Junior Sommelier

About the Role

GAIA is a contemporary Greek-Mediterranean fine-dining restaurant in Dubai, known for its polished ambience, elevated cuisine, and warm hospitality. Drawing inspiration from Mediterranean flavours and traditions, the restaurant focuses on delivering a refined dining journey built around attentive service, strong guest interaction, and meticulous detail.

The Junior Sommelier works alongside the Sommelier and front-of-house leadership to create an excellent beverage experience for guests. This is a strong opportunity for someone eager to deepen their wine expertise and service capabilities in a luxury dining setting while helping shape memorable guest experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Sommelier with daily beverage service and tailored wine suggestions.
• Guide guests on wine choices and pairing options under the Sommelier's direction.
• Serve and present wines in line with refined fine-dining standards.
• Help manage the cellar, including organisation, stock movement, inventory tracking, and restocking.
• Contribute to keeping the wine list accurate and up to date.
• Accept wine deliveries, arrange them properly, and ensure storage conditions are maintained.
• Take part in tasting sessions and training programs to continuously expand product knowledge.
• Collaborate with the front-of-house team to improve guest satisfaction and support beverage revenue.
• Build and maintain solid knowledge of wines, spirits, and other beverages served by the restaurant.

Requirements

• At least 1–2 years of experience in a wine-oriented position such as Junior Sommelier, Wine Waiter, or a similar role in fine dining or luxury hospitality.
• WSET Level 1 certification is mandatory; WSET Level 2 will be considered an added advantage.
• Strong interest in wine and a clear commitment to ongoing professional development.
• Working understanding of major wine regions, grape varieties, and food pairing basics.
• Good communication skills and the ability to engage professionally with guests.
• Well-groomed appearance with a sharp eye for detail.
• Comfortable working in a busy, high-volume luxury restaurant environment.
• Positive mindset, eagerness to learn, and dedication to exceptional guest service.
• Must be based in Dubai and available for a trial shift.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package.
• Work visa and medical insurance provided.
• 30 days of paid annual leave.
• Employee discounts across the company's venues.
• Joining flight ticket for international applicants, plus return tickets to the home country annually or twice a year depending on the position.
• Opportunities for growth, learning, and development within the organisation.
• Two weekly days off.
• Meals provided during duty hours.

Additional Information

This is a full-time, on-site position in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The role is intended for candidates who can actively participate in a trail shift and are ready to contribute in a fine-dining setting.