The Language of Hospitality

The process of connecting different software applications through their Application Programming Interfaces, enabling seamless data exchange between systems such as POS, inventory, and accounting platforms.

The organizational structure of a company's portfolio of brands, sub-brands, and product lines. It defines how brands relate to and support each other within the overall business strategy.

The collection of hardware and software components — such as servers, storage, and networking — delivered as a service over the internet, enabling scalable and flexible IT operations.

Also known as ghost kitchen or virtual kitchen. A food preparation facility that produces meals exclusively for delivery, without a traditional dine-in space. A key trend in modern F&B operations.

The integration of digital technology into all areas of a business, fundamentally changing how it operates and delivers value to customers.

Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization. A widely used metric for evaluating a company's operational performance and profitability.

Food and Beverage — the industry sector encompassing restaurants, cafés, bars, catering, food production, and related hospitality services.

Free Zone Company — a legal entity type in the UAE that allows 100% foreign ownership, tax benefits, and simplified business setup within designated free zones.

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points — a systematic preventive approach to food safety that identifies physical, chemical, and biological hazards in production processes.

Key Performance Indicator — a measurable value that demonstrates how effectively a company is achieving key business objectives.

The strategic analysis and design of a restaurant menu to maximize profitability by categorizing items by popularity and profit margin.

A business approach that provides customers with a fully integrated experience across all channels — physical locations, online platforms, mobile apps, and social media.

Point of Sale System — the hardware and software combination where retail transactions are completed. Modern POS systems integrate with inventory, CRM, and analytics platforms.

Software as a Service — a software distribution model where applications are hosted in the cloud and provided to customers over the internet on a subscription basis.

The process of improving the efficiency and effectiveness of a company's supply chain — from raw material sourcing to final product delivery.

Designated areas in the United Arab Emirates that offer special incentives to businesses, including 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax, and simplified customs procedures.

The direct revenues and costs associated with a particular business model, expressed on a per-unit basis. Critical for evaluating the viability of restaurant concepts.

A business model where a franchisor licenses its brand, processes, and systems to independent franchisees who operate under the brand's standards.