A Culinary Legacy that Inspired a Career

For Heba Siraj, food has always been more than just sustenance—it’s an experience, a form of love, and a way to bring people together. Growing up in a household where her mother’s legendary cooking left a lasting impression, Heba was inspired from a young age. “I’ve never known a profound memorable moment that didn’t involve food,” she says, reflecting on how family gatherings, business meetings, and even lazy lunches all revolved around the magic her mother created in the kitchen.

This early exposure to the power of food sparked Heba’s desire to create her own space, one where food tells a story just like her mother’s meals did. Her dream was not only to serve dishes but to craft unforgettable dining experiences that evoke emotions, memories, and connections.

From Hospitality to Entrepreneurship

Heba’s professional journey began in the hospitality industry, where she worked her way up in various positions. Starting as the Associate Director of VIP events at Madinat Jumeirah and later as the Director of Events at Atlantis, The Palm Dubai, Associate Director of VIP events at Madinat Jumeirah, Heba had a front-row seat to the world of luxury dining and hospitality. These roles gave her a deep understanding of how food connects people and how dining experiences can create lasting impressions.

However, as a woman in a male-dominated industry, Heba faced significant challenges. Proving herself was no easy task, but her persistence and resilience became the pillars that carried her forward. “It’s about finding your voice and sticking to your vision,” she says. This mindset was crucial when Heba eventually took the plunge into entrepreneurship and opened her own restaurant, Siraj.

Siraj: A Testament to Emirati and Syrian Heritage

Heba’s biggest achievement to date has been her recognition in the Michelin Guide for three consecutive years. This achievement is particularly meaningful because Siraj pays homage to both her Syrian roots and her adopted home of the UAE. “It’s a privilege to present authentic Emirati and Syrian flavors to the world,” Heba reflects. “The recognition is not just for me, but for my incredible team who shares the same dedication to bringing these cuisines to the forefront.”

For Heba, Siraj is more than a business; it’s a tribute to her heritage, a celebration of culture, and a place where people can experience the love and warmth of her upbringing through food. It’s a dream realized, blending tradition and innovation to create something truly special in Dubai’s dining scene.

Overcoming Early Career Challenges

Like many entrepreneurs, Heba faced a series of setbacks during the early days of opening Siraj. One of her biggest challenges was securing a prime location for the restaurant. “Facing multiple rejections was tough,” Heba recalls. “But those experiences taught me the importance of perseverance.” Rather than seeing failure as an endpoint, Heba turned it into motivation, working tirelessly to find the perfect location for her dream restaurant.

This resilience has been the cornerstone of her career. Each obstacle became a lesson, and each challenge a stepping stone toward success. “I learned that persistence is key,” she says. “Believe in your vision and push through, even when it feels impossible.”

Creating a Global Legacy

Heba’s ambitions extend far beyond the walls of Siraj. She is currently focused on making the restaurant a landmark in the Dubai dining scene, with plans to expand internationally. Her goal is to make Siraj a global ambassador for Emirati and Syrian cuisine, bringing these rich and flavorful cultures to the world stage.

“Food is an expression of love, and I want to share that love with the world,” Heba says. With this vision in mind, she is taking steps to not only expand Siraj but also to elevate the representation of Emirati and Syrian cuisines globally.

The Power of Inspiration and Motivation

When asked about her greatest inspiration, Heba doesn’t hesitate. “My mother has been my greatest influence,” she says. “Her passion for cooking and her ability to bring people together through food shaped my approach to the culinary world.” This inspiration drives Heba every day, reminding her that food is not just about nourishment—it’s about creating lasting memories and forging connections.

Staying motivated, especially in the face of setbacks, is something Heba has mastered. “I remind myself of my purpose: to create a space where people can experience the love of my culture through food,” she explains. This purpose fuels her passion and ensures that every dish at Siraj tells a meaningful story.

Lessons Learned and Success Redefined

Reflecting on her career, Heba has learned countless lessons that have shaped her approach to work and life. One of the most valuable lessons has been the importance of resilience and adaptability. “Life and business will always bring unexpected challenges,” she says, “but staying flexible and open to change allows you to grow.”

For Heba, success is no longer just about building a thriving restaurant. It’s about creating a legacy. “Success means leaving a lasting impact on the industry and inspiring others to embrace their culinary heritage,” she shares. For Heba, building Siraj is just the beginning—her ultimate goal is to inspire future generations of chefs and restaurateurs to pursue their culinary dreams without compromise.

Advice for the Next Generation

Looking back, Heba reflects on the advice she would give to her younger self. “I would tell myself to trust the process, be patient, and never be afraid to fail,” she says. “Each setback is a lesson in disguise, pushing you closer to your goals and making you stronger than before.”

Her advice resonates with anyone navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Success isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about using each experience as an opportunity for growth.

Building a Lasting Legacy

Heba Siraj’s story is one of resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. Through her restaurant, Siraj, she has built a platform to showcase the flavors of her heritage while sharing her love for food with the world. With her sights set on expanding globally, Heba is not only creating a legacy for herself but for the generations of culinary innovators who will follow in her footsteps.

To learn more about Heba’s journey and the incredible flavors of Siraj, follow her on Instagram.