École Ducasse Abu Dhabi welcomes star pastry chef Juliette Handal
Haute desserts and global techniques arrive at Al Hosn culinary studio
DUBAI: École Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio has taken a significant step in reinforcing its reputation as the UAE’s home of French culinary excellence by appointing internationally trained Chef Juliette Handal as its new Pastry Chef.
This announcement marks a bold evolution in the studio’s pursuit of global standards, innovation, and culinary artistry.
With an impressive background shaped by the world’s finest kitchens, Chef Juliette is set to bring a fresh creative edge to the capital’s culinary scene.
Who is Chef Juliette Handal?
A graduate of the École Ducasse Paris Campus with a Bachelor’s in French Pastry Arts, Chef Juliette has trained under some of the finest chefs in Europe. Her experience includes work at legendary establishments such as the Hotel Lutetia and Cheval Blanc Saint-Tropez. She has also contributed to standout dessert experiences at CUCINA by Alain Ducasse at Hotel Byblos in Saint-Tropez, showcasing finesse in haute couture desserts and large-scale gastronomic showcases alike.
Now based in Abu Dhabi, she leads immersive pastry classes at the École Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio, located at the Al Hosn cultural foundation. She is also at the helm of recipe development and plays a central role in exclusive culinary events and workshops hosted by the school.
Pushing creative boundaries
Chef Juliette’s pastry expertise goes far beyond the traditional. She holds certifications in vegan patisserie with expert Richard Hawke, mirror glaze artistry from Costa Rica, and advanced ice cream techniques learned from Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF) chef Luc Debove. Her appointment underscores the school’s commitment to pioneering culinary education and attracting top-tier global talent.
“Joining École Ducasse in Abu Dhabi is both an honour and an exciting new chapter,” said Chef Juliette Handal. “I am eager to inspire our students with the precision, creativity, and passion that define French pastry.”
Culinary expansion
École Ducasse, founded in 1999 by acclaimed multi-starred chef Alain Ducasse, operates a global network of elite culinary schools. Besides three campuses in France – including Paris Studio and the École Nationale Supérieure de Pâtisserie – the brand has expanded to the Philippines, India, Thailand, and the UAE.
In Abu Dhabi, its studio is known for attracting passionate food professionals, enthusiasts, and students to its wide array of programmes, ranging from short masterclasses to full bachelor’s degrees.