Twin Emirati Chefs Serve Up a Taste of Home, Hope and Hospitality in Washington, D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (8 December 2025) – Twin chefs Maitha and Abdulrahman Al Hashmi, the youngest certified culinary professionals in the United Arab Emirates, brought a unique taste of Emirati culture to Washington, D.C. as special guests of the UAE Embassy’s 54^th National Day celebration. The Al Hashmi twins played a central role in curating the menu for the Embassy’s National Day event, serving up innovative Emirati-American fusion dishes that embodied the warmth and creativity of their homeland.

Beyond the Embassy’s National Day celebration, Maitha and Abdulrahman championed cultural diplomacy through food, engaging with the local community at every stop.

While in Washington, D.C., the twins visited the Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation at Children’s National Hospital, where they decorated cookies with Emirati patients and their families, offering a comforting taste of home to those far from the UAE. The event was further enlivened by a performance from renowned Emirati singer Arqam Al Abri.

They also joined with leaders from José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen to prepare meals for distribution to local D.C. communities, demonstrating how food can nourish not just the body, but also foster connection and goodwill across cultures.

At Ludlow-Taylor Elementary School, Maitha and Abdulrahman led a cooking class and cultural discussion, sharing the traditions and flavors of Emirati cuisine with local students. Their hands-on approach and personal stories inspired curiosity and appreciation for the UAE’s rich culinary heritage, leaving a lasting impression on the next generation of chefs.

Recognized for their extraordinary achievements in the culinary arts, Maitha and Abdulrahman completed their professional diplomas at just 13 years old. Their talents have already been showcased on the world stage, most notably when they curated the state dinner menu for President Trump’s visit to the UAE earlier this year.

From the Embassy’s festive National Day celebration to meaningful community engagements, the Al Hashmi twins’ visit showcased the power of food to build bridges and celebrate the enduring friendship between the UAE and the US.

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