Emirati cuisine and ice sculptures on show at Dubai World Hospitality Championship- in pictures

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  Traditional Arabic coffee was on offer to visitors at the Dubai World Hospitality Championship, held at Dubai World Trade Centre. Antonie Robertson / The National

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  An inspired cake at the Dubai World Hospitality Championship. Antonie Robertson / The National

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  Ice sculptors entrants had 90 minutes to produce an Arab-themed sculpture. Antonie Robertson / The National

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  A chef takes part in the pumpkin-carving competition. Antonie Robertson / The National

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  Traditional oud burns in the souq section of the Dubai World Hospitality Championship. Antonie Robertson / The National

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  Three Emirati Woman look at cakes on display as part of a cake-baking competition. Antonie Robertson / The National

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  Vistors enjoy some Arab hospitality in the form of tea and coffee at the souq area. Antonie Robertson / The National

Among the highlights at the Dubai World Hospitality Championship this weekend are carefully crafted Halloween pumpkins and sculptures expertly chiselled from huge blocks of ice.

The event, now in its second year, features arts and crafts from all the emirates as well as local cooking contests, with chefs preparing food in front of an audience.

The championship aims to display the finest in Emirati cuisine and hospitality, as well as bringing some of the best international chefs together in a contest to find the top cooks. Among the other attractions are classic paintings and bronze statues from 19th-century European artists depicting Arab culture.