Home
About Us

About Us

École Ducasse

École Ducasse is an internationally-renowned school of teaching culinary and pastry arts founded in 1999 by multi-starred chef Alain Ducasse, dedicated to the transmission of outstanding French expertise and excellence. Our mission is to share a passion for gastronomy with seasoned professionals, food enthusiasts, career changers, and students alike.

Our Global Presence
École Ducasse has become an established reference point for excellence in education. In 2023, École Ducasse received the title of “World’s Best Culinary Training Institution” and “Europe’s Best Culinary Training Institution for 2023” at the World Culinary Awards, clearly affirming the institution’s international recognition.

A key member of Sommet Education, one of the world’s leading hospitality management education groups, École Ducasse leaves a considerable international imprint and continues to expand its network of schools with campuses all over the world. It operates three renowned schools in France—Paris Studio, Paris Campus, and École Nationale Supérieure de Pâtisserie (the world’s largest campus dedicated to the pastry arts, which has just celebrated its 40th anniversary)—alongside international culinary schools in the Philippines (Manila Campus), India (Gurugram Campus), and Thailand (Nai Lert Bangkok Studio). These institutions offer a broad portfolio of culinary arts courses designed to meet all training needs: from short programs for experts or food enthusiasts to intensive two, four, or six-month programs, and even three-year undergraduate programs and bachelor’s degrees in culinary and pastry arts.

École Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio

École Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio is situated in Qasr al Hosn, a historical landmark and the oldest building in Abu Dhabi, founded in 2023. As the leading international culinary school in the UAE, we set the benchmark for regional excellence. Our studio occupies a purpose-built 418 sq. m space, featuring two technical kitchens for individual cooking and brigade setups, a dedicated pastry lab, a café, and an event terrace. École Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio is indeed the international benchmark for culinary arts training.

Our Philosophy

At École Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio, we blend the art of French gastronomy with Emirati heritage. Whether you’re an aspiring culinary enthusiast or a professional looking to upgrade your skills, our culinary arts courses and pastry programs enable you to discover French and international cuisine fundamentals while experiencing the Alain Ducasse philosophy.
In addition to our culinary school programs, we offer a variety of cultural experiences rooted in Emirati heritage, from traditional cooking methods to the cultural significance of food in the region. By enhancing the culinary industry in the UAE, we actively support local businesses and organizations in which we genuinely believe.

Join Us
Experience École Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio’s gastronomic journey with us, where culinary excellence and cultural heritage come together.

FACULTY
The chefs at École Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio, who embody the values of Chef Alain Ducasse, are experts in international and French cuisine infused with Emirati flair. Their expertise is evident in every teaching, playing a role in shaping the culinary landscape of the UAE. As mentors, they inspire the next generation while safeguarding and passing down the heritage of the UAE. Experience our year-round courses, showcasing guest master chefs who offer culinary perspectives while immersing you in a range of vibrant, globally-inspired dishes.

Alain Ducasse

Executive Pastry Chef

Farhat Lahmer started his culinary journey by obtaining his CAP and an additional qualification under the former chef of the National Assembly. His career took a significant leap forward when he secured the position of sous-chef at Maison Hervet in Versailles. In 2011, Farhat decided to open his own bakery-pastry shop, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to the craft. To further hone his skills, he continued training with Meilleurs Ouvriers de France and World Champions at École Nationale Supérieure de Pâtisserie (ENSP).
In 2015, Farhat participated in the final of the Pastry World Cup, demonstrating his exceptional talent and commitment to excellence. A year later, he launched his consulting, coaching, and training business, conducting masterclasses around the world. This global experience enriched his knowledge and allowed him to share his passion for pastry arts with a diverse audience.
Farhat joined the ranks of École Ducasse in 2021 as a Pastry Chef Instructor, sharing his expertise and the philosophy of Chef Alain Ducasse with international students. As of December 2023, he joined École Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio, continuing to inspire and educate aspiring pastry chefs. His approach combines traditional techniques with innovative methods, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive and forward-thinking education in pastry arts. Farhat’s dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of Emirati desserts while incorporating the finesse of French pastry makes him an invaluable asset to our team. His masterclasses and workshops provide students with the skills and creativity needed to excel in the world of pastry.

Leading brands

Show all partners