HOTEL & CATERING NEWS MIDDLE EAST SEPTEMBER 2023 ISSUE

NEWS Middle East A L L T H E L AT E S T F R O M T H E M I D D L E E A S T H O S P I TA L I T Y I N D U S T R Y

SEPTEMBER 2023 | HOTELNEWSME.COM

TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS Spotlighting Hospitality Trailblazers

SUPPLIER STORIES

GM FOCUS

TRAVEL & TOURISM

Elframo, Since 1968

Business Travel Talk

Redefining the Paradigm

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IN THIS ISSUE

TOP

40

30 SPOTLIGHTING HOSPITALITY TRAILBLAZERS

WELCOME TO AN EXCLUSIVE GLIMPSE INTO THE DYNAMIC WORLD OF HOSPITALITY, WHERE INNOVATION, EXCELLENCE, AND VISION COLLIDE TO SHAPE UNFORGETTABLE GUEST EXPERIENCES.

22 SUPPLIER STORIES ELFRAMO, SINCE 1968 In conversation with a leading Italian company manufacturing professional dishwashers and fryers for over 50 years

76 WHO’S COOKING Q&A WITH NOBU DUBAI’S EXECUTIVE CHEF Chef Damien Duviau, Executive Chef, Nobu Dubai

24 F&B FOCUS MEDIA CITY Welcomes iamBurger to the neighbourhood

78 TRAVEL & TOURISM REDEFINING THE PARADIGM How RAK Transcends from FamilyFriendly Fun to Premium Lifestyle Living

28 GM FOCUS BUSINESS TRAVEL TALK Aldert van Zyl, General Manager, Radisson Blu Hotel Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center 72 SUSTAINABILITY WANT TO SAVE THE PLANET? START

BY CHANGING THE EDUCATION SYSTEM “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” – Malcolm X 74 POINT OF VIEW DEAR RESTAURATEURS Here’s the thing: I’m not one of those people who thinks that opening and running a restaurant is a piece of cake

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Hotel&Catering NEWS Middle East EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Seymone L Moodley seymone@bncpublishing.net CEO Wissam Younane wissam@bncpublishing.net

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DIRECTOR Rabih Najm rabih@bncpublishing.net DESIGNER Christian Harb MARKETING EXECUTIVE Aaron Joshua Sinamban aj@bncpublishing.net DIGITAL EDITORIAL SUPPORT Karan Moodley karan@bncpublishing.net

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Nestled by the coast of Lusail sits the splendor of Raffles and Fairmont Doha, where luxury is rooted in even the smallest details. Open the doors to mesmerizing hospitality and make memories in a world of sophistication.

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HCNME EDITOR’S NOTE

Winter is coming – are you ready?

S

ummer is unofficially over. Schools are back, travellers are home, and traffic is at it again, all while the hospitality industry never took a break. The next few months are going to be a wild roller coaster ride; hold on to your seats! I did a bit of travelling myself through July and August.

I spared myself the heat and hid out in my hometown, Johannesburg, for the most part – it was great to be home. Travelling out of the UAE is a nice palate cleanser before you return to all the glory of Dubai (if that’s your home). One thing I always appreciate when I’m away is the simplicity of other places, and then equally, what amazes

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me every time I’m back is that no other place does hospitality like Dubai. We are beyond spoilt for choice here with innovative experiences that sometimes touch the sky. Behind these concepts, ideas, and services are people - extraordinary people who push all kinds of boundaries every day and come up with creative ideas that attract millions of people from far and wide. These people have helped build the industry, and today, they help expand it. They are inviting more innovation from the next generation to level up even higher than we thought possible. In this special edition of HCNME, we shed light on these extraordinary people. We celebrate them and are proud to introduce them to you as our Top 40 Hospitality Heavyweights 2023. In sporting terms, a heavyweight describes boxers that are the heaviest in their category – fighters that take all kinds of punches in the ring but give just as good.

Someone with much influence, experience, and importance in and outside the ring. The person who trains and works harder than the rest to become a champion. They surprise themselves and their peers and rose to the top. Also includes are newbies who entered the industry and paved their own way, and of course women who carved out their own path. These are the kinds of hospitality professionals featured in this issue.

Thank you for every nomination and for all the assistance we received from the sector to build a rich and dynamic list. In this edition, you will also find a recap of the BNC Publishing Sustainability Awards 2023 winners, delicious recipes, F&B entrepreneurial stories, top supplier interviews and so much more. As always, I do hope this issue is an enjoyable read. See you in the next one!

SEYMONE L MOODLEY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF seymone@bncpublishing.net Seymone Leigh Moodley seymonemoodley

HCNME OPENINGS & LAUNCHES

CALIFORNIAN-INSPIRED OASIS: AREIA POOL & BEACH COMING SOON The veil has finally been lifted, and speculations have been laid to rest. The cherished pool and garden oasis at DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai - Jumeirah Beach has been harbouring an exhilarating secret. Concealed behind hoardings throughout the sun-soaked summer, inquisitive residents have been left pondering the clandestine activities transpiring. The favourite JBR pool with unbeatable views and the Areia Beach and Bar has been transformed to create a complete Californianinspired oasis. With robust

investments made in enhancing the guest experience through bespoke design and improved facilities, the

hotel promises an extraordinary poolside paradise that captures the essence of LA's charm and spirit.

WALDORF ASTORIA MAKES ITS DEBUT IN EGYPT AND THE AFRICAN CONTINENT Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, one of Hilton’s (NYSE: HLT) iconic luxury hotel brands, today announced its expansion into Egypt and the African continent with the opening of Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis. The elegant hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere, unforgettable experiences, and seamless, personalised service to the Egyptian capital. The hotel is a tranquil oasis, complete with beautiful botanical gardens, for guests to unwind away from the bustling streets of the city.

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OPENINGS & LAUNCHES

RADISSON HOTEL GROUP OPENS FIRST RADISSON RED IN EASTERN EUROPE IN THE HEART OF HISTORIC TBILISI, GEORGIA Georgia is known for its traditional architecture, gastronomy, the arts, and its stunning location where the Caucasus Mountains meet the Black Sea beaches. The country’s capital, Tbilisi reflects the city’s long, complicated history. Its diverse architecture encompasses Eastern Orthodox churches, ornate art nouveau buildings, Soviet Modernist structures, and a historic, cobblestoned old town.

Monuments such as the Bridge of Peace, the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, and Narikala Fortress, a reconstructed 4th-century fortress, which overlooks the city, In addition, the museums and theatres such as the Georgian National Museum, National Gallery, Lado Gudiashvili Exhibition Hall, Marjanishvili Theatre, Vaso Abashidze State New Theatre, Rustaveli Theatre, and the Opera and Ballet Theatre of Tbilisi, can all be explored by day or night as the city comes alive in lights.

RESERVATIONS NOW OPEN FOR THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED LAUNCH OF SIGNOR SASSI IN DUBAI

A joint partnership between Sunset Hospitality Group and San Carlo Restaurants, Signor Sassi is situated within the hotly-tipped new dining destination St. Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah – on the rooftop of Nakheel Mall.It is poised to offer an exquisite experience that combines true Italian hospitality with a menu of unparalleled delights. The venue's layout and design, meticulously craft-

ed to create an inviting atmosphere, mirror the elegance, and comfort that the brand is famous for. With two bars – one in the indoor restaurant and another on the covered terrace that will also feature a specially designed fountain. With an Italian team dedicated to bringing forth the genuine flavours of Italy, Signor Sassi is set to become one of the most exciting openings of 2023.

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HCNME NEWS & APPOINTMENTS

RAK NATIONAL HOTELS INCREASES PORTFOLIO WITH ACQUISITION OF MARJAN ISLAND RESORT & SPA

The acquisition of Marjan Island Resort & Spa adds further scale to RAKNH’s portfolio and underlines its investment on Al Marjan Island. This comes following RAKHH’s announcement of the group’s joint venture stake in the highly anticipated Wynn Al Marjan Island. The property is currently operated by Accor Group and will be rebranded as a Pullman, the company’s premium hotel brand.

JULIEN GONZALVEZ APPOINTED GENERAL MANAGER OF PARK HYATT ABU DHABI HOTEL AND VILLAS Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel And Villas, renowned for its unparalleled luxury and worldclass hospitality, announces the appointment of Julien Gonzalvez as its new General Manager. With a wealth of experience managing Hyatt branded properties around the globe, Gonzalvez's strategic leadership will steer Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel And Villas to new heights, driving exceptional guest experiences and overseeing the property's operations.

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NEWS & APPOINTMENTS

JUMEIRAH GROUP MAKES KEY APPOINTMENT FOR BRAND’S FIRST HOTEL IN SAUDI ARABIA With over 20 years of luxury hospitality experience across India, Singapore and Saudi Arabia, Rizwan Shaikh will be responsible for driving Jumeirah Group’s ethos of exceptional luxury at the new hotel in Jabal Omar. With an enviable location just three minutes’ walk from Masjid Al Haram, the hotel will be one of the largest in the Group’s portfolio featuring 1,033 rooms and suites, and 88 apartments once fully operational. His appointment comes at a time when the company is actively expanding its presence in Saudi Arabia, with the opening of the Group’s second property in the Kingdom, Jumeirah The Red Sea, scheduled to open in 2024.

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL CONTINUES TO DEVELOP HOSPITALITY LEADERS IN SAUDI ARABIA BY RECOGNISING 49 ASSOCIATES GRADUATE FROM LES ROCHES Marriott International has announced the successful graduation of 49 of its associates from Les Roches in Marbella, Spain. Accounting for almost a quarter of the programme's students, the graduates hailing from Marriott hotels in Saudi Arabia successfully completed an Executive Master’s in International Hotel Management course by Les Roches provided by the Ministry of Tourism in Saudi Arabia. The nine-month programme consisted of high-level business and management modules including hotel operations, leadership, finance and budgeting.This further extends into hospitality real estate investments, international business strategy, and value creation in luxury.

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HCNME SUPPLIER STORIES

ELFRAMO

Since 1968

In conversation with a leading Italian company manufacturing professional dishwashers and fryers for over 50 years

E

lframo takes immense pride in its 100% Italian origin, meticulously crafting everything in-house, from the initial metal sheet to the final, ready-to-ship product destined for global markets.

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The Elframo collection encompasses diverse solutions, spanning from classic glasswashers to larger-scale rackconveyor and flight-type dishwashers. These machines cater to a wide spectrum of needs, offering targeted solutions for various market segments, in-

cluding the HoReCa industry, military, healthcare sector, as well as large-scale food industries and retail trade.

The entire process, from design to product realization, is executed within Elframo's facilities, thanks to its in-house R&D department. The team operates with a keen focus on meeting market requirements. They tailor solutions to individual countries and clients, considering factors such as available washing area space, required hourly productivity, energy efficiency, and the specific items to be cleaned. While production efficiency necessitates standardization for certain products, Elframo is equally adept at crafting bespoke solutions for each customer.

Elframo firmly upholds the belief that maintaining a stringent quality process is paramount, spanning from raw materials to the final product. Their products undergo rigorous testing and certification, and securing certifications for operation in the Middle East is a significant advantage. To attain this certification, products must comply with all relevant regulations and meet the exacting demands of the market.

Presently, Elframo's core focus revolves around dishwashers, but the company also manufactures affordable, high-performing fryers that adhere to their commitment to quality and performance.

Alessandra Ballestrero, who serves as the General Manager embarked on her career in the finance sector before transitioning to the commercial domain, where she assumed the role of a business partner for multiple countries.

Throughout her journey, she gained valuable experience in managing divestments, acquisitions, and eventually, a focus on corporate reorganizations.

Her decision to join Elframo was motivated primarily by her passion for relaunching and renovating businesses.

At present, she collaborates with a proficient and well-prepared team, combining the wisdom of longstanding team members with fresh talent to bolster innovation, all united by a shared mission.

Their mission is to reinvigorate Elframo's presence in the market, strategically positioning the brand within a distinct market segment. This

ELFRAMO, SINCE 1968

ALESSANDRA BALLESTRERO, Managing Director, ELFRAMO

mission is anchored in preserving the fundamental pillars of a company that boasts over five decades of expertise in the HoReCa sector.

In tandem with their mission, their vision is to elevate the company to a position of global competitiveness. They aim to achieve this by building upon Elframo's rich history while fostering innovation in both products and services. Alessandra shares more insights into the company's strategic approach, innovative endeavours, needed actions and more.

Elframo's global footprint extends across over 50 countries, with ongoing expansion efforts. Alessandra highlights their strategic focus on regions and nations of heightened significance, driven by considerations of geopolitical dynamics, economic conditions, and growth prospects.

She emphasizes, "We have a keen interest in the rapidly developing countries within the MEA region.

These emerging markets have exhibited increasingly promising business prospects over the past five years."

Alessandra underscores the dedication and expertise of her team, particularly Carlo and Giorgio Pignataro, who pas-

sionately and professionally represent Elframo in the MEA region, driving their endeavours forward.

Collaborating alongside Carlo and Giorgio, Alessandra embarked on a continuous journey, a fertile ground for ideas ready to materialise. Alessandra reflects, "In essence, it all begins with a line, just like art." This line can be traced on the ground or etched onto the walls of a cave. This simplest and most fundamental symbol in the realm of art is also one of the most expressive, carrying a multitude of meanings.

"The alignment in both mindset and intellect between the Pignataros and myself has been the driving force behind our work. The strategic approach we adopted facilitated significant growth in our very first year of collaboration. Despite the adverse in-

fluence of Covid, we persevered in our efforts, particularly because the market dynamics in the MEA region remained relatively stable, with less impact from the pandemic. This continuity allowed us to maintain our collaborative efforts successfully."

"Over the past two years, we have made a significant presence at trade fairs, unveiling novel and ground breaking products like the NEXA line. Our commitment to innovation remains steadfast as we introduce the LE 60, our latest undercounter ware-washer, freshly conceived and manufactured.

Moreover, we have a slew of new projects in the pipeline, slated for presentation in October at Host 2023. In the expansive MEA region, encompassing Dubai to Saudi Arabia, we are confident that the NEXA range will secure its place in the finest and most renowned hotels."

The NEXA range stands out for its impressive technological advancements and innovation, highlighted by a patented system that delivers high performance while maintaining low consumption, aligning seamlessly with the overarching theme of sustainability.

NEXA embodies competitiveness, offering an exceptional price-to-quality ratio. Additionally, NEXA places a strong emphasis on aesthetics, boasting a design dishwasher with clean, essential lines that harmonize effortlessly with contemporary settings where aesthetics play a crucial role.

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HCNME F&B FOCUS

MEDIA CITY WELCOMES

iamBurger

TO THE NEIGHBOURHOOD

R

ishad Hiridjee's journey began in France, where he spent his formative years prior relocating to Madagascar. In 2002, his family settled in Dubai. His pursuit of knowledge led him to Switzerland, where he studied hospitality at the Glion Institute of Higher Education.

This experience provided him with the skills and comprehensive understanding necessary for a career in the service industry.

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Throughout his life, Rishad has harboured a deep-seated passion for cooking. He often likens himself to a mad scientist in the kitchen, tirelessly experimenting and crafting new recipes. He is constantly in pursuit of that ’eureka moment,’ which he describes as a magical moment when he stumbles upon the perfect combination of flavours and textures.

Rishad always dreamt of venturing into the restaurant industry, and the opportunity to explore this passion

finally came when he embarked on a brief stint at 312 Burgers in Umm Suqueim to learn the ropes of the business. During this time, he realised his genuine love for the industry.

When the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, Rishad grew weary of constantly ordering food and decided to practice what he had learned from his experience at 312. His initial attempt, however, could have been better. The meat was dry, needing proper seasoning, and the canned pickles tasted stale; leaving him feeling disappointed as a devoted burger enthusiast. Yet, this initial setback served as the catalyst for his determination to experiment with various combinations of beef cuts, toppings, sauces, buns, and cheese until he discovered the epic burger.

Although Rishad is naturally introverted and hesitant about meeting new people, his brother suggested the idea of selling his creations to neighbours in their community. Initially apprehensive, he eventually decided to give it a shot, posting on a community Facebook

MEDIA CITY WELCOMES IAMBURGER TO THE NEIGHBOURHOOD

RISHAD HIRIDJEE, Founder, i am Burger

group. To gather feedback, he initially offered the burgers for free. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with the JVT Community showing remarkable support. Rishad remains deeply grateful to those early customers, some of whom remain loyal to this day. Thanks to his neighbours' encouragement, the idea rapidly gained momentum, eventually outgrowing his home kitchen, and the rest is history.

Simplicity, the use of high-quality ingredients, and offering reasonable prices served as the driving inspiration behind the creation of i am Burger. In a city filled with numerous burger joints, iamBurger aims to stand out by infusing a personal touch into the dining experience.

"Dubai boasts a plethora of burger joints, but very few infuse that personal touch. My goal is to create an environment where customers feel at ease when they step into my restaurant. I want them to sense the warmth of being among friends, reminiscent of our early days when people picked up their orders from my home. This personal connection is what truly distinguishes iamBurger from other burger establishments."

It took Rishad 8 years to muster the courage and embark on the journey of starting his business. His desire to open a restaurant had started immediately after completing his hospitality degree and returning to Dubai.

He shares, "From the moment I finished my studies and returned to Dubai, I had a burning desire to open a restaurant. I brainstormed hundreds of concepts, scoured various locations across Dubai, sought wisdom from other restaurant owners to learn the nuances of the industry, and began fulfilling my entrepreneurial drive.

Instead of taking a giant leap, I opted for a series of deliberate and calculated steps, gradually inching closer to the eventual opening of iamBurgers' first branch."

"The biggest challenge for me was adapting to a professional kitchen after operating from a home kitchen. There

are tons of regulations you have to follow, from the fire systems to monthly pest control, handling meats and vegetables, and ensuring food safety - the list goes on. It may seem simple from the outside, but there are a million and one aspects to consider when opening and operating a restaurant. Thankfully, I was able to find a great team from

whom I learned so much, and I'm truly grateful for their support.

Another challenge is related to costing and menu engineering. When you are cooking from your home, you typically don't factor in overhead costs when setting your prices, allowing you the flexibility to use the most premium ingredients available.

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HCNME F&B FOCUS However, a restaurant doesn't work like that. The price of a dish is relative to your costs, which include rent, utilities, salaries, and more. My burgers are priced between 32 - 38 AED, with combo meals reaching 56 AED. This doesn't mean I use low-quality ingredients; instead, I've learned to maximise the use of each ingredient to minimize wastage and offer high-quality products at an affordable cost." iamBurger located in Media City gives the burger joint an advantage.

Within a mere 5km radius, you gain access to Dubai Marina, JLT, Emirates Hills, Palm Jumeirah, and Al Barsha.

The vicinity around the shop is a rare find in Dubai, featuring abundant trees and greenery that create a serene atmosphere. The space isideal for enjoying a leisurely meal on the terrace, especially during the winter season.

“Much like my concept, my target audience encompasses anyone who simply craves a delicious burger without any extravagant extras or embellishments.”

I always wanted something that was open, welcoming, and very simple, and that's exactly how I designed the space.

It has a classic American diner feel to it where, as soon as you walk in, you can see what's being cooked thanks to the open kitchen. Since burgers are

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"DUBAI BOASTS A PLETHORA OF BURGER JOINTS, BUT VERY FEW INFUSE THAT PERSONAL TOUCH. MY GOAL IS TO CREATE AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE CUSTOMERS FEEL AT EASE WHEN THEY STEP INTO MY RESTAURANT." inherently casual, I wanted the shop to mirror that, which is why we chose to adorn the walls with cartoon characters. Many of these characters are illustrated to resemble my friends, and I think that's pretty cool. Additionally, if you look closely at the walls, you will find depictions of my dogs, Chief and Sasha.

The concept is straightforward. iamBurger offers three beef burgers, two chicken burgers, and two plant-based burgers, along with hand-cut fries.

Instead of adding random toppings just to have more menu items, Rishad decided to focus on making a few burgers perfectly.

The burger names are personal and have their own stories. The best-seller, ’The Chief’burger, is named after Rishad's dog, Chief. Chief is a sweet and gentle dog who stands up for himself when needed. Just like Chief, ’The Chief’ burger has caramelised onions for sweetness, a tangy sauce, and crispy

bacon, creating a delicious flavour combination.

Another burger, ’The Marley’ has peanut butter and jelly, which might sound unusual but is am explosion of flavout once you try it.

Rishad's second dog, Sasha, inspired the ’Spicy Sasha’ chicken burger. Sasha is sweet, confident, and a bit demanding, just like a typical Husky. The ’Spicy Sasha’ burger is coated in spicy chilli oil, sprinkled with unique spices, and sauced with honey and their famous Chief Sauce.

What sets their burgers apart is that they use two thin patties instead of one. This not only makes the patties cook in under a minute but also gives them a crispy and juicy texture packed flavour due to the larger surface area.

The most rewarding part of Rishad's job is when a customer takes that last bite of their burger and tells him it's one of the best burgers they've ever had. Positive feedback like this keeps him inspired and motivated to wake up each day and keep pursuing his passion.

"Thanks to the success of the first shop, I'm already considering opening another branch around Downtown Dubai, but I'm not rushing into it. I prefer to take my time to perfect the first shop before venturing into the second one and eventually expanding outside Dubai. As an F&B entrepreneur, I have numerous concepts in mind that I want to develop, and my goal is to offer something unique. The idea I want to emphasise is providing quality products at affordable prices in all my future concepts. Like in any business, survival depends on the ability to maintain and grow your customer base while upholding consistency. As long as I keep my promise to my customers of delivering good quality burgers at reasonable prices, iamBurger will not only survive but thrive."

HCNME GM FOCUS

T

he Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention and Exhibition Center offers contemporary spaces where visionaries and businesses of all scales can gather and create. From stylish cafes to dynamic conference settings, bold architectural elements, and a strategic central location within a vibrant city adorned with historical and artistic marvels, this hotel emerges as the ultimate hub for business travel.

The hotel has 223 exquisitely designed rooms, each boasting panoramic vistas of Riyadh's skyline. It also showcases ten distinct room categories, catering to diverse preferences. The rooms have various amenities, including complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, Nespresso coffee machines, and refreshing rain showers in the lavatories.

BUSINESS TRAVEL TALK Aldert van Zyl, General Manager, Radisson Blu Hotel Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center

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Two restaurants are available for guests' to explore distinct gastronomic experiences. The Al Diriyah Restaurant and Lounge presents a continental menu with live cooking stations crafting fresh and healthful meals.

Meanwhile, The Terrace restaurant offers an al-fresco dining experience, serving comfort tapas-style barbecue delightsThe hotel provides an indoor pool and a wellequipped gymnasium for fitness enthusiasts, ensuring ample opportunities to stay active. Those engaged in business affairs will appreciate the executive business lounge, providing a space for productive discussions or well-deserved rest. Nestled in the iconic heart of the Kingdom's capital, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention and Exhibition Center is seamlessly attached to the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center. The venue is one of the city's largest event venues, and is also walking distance to exhibition halls and landmarks, including the King 'Abd al-'Azīz Historical Center, the National Museum, and the National Library. We caught up with Aldert van Zyl, General Manager, at Radisson Blu Hotel Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center for more information.

Was a career in hospitality always your goal ?

The hospitality industry has always been an extension of my family. My father was in it, so I grew up with the culture of service,good food and drink in our household. Additionally, I enjoy travelling and meeting new people from diverse cultures

BUSINESS TRAVEL TALK

and different walks of life. There are hotels all over the world and one can literally work anywhere from big cities to remote islands. Therefore. the hospitality industry was a natural path for me to take and one that I enjoy to this day.

How do you stay motivated in such a high-pressure industry?

There are numerous strategies I use to keep myself motivated and focused.

Most importantly I set clear goals, both short-term and long-term. Having clear goals helps me to maintain focus and stay motivated. I always try to maintain a positive mindset by focusing on positive thoughts, instead of dwelling on setbacks which I see as learning opportunities. I prioritize a balanced routine that includes getting enough rest, eating well, and staying active. Lastly, I surround myself with supportive colleagues, mentors, and friends who I can talk to about my experiences, exchange ideas with, and who I can seek advice from.

How do you spend your days off?

I try to travel as much as I can. Exploring new places and doing it with my family is one of the my favourite ways of spending my time off. I also enjoy exercising, eating out, hiking and watching a good movie or TV series when I am not travelling.

Can you list the different guest experiences you offer?

Innovation and technology drive our seamless guest experience at Radisson Blu. Our unified technology platform, EMMA, tracks guest preferences across our hotel group, offering a 360-degree view of individual relationships. We go beyond automation, enhancing every touchpoint. Streamlined check-in/out processes and smart inroom amenities anticipate guest needs for personalized comfort. Effective communication is paramount, with optimized channels ensuring easy access to information and assistance. Mobile apps, virtual concierge services, and interactive platforms create a responsive connection. By embracing technology, we enhance efficiency and deliver a digitally connected experience that meets evolving traveller expectations.

Our commitment to staying ahead reflects our dedication to a hassle-free and memorable stay.

What were your biggest challenges since joining, and how did you overcome them?

Operating in a fast-growing environment like Riyadh where new hotels pop up almost every second day, it is only natural that one would experience employee turnover challenges. We have created an environment where we prioritize the training and development of every employee in the hotel to gnuide their career paths. Through this, we are empowering our team to make decisions without any fear of consequences. This enables us to have a positive work culture and environment where our employees have room to be themselves. Not only does this reduce employee turnover, it also has multiple positive effects on the guest experience.

"EXPLORING NEW PLACES AND DOING IT WITH MY FAMILY IS ONE OF THE MY FAVOURITE WAYS OF SPENDING MY TIME OFF." What are your hotel occupancy rates for this year?

The hotel occupancy rates vary from month to month and season to season.

As we only opened the hotel recently it is important to position ourselves amongst our competitor set whilst at the same time ramping up the hotel occupancies. This can only be achieved by having high quality standards and ensuring the guest experience is consistent and memorable. Every guest at the hotel should feel valued and leave with a memorable experience to remember. The best form of advertising

for any business is guests talking to other people about their experiences and encouraging them to also come to experience it.

Has the summer affected your RevPAR? If so, how?

Saudi Arabia is promoting the country extensively across the world and investing heavily in developing the country to be one of the best tourist destinations in the world in years to come. This means the summer heat isn’t affecting business levels as much as they used to in the past. This is especially true with all the projects that are ongoing in the city at a high pace never stops, so business travellers keep coming and going in spite of the summer. This all results in minimal fluctuations in hotel RevPAR. How would you describe the hotel industry in Saudi Arabia?

The best word to describe the hospitality industry in Saudi Arabia is dynamic.

Saudi Arabia has a rich past with a promising future and the country’s leadership is focused on bringing that vision to life. Saudi Arabia most likely has the largest hotel pipeline in the world and as such, it is a very exciting time to be here to experience firsthand the change and development that is happening.

Any upcoming plans for the hotel worth mentioning?

We are thrilled to share that our catering division is set to expand, and we will soon be launching outside catering services. Our offsite menu options will cater to a wide range of events, including sit-down dinners, barbeque evenings, cocktail functions, and coffee breaks, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for all occasions.

Moreover, we have exciting plans to transform our garden into a stunning venue for functions and events in the winter. This beautiful open-air grass area will provide the perfect setting for outdoor gatherings under the stars, creating unforgettable memories for our guests. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to elevate your event experiences at Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention and Exhibition Center.

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TOP

40

Spotlighting Hospitality Trailblazers Welcome to an exclusive glimpse into the dynamic world of hospitality, where innovation, excellence, and vision collide to shape unforgettable guest experiences.

In this curated list, we present the Top 40 Hospitality Heavyweights – a roster of industry leaders who have redefined the essence of hospitality. Crafted through a process of nominations and enriched by the editorial team's contributions, this feature is a

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testament to our commitment to presenting a varied portrayal of the individuals propelling this vibrant industry forward.

Each submission shares a narrative of these exceptional individuals' achievements in the past year and their aspirational outlook for the forthcoming one. It is with great honour that we introduce you to the distinguished personalities who hold the title of the Top 40 Hospitality Heavyweights of 2023.

TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

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MARK WILLIS

CEO, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts AS THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts worldwide, Mark Willis is responsible for the luxury brand’s revered portfolio of more than 100 hotels in operation and under development globally.

He brings to the role more than three decades of high-level industry experience with international hospitality brands IHG and Sun International, as well as the Radisson Hotel Group where he spent many years in senior leadership positions, including Senior Vice President Middle East, Africa and Turkey.

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A master of his craft, Mark holds an MBA in International Business from Oxford University in the United Kingdom and has completed several senior management programmes at Cornell University, New York.

Prior to taking the helm at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts he was the Chief Executive Officer for India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey at Accor, overseeing a portfolio of more than 520 hotels in operation and development across 20-plus diverse brands.

TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

DUNCAN O'ROURKE

CEO Middle East, Africa & Asia Pacific, Premium, Midscale & Economy Division, Accor AFTER STUDYING HOTEL MANAGEMENT at Cesar Ritz Colleges Switzerland and obtaining a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) from the Reims Management School, Duncan O’Rourke held several executive positions within hospitality in Europe, the US and the Middle East. From 2004, he served as General Manager at the Kempinski

Hotel Thessaloniki Nikopolis, before taking charge of the pre-opening of two hotels in London. O’Rourke was then promoted to the position of Regional Director & General Manager of the Kempinski Ishtar Dead Sea in Jordan. In this position, he was responsible for ten pre-openings of Kempinski properties in the region. In 2008, he was appointed Chief Operating Officer of Kempinski Hotels and joined the Management Board at the same time.

Duncan O’Rourke joined Accor at the end of 2016, as the COO Europe for the luxury segment, where he was responsible for the operational management of 140 luxury hotels in the Europe region until end of 2019.

In September 2018, he additionally took over the position of COO Central Europe, in his capacity, he led the teams in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

As CEO of the Premium, Midscale and Economy brands for Middle East, Africa, Turkey and Asia Pacific, Duncan oversees 1,000 operating properties, and over 200 properties in the pipeline, with brands including Swissotel, Movenpick, Pullman, Grand Mercure, Mercure, Novotel, Novotel Suites, Adagio, Ibis, ibis budget and ibis styles.

Duncan became a member of the Group’s Executive Committee in October 2020. In his capacity, he manages the business for the Premium, Midscale and Economy division for Accor across 44 countries.

DUNCAN O’ROURKE JOINED ACCOR AT THE END OF 2016, AS THE COO EUROPE FOR THE LUXURY SEGMENT, WHERE HE WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE OPERATIONAL MANAGEMENT OF 140 LUXURY HOTELS IN THE EUROPE REGION UNTIL END OF 2019.

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CENK UNVERDI

Managing Director, Rixos Hotels GCC UNDER ÜNVERDI'S DYNAMIC LEADERSHIP, Rixos Hotels has made a significant impact on the global stage, thanks to his exceptional expansion strategy. As the Managing Director of Rixos Hotels, Ünverdi oversees an impressive portfolio of properties, including five hotels in the UAE, SO/ Sotogrande in Spain, and the Heritage Grand Perast by Rixos in Montenegro.

Additionally, he has been instrumental in spearheading the soon-to-launch platform - ALL Inclusive Collection.

This aims to build upon the success of Rixos, a pioneer in the all-inclusive market with over 20 years of experience, renowned for its unique "all-inclusive, all-exclusive" concept.

The ALL Inclusive Collection, led by Cenk, will harness the expertise and knowledge of the Rixos team in design,

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F&B programming, and entertainment.

This expansion not only includes introducing new guest experience strategies but also emphasises enhancing offerings and services. This ensures stringent hygiene standards, and implementing safety protocols across all Rixos Hotels’ propertiesboth in the Gulf Region and on a global scale. Ünverdi's exceptional entrepreneurial skills and innovative mindset have also led to the creation of alternative revenue streams for Rixos Hotels significantly to the company's overall revenue increase by over 10%. His ability to identify and leverage new business opportunities showcases his role as a calculated risk-taker. A driving force in the pursuit of sustainability within the hospitality industry, Ünverdi has firmly established Rixos Hotels

as a trailblazer in this domain. He has championed the adoption of Accor's Global Sustainability Program, Planet 21, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. Each Rixos property has diligently calculated its carbon footprint consumption, reflecting the brand's dedication to monitor and mitigate its environmental impact. Emphasising energy-saving practices and fostering awareness among employees, Ünverdi has successfully reduced the properties' electricity and energy bills, promoting a mindful and conscious guest experience. Furthermore, Rixos Hotels' commitment to recycling ,the use of environment-friendly materials to underscore their dedication to preserving the environment and conserving valuable resources. In addition to his environmental efforts, Ünverdi prioritises understanding and addressing the expectations of Rixos Hotels' stakeholders. He actively supports the local economy by seeking out and partnering with local service and goods suppliers while championing sustainable procurement practices. Rixos Hotels' conscious selection of energy, water, waste-efficient eco-friendly products and services is a testament to their commitment to promoting sustainable tourism and contributing positively to the community. Ünverdi's visionary leadership has propelled Rixos Dubai towards continued success and recognition in the hospitality industry.

Through strategic partnerships with highly acclaimed brands such as UAE Pro League, Emirates NBD, Aquaventure, Dubai Parks and Resorts, and Dubai Expo 2020, he has positioned the Rixos brand across prestigious channels, elevating its visibility and reputation. As a result of his team's collective efforts and Ünverdi's guiding influence, Rixos Hotels Gulf has been consistently receiving major industry awards, including the prestigious "Leading Hotel Group" accolade at this year's Leaders in Hospitality Awards.

TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

MARLOES KNIPPENBERG CEO, Kerten Hospitality

A TRAILBLAZER in the realm of modern mixed-use developments, Marloes has shaped the industry by emphasizing ESG as a central aspect of operations, business processes, and the entire value chain. Her approach has transformed a single brand in one country into a global lifestyle group encompassing over 45 projects. Unwavering in her commitment, Marloes seeks to expand the lifestyle footprint in carefully selected destinations where

collaboration and shared purpose unite all stakeholders. Her career began at Hilton, where she held prominent operational and commercial management roles. Today, she serves on multiple industry boards and actively supports the next generation of professionals. Expanding the Kerten Hospitality Portfolio from one brand in one country seven years ago to more than 50 projects across 12 countries and a portfolio of 12 lifestyle brands.

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TIM CORDON

COO, Middle East & Africa, Radisson Hotel Group TIM CORDON has been with Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) for nearly two decades. He began his progressive career in the UK in 2003 as General Manager at Radisson Blu Hotel Manchester Airport. At the time, it was Rezidor’s largest hotel in the UK and Tim successfully positioned the hotel in the group’s top 20 performing hotels worldwide. In 2006, Cordon was recognized with the Alpha Forum Prize – “Younger Manager” award by the British Travel and Hospitality Hall of Fame. He then took on several leadership roles in two of the group’s key properties in London, namely Radisson Blu Portman Hotel and Radisson Blu Hotel Stansted Airport.

Cordon made Dubai his home in 2015, taking on the role of Regional Director of Middle East & Africa (MEA). In 2017, Cordon was appointed Area Senior Vice President for MEA

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responsible for leading operations and delivering business growth and profit across the group’s largest area. Cordon has played a crucial role in Radisson Hotel Group’s expansion in the region, hitting key milestones for the group worldwide and setting in place an ambitious five-year development plan to reach 100 hotels in the Middle East by 2025. Currently, Cordon oversees 59 hotels in Africa, encompassing a grand total of 11,788 keys, while managing 53 properties in the Middle East, comprising a combined total of 11,619 keys.

Since assuming his role as Chief Operating Officer of Radisson Hotel Group in the Middle East and Africa in 2022, Cordon has demonstrated remarkable leadership and strategic vision, propelling the Group towards becoming one of the largest international hotel groups worldwide.

TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

ANTHONY COSTA

brands and continents, infusing each destination with his unique passion and flair.

As the Regional President at Caesars Palace Dubai, Anthony brings a wealth of experience and an impressive track record to his role. His illustrious career spans 10 General Manager level positions, an Executive Vice President role, a Regional Vice President andManaging Director role, highlighting his versatility and expertise in various leadership capacities.

Beyond his professional background, what truly sets Anthony apart is his relatability.

His insatiable curiosity for cultural knowledge, coupled with his diverse range of passions including Leica cameras, watches, golf, and vinyl records, allows him to effortlessly connect with people. This exceptional ability enables him to cultivate genuine relationships not only with the local community but also with hotel guests. Anthony's approach has resulted in lifelong friendships in every city he visits, and he personally supports colleagues in their professional growth, fostering a nurturing environment of mentorship and development.

Throughout his illustrious career as a hotelier, Anthony Costa has consistently achieved Forbes 5-star ratings in every role he has undertaken. His exceptional accomplishments include being part of the first and only hotels to achieve this prestigious accolade.

These include the Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong and the Mandarin Oriental Tokyo in Japan when Forbes first entered the Japanese market. Anthony's unwavering commitment to excellence has continued to be recognized with Forbes 5-star ratings at other renowned properties, including Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, Wynn Palace Macau, Burj Al Arab Dubai, and more recently Caesars Palace Dubai twice in a row.

His comprehensive understanding of luxury brand-building, combined with his commercial acumen and operational finesse, has played a pivotal role in driving success throughout his journey in hospitality.

Regional President, Caesars Palace Dubai ANTHONY COSTA'S INFLUENCE as a long-standing leader in the hospitality industry is undeniably significant, stemming from his extensive global career, amiable personality, and zest for life. His passion for hospitality was ignited at a young age, starting by folding napkins at the age of 5. Since then, he has consistently achieved success across various hotel

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AMIR GOLBARG

Senior Vice President Middle East & Africa, Minor Hotels AMIR GOLBARG HEADS UP OPERATIONS in the Middle East and Africa region for Minor Hotels, in addition to Seychelles and Mauritius. Minor Hotels’ portfolio currently totals 530 hotels in 56 countries, including the highly-acclaimed luxury Anantara brand and the upscale Avani brand. Amir

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currently oversees a total of 38 properties in operation across 10 countries and 5 brands, in addition to driving the development of the strong pipeline of properties within the region across multiple brands. Most recently Minor Hotels has launched a fifth brand – NH Collection – into the region in Dubai’s The Palm in February 2023. Joining the Minor Hotels regional team in March 2019 as Vice President Operations for Middle East, North Africa, Mauritius and Seychelles, Amir was promoted in September 2021 to Senior Vice President Operations, including adding the group’s operation in Southern Africa into the mix.

Highlights over the past years include: Strengthening the brand presence of Anantara in Dubai by opening the first hotel in the World Island archipelago, Anantara World Islands Resort, in 2022. Introducing the Anantara Downtown Dubai Hotel in July 2022, as the first urban Anantara in the city. This addition is part of the strategic expansion of the brand into urban and city locations in key global destinations.

Avani Hotels & Resorts also made its debut in Oman with the launch of Avani Muscat Hotel in January 2022, marking the second country of operation for the brand in the region. Furthermore, there were notable achievements in Saudi Arabia, including signing off on the first Anantara hotel in the country, Anantara Diriyah Gate Hotel & Residences Riyadh, in May 2022, and the signing of Anantara Trojena in Neom, Saudi Arabia. In addition, one of the major announcements this year was the upcoming debut of the luxury Anantara brand in India. The new-build Anantara Jaipur Hotel will launch in Q4 2023 with the aim to become a spectacular venue for weddings and celebrations. Anticipated to open this year in Q4 are Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort with 174 keys, a luxury eco-resort, and Avani + Barbarons Seychelles with 192 keys.

TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

EMANUELA SETTERBERG

General Manager, One&Only, The Palm EMANUELA SETTERBERG DI VIVO, the General Manager of One&Only The Palm, Dubai's beloved ultra-luxury resort, boasts an impressive track record of accomplishments. Her dedication to delivering world-class luxury hospitality, dining, and leisure amenities has resulted in the continued development of exceptional guest experiences, while maintaining the resort's renowned warm and genuine service. Before assuming her current position at One&Only The Palm, Emanuela served as the Vice President of Operations for One&Only Resorts' Global Dubai Office, a role she held for nearly six years. During her tenure, she effectively oversaw the extensive One&Only portfolio, driving success across multiple key performance metrics. This includes brand service standards, quality, employee engagement, revenue generation, and the successful launch of new properties. Emanuela's illustrious career in the luxury hospitality industry includes noteworthy leadership roles. She previously served as the General Manager of Hotel Bel-Air, a prestigious property under the Dorchester Collection, situated in California. Additionally, she excelled as the Managing Director of Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, a distinguished resort in Tuscany, Italy. Her expertise was also instrumental in the successful opening of Bulgari Hotels & Resorts in Milan, Italy.

EMANUELA'S ILLUSTRIOUS CAREER IN THE LUXURY HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY INCLUDES NOTEWORTHY LEADERSHIP ROLES. HOTELNEWSME.COM | SEPTEMBER 2023

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TIMOTHY KELLY

without the incredible leadership behind it.

From being at the helm of the biggest resort launch the world has ever seen to creating an unrivaled F&B offering to organising partnerships with brands, media, and celebrities across the globe, there is no challenge too big for Timothy or his team at Atlantis The Royal.

The Grandest Reveal Of All The opening of Atlantis The Royal was years in the making, as Tim and the team worked toward a Grand Reveal event that would make global headlines and firmly place Dubai’s newest and most iconic ultra-luxury hotel on the map. The resort was finally brought to life during an exclusive, star-studded Grand Reveal weekend extravaganza in late January, with 1,500 media, celebrities and VIPs in attendance. The three-day celebration featured lavish meals created by the world’s best chefs, parties hosted by celebrities including Kendall Jenner, and a show stopping first performance by 28-time Grammy Award-winning superstar, Beyoncé – her first live show in four years.

Executive Vice President and Managing Director, Atlantis Resorts and Residences

TIMOTHY KELLY, the Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Atlantis Resorts has grown the business from strength to strength after coming on board in November 2017. 2023 has been his most notable year to date with the launch of Atlantis The Royal; Dubai’s newest and most iconic ultra-luxury resort. Following the Grand Reveal in late January, featuring three days of spectacular events (including Beyoncé’s first live performance in four years) with Timothy Kelly at the helm, Atlantis The Royal has firmly cemented its status as the world’s must ultraluxury experiential resort. Since officially welcoming guests in early February, the resort has made a steady start and continues to strengthen each day.

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TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

MOUSTAFA SAKR

Area Managing Director, Luxury Operations Middle East, Marriott International THE LEADER, INNOVATOR AND MOTIVATOR behind Marriott International’s entire Middle East Luxury portfolio of hotels is a dedicated, hard-working and committed professional who has achieved enormous success as a hospitality heavyweight and luxury specialist.

Bringing an infectiously optimistic attitude, strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of luxury and the appeal it holds, he has recently been promoted to the senior and immensely important role of Area Managing Director of Luxury Operations Middle East.

Having risen from relatively humble beginnings, he now oversees all operations and profile optimisation initiatives for the group’s Luxury hotels in the Middle East. This new role puts him in charge of driving the operational, guest and employee results of unique and world-renowned brands such as The Ritz-Carlton, The Ritz-Carlton Reserve, The St. Regis, The EDITION, Bulgari, Luxury Collection, Autograph, JW Marriott and W. His high-powered position requires exceptional organisation, communication and strategic leadership skills, however Moustafa handles his multiple responsibilities with ease. Working directly under the COO, he is accountable for enhancing guest experiences, optimising results, implementing brand initiatives, distributing resources efficiently, managing relationships with owners and asset managers, sourcing new growth opportunities within the region, identifying business improvement opportunities and much more.

As the region’s top leading expert in luxury, Moustafa’s exciting and varied hospitality career spans over 20 years.

He gained his first General Manager role before he had even turned 40, and prior to joining the Marriott family he held prestigious senior positions at luxury hospitality brands such as Fairmont, The Westin and Shangri-La. He lived across the world in Australia and MENA before settling in the UAE, a place he is now extremely proud to call home.

Part of the original The St. Regis Abu Dhabi opening team, he was promoted to General Manager of the iconic property in 2013, just two years after it opened its doors in 2011. In March 2022, he was promoted to lead all ten of the UAE capital’s most exclusive Marriott properties as Area General Manager, Luxury Hotels and Resorts Abu Dhabi.

Now, his hands-on approach as Area Managing Director, sets him apart from every other hospitality leader in the region. Based at the Dubai regional offices, he splits his attention between all the many spectacular properties in his portfolio, and he supports the General Managers of each unit by providing clear leadership, ample resources and strategic branding and operational strategies.

Moustafa’s talent for hospitality is aided by his own personal appreciation for high fashion and luxury. The fact

that he has his own extensive collections of watches and tailored suits helps him to appreciate and understand the allure of high-end style and class, and what he needs to do to make his guests feel special. This is proven in the fact that all his properties have long boasted some of the top guest experience ratings in the Middle East and Africa Many might say that they are more focused on reputation rather than profits, but Moustafa genuinely means it. He knows luxury and the hospitality business inside out, and he uses his exceptional knowledge to ensure that every visitor that passes through the doors of his portfolio experiences the highest possible standards of luxury, and has their every expectation exceeded.

Throughout his years at Marriott, Moustafa has enhanced each hotel’s world-renowned elegance and style by forging numerous strategic and valuable partnerships with luxury retailers and noteworthy brands. This includes collaborations with iconic and prestigious names such as Richard Mille, Cartier, Anil Arjandas Jewellery, as well as Etihad Airways and Vogue Arabia.

In his new role as Area Managing Director, he will continue to source, build and maintain close relationships with other luxury brands that complement the ethos of the Marriott Luxury portfolio.

As well as being an inspiration to those who work under him, he’s also one of the most well-known and admired figures in the Middle East’s hospitality industry. Always up to date with the latest trends, the key influencers and local events, his connections spread far and wide.

HCNME COVER STORY

BASEL TALAL

Managing Director KSA, Kuwait, & Levant, Radisson Hotel Group BASEL TALAL HAS OVER 20 YEARS of experience in the hospitality industry, with the majority of this time spent with Radisson Hotel Group (RHG).

Talal is currently Managing Director, Radisson Hotel Group, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Levant, and responsible for the operations and profitability of the hotels throughout those territories. In Saudi Arabia alone, the group has over 26 hotels in operation.His clear loyalty to the group and his commitment and dedication to the hospitality industry has allowed Talal to grow progressively from a Night Manager at Radisson SAS Resort to General Manager opening his first hotel, the Radisson SAS Hotel Jeddah, in 2005.

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Throughout his valued time with the company, Talal was not only able to overcome a number of challenges following the global financial crises but has played an instrumental role in establishing the Group’s operations in the Kingdom. Beyond Talal’s successful operations in Saudi Arabia, his commitment to the industry goes as far as taking an active role in the group’s “Talent Development Programme.” This helped develop a highly productive learning environment, as well as actively supporting Radisson Hotel Group’s balanced leadership efforts in the Kingdom. This was designed to encourage more women to enter the hospitality industry and to upskill more women to take on leadership positions.

TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

ANTONIO OSTUNI

Director of Operations, Sofitel Dubai The Palm ANTONIO OSTUNI JOINED SOFITEL DUBAI THE PALM in February 2020 as Director of Food & Beverage, then promoted to his current role of Director of Operations in February 2022.

With more than 20 years of experience, Ostuni has aproven track record,along with a variety of specialties in the tourism industry across Asia Pacific, Europe, Africa and the Middle East, within Luxury and Lifestyle properties alike; under his leadership, Sofitel Dubai The Palm focuses on enhancing its offerings with a spark of innovation and solid entrepreneurial spirit. Having worked at flagship properties across the globe, Ostuni has global knowledge and expertise to drive new exciting projects and, working closely with the Managing Director and the rest of the Executive Committee, aims at carrying forwardthe continued success and reputation of a globally recognized award-winning Resort as Sofitel Dubai The Palm. Antonio Ostuni has led and taken the Sofitel Dubai The Palm’s large operations to new heights. Antonio has played an integral part in planning and implementation of the resort’s long-term objectives whilst sharing strong commitment to the Sofitel brand’s global vision.

ANTONIO HAS PLAYED AN INTEGRAL PART IN PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE RESORT’S LONG-TERM OBJECTIVES WHILST SHARING STRONG COMMITMENT TO THE SOFITEL BRAND’S GLOBAL VISION. HOTELNEWSME.COM | SEPTEMBER 2023

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NADER HALIM

keys), and DoubleTree by Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Residence (156 keys). Approaching his one-year anniversary in this position, Halim has demonstrated remarkable leadership by driving exponential year-over-year double-digit growth across all essential performance metrics since taking the helm.

Under his guidance, these hotels have formed strategic partnerships, collaborating on events like the HSBC Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, Disney's The Lion King, and the Mubadala World Tennis Championship. These partnerships have not only increased awareness of the hotels among key audiences but have also contributed to the overall success of Yas Island.

Halim actively collaborates with Miral Destinations, Miral Experiences, and the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT), playing a pivotal role in supporting key Yas Island activations such as IIFA, UFC, NBA, and the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix. These collaborations further enhance Yas Island's standing as a premier global destination for leisure, entertainment, and business.

All three hotels are committed partners in Yas Island's promotional campaigns, reflecting Halim's dedication to engaging with and supporting the local communities where these hotels operate. This commitment extends to working with four local suppliers, benefiting the hotels commercially while showcasing exceptional local products and reducing their carbon footprint.

Halim has also aligned the hotels with the 'Operation Smile' initiative, aimed at helping children with untreated cleft conditions, solidifying the hotels' commitment to social responsibility.

Furthermore, under Halim's leadership, sustainability initiatives are being actively pursued at the properties, in line with Hilton's Travel with Purpose Goals for 2030.

In support of the Emiratisation program, the properties have partnered with ADVETI (Abu Dhabi Vocational Educational & Training Institute) to introduce students to the hospitality sector as a potential career choice, offering internships and employment opportunities.

Halim leads a robust team of 800 members, with a keen focus on team member satisfaction as a top priority..

Cluster General Manager, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, The WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton, and DoubleTree by Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Residences NADER HALIM BOASTS an impressive 25-year tenure in the hospitality industry, with a remarkable 22 years spent within the Hilton organisation. He is widely acknowledged as both a brand specialist and a dynamic leader, with a notable track record of overseeing cluster operations for various Hiltonbranded hotels in key UAE destinations.

Currently, Halim holds the role of Cluster General Manager responsible for the Hilton properties on Yas Island. This includes the Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island (545 keys), The WB™ Abu Dhabi (a Warner Bros. themed hotel with 257

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TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

GEORGES FARHAT

Cluster General Manager, Avani + Palm View Dubai A PASSIONATE ALL-ROUNDER and seasoned leader, Georges Farhat’s vast expertise and determination have helped carve out a successful career in hospitality. After 25 years with IHG, he spent the past three years at the helm of Avani+ Palm View Dubai Hotel & Suites. There,he reached new milestones in pre-opening success, building exceptional teams, developing sustainable initiatives, growing positive stakeholder engagement, and surpassing profitability

targets for two consecutive years. In 2023 Georges has been promoted to Cluster General Manager of Avani+ Palm View Dubai Hotel & Suites and La Suite Dubai Hotel & Apartments. In his new role, Georges will also lead the full renovation and conversion of the Hotel, which will become NH Collection Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai in 2024. Additionally, in June 2023, Georges has successfully rebranded and repositioned Avani to Avani+ Palm View Dubai Hotel & Suites.

HCNME COVER STORY

KIRTI ANCHAN

General Manager, Jumeirah Emirates Towers KIRTI ANCHAN IS A SEASONED VETERAN in the dynamic hospitality industry, boasting an impressive track record of over two decades.

He has risen from butler operations to the esteemed position of General Manager across diverse properties, firmly establishing himself as a key pillar within the prestigious Jumeirah Group. Currently at the helm as the General Manager of Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Anchan along with his team skillfully transformed this iconic establishment into a premier luxury business hotel, attracting prominent dignitaries and global corporate leaders. His commitment to operational excellence and his commercial acumen strikes a harmonious balance that not only drives revenue but also fosters strong client engagement.

Kirti’s career journey includes his prior role as the interim General Manager for Jumeirah Living Marina Gate, where he demonstrated his expertise and achieved notable success opening the property during pandemic. However, his contributions extend beyond managerial prowess; as an advocate for innovation in advancing the hospitality sector, Anchan championed the implementation of a cutting-edge platform to encourage innovative thinking within his team. This commitment to innovation underscores his dedication to personalised luxury hospitality while also integrating data-driven and guest-centric decision-making to drive revenue growth.

Furthermore, he cultivates a mindset focused on recognizing opportunities to enhance revenue and efficiency while maintaining an uncompromising guest experience.

Throughout his tenure, Kirti has overseen strategic implementations that have propelled the company's success. From his humble beginnings to his current role as General Manager, Kirti’s remarkable trajectory speaks volumes about his innate talent and unwavering commitment. His deep understanding of the industry's intricacies has enabled him to forge productive collaborations with esteemed governmental figures. He does this all while consistently achieving a remarkable guest satisfaction rate.

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THROUGHOUT HIS TENURE, KIRTI HAS OVERSEEN STRATEGIC IMPLEMENTATIONS THAT HAVE PROPELLED THE COMPANY'S SUCCESS.

TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

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ELIF YAZOGLU

staff cafeteria every day strengthens the unspoken belief at the hotel that everyone is united.

Elif is committed to endorse Hilton’s sustainability vision by regular beach clean-up drives, mangroves tree plantation and supporting local farming products. She has also initiated and spearheaded several innovative practices at DoubleTree to further their sustainability goals, including the installation of an AI technology in the kitchens to monitor and reduce food wastage.

Elif is a staunch champion for inclusion and diversity.

Be it a partnership with the SEDRA Foundation to create opportunities for People of Determination or her support for ‘Evolvin’ Women’ to create opportunities for unemployed women from less privileged economic backgrounds. Elif believes that people of determination are the pioneers of their own future.She ensures she gives opportunities to those who may not get an easy chance otherwise.

Amid all these achievements, her highest priority has remained concentration on guest services and leading by example and she is constantly looking at ways to enhance the guest journey in the hotel. ‘Devil is in the details’, is what you will hear her saying with a reassuring smile to her staff.

General Manager, DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Beach IT’S HARD TO MISS ELIF YAZOGLU at Doubletree by Hilton Dubai - Jumeirah Beach. With her pastel suits and warm persona, she can often be spotted walking around the hotel greeting guests with a warm smile, and acknowledging team members by their names.

This is a trait she is fondly known for in the past 25 years of experience she has in the hospitality industry.

A multi-faceted leader, Elif embodies the empathetic leadership style. She is approachable, transparent, andat one with her team. She believes in an open communication style which gives the employees an opportunity to provide feedback and raise issues in a safe space without fear. A great example of this is the monthly GM meeting that Elif initiated at the hotel - a casual chit-chat with the GM where team members can have an honest and open discussion directly with her.

Everyone is like a family at the hotel;boththe guests and team members alike. This statement is supported by high occupancy through-out the year and a 90% score on the ‘Trust and Leadership’ index on the internal survey. A simple gesture like eating at the

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TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

RICHARD SCHILLER

General Manager, Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences A LEADER in the hospitality management sector, Richard Schiller’s 25-year international career has equipped him with a wealth of expertise and lived experience that he brings to the properties under his supervision. Richard’s early career

saw him work as Director of Operations at Hilton Alexandria Green Plaza, before transitioning to the same role at Transcorp Hilton Abuja. In 2014, he assumed the role of Cluster General Manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Riyadh and Dhahran Hilton Garden Inn Olaya Riyadh. It was here that he implemented a standardised opening procedure, enhanced profitability, and won a series of awards – including the MEA/APAC “Best Improved Quality Hotel” award.

Throughout 2019, Richard served as General Manager on the Task Force for Hilton Capital Grand and Conrad Cairo as his experience, knowledge and leadership skills proved to be indispensable.

His role included thorough restructuring from top to bottom, with a renewed focus on profitability and operational excellence.

He also redesigned the Talent Review Process, bringing individual development opportunities to the forefront of the team’s dynamic. The last four years of Richard’s career have seen him lead as General Manager of Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences. His work has included a successful F&B turnaround strategy, a commitment to enhancing team-member satisfaction, and a dedication to Saudisation. The hotel is the first in the Kingdom to employ female Saudi engineers. Richard's strategic repositioning of Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences to improve the Business Mix has also resulted in significant operational impact.

Through putting people first – whether its Saudisation, customer excellence, or team satisfaction – Richard continues to redefine what it means to be a hospitality heavyweight.

His prioritisation of individual needs has created new avenues for growth and development within the sector, driving talent and opportunity to new heights.

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HCNME COVER STORY

JAIME EMILEY SIMPSON

ily in 2020 as Hotel Manager of Jumeirah Beach Hotel and has been a true asset to the group, contributing in many ways to the family resort’s growth and performance.

In her role as General Manager, Jaime oversees all aspects of the hotel’s operations, building on her rich hospitality background to further enhance the luxurious guest experience at Jumeirah Mina A’Salam and contribute to the hotel’s ongoing success. An expert in setting up frameworks for quality, standards and procedures to ensure consistent delivery, she supports her team in its unwavering dedication to create unique unforgettable memories and deliver service beyond expectations, through warm and traditional Arabian hospitality.

