Siena Dubai Opens In The Heart Of DIFC
The Parisian concept takes its Italian fare to the UAE capital
In March, we reviewed Siena Paris and low and behold, Mehdi Abdelhedi and Rizwan Kassim decided to open up a new location in Dubai and we couldn’t be happier. Newly cemented in DIFC, Dubai’s financial district, a thriving and booming area, we can understand the appeal.
Siena Paris opened in May 2023 and it offers a familial, fun-night-out, glamorous vibe that centers around Italian fare. DIFC is a very grown up and elegant part of Dubai, surrounded by glamorous restaurants, 5-star hotels, luxury residences, sweeping views of the Burj Khalifa, with a vibe that’s one doesn’t seem to find east of London or Paris. For Abdelhedi and Kassim, DIFC’s dining landscape and elegance was the charm that pulled them into opening Siena Dubai in DIFC. “In partnership with Mehdi, introducing Siena to the city is a deliberate step, building on a concept that has resonated in Paris while adapting it to a market that values community,” states Kassim in notes. Quite simply, according to announcement notes, it’s where: Parisian sensibility meets the timeless charm of Tuscany.
“Siena represents a continuation of a family vision, shaped by generational savoir faire and expressed as a distinctive lifestyle destination,” explains Abdelhedi in notes. “Bringing Siena to Dubai is an opportunity to introduce its original identity to a new audience, where the elegance of Paris meets the energy of the city. We look forward to presenting Italian cuisine in all its richness while reinterpreting the spirit of the concept for Dubai.”
Interior architect Laleh Amir Assefi is responsible for the design. Inside guests will find a refined Tuscan-inspired interior filled with Italian wall frescoes, sculpted moldings, marble tabletops, and uniquely crafted chandeliers. At Siena Paris bird chandeliers are commonly seen, and this touch has been brought to Dubai. Assefi captures its Paris location by incorporating original codes that match well with Dubai and a more modern vision.
The food is Italian with the use of seasonal ingredients that come from local producers who understand quality and flavor. You’ll find Linguine all’astice, Focaccina all’astice, Pizzetta al salmone e caviale, Carpaccio di manzo, Siena rigatoni, and the classic Tiramisu.
“In a time that calls for a more considered pace, the opening of Siena is approached with intention, rooted in the simple value of bringing people together,” says Kassim. “Hospitality, often most affected during periods of uncertainty, continues to offer connection, familiarity, and shared moments. Dubai demonstrates strength and stability as a global hub, bringing together cultures and perspectives from around the world. Our ambition is for Siena to become a destination that contributes thoughtfully to Dubai’s evolving culinary landscape and supports the UAE’s long-term vision.”
Rihanna at Siena Paris | Photo provided by Siena Paris
In Paris, Siena is known to be quite the celebrity hangout. Rihanna, Oprah, Kim Kardashian, Leonardo DiCaprio, Sofia Vergara, Teyana Tayor and so many others have been spotted dining. As the restaurant transitions from lunchtime to the dinner service, it shifts in a unique way, a way that must be experienced to be understood properly. May Siena Dubai capture this same vibe with its own language and in its own way.
"What we’ve focused on in Dubai is ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and cared for," says Siena Dubai’s General Manager. “From the way our team guides each experience to the way the spaces flow, we want people to relax, connect, and enjoy the Italian way of life in a vibrant, effortless setting. Every detail is designed to make each visit special and memorable.”
As Siena Dubai evolves, it will capture the concept of its older Parisian sister of lively energy, live DJs, flowing cocktails, and a place where you can pocket life’s problems and unwind with good company.
Ltd Gate Village Building 7, DIFC, Dubai, UAE | Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 7PM to 1AM (closed on Monday) Friday - Saturday: 7PM to 2AM
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