SESSIONS & GUEST SHIFTS
Join Behind Bars and a lineup of local and international guests as we explore a wide range of industry topics, through our Sessions at our bespoke bar stations.
Secure your spot at one of our intimate, in-depth Sessions led by industry leaders and programmed specifically for the bar community, or simply drop by for a chat with our team — paired with an exceptional cocktail crafted by some of Dubai’s best bartenders.
AGENDA DAY 1
April 7th, 2025
SESSIONS & GUEST SHIFTS
11:00 - 13:00 hrs
GUEST SHIFT | Bloody Mary's with Emilio Valencia
Emilio began his hospitality career in London where he developed his passion before moving on to work in cities across the globe before arriving in Dubai. With family roots in the music business, woodworking, arts & design, his DNA breeds creativity and hospitality.
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Classic Bloody Mary & Orange Mary
13:00 - 14:00 hrs
SESSION | "The Numbers Behind Bars (and beautiful cocktails)" with Francesco Galdi
*Seat Reservation Required*
The Numbers Behind Bars (and beautiful cocktails).
How an Excel subscription is much more profitable than a Rotovapor at your bar.
Numbers run the show behind the curtains (and on stage) at your bar.
Pretty cocktails are important, a world-class design is pivotal and hospitality is the key to conquer our guests’ heart, but without a solid financial knowledge of your expenses, beverage cost and your menu profitability your business is in grave danger.
Get to know your numbers, success will follow suit.
Secure your seat HERE
14:00 - 16:00 hrs
GUEST SHIFT | The Cocktail Playground with Coralie Doillet
Coralie "Coco" Doillet is an award-winning mixologist from Bordeaux, known for her creative, culinary-driven approach to cocktails. With experience in top bars around the world, she continues to push the boundaries of mixology, blending global flavors with artistic inspiration.
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The cocktail Playground: how guest engagement and experience are just as important as the drink itself
The Cocktail Playground is where bartenders and guests come together for a fun, interactive experience that goes beyond just a drink. For bartenders, each station is a playground to experiment and elevate their craft. For guests, it's tailored experience, shaped by professional's hospitality, creativity and interaction.
This immersion highlight how guest engagement and experience are just as important as the drink itself. Because a great cocktail isn't just about flavor, its about the moment it create!
16:00 - 17:00 hrs
SESSION | "Blueprints for Innovation" with Constança Cordeiro from UNI
*Seat Reservation Required*
Blueprints for innovation - pushing boundaries with flavours and new cocktail creation methodologies.
Join Constança as she introduces a new creation methodology, focusing on its unique approach developed at UNI, Lisbon. This method revolves around crafting innovative new flavours by experimenting with different ratios of 15 interconnected distilled and extracted ingredients. She will explain how this technique enhances flavour, complexity and balance, offering a fresh perspective on mixology and its practices. To conclude, she will highlight its practical applications, potential industry impact, and how it can inspire bartenders to push creative boundaries.
Secure your seat HERE
17:00 - 19:00 hrs
GUEST SHIFT | Forgotten Classics with Arlindo Duarte
Arlindo began his hospitality journey at 14, shifting to bar management by 18. After Studying in Lisbon, he refined his craft at London's Coupette, mastering classic cocktails in a world class setting. He then led the bar programs at multiple venues before helping launch The22, a private members' club, blending his passion for bar setups with photography.
In 2023, his creativity shone at Callooh Callay, where he curated an award-winning menu.
Now in Dubai, he leads Buddha Bar's bar program, bringing global expertise and a meticulous eye to detail.
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Forgotten Classics: rediscovering the cocktails that shaped our craft but are often left behind.
Have you heard about the Prohibition? It was an era when speakeasies were both the place to be and the place to hide. What if we could travel back in time, revisiting forgotten classics? This bar experience is about more than just modern trends; its about rediscovering the cocktails that shaped our craft but are often left behind.
