connect with other young professionals with Finnish ties.

In an increasingly digital and rapidly changing world, strong human connections remain one of our most valuable resources. I look forward to meeting many of you, hearing your perspectives and building a strong, open and forward-looking Finnish young professionals community here in Dubai.

Saara Sabbagh

Young Professionals Director

FBC Member in spotlight - Meet Kristian Karnell, Founder of Nordic Hospitality Experience

1. Looking back, is there a moment early on when you knew you wanted to become a chef?

It all started when I was a young boy. I deeply admired my father and loved watching the passion he brought into the kitchen. Even though he wasn't a professional chef—he was an advertising executive who traveled frequently—cooking together became our natural way to spend quality time. That was where the spark was lit. Later on, I went to culinary school, and soon after, I was already working abroad. I spent the next ten years traveling the globe, honing my craft in top-tier restaurants around the world.

2. How would you describe your cooking style and where do you get your inspiration?

My cooking style is deeply rooted in Nordic and French culinary traditions. While my framework is very much refined fine dining, I always cook strictly from the heart. I would describe my approach as highly artistic. I draw inspiration from all kinds of surroundings—whether it’s a quiet walk in the forest, a piece of art, or the pulse of an urban city space. I like to translate those textures, moods, and visual elements onto the plate.

3. Tell us about the new immersive restaurant concept you're bringing to Dubai and what can guests expect?

Our upcoming restaurant, Wyrd, is a completely unprecedented concept. While Dubai has seen immersive dining before, it has never experienced a Nordic concept that fuses Northern and Arabic culinary traditions and bridges these two rich cultures.

It is a deeply visual, narrative-driven experience. If you’re a fan of shows like Vikings or Game of Thrones, that gives you a sense of the cinematic atmosphere—translated into a contemporary fine dining space through modern gastronomy and cutting-edge technology. Having previously opened Finland’s first immersive restaurant, Wyrd is my fully realized vision of what the future of experiential dining should be.

We have assembled a world-class creative team:

·       Visuals & Animation: Crafted by an Academy Award-winning animator.

·       Sound Design & Score: Composed by a BAFTA and Cannes award winner.

·       Script & Narrative: Written by an Emmy Award-winning writer.

Guests will be taken on an unforgettable journey starting from the rugged, mythical North and concluding in the magical realm of the Arab world. It is a spectacle and a dining show unlike anything seen before.

4. What do you hope this new chapter in Dubai will bring you, both professionally and personally?

I’ve almost spent a full year in Dubai now, and it has already been an incredible journey. Over the past year, we’ve catered the two largest superyachts at the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix in Yas Marina, curated the diplomatic cocktail ceremony between the UAE and Finland, and I had the privilege of cooking for Finnish President Alexander Stubb during his state visit. This past spring, we also hosted our first Nordic-Arabic pop-up in Dubai and designed a desert-inspired culinary experience for Sheikha Bodour’s Innana fashion brand launch.

Looking ahead, I hope this chapter continues to push my creative boundaries. Professionally and personally, my goal is to showcase Northern culture and gastronomy more prominently in the UAE, while also bringing this global, high-octane event energy back to the Nordics through unique culinary experiences.

5. When you’re not creating fancy gourmet experiences, what’s your favourite meal to cook at home?

Believe it or not, I live very simply at home. My daily diet mostly consists of chicken and rice, as I try to take care of my health and maintain a rigorous training routine around a busy schedule—especially now as I'm getting back into form after an injury.

However, when I do cook at home for pleasure, my go-to choice is definitely fresh fish, seafood, and a rich, savory XO sauce. That said, the greatest luxury at home is having someone else cook for me, since my days are completely consumed by creating food for others. Above all, my absolute favorite thing to do in the kitchen is baking and cooking with my daughter—passing down the same passion my father shared with me when I was a young boy.

Welcome our new member HEI UAE School

HEI UAE is part of a growing global network of Finnish HEI Schools, serving more than 1,700 children across over 25 centres worldwide. The University of Helsinki and Professor Lipponen of the Faculty of Education are the co-founders of HEI Schools and the academic partners in developing our research-based model. To ensure consistent quality across all learning environments, HEI UAE educators receive comprehensive professional development and ongoing support from experienced HEI mentors from Finland.

