ATM 2025: London-style gastropub set to open in Dubai
Ishraq, McGettigan Group confirm Goose & Gander opening in June at Internet City
DUBAI: Dubai’s thriving hospitality scene is set to welcome a vibrant new addition as Goose & Gander, a contemporary London-style gastropub, opens its doors in the first week of June 2025.
The announcement was made during Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025, where stakeholders from Ishraq Hospitality and The McGettigan Group gathered to confirm the launch of their joint venture at Holiday Inn Express Dubai Internet City.
Bringing together Sherif Beshara, Group CEO of Mohamed & Obaid AlMulla, and Dennis McGettigan, Group CEO of The McGettigan Group, the event underscored the commitment of both companies to enhance Dubai’s lifestyle hospitality offerings. Also present was Dany Cherfane, Hotel Manager of Holiday Inn Express Dubai Internet City, who will be overseeing the venue’s operations. Together, the executives highlighted their vision to deliver a destination that merges authentic charm with modern flair, aimed at Dubai’s dynamic business and tech communities.
Goose & Gander
Nestled in one of Dubai’s most energetic commercial hubs, Goose & Gander will offer a carefully curated mix of elements that define the London gastropub experience. The venue is designed to attract professionals, residents, and travellers alike with a menu of elevated pub classics, a wide selection of drinks, and engaging community-driven events. The offering will also include themed quiz nights, brunches, live music, and live sports broadcasts to foster a warm, sociable atmosphere.
The opening reflects a broader ambition to create lifestyle spaces where people can connect beyond the office environment. “We’re delighted to announce that Goose & Gander will officially welcome guests in early June,” said Sherif Beshara. “This project is a testament to the strong collaboration between Ishraq Hospitality and McGettigan Group, and a reflection of our continued investment in lifestyle-driven hospitality. With its unique concept and strategic location, Goose & Gander is set to become a go-to destination in Internet City.”
Unique concept
Drawing inspiration from London’s bustling after-work gastropub culture, Goose & Gander promises to bring that signature energy to Dubai, blending traditional elements with a contemporary twist. The venue aims to be more than a dining space—it is envisioned as a social hub that integrates food, entertainment, and service excellence.
“Our partnership with Ishraq Hospitality has brought Goose & Gander from vision to reality,” said Dennis McGettigan. “With the opening now in sight, we are excited to unveil a venue that blends classic charm with a contemporary twist, serving great food, drinks, and entertainment in true McGettigan’s style.”
Dany Cherfane added: “Goose & Gander represents an exciting new chapter for our hotel and the wider Internet City community. We’ve assembled a passionate team ready to deliver memorable service and create a welcoming space where guests can connect, unwind, and enjoy vibrant moments every day.”
Ishraq Hospitality
Ishraq Hospitality, the asset management and hospitality division of the Dubai-based Mohamed & Obaid AlMulla Group, has been instrumental in shaping Dubai’s mid-priced and high-end hospitality market. With a portfolio that includes several Holiday Inn Express properties and Crowne Plaza hotels across the city, Ishraq has consistently upheld high standards in service and operational excellence.
Established in 2007 and acquired by the group in 2011, Ishraq Hospitality manages properties such as Holiday Inn Express Dubai Airport, Holiday Inn Express Dubai – Jumeirah, and Crowne Plaza Deira, among others. The group also oversees Staybridge Suites Dubai Al Maktoum Airport, which opened in 2020, with more properties in the pipeline as part of its ongoing expansion.
The McGettigan Group
Founded in Ireland in the 1960s, The McGettigan Group has evolved into a global brand of award-winning pubs with venues around the world. From its first opening on Queen Street in Dublin by Jim McGettigan, the brand has grown while remaining rooted in Irish hospitality traditions – embracing live music, sport, and energetic entertainment.