18:00 - 19:00 hrs
SESSION | "Ingredient-Based Design" with Carlos Aragão
*Seat Booking Required*
Ingredient-Based Design: Collaboration as the base for exceptional spaces
The creative mind behind XXXI Studio in Lisbon, brings a unique approach to design, blending architecture, craftsmanship, and storytelling. As a key collaborator in our Gulf Bar Show stand and bar stations, his work pushes the boundaries of spatial design with a deep focus on materials and functionality.
XXXI’s creative process is inspired by the idea of interior design as a carefully curated recipe, where every element plays a meaningful role. They focus on collaborating with disruptive local partners, artisans, and materials that elevate the quality of each space. Just as a bartender selects ingredients for a drink, they thoughtfully choose techniques and materials best suited to the project and its desired identity. By prioritizing local production and seeking clever, meaningful solutions, they aim to create spaces that form a very specific world, all while celebrating craftsmanship and simplicity.
Book your seat HERE
AGENDA DAY 2
April 8th, 2025
SESSIONS & GUEST SHIFTS
11:00 - 13:00 hrs
GUEST SHIFT | Bloody Mary - St Regis with Don Bodhinayake
A highly accomplished Beverage Manager with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, Don excels in managing multiple luxury properties while developing innovative and profitable beverage programs. Currently, he serves as the Beverage Manager at the prestigious St. Regis Saadiyat Island, where his passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences and commitment to excellence have set new standards in a luxury five-star environment.
His career is marked by a series of notable achievements, including being honored as the 2023 Bar Manager of the Year for the Middle East by the Caterer Awards and recognized as the 2024 Rising Star of the Year by the Caterer ME Awards.
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Bloody Mary - St Regis
13:00 - 14:00 hrs
SESSION | "All The Ways You Didn’t Know An Orange Could Help Your Creativity" with Monica Berg from Campari Academy
*Seat Reservation Required*
Join Campari Academy Creative Director Monica Berg in this fun workshop exploring the fundamentals of flavour construction, using the versatility of the orange. From understanding the basic tastes and how your palate works - to how to layer flavours and which techniques to use when - this personal session will help you develop your skills and flavour identity as a bartender.
Book your seat HERE
14:00 - 16:00 hrs
GUEST SHIFT | THREE. A Magic Number in Hospitality with Vitor Hugo Lourenço
Vitor Hugo Lourenço is a globally recognized beverage expert with over 16 years . Renowned for his innovative approach, he has led some of the industry's most prestigious bars, including the multi-award-winning Gin Bar at Holborn Dining Room in Rosewood London. As Beverage Director of Culinary Arts Group and former Group Beverage Manager at EATX Dubai, he has shaped high-end beverage programs and collaborated with leading brands, including being part of the prestigious Campari Red Hand program.
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THREE
Three is the magic number in cocktail making. Flavors, aesthetics and profit; these are the pillars of a world class thinking experience that is both exceptional and sustainable.
It's a journey through the forgotten, the reimagined, and the timeless.
16:00 - 17:00 hrs
SESSION | "Mixology Simplified: Fresh Water & Clear Ice for Better Cocktails" with Manuel & Mikael
*Seat Booking Required*
This session explores the vital role of fresh water and clear ice in mixology, featuring insights from bartender Manuel Lica on how clear ice enhances cocktails and ice producer Mikael Ljungdahl on sustainable ice production. Topics include water quality, PFAS concerns, innovations in ice manufacturing, and the science of ice in cocktails, including dilution, temperature control, and waste reduction.
Book your seat HERE
17:00 - 19:00 hrs
GUEST SHIFT | Guatemala Fashioned & Harmony Sour with Kumar Chaulagai
Kumar Chaulagai, Head of Bars at Jumeirah Al Naseem, is a renowned mixologist from Nepal. With experience at Blind Tiger, Four Seasons, and Coya, he champions sustainability and innovation, crafting award-winning cocktails and redefining the drinking experience with creative, eco-friendly practices.
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Guatemala Fashioned & Harmony Sour
18:00 - 19:00 hrs
SESSION | "Mathematics Approach" from Insider & Exploring Rotovap with Vladimir Mayakov
*Seat Reservation Required*
This session explores the power of a mathematical approach behind the bar. By applying these principles, you’ll simplify your processes and achieve more consistent, stable cocktails. Vladimir will also cover the use of a rotovap and other essential tools, sharing insights on how to use them wisely for maximum impact.
