fact caught up with Shaikha Alharqan and Muneera Alqahtani, the co-founders and driving forces behind Soy by Sato, Qatar’s first home-grown Asian-fusion dining experience, to learn about their story.

The pair first discussed the idea for a venture in 2017 and it took two years to come to fruition with the opening of their first restaurant on the shores of Pearl Island. They explain: “We met through mutual friends and were close friends before deciding to turn our friendship into a successful business partnership.”

Shaikha is a business graduate from the North Atlantic University, with expertise in finance and operations and a passion for travel. Her academic background and global perspective have shaped her into a sharp decision-maker and strategist, bringing discipline and efficiency into the businesses she manages.

Muneera, a pioneering entrepreneur and the first businesswoman in her family, balances being a devoted mother of five with leading successful ventures. Without formal higher education, her knowledge stems from travelling, reading and life experiences. Her vision is to transform Doha’s food and interior scene, creating spaces where people feel at home yet inspired. Married at 19, she has become her own inspiration, advocating women’s empowerment and opening doors for other women in her family to pursue independence and entrepreneurship.

Since neither has a background in the culinary arts, their decision to launch a dining empire might not have seemed the obvious direction but they say: “We noticed that high-quality Asian restaurants were mostly limited to hotels, so we decided to create a refined Asian dining experience outside that setting, presented in a unique way.

“We were drawn to the diversity of flavours and the delicate balance that defines Asian cuisine. We gathered inspiration through travel, visiting various Asian countries and consulting with culinary experts in the field.”

And their families were right behind them. “Our families were very supportive and encouraged us to take on the challenge with confidence,” they explain.

As two women working in a field still largely dominated by men, the path was not always easy but, they persevered and are now an inspiration to other women hoping to join them in the hospitality sphere.

“Our journey has been filled with challenges and achievements, but passion and determination have always been our driving force,” say the pair. “Our message to women is to trust their abilities and start with confidence, every dedicated woman has her own unique mark to leave.”

After several successful years at The Pearl, they’ve now opened a second branch at Jiwan Island, with quality ingredients and passion leading the way.

“What sets Soy by Sato apart is the complete experience that begins with the very first bite,” they explain. “Balanced flavours, high quality and elegant ambience reflect our passion for offering Asian cuisine in a distinctive way that leaves a lasting impression, and that’s what keeps our guests coming back.”

With their extensive travels throughout Asia, we asked them to recommend their favourite destinations for readers to try. The answer? “Bali in Indonesia and Phuket in Thailand hold a special place in our hearts. In both, we find inspiration in the calmness and beauty that touch the soul, just like the philosophy behind Soy by Sato.”

But, picking a favourite dish from Soy by Sato’s menu was not simple. They say: “We always laugh when asked this question because every dish has its own charm!

“It’s hard to pick a favourite, as each one carries a flavour that reflects the essence of Soy by Sato.”