Since
2013
Dreaming of working in a bustling kitchen in Dubai or a luxury resort in the Maldives? Culinary work abroad programs offer aspiring chefs the perfect blend of hands-on experience, cultural immersion, and global career advancement. For Indian students and beginners, these programs provide paid internships, skill-building opportunities, and pathways to international jobs in the hospitality industry. The Ishtha Institute of Hospitality and Culinary Arts (IIHCA) specializes in such programs, with its City & Guilds, London-accredited 1 Year Diploma in Culinary Arts and a network of over 8,000 alumni (including 5,000+ in 5-star hotels and 3,000+ in cruise lines). This guide explores the best culinary work abroad programs for Indian students, how to get started, and why IIHCA is your ideal partner.
Why Choose Culinary Work Abroad Programs?
Culinary work abroad programs are a powerful way to grow both professionally and personally. They allow you to work in real kitchens, learn authentic cooking techniques from different cultures, and build a network that opens doors to international jobs. For Indian students, these programs offer a chance to earn while you learn, with stipends ranging from $1,000-$3,000/month (approximately 80,000-2.5 lakh INR), often including housing and meals. Beyond financial benefits, you’ll gain a global perspective on food, enhance your resume with international experience, and position yourself for higher-paying roles in the hospitality industry. In 2025, with the global demand for skilled chefs on the rise, these programs are a smart step toward a successful career.
Top Culinary Work Abroad Destinations for Indian Students
Here are some of the best destinations for culinary work abroad, tailored to the interests and skills of Indian students, with opportunities facilitated by IIHCA’s extensive network:
1. Gulf Countries (UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia)
The Gulf region is a culinary hotspot, with cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi hosting over 1,000 luxury hotels. These programs offer 12-month internships in prestigious 5-star properties, where you can master Middle Eastern and fusion cuisines. Stipends typically range from AED 2,000-5,000/month (about 45,000-1.1 lakh INR), including accommodation. In Saudi Arabia, the growing hospitality sector provides opportunities to work in Riyadh’s top hotels, with earnings up to SAR 10,000/month (approximately 2.2 lakh INR). These destinations are ideal for Indian chefs seeking warm climates and quick visa access.
2. European Culinary Hubs (France, Spain, Italy)
Europe is renowned for its rich culinary traditions, making it a dream destination for chefs. In France, internships in Paris or Lyon let you learn classic French techniques, with stipends of €800-1,500/month (around 75,000-1.4 lakh INR). Spain’s Barcelona programs focus on tapas and paella, offering placements in innovative restaurants with earnings of €1,000/month (about 90,000 INR). Italy’s Rome internships specialize in pasta and gelato, providing €1,000/month (approximately 90,000 INR). These experiences enhance your skills in European cuisine, a valuable asset for Indian hotels adopting global menus.
3. Island Paradises (Maldives, Mauritius)
For a tropical culinary adventure, the Maldives offers internships at resorts like Soneva Fushi or Four Seasons, where you can blend Asian and fusion dishes. Stipends range from USD 800-1,500/month (about 67,000-1.25 lakh INR), with free board and lodging. Mauritius, with its Creole-Indian fusion cuisine, provides opportunities at One&Only Le Saint Géran, offering MUR 20,000/month (approximately 45,000 INR). These destinations combine work with a scenic lifestyle, perfect for Indian students.
4. Asian and Oceanic Gems (Malaysia, New Zealand)
Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur programs focus on street food and halal cuisine, with internships in 5-star hotels like Mandarin Oriental, providing MYR 2,000-4,000/month (about 36,000-72,000 INR). New Zealand’s Auckland internships highlight farm-to-table and Maori influences, with hourly rates of NZD 20/hour (approximately 1,000 INR/hour). These programs offer a mix of cultural learning and professional growth, ideal for building a diverse culinary portfolio.
How IIHCA Supports Culinary Work Abroad Programs
IIHCA is your trusted partner for culinary work abroad, offering a structured pathway to international success. The 1 Year Diploma in Culinary Arts provides a strong foundation in Indian and global cuisines, meeting international standards with its City & Guilds accreditation. Our 12-month internship program connects you to real kitchens in Indian 5-star hotels (Taj, Hyatt, Oberoi) as a stepping stone, followed by placements in UAE, Bahrain, Maldives, Mauritius, Malaysia, New Zealand, Spain, and France. IIHCA also offers visa guidance, resume preparation, and interview coaching, ensuring a smooth transition. With over 80% of alumni securing international roles within 6 months, your global career starts here.
Eligibility and Application Process
Open to 12th-pass students (any stream) aged 16+. To apply, visit iihca.in, submit your application, attend a counseling session, and secure your seat with the fee. Merit-based scholarships are available to support your journey.
Student Success Stories
Our alumni are our pride! Here’s what some of our students have to say:
Embark on Your Culinary Work Abroad Journey
Culinary work abroad programs are your passport to a global culinary career. With IIHCA’s expert training, internships in UAE, Bahrain, Maldives, Mauritius, Malaysia, New Zealand, Spain, and France, and assured placements guided by Chef Dev Chand (with 36 years of experience, including 28 years at Carnival Cruise Line and training under Michelin Star Chef Georges Blanc), your future awaits. Apply today and cook your way around the world!