The Black Light Dining Experience: A Pathway to an Inclusive and Innovative Hospitality Industry- By shareQ

27 million tourists with disabilities are on the move yearly, looking for inclusive hospitality and dining experiences. This blog discusses an innovative concept that has been further developed and will be piloted as a result of participation in the Asfari Foundation Influencing and Political Acumen Programme to actively serve these tourists and their groups within the sector. 

Lebanon's hospitality and dining industry is experiencing a significant boom, driven by a combination of cultural richness, a thriving tourism sector, and a resilient entrepreneurial spirit. According to a recent report by Hospitality News Middle East, the sector is poised for a remarkable recovery and growth, with projections indicating up to two million visitors expected during the summer season of 2023. (Hospitality news magazine) 

Moreover, shareQ NGO has been designing innovative disability inclusion models ever since its inception in 2012 in Lebanon.  Therefore, shareQ is thrilled to share the journey of the Black Light dining concept.  

The Black Light Dining Experience is an immersive concept where guests dine in complete darkness. This experience raises awareness about the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals, promoting empathy and understanding among participants. Inspired by the remarkable story of Salma Raffoul, the Blind Chef who passionately pursued her culinary dreams despite losing her sight, our project draws inspiration from her resilience and determination. 

The origins of the Black Light dining concept are rooted in the idea of creating a sensory experience that challenges perceptions and encourages inclusive practices within the hospitality industry. This innovative approach is designed to showcase the potential of PWDs and foster a more inclusive environment. 

The Black Light Dining Experience serves as a powerful advocacy tool. By inviting key stakeholders, including policymakers, industry leaders, and media representatives, to participate in this experience, we aim to demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of inclusive dining. The event culminates in a pledge-signing ceremony, where attendees commit to supporting and implementing inclusive practices in their respective fields. 

The concept will be further enriched with fusion-based, blind-friendly food served by people with disabilities in a dark setup. This unique dining experience not only highlights the capabilities of PWDs but also emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in the hospitality industry. 

shareQ's engagement with the Asfari Foundation Influencing and Political Acumen Programme has been instrumental in achieving a proof of concept for the Black Light Dining Experience and making the conc. Through collaboration with practitioners from neighboring countries and mentors from AUB and LSE, we have gained a deeper understanding of common challenges and priorities. These discussions have enhanced our awareness of regional needs and inspired innovative solutions. 

For instance, during a regional workshop that convened all participants and mentors, shareQ was able to add an advocacy component to complement this dining experience. Pilot dinners will be enabled through the small grant offered by the Asfari Foundation as part of the learning from this programme. We will invite key stakeholders to discuss advocacy and the importance of activating Law 220/2000 and the UN CRPD in Lebanon within this industry. 

In conclusion, the Black Light Dining Experience is not just a unique dining event; it is a movement towards a more inclusive and accessible hospitality industry. By raising awareness, fostering empathy, and advocating for legal changes, we aim to transform the landscape of the hospitality sector in Lebanon, ensuring that it is welcoming and inclusive for all.