Insider Spotlight
Millena Kristie Dahino has been appointed executive chef of Aura Skypool, the world's highest 360-degree infinity pool and one of Dubai's best-known dining destinations, according to Enderun Colleges.
Why it matters
The appointment reflects a broader trend of Filipino hospitality professionals moving beyond operational roles into executive leadership positions in the Middle East, a region that has long employed thousands of Filipinos across hotels, restaurants and tourism businesses.
According to Enderun, Dahino also became Sunset Hospitality Group's first female executive chef, adding another milestone to the growing number of women taking on top culinary leadership roles in the region.
The bigger picture
Before assuming the role, Dahino was recognized among the Women in F&B 2025, an annual list honoring influential female leaders in the Middle East's hospitality and food and beverage industry, Enderun said.
Dahino graduated from Enderun's BS International Hospitality Management program with a specialization in Culinary Arts in 2011 before further training through the Alain Ducasse Formation programme, now known as École Ducasse Manila.
Aura Skypool has become one of Dubai's signature lifestyle attractions, combining a destination restaurant with panoramic views from what it bills as the world's highest 360-degree infinity pool.
As executive chef, Dahino will oversee the property's culinary direction as it continues to cater to international visitors and residents, according to the school.
Bottom line
While Filipinos have long been a mainstay of the global hospitality workforce, appointments to executive chef positions at internationally recognized luxury destinations remain relatively rare.
Dahino's latest role reflects the increasing visibility of Filipino talent in senior culinary leadership abroad, based on information released by Enderun Colleges. —Princess Daisy C. Ominga| Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
