In a significant move, Kerten Hospitality’s Nakhati gelato brand has been chosen to exhibit at the globally recognised COP28 event, set to take place at Expo City Dubai

A global leader in mixed-use projects, Kerten Hospitality operates award-winning hotels, serviced apartments, and commercial spaces. The group is known for its purpose-driven F&B and lifestyle concepts, managing and operating hospitality projects with a focus on impactful collaborations, innovation, and unique community experiences. Kerten Hospitality is committed to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, prioritizing sustainability, locality, and innovation. Their efforts include participating as a Co-Chair in the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge and being certified by the UN-supported PRI Principles for Responsible Investment, demonstrating their commitment to responsible investment and community empowerment.

With a $400m combined investment to fund growth in Saudi dubbed “The Collective”, Kerten Hospitality has become a major player in the region. This significant investment initiative unites several projects across the Kingdom within an investment portfolio. The initiative reflects Kerten’s dedication to fostering collaborations and boosting local communities.

In Europe, Kerten Hospitality is launching Cloud 7 Hotel Rome, a boutique hotel in the heart of Italy’s capital. This project involves redeveloping a historic building into a fully-sustainable hotel, emphasizing environmental respect, reduced water and energy consumption, and creating a community ecosystem with local supply chains.

Nakhati, a Kerten Hospitality initiative, is not just a gelato brand; it’s a statement of purpose and empowerment. Under the leadership of Marloes Knippenberg, CEO of Kerten Hospitality, Nakhati has emerged as a symbol of sustainability, women empowerment, and local entrepreneurial spirit in the Middle East. This selection to exhibit at COP28 reflects the brand's dedication to environmental consciousness and social responsibility.

"Nakhati's journey represents our commitment to creating not just a product, but a movement," says Marloes Knippenberg, CEO of Kerten Hospitality. "We are proud to showcase at COP28 how a brand can harmonize indulgence with sustainability and women's empowerment. This is a testimony to our philosophy at Kerten Hospitality, where we continuously strive to impact communities positively while setting new benchmarks in the hospitality sector."

The Nakhati cart at COP28 will be a beacon of eco-friendly operations, offering authentic flavours of gelato made with locally sourced ingredients. This aligns seamlessly with the brand's zero-waste principles, using biodegradable and compostable packaging and eco-friendly utensils. Nakhati’s presence at the event is also a nod to its support for local communities and commitment to reducing carbon footprints.

In addition to providing a delectable taste experience, Nakhati's participation at COP28 serves as an opportunity for the brand to explore franchise opportunities. As the first franchising model designed to empower local female entrepreneurs in the region, Nakhati provides a pathway to business ownership supported by comprehensive mentorship and business tools, a cornerstone of Kerten Hospitality's mission.

Embedded in Kerten Hospitality's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiative, United Building a Better Universe (UBBU), Nakhati exemplifies the company's profound dedication to environmental stewardship, employee well-being, and community engagement.

Nakhati’s showcase at COP28, from November 30 to December 12, 2023, at Expo City Dubai, is more than an exhibition; it’s a testament to the power of goal-driven brands in shaping a better future.