At the core of the HEI model is the belief that children learn best when they are encouraged to explore, discover, and develop in a nurturing environment that respects their individuality. Through carefully designed learning experiences, HEI UAE helps children build confidence, creativity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

www.heiuae.ae

Contact:

Sari Saliba

Sari.Saliba@heiuae.ae




A major step forward for Finland–UAE connectivity

Great news for both Finland and the UAE.

The launch of Emirates’ daily direct flights between Helsinki and Dubai is an important milestone for the growing relationship between our two countries. A year-round direct connection will bring Finland and the UAE closer together and create new opportunities for business, trade, investment and tourism.

For the Finnish business community in the UAE, this is a particularly welcome development. Strong international connectivity is an important enabler of business, making it easier for companies to enter new markets, meet customers and partners, attract investment and strengthen commercial ties. The new route will also provide Finnish businesses with improved access through Dubai to Emirates’ extensive global network.

Over recent years, we have seen the relationship between Finland and the UAE develop significantly across areas such as technology, digitalisation, renewable energy, education and innovation. This new direct connection is another concrete step in that positive development.

At Finnish Business Council UAE, we are very pleased to see this important connection becoming a reality, and we look forward to the opportunities it will create for our members and for the wider Finnish-UAE business community. We have already established a good relationship with Emirates, and our collaboration will bring added value to our members through exclusive benefits, including discounted flight tickets and other travel-related opportunities.

Emirates announcement

Emirates will launch a daily flight between Helsinki and Dubai from 1 October 2026, expanding its footprint in the Nordics. The new service introduces the only year-round, direct link between Finland and the UAE, and unlocking expanded opportunities for both international leisure and corporate travellers.

The Dubai-Helsinki route will be served by the Emirates A350, the latest aircraft type to join the airline’s all widebody fleet. The A350 is the most fuel-efficient large widebody aircraft in commercial service today and also offers the quietest twin-aisle cabin of any aircraft. Accommodating 298 passengers in three spacious cabins – Business, Premium Economy and Economy – the A350 brings the latest of Emirates’ world-class product and service to Finland from launch, with bright and airy cabins and the latest tech touches.

Beyond tourism, the UAE and Finland have established strong bilateral relationships, underpinned by mutual interests in renewable energy, artificial intelligence and digital transformation, advanced technology, education, space and sustainable development. Trade between the two nations continues to grow, and Emirates’ new service will fuel further opportunities for businesses to connect with the UAE and global markets, via Emirates SkyCargo.

As one of Europe’s key advanced-tech manufacturing and timber hubs, the airline expects to uplift key commodities such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, machinery, perishables, and high-value goods via the 16 tonnes of bellyhold capacity on each flight.

Samuli Pesu, Chairman of the Finnish Business Council

Read the full Emirates announcement:
https://www.emirates.com/media-centre/emirates-to-launch-flights-to-helsinki-finland/

Samuli Pesu

FBC Member in spotlight - Meet Sari Saliba, General Manager from HEI UAE School

1. What is HEI Schools Dubai, and what makes it different from other preschools?

HEI Early Learning Centres bring Finland's child-centered approach to early childhood education to the UAE. Our curriculum has been developed in collaboration with the University of Helsinki and is based on decades of research into how young children learn the best. Rather than focusing on academic pressure at an early age, we prioritize curiosity, creativity, emotional wellbeing, and learning through play. Our learning environments are carefully designed to nurture confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning while supporting each child's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. As a Finn myself I appreciate the most that all our employees will be trained and mentored by Finnish education experts and all educators are studying for HEI diploma. 

