About & Partners

Where innovation meets excellence in F&B.

Step into the dynamic world of BLACK SALT PROJECTS. We define F&B concepts as seamless launches with operational advice that delivers exceptional results transforming great spaces into memorable experiences through a deep respect for local markets, sustainability and a comprehensive suite of services.

Our mission

We create your story with you.

Led by a seasoned team of F&B and culinary experts, business strategists and hospitality professionals, we craft bespoke solutions tailored to your unique needs with the simplicity of brilliant ideas.

Our holistic services span concept development and branding, staff training and operational management, and interior design ensuring every aspect of your vision is realised.

At BLACK SALT PROJECTS, collaboration is key. We're not just consultants, we're allies committed to your success. Together, let's set new standards in the hospitality industry and turn your vision into reality.

Founded
2024, United Arab Emirates
Practice
Concepts · Recruitment · OS&E · Events
Heritage
60+ years combined Hyatt International leadership
Footprint
GCC · Europe · South Asia · Türkiye
The Partners

Global perspective. Trusted execution. Exceptional standards.

Dirk Hölscher Co-Founder & Partner
Dirk Hölscher
Co-Founder & Partner

Dirk leads BLACK SALT PROJECTS, bringing over three decades of international luxury hospitality expertise. Renowned for his strategic vision, operational excellence, and hands-on industry knowledge, he specializes in creating distinctive F&B concepts, optimizing business performance, and identifying exceptional leadership talent. His global perspective and commitment to innovation ensure that every project is commercially successful, operationally sound, and positioned for long-term growth.

  • 30+ years of global luxury hospitality leadership
  • F&B strategy, concept creation & operational excellence
  • Executive search & leadership recruitment
Max Burkhalter Strategic Shareholder
Max Burkhalter
Strategic Shareholder

Max joins BLACK SALT PROJECTS as a Strategic Shareholder, bringing more than 40 years of global luxury hospitality experience across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. A highly respected industry leader, he has played a pivotal role in shaping F&B strategies, launching world-class hospitality concepts, and supporting numerous hotel openings throughout his distinguished career. His exceptional leadership, commercial expertise, and extensive international network further strengthen the firm's ability to deliver outstanding results for clients worldwide.

  • 40+ years of global luxury hospitality experience
  • Strategic F&B leadership & business development
  • Extensive international hotel opening expertise
Niraj Kapoor Co-Founder & Partner
Event Architect & Destination Management
Niraj Kapoor
Co-Founder & Partner Event Architect & Destination Management

Niraj is a creative entrepreneur, destination wedding architect and event strategist with 27+ years of overall experience and 13 years in the Middle East. He founded and built a creative agency delivering large-scale corporate events, brand activations and luxury destination weddings across the Middle East and Europe from 500-guest weddings in Tuscany to multi-city brand activations in Dubai.

  • 27+ years of experience
  • 13 years in the Middle East
  • Luxury destination weddings
  • Brand activations & corporate events

A new strategic chapter.

01
Bespoke from the brief

Tailor-made solutions designed around each client no template, no shortcut.

02
Senior, end-to-end

From concept and branding through procurement, training and post-opening one team, one accountability.

03
Global network

Decades of relationships with chefs, operators, manufacturers and partners across three continents.

04
Long-term value

Excellence, trust, innovation the foundations of every engagement we accept.

Meet the partners over a quiet first conversation.

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