‘Arab Udupi’ Opens 15th UAE Branch in Abu Dhabi
News by Shodhan Prasad
Pics: Ashok Belman (Gulf Kannadiga)
Daijiworld Media Network—Abu Dhabi (CN)

Abu Dhabi, Feb 8: Indian Ambassador to UAE M K Lokesh inaugurated the new branch of ‘Arab Udupi’s new branch located in the land mark ‘New Central Souk’ Shopping Mall, Khalifa Street, Abu Dhabi on Monday February 7. 

Padmashri Dr B R Shetty also joined in congratulating Rajyotsava award winner Shekar Shetty, managing director, Arab Udupi Group of Restaurants, on the opening of the new outlet. 

Wishing all success to Shekar Shetty, the Ambassador said, “I have not come here to talk more, but to savour the irresistible ‘dosa’ with its rich aroma,” referring to the crispy ‘Mysore Masala Dosa’ which was served to him by the main chef.

Other guests include Thomas George, president, India Social Centre, and many community leaders of various regional associations of India, executive members of Karnataka Sangha Abu Dhabi, KCO, BCF, Bunts, Karnataka Sangha Sharjah, Billawa Balaga Abu Dhabi, Billawas Dubai, Amchigele, Mangalore Konkans, Beary’s Welfare Forum, executives from various banks, businessmen, well-known personalities from Karnataka, specially Mangaloreans, and many well-wishers of Shekar Shetty including Emiratis. 

Also present were the members of the women’s throwball team of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha who won the recent KCO Cup. 

Arab Udupi Group of Restaurants, which started in the early 1978, has grown beyond expectations extending its geographical presence as well as its activity spectrum.  It is said that Arab Udupi was the first South Indian restaurant who introduced the well-known ‘Vada Sambar’ in this part of the world. 

Shekar Babu Shetty, founder and managing director, Arab Udupi Group of Restaurants, is a veteran in the hospitality industry known for his dedication and commitment to quality. He now has over 700 professionally trained staff in branches spread all over the UAE.

Arab Udupi Group has five branches in Abu Dhabi, two in Mussafah, one in Dubai, four in Sharjah, one in Reem Island, one in Yas Island, and one branch in Taweelah, totaling 15 branches in UAE.  Two more will soon open in Mussafah in few months time.

Besides Rajyotsava Award, Shekar Shetty has also received the Hind Ratan Award for outstanding achievement in 1994 for his support to social and sports activities and the ‘Nobleman Award’ in 2005 at the All India Kannada Cultural Convention.