Secure your seat HERE
SPEAKERS
& GUESTS
Corporate Operations & Beverage Manager
Francesco Galdi
With 20+ years in hospitality, Francesco has opened 35 bars across 4 continents. As a passionate expert and visionary leader, he's shaped the UAE’s vibrant bar scene with his creative, hands-on approach.
Bartender & Entrepreneur
Constança Cordeiro
Visionary and innovator, Constança has shaped the bar scene for 16+ years. After honing her craft in London, she returned to Portugal in 2017, opening Toca da Raposa, Uni, and Croqui, pioneering sustainability, foraging, and innovative mixology.
Partner & Architect
Carlos Aragão
Carlos from XXXI Studio shapes spaces with a multidisciplinary approach, crafting thoughtful, functional designs across hospitality, retail, and residential projects. His work balances innovation, local materials, and storytelling to create immersive environments.
GUEST SHIFTS
🍸 Emilio Valencia
🍸 Coralie Doillet
🍸 Arlindo Duarte
Bartender & Entrepreneur
Monica Berg
A pioneering bartender and entrepreneur, co-founder of Muyu liqueurs and Tayēr + Elementary, revolutionizing modern bartending. Leads Campari Academy, co-founded P(OUR), and launched BackOfHouse.Info to support industry transparency and education.
Ice Producer | Solutions Consultant
Mikael Ljungdahl
A seasoned expert in industrial ice production, sustainable solutions, and supply chain logistics, with over a decade of experience in creating efficient, high-quality, and eco-conscious ice systems for the food and beverage industry.
iCY's Brand Ambassador | Consultant
Manuel Lica
With nearly a decade in hospitality, specializing in high-end bar solutions, brand activation, and event management. He advocates for premium clear ice, and is an award-winning bartender and founder of Centric Hospitality Group.
Bartender & Entrepreneur
Vladimir Mayakov
A globally recognized bartender, beverage director, and Onegin Vodka ambassador, shaping the industry with award-winning bars, Michelin-star collaborations, and competition victories. Former director of Insider Bar, influencing bar programs and hosting masterclasses worldwide.
GUEST SHIFTS
🍸 Don Bodhinayake
🍸 Vitor Lourenço
🍸 Kumar Chaulagai
Visit our stand to connect, explore, and see firsthand how we approach bespoke bar solutions.
The stand concept
At GBS, we’re bringing our vision to life. As both speakers and suppliers, we’re seizing this opportunity to evolve the conversation around bar systems and hospitality. We don’t just deliver bar stations; we design bartender-centric systems that elevate the experience —blending function, design, and seamless workflow.
In collaboration with XXXI Studio, we’re pushing the boundaries of what a bar can be, delivering bespoke solutions that inspire, differentiate, and redefine hospitality spaces.
Our immersive installation at GBS will redefine the guest experience. Centered around two custom-designed pieces that seamlessly integrate with our Systems, this space will host intimate 1:1 sessions with industry leaders, delving into bartending techniques, flavor development, and insights into hospitality. More than just a station, it’s a hub for education, collaboration, and inspiration.
The bar stations
We’re showcasing two stations, created in partnership with XXXI Studio in Lisbon, that highlight the creative potential of what we can build together. These custom-designed stations redefine what’s possible in bar design — blending innovative form, materials, and functionality.
Featured Concepts:
- "The XXXI Station" – A modular bar exploring the concept of impermanence. Built to adapt and grow with evolving concepts, it’s perfect for dynamic hospitality spaces.
- "Rock Station" – A fully bespoke build that brings together hand-crafted wooden cladding, sculptural shapes, and a mirror-polished workbench for an elevated, intimate service experience. Concept originally applied at Uni Cocktail Bar, owned by Constança Cordeiro in Lisbon, this design is a true embodiment of artistry and craftsmanship in bar stations.
These builds demonstrate just a fraction of what’s possible when we collaborate with teams that want something truly unique.