2. What is your background, and what led you into education as a career?

My professional journey has always been driven by a passion for people, especially children. I worked as a nurse for 12 years before studying social services and later management and leadership. Being a lifelong learner myself and through my own educational pathways,  early childhood education felt like a natural extension of the values I believe in learning and children's right for safe education. Early childhood, in particular, is such a critical stage of development. Being part of an organization that helps children build confidence, resilience, creativity, and a strong foundation for life is incredibly rewarding. Joining HEI Schools was especially exciting because it combines educational excellence with an innovative and research-based approach that genuinely puts children first.

3. What does a typical day at HEI Schools Dubai look like?

A typical day is vibrant, engaging, and full of discovery. Children arrive to a welcoming environment where they feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Throughout the day, they participate in a mix of play-based activities, creative projects, storytelling, music, movement, outdoor exploration, and collaborative learning experiences.  Our educators act as guides rather than traditional instructors, observing children's interests, and using those moments to create meaningful learning opportunities. You'll see children exploring nature, building, creating art, solving problems together, and developing social skills through everyday interactions. Every aspect of the day is designed to support holistic development while ensuring that learning remains joyful and purposeful.

4. What do you think Finland and the UAE could learn from each other when it comes to education?

I believe there is tremendous value in both systems. Finland has demonstrated the power of trust, child-centered learning, and prioritizing wellbeing alongside academic development. The Finnish model shows that when children are happy, supported, and engaged, they become confident lifelong learners. The UAE, meanwhile, is recognized globally for its ambition, innovation, and forward-thinking approach. The pace at which the country embraces new ideas and invests in educational excellence is truly impressive. I think Finland can learn from the UAE's entrepreneurial mindset, multicultural environment, and commitment to future-ready skills. At the same time, the UAE can benefit from Finland's emphasis on play, wellbeing, and holistic development in the early years. Together, these strengths create a powerful model for preparing children for a rapidly changing world.

5. What do you personally enjoy most about living and working in Dubai?

What I enjoy most is Dubai's incredible diversity and energy. It is a city where people from different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives come together, creating a unique environment for learning, collaboration, and innovation. We moved here 14 years ago with our small children, and the way UAE welcomes children and supports their wellbeing is remarkable. Additionally, it needs to be mentioned how safe this country is and the richness what diversity brings to it in terms of culture, religion, even food. I always say that raising my children here was the best gift I can give them: where else would you learn about different cultures and build such an understanding of multiculturalism than in UAE.

Welcome our new member Nordic Hospitality

Nordic Hospitality x Experience

REDEFINING STANDARDS FOR EVENTS & CULINARY EXPERIENCES

Nordic Hospitality x Experience is a premium event production and culinary experience company creating bespoke events for corporations, luxury brands, and discerning private clients. At the heart of everything we do is Nordic Haute Cuisine—an elevated expression of contemporary gastronomy where precision, purity, and artistry converge.

We design and produce experiences ranging from intimate private dinners and yacht gatherings to corporate events, brand activations, gala dinners, and fully bespoke event productions. Our services combine event concept development and production with private chef experiences, high-end catering, culinary design, and hospitality.

Whether we are producing a complete event or creating the culinary experience within it, every project is built around the client, the occasion, and the desired impact. We bring together food, service, atmosphere, storytelling, and production to create experiences that feel distinctive, considered, and memorable.

Every detail is intentional. Every experience is singular. This is Nordic Cuisine, Hospitality & Experience, defined at the highest level.

Nordic Hospitality x Experience operates from Helsinki, Finland and Dubai, UAE.

www.nordichospitalityexperience.com

Contact:

Kristian Karnell

kristian.karnell@nheagency.com

Welcome our new member Nexuspoint

Nexuspoint is a Dubai-based operations practice for owners and senior teams across the UAE, the GCC and Southeast Asia. We help them execute through growth, deals, and the challenges of scaling, the points where an operation is most likely to slip out of shape.

The practice is led by Jeff Ross, drawing on twenty-five years of running and rebuilding multi-site operations across hospitality, retail and service businesses.

What we do: fractional and interim operations leadership, post-acquisition integration, structured programmes for senior teams, and speaking on operations, integration and leading through change.

Contact:

jeff@jeffross.me
Website: https://nexuspoint.me
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nexuspointme &  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrossme/