Authentic learning in hospitality higher education: a case study of Ferrari World and Abu Dhabi hospitality academy, Les Roches

As hospitality education adapts to an evolving industry and the rising influence of artificial intelligence (AI), there is a pressing need to design learning experiences that prioritize real-world relevance and academic integrity. This paper presents a case study of an innovative collaboration between Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy, Les Roches, and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, showcasing how authentic learning was operationalized. Students conducted observational studies at Ferrari World, analyzed TripAdvisor reviews, and presented strategic guest experience recommendations to senior executives in a boardroom setting. Framed by the Extended Authentic Learning Framework, this initiative fostered knowledge co-creation, critical reflection, and industry readiness. The findings reveal that authentic learning enhances student engagement and professional skill development and serves as a pedagogical countermeasure to the misuse of generative AI in academic assessments. The case study concludes by offering practical recommendations for educators seeking to embed authenticity into hospitality curricula and calls for expanded industry-academic partnerships to future-proof hospitality education.