Her hard work and special eye for detail helps her deliver great service that goes beyond guests’ expectations within Jumeirah Mina A’Salam’s stunning spaces and eventually awarded her with many recognitions now including Top 40 Hospitality Heavyweights 2023.

General Manager, Jumeirah Mina A’Salam JAIME EMILEY SIMPSON joined Jumeirah Group in 2020 as Hotel Manager for the group’s most cherished beach resort, Jumeirah Beach Hotel. A dynamic international hotelier with more than 24 years of experience, Jaime was promoted to General Manager of Jumeirah Mina A’Salam in 2021, spearheading the authentic Arabian boutique beachside retreat nested in the heart of Madinat Jumeirah and making it one of the most popular and well-loved resorts in Dubai.

A highly experienced hospitality professional, Jaime has over 24 years of extensive industry experience and has held several leadership roles in multiple hotel groups, including Hyatt Hotels and Resorts and Intercontinental Hotels Group in various countries. She joined the Jumeirah Group fam-

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TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

HAKAN OZEL

General Manager, Shangri-La Dubai HAKAN OZEL has held the position of General Manager at Shangri-La Dubai since 2017 and was recently appointed as Area General Manager, Operations for Middle East, Europe, India, and Americas (MEIA) for the Shangri-La Group. With 25 years of expertise in the international hotel business, he brings a wealth of experience to his role. Hakan has been an integral part of the Shangri-La Group for 18 years, contributing his skills in various countries including the

People’s Republic of China, Sultanate of Oman, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates. Prior to joining the Shangri-La Group, he gained experience working with other renowned international hotel chains in locations such as China, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and his home country, Turkey.

Hakan is a dedicated family man, residing in Dubai with his wife and son. His personal interests include fencing, abstract painting, and indulging in cigars.

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HCNME COVER STORY

THOMAS PERUZZO

General Manager, Armani Hotel Dubai THOMAS IS AN INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED HOTELIER who embarked on his career in sales and marketing within the German hospitality sector. Prior to his tenure at Armani Hotel Dubai, he held prominent leadership positions at establishments such as Artprojekt Hospitality and Grand Hotel Heiligendamm in Germany. As the General Manager, Thomas assumes the pivotal role of steering the commercial strategy and overseeing the comprehensive operations of Armani Hotel Dubai.This has helped to preserve its esteemed status as one of Dubai's most esteemed properties. His

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mandate extends to fortifying the hotel's brand identity and expanding its reach into new international markets.

Additionally, he shoulders the responsibility of guiding initiatives across operations, marketing, and administrative functions, employing an innovative and collaborative management style.

Among his recent accomplishments, Thomas led the charge in launching the UAE's inaugural kosher restaurant in 2020 and the introduction of a dedicated salon area within Armani/ SPA. He remains steadfast in his commitment to maintaining high levels of productivity and resource efficiency. Moreover, Thomas places significant emphasis on the welfare and contentment of the staff, establishing an open-door policy for all Armani Ambassadors and fostering a culture centered on empowering team members. He thrives on the fast-paced, dynamic, and rewarding demands of his role, with his passion for the industry and Armani Hotel Dubai fueled by its exceptional team members.

Thomas not only possesses innate creativity but is also a dedicated to productivity and resource efficiency, most notably demonstrated by the recent partnership agreement with Ferrari to transform Armani/ Pavilion into Downtown Dubai's most successful outdoor Ramadan venue.

It is Thomas's holistic character that sets him apart as a leader in the hospitality industry and serves as an inspiration to emerging hoteliers.

Beyond the professional sphere, he carves out time to savor the Armani Hotel Dubai experience personally, as he attests: "Within the hotel, there are countless enchanting spaces, but there is something enchanting about our restaurant terraces. When Dubai's climate is delightful, there is no greater pleasure than dining al fresco on one of the terraces while gazing at The Dubai Fountain show. It truly is a magical experience."

— FEEL BRINGING THE UNCONVENTIONAL TO YOUR BUSINESS CONVENTIONS

THE DIFFERENCE — BOOK NOW

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Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center King Abdullah Ibn Abdulaziz Rd,12451 Riyadh,Saudi Arabia T: +966 11 215 4444 E: info.ricec@radissonblu.com

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HCNME COVER STORY

JUDIT TOTH

General Manager, INK Hotel JUDIT TOTH IS THE FOUNDER AND CEO of Vivere Hospitality and the creator of INK Hotel brand.

Vivere Hospitality is a forward thinking innovative company specialized in hospitality concept development and operations management across different hospitality verticals.

With extensive hospitality management experience and strong focus on sustainability, Vivere’s strength lies in the vision of its Founder; to develop purpose driven brands while creating long-term value. The success of Vivere’s

operation is achieved by an in-depth understanding of market conditions, strategic positioning, feasibility studies and brand development along with unparalleled operational and management services.

Vivere’s INK Hotel is a sustainable award winner boutique hotel brand, operational in Dubai since January 2022. INK Hotel was developed with the idea of creating a brand that is focusing on three key pillars; sustainability, collaboration and empowerment. As the first of its kind boutique hotel concept, Vivere’s scope is to manage the entire hotel takeover, starting with the pre-opening management and rebranding of the property until successful launch and ongoing operation.

Judit currently serves as General Manager of INK Hotel and actively consulting on local and international assignments in the hospitality space. She has 14 years experience in hospitality, real estate, and business management. She has previously worked with prominent firms like Jumeirah Group and Dubai Properties where she contributed to the success of iconic hotels and destinations.

Judit holds an MBA in International Hospitality Management from The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management and a FinTech certification from INSEAD Business School.

With these accreditations, she is combining her passion for Hospitality & Fintech by focusing on bringing new technologies in hotel management.

JUDIT CURRENTLY SERVES AS GENERAL MANAGER OF INK HOTEL AND ACTIVELY CONSULTING ON LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL ASSIGNMENTS IN THE HOSPITALITY SPACE.

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CHADI FARHAT

Brand COO and Head of Middle East & Asia Pacific, Ennismore THE PAST FOUR YEARS has seen Chadi lead Ennismore (and prior to the acquisition, sbe) in the region, as Brand COO and Head of Middle East & Asia Pacific as the brand continues to grow exponentially and hit multiple key milestones. Mondrian Doha, Ennismore’s first property in the Middle East is now entering its sixth year - a huge achievement, since it was this hotel that paved the way for other global hospitality brands to open in the region. The brand’s footprint in the Middle East has grown from one property: Mondrian Doha, to four in the past few years alone with the opening of a flagship SLS in Dubai, quickly followed by Hyde Dubai and 25hours Hotel One Central in 2021.All of these are celebrating or coming up to their second anniversary. There are 13 Ennismore projects in the pipeline in active stages of development within the region.

These new destinations will bring exciting entertainment and F&B offerings as well as co-working spaces, making them ideal destinations for travellers as well as locals. This exciting growth in the MENA region will account for 15% of the brand’s global pipeline. Following the success of 25hours, SLS and Hyde in Dubai, Ennismore is set to open approximately 21 new lifestyle collective hotels within the Middle East over the next few years, with a focus on the UAE, KSA and Egypt. Continuing

to remain locally minded,adapting and catering to the relevant markets and audiences, Chadi ensures all brands coming to the market have a purpose at the heart.

DAVID WILSON

General Manager, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah WALDORF ASTORIA Dubai Palm Jumeirah has appointed David Wilson as the returning General Manager. A native Englishman, David studied Hospitality at the University of Manchester, igniting his passion for a career in hotels. David’s appointment is a welcome return to Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, where he previously held the position of General Manager from 2015-2020.During that time he led the property and increased the GOP by 20 percent as well as secured places on multiple global Best Hotel lists. Commenting on his new role, David said: “I’m proud to be rejoining the Waldorf Astoria brand which is synonymous with luxury, elegance, and sophistication, and in particular returning to a resort which holds a lot of happy memories. I’m looking forward to leading the incredible team at the resort again, as well as reconnecting with regular guests who I’ve welcomed over the years and meeting new ones too.”

HCNME COVER STORY

AMRO NAGAH

skills in strategic planning, team management, and operational excellence. He is known for his ability to drive revenue growth, implement efficient processes, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

His extensive experience has allowed him to develop a deep understanding of the unique challenges and dynamics of the hospitality industry. In addition to managing budgets, forecasting financials, and identifying opportunities for cost savings.

Additionally, Amro Nagah has a passion for cultivating a positive work culture and building strong teams. Excelling at mentoring and developing employees, he empowers them to achieve their full potential and contribute to the overall success of the organization.

He is a results-oriented professional who thrives in fast-paced environments and enjoys tackling complex challenges. Amro Nagah has a strong analytical and problem-solving skills enabling him to identify and address areas of improvement, leading to increased efficiencies and profitability.

Overall, he brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a proven track record of success to any organization. He is very confident to lead and drive results in the dynamic and everchanging hospitality industry.

Amro has deep roots in operations with a Bachelor's Degree in Hotel Management from Helwan University Cairo.

General Manager, Swissotel Al Murooj Dubai AMRO NAGAH IS AN EXPERIENCED GENERAL MANAGER with a strong background in the hospitality industry. He has a proven track record of successful leadership in various roles, including, Commercial Strategies, Food & beverage, Catering, Event Management, and overall management of leisure facilities.

Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional

PANOS PANAGIS

General Manager, Hormuz Grand Muscat, A Radisson Collection Hotel and District Director, Radisson Hotel Group, Oman PANOS PANAGIS HAS BEEN DESCRIBED as a one-of-a-kind leader; his passion and expertise within the hospitality industry is sincerely respected. Panos demonstrated excellent leadership, strong resilience and unwavering determination to deliver results by successfully steering the business strategy during the most challenging market conditions the hospitality industry has ever seen. Panos Panagis’ contribution to Radisson Hotel Group extends well beyond just one five-star luxury hotel with 231room, he also holds a position as the District Director for Radisson Hotel Group, Oman and GM at one of the most iconic properties in the capital - Hormuz Grand Muscat, A Radisson Collection Hotel - his leadership can be felt across Oman. Currently the group has 7 hotels in operation, with two more scheduled to open soon under his leadership. Since his arrival in Oman, Panos led his team to secure several awards for the Radisson Hotel Group’s hotels, including the awards for Luxury Concept Hotel in the Middle East by Luxury Hotel Awards, Highly Recommended - Best Business Hotel in Oman by Business Traveller Awards & OMNY International Cuisine-Global by World Luxury Restaurant Awards. In regard to revenue generation, Panos with his team adapted the hotel’s sales strategy during the pandemic, diversifying into longstay business, while reaching the domestic market with staycation and food and beverage offers, which helped to sustain business during tough times. As a captain who believes in leading by example, he upheld the ‘no job too small’ phrase, assuring support to all departments.

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TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

LUKE JAMES

Area General Manager, Crystalbrook Collection

LUKE JAMES BOASTS A 15-YEAR TENURE in senior leadership roles within the Middle East, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Oman, primarily within the realm of hotels, resorts, and beach clubs.

His expertise extends to pre-opening, where he has played a pivotal role in launching prominent establishments under the banners of One&Only, Jumeirah, SBM Monte Carlo (Prince Albert's company), and Ennismore.

Luke is credited with pioneering the now widely embraced "community/ neighbourhood" hotel philosophy.

He achieved this by conducting focus groups during the openings of Ennismore and Jumeirah properties in Dubai and Oman. His strategic approach ensured that F&B revenues accounted for up to 50% of the total revenue by cultivating a strong presence of local patrons and residents, thus fostering the properties' success within the local community.

