What is the Middle East Live Fire Cooking Society?
The Middle East Live Fire Cooking Society is a regional, member-driven organization dedicated to the disciplined practice of live fire cooking. We focus on BBQ, smoking, and open-fire techniques as a craft—built on skill, safety, knowledge-sharing, and respect for fire. The Society exists to raise standards, create learning pathways, and build a credible live-fire culture across the Middle East.
Who can join the Society?
The Society is open to anyone with a genuine interest in live fire cooking, whether you are a backyard cook, a chef, a pitmaster, or an industry professional. What matters is not your title, but your willingness to learn, practice responsibly, and contribute to a shared culture grounded in discipline and respect for fire.
Do I need to be an experienced pitmaster to join?
No. Members range from beginners to seasoned professionals. The Society is designed to support progression at all levels, providing education, mentoring, and exposure to best practices. Beginners are welcome, provided they approach fire with seriousness, curiosity, and respect.
Is this a social media or influencer-driven community?
No. While members are free to share their journey, the Society is not built around content creation, trends, or online performance. Our focus is hands-on learning, real execution, and long-term skill development. Fire is treated as a responsibility, not a prop.
How are safety and fire discipline handled?
Fire safety is central to everything we do. The Society promotes responsible fire management, proper equipment use, and structured setups for all events. Safety standards are embedded into workshops, competitions, and sanctioned activities, guided by experienced live-fire professionals.
Are competitions mandatory for members?
No. Competition is one pathway – not a requirement. Some members focus on learning, mentoring, or community engagement, while others enjoy testing their skills in competitive settings. The Society values progression and contribution, not compulsory participation.
Does the Society issue certifications?
At launch, the Society focuses on education, mentoring, and practical experience rather than formal certification. Over time, structured pathways and recognitions may be introduced in alignment with regional standards and partner institutions.
Is the Society commercial or brand-driven?
No. The Society is community-led and craft-focused. While we collaborate with selected partners and suppliers, these relationships exist to support education, access to quality equipment, and member value, not to push sales or sponsorship-driven agendas.
How does the mentoring program work?
Experienced pitmasters may volunteer as mentors within a structured program. Members seeking guidance can connect with mentors to accelerate learning, refine technique, and gain practical insights. Mentorship is built on mutual respect, commitment, and knowledge-sharing.
Is the Society limited to one country?
No. The Middle East Live Fire Cooking Society operates across the region, welcoming members from all Middle Eastern countries. Activities may be hosted in different locations, with a regional mindset rather than a single-market focus.
How do I become a member?
Membership details, tiers, and benefits are available on the Membership page. Once registered, members gain access to events, educational activities, community platforms, and Society communications.
Is this the right community for me?
If you see live fire cooking as a craft to be learned – not a trend to exploit – then yes. The Society exists for those willing to invest time, effort, and care into mastering fire and contributing to something larger than individual recognition.