At Souk Madinat Jumeirah, with the Burj Al Arab rising quietly in the background, Anar has reopened with confidence and restraint rather than reinvention for its own sake. One of Dubai’s most enduring Persian dining addresses, Anar’s new chapter is rooted in continuity, sharpening what it has always stood for while evolving its spaces, presentation, and rhythm of experience.
We sat down with Hani Sleiman, Director of F&B, Comida, to understand what stayed sacred, what changed, and how Anar is positioning itself for a more nuanced, experiential future.
What felt essential to preserve with the reopening, and where was it time to evolve?
Anar’s strength has always been its authenticity and consistency of food. That was non-negotiable. The evolution came in how we grow around that core, expanding the experience, the design, and the way guests interact with the brand without compromising what makes Anar, Anar.
You describe the cuisine as a ‘Neo Persian Soul’. How does that translate on the plate?
Neo Persian Soul isn’t about inventing new dishes. It’s about tuning our classics to today’s sensibilities while preserving their authentic taste. Kebabs have always been our signature. The evolution is in how they are presented and refined, contributing to a more contemporary expression of Persian cuisine.
The new courtyard bar is a major addition. What role does it play in the brand’s evolution?
The courtyard bar is a completely new, elevated layer of Anar. It introduces a space for small bites and drinks throughout the day, attracting new customer segments beyond traditional dining. Visually and experientially, it’s a key part of Anar’s new identity and a strong point of attraction for guests passing through Souk Madinat Jumeirah.
Persian cuisine is gaining momentum in Dubai. How does Anar stand apart in a crowded category?
Anar differentiates itself by staying true to authentic Persian recipes while elevating presentation and consistency. The atmosphere blends refined design with warm Iranian hospitality, creating a sense of place rather than a conventional restaurant. Storytelling is central, highlighting Persian culture in a way that feels both authentic and contemporary.
How does this reopening fit into Anar’s growth plans leading into 2026?
The focus is on measured, thoughtful expansion. We’re exploring selective new locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi as initial steps, with international expansion considered later. We’re also open to more compact or flexible formats, prioritising deeper experiences over rapid scale.
Finally, what defines success for Anar in this new chapter?
Success isn’t scale alone. It’s consistency, cultural authenticity, and relevance. It’s about redefining Persian hospitality in Dubai and becoming a benchmark for modern Persian dining, where authenticity, experience, and emotional connection exist in harmony.
With its renewed design, layered experiences, and steady confidence in its roots, Anar’s reopening feels less like a comeback and more like a quiet statement: Persian hospitality, thoughtfully evolved, still belongs at the heart of Dubai’s dining conversation.
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