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March 12, 2026, 9:50 p.mMar 12, 2026, 9:52 p.m
Despite rising tensions in the Middle East, restaurateur Nusret Gökçe, better known as “Salt Bae”, has expressed his support for Dubai and the Gulf region. The entrepreneur traveled from New York on Saturday and confirmed that his branches in the region will remain open.
Gökçe told the business magazine Gulf Business that his visit served to support his team and signal his trust in the region. He emphasized the strategic importance of Dubai for his company: “Nusr-Et was founded in Turkey and has developed into a global brand in Dubai.”
From butcher to internet star
Gökçe began his career as an apprentice butcher in Turkey and opened his first steakhouse in Istanbul in 2010. He gained international fame in 2017 after a video of his special technique for cutting and salting meat was shared on social media.
The former butcher salts his steaks above his elbow. Image: giphy
Today, Gökçe operates a network of luxury restaurants in numerous metropolises, including: New York, Miami, London, Abu Dhabi, and many more.
Signals of stability
The restaurateur’s comments come at a time when many companies in the United Arab Emirates are trying to convey stability despite the regional political situation. According to industry reports, other restaurants and hotels in Dubai also emphasize that business operations and tourism are continuing as normal.
Gökçe agreed with this assessment and stated that the doors of his restaurants will remain open and serving guests will continue unchanged. “The grills stay on,” he emphasizes. (val)