Despite the uncertainty that conflict across the Middle East has brought to the region, Dubai continues to stand as one of hospitality’s most resilient and globally connected cities. For many in India’s rapidly growing bar community, it remains far more than just a career move. It’s a place where ambition can translate into opportunity, stronger earnings, and international exposure. In recent years, a new wave of Indian bartenders, especially women, have been making their mark across Dubai’s leading bars, bringing with them not only technical skill and creativity, but also the perspective, resilience, and cultural identity helping shape the city’s evolving drinks scene.
It was a pleasure to reconnect with the familiar faces of Shefali Singh (Bar Manager, Trèsind Dubai), Mayuri Rani Behera (Head Bartender, Jones Social), and Usha Rani, better known as Unnati (Bartender, Grosvenor House) at the World Class UAE x Celebrate Her networking lunch at Joon’s, Dubai, where conversations flowed as easily as the cocktails. Knowing personally that leaving your home country brings much reward, but also its fair share of challenges, I was eager to hear how the shift from India to Dubai has been for them. And also take some insider tips for those who may also want to make the move.
They spoke about what it means to leave home in search of new experiences, to build careers in a multicultural city, and to stay grounded in who they are. Their stories are both personal and universal. A drive for ambition, of learning through change, and of creating space for more women to thrive behind the bar. As Dubai’s bar scene continues to evolve, it’s voices like theirs that remind us how far the industry has come, and how much further it can go with passion, purpose, and the power of coming together. No matter where one calls “home”.
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Read the full Q&A for each of these powerhouses below:
Mayuri Rani Behera
Shefali Singh
Usha Rani
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It’s hard not to notice the common thread weaving through all of these stories. While each woman is striving for career growth, there is always an eye on where they have come from, and the industry they are leaving for the next generation. Whether in Mumbai or Dubai, Delhi or DIFC, their journeys emphasis the new chapter for Indian bartending that is bubbling away both on home soil, and across the globe. A blossoming industry that is carving out recognition and respect built on shared learning, global connection, and the drive to keep growing, wherever the next opportunity may pour.