Find out more about the collaboration and stations HERE.
Workshops & Guest Shifts
Join us at our bespoke bar stations as we explore a diverse range of industry topics through an exciting lineup of workshops and guest shifts. Featuring both local and international experts, our immersive stand will serve as a dynamic space for learning, collaboration, and inspiration. With thought-provoking discussions, we’ll push the boundaries of bar design, creativity, and technique, sparking new ideas and elevating the conversation around hospitality.
Visit the link to secure your spot and reserve a place at the sessions.
+Info
- April 7-8, 2025 | 10 AM – 9 PM
- Location: Madinat Jumeirah Conference & Events Centre
- Stand: R26
- Behind Bars Session with Alex Ruas – "Bartender Centric Design-Shaping the future of Bars trough experience"
ROOM 1
Mon, Apr 07, 2025, 01:00 PM - 01:45 PM - Follow our instagram for updates
About
From 10am to 9pm
April 7-8 2025
Floor Plan
We specialize in project-based solutions, designing bar stations tailored to your unique needs. Our Bespoke approach ensures a seamless collaboration with your team, transforming vision into reality with no limits to design or functionality.
For faster delivery, our Behind Bars Systems offers modular, proven solutions inspired by past projects. Whether fully custom or modular, we create stations that perfectly align with your concept and service style.
See our Systems (show version)
Landing page link
The stand concept
At GBS, we're bringing our vision to life: Behind Bars is more than steel. As both speakers and suppliers, we’re seizing this opportunity to evolve the conversation around bar systems and hospitality. We don’t just deliver bar stations; we design bartender-centric systems that elevate the experience - blending function, design, and seamless workflow.
In collaboration with XXXI Interior Design Studio, we’re pushing the boundaries of what a bar can be, delivering bespoke solutions that inspire, differentiate, and redefine hospitality spaces.
Our immersive installation at GBS will redefine the guest shift experience. Centered around two custom-designed pieces that seamlessly integrate with our Systems, this space will host intimate 1:1 sessions with industry leaders, delving into bartending techniques, flavor development, and insights into hospitality. More than just a station, it’s a hub for education, collaboration, and inspiration.
#MoreThanSteel
The bar stations
We´re bringing two stations.....etc etc
Link to download the info sheet
+Info
April 7-8, 2025 | 10 AM – 9 PM
Stand: D7 [Floor Plan]
Behind Bars Seminar with Alex Ruas
For Workshops & Guest Shifts, scroll down.
About
With 450 projects across 35+ counties, we collaborate with some of the most exciting F&B projects around the world. This includes 4 out of the top 10 venues on the world's top 50 and multiple Michelin star organizations.
At Behind Bars Agency, our mission is to revolutionize bar design through innovation, functionality, and aesthetics. Our vision is to be the go-to partner for luxury hospitality projects, setting new standards in bar station excellence.
Whether driving innovation within traditional bar setups or challenging traditional ideas of what the bar station can be, we bring clever design and exceptional quality to our clients globally.
Project Types
We specialize in project-based solutions, designing bar stations tailored to your unique needs. Our Bespoke approach ensures a seamless collaboration with your team, transforming vision into reality with no limits to design or functionality.
For faster delivery, our Behind Bars Systems offers modular, proven solutions inspired by past projects. Whether fully custom or modular, we create stations that perfectly align with your concept and service style.
Our Process
We are committed to a human centered design philosophy that combines functionality and form to enhance ergonomics for improved employee performance and guest experience.
We approach each project as as unique opportunity to deliver bespoke solutions that redefine excellence in hospitality. From our first meeting through to final delivery, we commit to the highest standards in every project, ensuring exceptional quality and attention to detail.
The stand concept
The bar stations
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The collaboration XXXi
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Looking to collaborate on a project?
Get in touch and let's explore your options together
Our unique approach
We approach each project as a unique opportunity to deliver bespoke solutions that redefine excellence in hospitality. From our first meeting through to final delivery, we commit to the highest standards in every project, ensuring exceptional quality and attention to detail.