Additionally, Luke has been a trailblazer in promoting inclusivity within the UAE's hospitality industry.

He introduced the concept of fulltime employment for People of Determination in hotels, a significant departure from the previous practice of offering only occasional work experiences. This initiative was implemented during his last three General Manager roles.

Currently, Luke serves as the Area General Manager overseeing operations for Ghassan Aboud, a selfmade Syrian billionaire based in the UAE, as he builds his hotel and resort venture, Crystalbrook Collection.

LUKE HAS BEEN A TRAILBLAZER IN PROMOTING INCLUSIVITY WITHIN THE UAE'S HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY. HOTELNEWSME.COM | SEPTEMBER 2023

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HCNME COVER STORY

AHMED RAMDAN

360-degree services, Ahmed founded Ròya International in 1998. Since then, he has grown Ròya International into the largest and most successful hospitality consultancy brand in the MEA region, and helped it gain highly regarded blue-chip clients spread over 35 countries. Over the past 25 years, Ahmed and his team have served as key advisors to many prominent UAE government projects, including Dubai Media City, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Reem Island and Saadiyat Island.

In addition, Ahmed and his team have brought more than 15 huge international hotel brands to the MEA region, including Anantara, Edition, Jumeirah, Ritz-Carlton, Radisson, Rotana, St. Regis, W, Waldorf Astoria, Grand Mercure, Ibis Styles, Shangri-La, Movenpick and Sheraton. Ahmed has also helped his team sign over 120 hotel management agreements, complete over 50 hotel asset management assignments and launch numerous trend-setting restaurants that deliver optimum returns. Committed to supporting and empowering up-and-coming hospitality professionals, Ahmed launched Ròya International’s internship scheme in 2015. By partnering with the world’s top hospitality schools in Switzerland and France, the programme provides graduates with priceless opportunities to shadow and learn from Ròya employees. The scheme was such a tremendous success in Europe that Ahmed decided to expand and launch a similar internship initiative in the UAE. Now, thanks to Ahmed’s proactive attitude, talented Emirati and UAE-based graduates from Abu Dhabi University, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi and other local educational institutions can also gain first-hand experience and on-the-job training with Ròya International.

Founder & Group CEO, Ròya International AHMED RAMDAN BEGAN HIS ILLUSTRIOUS CAREER by taking on various high-profile hotel leadership roles, including running multiple properties for major global hotel groups such as InterContinental and Le Meridien. Then, after recognising a gap in the market for a versatile, professional and passionate hospitality consultancy that offers

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TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

MARIANNE FITZGERALD

General manager, Address Beach Resort THE GENERAL MANAGER OVERSEEING THE SUCCESS of one of Emaar Hospitality's top-tier hotels, the Address Beach Resort, has played a pivotal role in advancing Emaar's ventures in the realm of beach resorts. Led by Fitzgerald, Emaar Hospitality has effectively molded its hotels into a resort-style setting,

achieving remarkable triumph, particularly with guests from around the world. Known for her dynamic and enthusiastic leadership, Fitzgerald has garnered profound admiration from her team, establishing herself as a lauded figure instrumental in creating one of JBR's most iconic hotels.

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HCNME COVER STORY SANDEEP IS A SEASONED HOSPITALITY PROFESSIONAL WITH STRATEGIC BUSINESS ACUMEN DRIVEN TO DELIVER OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL EXCELLENCE TO CREATE MARKET LEADING RETURNS AND ESTABLISH MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL PARTNERSHIPS AND RELATIONSHIPS WITH STAKEHOLDERS.

SANDEEP WALIA

Sandeep is a seasoned hospitality professional with strategic business acumen driven to deliver operational and financial excellence to create market leading returns and establish mutually beneficial partnerships and relationships with stakeholders. A dynamic and result-oriented leader, he is adept at building and nurturing high performance teams guiding and motivating them towards setting and achieving visionary goals by effectively aligning company values with key business initiatives and brand experiences.

Sandeep joined Marriott International in 2005. Prior to his current role, Sandeep was the Area Vice President for the United Arab Emirates and overlooked the operation of the company’s largest market in the Middle East. Before taking on his role in the UAE, he was the Area Vice President - Luxury Brands for Western Europe, overseeing the company’s luxury portfolio across Austria, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Iceland, Netherlands, Poland, Switzerland, the UK and all BVLGARI hotels in Europe.

Having worked for brands across Asia (India), Middle East, Africa and Europe, Sandeep has a global mindset and a key understanding of the consumer landscape and their evolving needs and aspirations.

Sandeep’s other key accomplishments include an Executive MBA from the Kellog School of Management at Northwestern University, a degree in Leadership from Harvard Business School and a post-graduate from the Oberoi Center of Learning and Development.

Of Indian origin, Sandeep currently resides in Dubai and is a member of the Young Presidents Organization.

Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Marriott International SANDEEP WALIA is the Chief Operating Officer for Marriott International in the Middle East. With over 25 years of international experience in the hotel industry, Sandeep is currently responsible for the operations of Marriott’s properties in the Middle East (including Egypt and Turkey) which features over 230 operational properties and more than 100 properties in its pipeline.

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TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

ABDULLA AL ABDULLA

Group Chief Operating Officer, Central Hotels and Resorts ABDULLA AL ABDULLA boasts a wealth of expertise in enhancing global operations. His adept team collaboration serves as a valuable resource, with his team members drawing inspiration from his fervor and knack for creating a welcoming environment for guests. He has also erected a sturdy framework of policies and procedures, facilitating the delivery of efficient resolutions to a range of business hurdles, encompassing succession planning, budgeting, and organizational objectives. In the upcoming year, Abdulla aims to elevate customer contentment while concurrently enhancing benefits for employees and the company.

ELSA LAHOUDE General Manager, ME

by Melia, Dubai

ELSA LAHOUDE'S REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENTS throughout her distinguished career, spanning over almost 30 years, have amassed her a wealth of accomplishments and positioned her as a standout nominee for Hotel & Catering News ME’s Top 40 Hospitality Heavyweights. She has played pivotal roles in prestigious establishments such as the Mandarin Oriental in Bodrum, leading the team during its successful re-opening and Cheval Blanc Randheli in the Maldives, overseeing all aspects of the guest experience during its opening. As the Director of Rooms at Hotel Missoni in Kuwait, she contributed to the hotel's exceptional service standards.

Elsa also played a crucial role in MERAAS Holding's Bluewaters Hotel pre-opening phase, gaining valuable expertise in luxury hospitality operations, revenue management, strategic planning, and budgeting. Elsa's current position as General Manager at ME Dubai, renowned for its world-class amenities and iconic design by Zaha Hadid, highlights her dedication to innovation and continuous improvement. With a remarkable track record, a passion for delivering exceptional service, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Elsa Lahoude's successful achievements to date make her an exceptional nominee for the Top 40 Hospitality Heavyweights list.

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HCNME COVER STORY

WITH MORE THAN 25 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN GLOBAL DESTINATION AND HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT AND MARKETING, HAITHAM HAS ALSO HELD SENIOR ROLES WITHIN IHG, AS WELL AS MARRIOTT AND HILTON WORLDWIDE.

HAITHAM MATTAR

development, digital marketing, and partnership marketing.

Haitham also served as Senior Advisor to the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, advising on the National Tourism Strategy and the execution of the commercial tourism strategy to position Saudi Arabia as one of the world’s top, emerging tourism destinations.

Prior to this, Haitham was the CEO of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, where he successfully repositioned Ras Al Khaimah to become one of the fastest growing, adventure destinations in the world.

With more than 25 years of experience in global destination and hospitality management and marketing, Haitham has also held senior roles within IHG, as well as Marriott and Hilton Worldwide.

Haitham continues to serve as an advisor to several travel and tourism organizations. Having been involved with UNWTO for several years, in 2020, he was appointed as a Special Advisor to the Secretary General of the UNWTO on Sustainable Tourism Development. Additionally, he serves as an advisory board member of the Arabian Travel Market and Global Thinkers Forum (GTF).

Managing Director MEA & South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts HAITHAM IS A TRANSFORMATIONAL HOSPITALITY, travel & tourism leader and an agent of change who is known for building high performing teams and creating strategy-based organizations. In addition to his role of Managing Director, India, Middle East and Africa (IMEA), where he is responsible for driving the growth and strength of IHG and its hotels across the region, Haitham is also part of the Tourism Developments Board in the UAE. He is skilled in destination development & marketing, tourism product & attractions development, investor relations, tourism strategy, airlift

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TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

MARK HEHIR

General manager, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray MARK HEHIR, a true connoisseur of the hotel industry, brings a wealth of experience to his role as General Manager at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray.

Before joining the resort, Mark occupied the position of General Manager at The Ritz- Carlton Maldives, in Fari Islands, for the past two years, where he oversaw their opening.

Mark’s life in hotels has taken him across the globe, spanning countries including Maldives, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan, Sri Lanka, Australia, UK, and the UAE. He occupied key positions in high end resorts owned by internationally reputable hotel chains

including The Ritz Carlton Maldives, One & Only Reethi Rah, Amilla Fushi and Finolhu Maldives, Huvafen Fushi Maldives, Anantara Phuket Villas, and Anantara Seminyak. Hotel openings and rebranding are his strongest areas of expertise.

In his current role at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Mark will lead all aspects of the hotel operation, as well as stakeholder and community relationships.

His management style focuses on facilitating innovation, encouraging employee development, and further enhancing service excellence. He does this while driving unique, inspired

products and experiences that capture emotion and positively impact market share.

Mark embarked on his journey in the hospitality sector starting from the kitchen then movingfrom apprenticeship to Chef de Cuisine across hotels between the UK and Australia.

This was until he was headhunted by Hilton International as an Executive Chef for their property in Colombo, Sri Lanka in 1997. With his experience as a former dual Executive Chef and Director of F&B, Mark brings a unique insight into new and exciting F&B concepts.

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HCNME COVER STORY

SOPHIE BLONDEL

General Manager, The H Dubai THE PASSIONATELY DRIVEN and highly experienced Sophie Blondel is a seasoned hospitality professional and the General Manager at The H Dubai. Having spent over two decades in the hospitality industry, Sophie has spent a significant amount of time learning the most intricate details of the profession and mastering the art of serving guests with excellence. In 2019, after just a short period of time spent understanding the difference between European and Arabian hospitality, her talents were widely recognised, and she was invited to come on board as the General Manager of the iconic The H Dubai. Sophie has brought in immense value and bagged the hotel multiple awards under her leadership. Her cross-cultural experience from her time in Europe and now in the UAE help her understand the global corporate & tourist mindset, international market trends, and financial intricacies,All of these speaks to perfection in her role at The H Dubai optimizing performance through creative strategies. Her

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entrepreneurial mindset enables her to ensure that the owner's interests are looked after just as well as those of the guests and employees. She is therefore constantly striving to achieve the maximum output from an investment or innovation. Extremely passionate about the overall growth and welfare of the team, Sophie has great rapport with the many employees working under her. She is known to remain connected with all the departments, regularly does her rounds, and personally converses with all team members. All employees are very welcome into her office, with any ideas, suggestions, or any other matters that may be on their minds. A highly creative individual, Sophie enjoys several hobbies and lives a life of creative and professional fulfilment. A loving mother, a passionate off-roader in the UAE winters, and someone who sews passionately in the summer months, she thoroughly enjoys her personal pursuits while always being conscious to give her best as well in her professional life. She has huge aspirations for The H Dubai, where she always looksto improve the guest experience, embrace the opportunities posed by the post-pandemic world, and transform the property to ensure that it has something extraordinary to offer at every turn. Sophie wears multiple hats with the utmost passion and dedication, and with her at the helm, The H Dubai is in extremely competent hands.

TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

SPENCER WADAMA

General Manager, SLS Dubai Hotel and Residences AS GENERAL MANAGER OF SLS DUBAI, Spencer has imprinted his enthusiasm, energy, charisma, and regional experience on the award-winning hotel since being appointed in 2021.

The highly anticipated opening of SLS Dubai in April 2021 has been an incredible achievement for Spencer as he led

the team through the successful hotel pre-opening and opening phases. Achieving budgeted occupancy and revenue numbers in both rooms and F&B venues from the outset, SLS Dubai has been consistently successful in market since day one. Over the past two years, SLS Dubai has become one of the most talked about hotels in the city. The place to see and be seen, top influencers, TV personalities, models and actresses have flocked to the hotel to experience it for themselves. Thanks to Spencer’s leadership, employees are working in a supportive environment where they are able grow, learn and develop whilst also being themselves and enjoying the work they do. This has resulted in genuine personal service across the team and is a credit to Spencer’s management style and his ability to motivate the team by ensuring he’s visible and approachable to every employee. Under his leadership, SLS has been positioned as a mustvisit hotel in Dubai and a place for unconventional experiences, starting with collaborations with internationally acclaimed musicians such as Will.i.am and Akon and collaborating with fitness professionals and enthusiasts, introducing boot camps, yoga sessions, and boxing classes to the hotel's offerings.

Spencer was also an important asset behind the success of the Taste of SLS, an actionpacked dine-around extravaganza featuring the hotel's diverse culinary offering and a special performance from Guy Manoukian.

He also oversaw the development and launch of the new addition to the hotels culinary portfolio, Smoke and Mirrors, the cigar lounge that took SLS Dubai to new heights, bringing South American vibes to the city with Latin music and Cubaninspired cocktails.

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HCNME COVER STORY

PANOS LOUPASIS PLAYED A PIVOTAL ROLE IN THE REINTRODUCTION OF DIRECT FRANCHISING AND MANAGEMENT RIGHTS FOR THE RAMADA BY WYNDHAM BRAND IN THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA.

PANOS LOUPASIS

capacity to drive sustained growth across challenging markets. Panos has embraced this new responsibility with enthusiasm, leading the wider team in expanding Wyndham's footprint across key markets and positioning the brand as a preferred choice for both travellers and partners.

Panos Loupasis played a pivotal role in the reintroduction of direct franchising and management rights for the Ramada by Wyndham brand in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This move aligns with Wyndham’s strategy to expand its midscale offering across the Middle East, where the Company’s development pipeline has forged two new additions in the Kingdom. Since the announcement, Wyndham Riyadh King Fahd Road and the upcoming Ramada Encore by Wyndham Al Khobar Corniche,will take the number of properties in the country to 14.

Under his guidance, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts continues to expand its presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in line with the objectives of Vision 2030 and the laser focus of the local governments to increase tourism opportunities and attract more travellers than ever to this diverse landscape.

Looking ahead in other markets, Panos is committed to increasing Wyndham’s footprint in Africa as the market steadily develops into one of the world’s great regions for travel, with plans to open three hotels under the Wyndham, Howard Johnson by Wyndham, and Wyndham Garden brands in Ethiopia.There are a number of further openings in Benin, Nigeria, Gabon, and Uganda, as the brand aims to provide varied accommodation options for every type of traveller.

Over the years, Panos has spearheaded the strategic growth of Wyndham in the region, with no signs of slowing down.

The company’s current development pipeline includes over 50 hotels across the Middle East, Africa, and Türkiye.

Vice President of Development Middle East, Eurasia & Africa, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts PANOS LOUPASIS HAS ACCOMPLISHED remarkable milestones throughout his longstanding career at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, a notable achievement this year being his recent appointment as Market Managing Director for Türkiye the Middle East and Africa. This comes following 11 years of successes in his previous tenure as Vice President of Development for the Middle East, Eurasia & Africa. In this expanded role, Panos is at the helm of driving brand operations and business development, as well as owner relations and commercial leadership across the Middle East and Africa region. Further, with Türkiye now falling under his directive remit this signifiesa key growth market for Wyndham. Under this expanded leadership, Panos is now responsible for more than 170 operational hotels, accounting for more than 27,000 rooms. His strategic appointment reflects his exceptional leadership skills, extensive hospitality and travel industry knowledge, and

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TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

NILA PENDAROVSKI

General Manager, Rove Expo 2020, Hotel Manager of Rove Expo 2020, the only hotel inside Expo 2020 Dubai HAVING JOINED ROVE HOTELS in 2016 for the launch of Rove Downtown, the brands' first hotel, Nila has been a vital member of the team. After two years leading the Downtown hotel, Nila was appointed as hotel manager for Rove Dubai Marina in 2018 until joining Rove Expo 2020.

With almost 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Nila's undiminishing passion for her role sets her apart as a hospitality specialist who truly enjoys what she does. A Rovester through and through, she strives to ensure Rovers (guests) get the most out of their stays and

experience memorable adventures. A passionate believer in sustainability, Nila has become Rove Hotels' sustainability champion and promoted many green initiatives to lead the brand to achieve prestigious ecocertifications such as the Green Key. Born and raised in Germany, Nila was intrigued by hotels as a child, particularly the receptionist's role and the reservations process. The simple procedure of knowing what room to place each guest in captivated her young imagination, planting the seeds for her hugely successful career in the hospitality industry. With experience

across several European Markets, Latin and North America, Nila finally landed in the Middle East in 2012.

In 2016, she joined Emaar in the role of General Manager across various projects, including Nuran Residences and Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, the latter proving to be a real passion project for the equine enthusiast. When the opportunity arose to become a Hotel Manager with Rove Hotels, she found a brand she could truly identify with. A natural leader, Nila strives to create an environment in which Rovers feel genuinely welcome and where Rovesters know they can thrive.

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HCNME COVER STORY

BANI HADDAD

Founder & MD, Aleph Hospitality BANI HADDAD founded Dubai-based Aleph Hospitality in 2015 when he saw the need for a progressive and responsive alternative to traditional hotel management. Today, Aleph Hospitality is a leading independent hotel management company in the Middle East and Africa with a focus on driving benefits to owners to maximize their returns. The hotel management solution is tailored to fit the various types of investors, hotel categories and market specifics, and Aleph Hospitality handles all aspects of hotel operations

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at any stage of development.This begins with site and brand selection to technical assistance, pre-opening and day-to-day operations. Aleph Hospitality has a track record of improving ROI right from the outset of a project. Aleph Hospitality’s current portfolio counts 11 properties in the Middle East and Africa with more than 15 properties in the pipeline, and the company is right on track to reach their goal of operating 50 properties by 2026. Bani Haddad has established preferred partner status with leading hotel brands such as Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, Accor, Rotana, Best Western, Radisson, IHG, Wyndham, Minor and Fauchon Hospitality. Recent achievements include the launch of the sustainable development programme, Aleph Cares, with specific targets for all hotels under Aleph’s management under the five pillars: management approach, energy & water consumption, waste management, product selection and CSR & solidarity.

Bani also launched the Aleph Innovation Lab which is a mentorship programme to offer early-stage travel, tourism, and hospitality startups a springboard to launch and grow their business.

Additionally in 2022, Bani launched Aleph’s first group F&B concept; the Asiatic restaurant, opened at Best Western Plus Westlands in Nairobi, Kenya. At the end of 2022, Aleph Hospitality performed a record-breaking achievement in taking the newly built La Maison Hotel Doha in Qatar from an empty space with no furniture or staff to a fully operational hotel in just ten weeks. On the 7th day of operation, they reached peak occupancy of 90% and made a 75% gross profit during the World Cup period. In February 2023, Bani secured an exclusive partnership with French Fauchon Hospitality. The agreement names Aleph Hospitality as the exclusive developer and operator of the glamourous Fauchon L’Hôtel portfolio in the Middle East and Africa. Fauchon L’Hotel already has a luxury hotel under development in Diryah Gate, Saudi Arabia, with 89 rooms, Fauchon-branded restaurants, lounges and rooftop venue.

In March 2023, Bani opened a regional office in Saudi Arabia to support Aleph Hospitality’s growth in the Kingdom and appointed Tariq Yousef Dowidar as Vice President, Saudi Arabia. At present, three new projects have already been signed in the Kingdom: Abha Hotel, a 110-room upscale hotel in local heritage design; Jeddah Hotel, a 112-room business hotel in the city; and Obhur Jeddah Hotel, a 110-room leisure hotel for families.

TOP 40 HOSPITALITY HEAVYWEIGHTS

ALOKI BATRA

CEO, FIVE Hospitality AS CEO, Aloki is a leading tour de force at FIVE Hospitality. His ethos at FIVE Hotels and Resorts, reflects an ecosystem with high quality property hardware and cutting-edge experiential software, which allows the brand to drive high performance (for both customer satisfaction scores and revenue records) and has therefore, consistently outperformed competitors.

As one of the Co-Founding Members of FIVE Holdings, Aloki is credited for rapidly selling out FIVE Palm Jumeirah’s Luxury Residences for $400mn.

He is the creative genius behind hugely successful homegrown concepts such as Dubai’s iconic rooftop destination, The Penthouse, FIVE’s signature Italian, Cinque and MSG-free, gourmet Chinese, Maiden Shanghai at FIVE Palm Jumeirah along with immersive street-food dining experience, Soul St. and Jumeirah Village Circle’s first ever nightclub, The Mansion at FIVE Jumeirah Village.

A seasoned hotelier and culinary expert, Aloki is the brain behind FIVE’s renowned dining concepts.

His aim in creating these homegrown F&B concepts was to cater to Dubai’s multicultural diaspora – with varied palates, thus proving that original offerings were able to be stratospherically successful with locals and visitors alike. Each Head Chef is personally hand-picked by Aloki with a mission to match the creative and technical skills of the kitchen with the vibe of the venue in order to enhance the overall experiential gastronomic offerings at FIVE. Aloki’s passion-driven endeavour, FIVE Music fulfils the brand’s vision of uniting an international music-loving audience in front of the FIVE stage – whether it be on Beach by FIVE or trademark Dubai rooftop destination, The Penthouse.

Opening in 2023, FIVE LUXE, JBR, will embody the authentic and unique Vibe at FIVE that global Millennials love.

Aloki was a key player in the conceptualization and marketing of FIVE LUXE, JBR, which resulted sales of a total inventory worth – over AED 1 million (SENSORIA), AED 365 million (FIVE LUXE Hotel Rooms) and AED 1.4 million (FIVE LUXE Residences).

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HCNME COVER STORY

TAMARA SALHA

General manager, Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina WITH OVER 22 YEARS of experience in the hospitality sector, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina, Tamara Salha has vast knowledge & experience in managing teams all whilst inspiring and engaging them onto further growth. Salha’s strong analytical and planning skills, combined with the ability to coordinate the efforts of many to meet organizational goals has enabled her to ensure smooth running and staller performance of the property.

Managing various departments and communications with the IHG Group and guaranteeing all the policies, laws and regulations set by IHG and the government are being implemented and followed.

Tamara started her career working in the Sales and Marketing department at the Phoenicia Beirut, a hotel which is a part of the InterContinental Hotels Group and worked her way up to the position of Hotel Manager in 2013. As Hotel Manager, her key focus and responsibilities were developing, organizing and coordinating all the activities of the various operational departments at Phoenicia Beirut and maximising opportunities to improve employee performance and overall hotel profitability.

In 2019, she moved to Dubai as the Hotel Manager at Voco Dubai, where she was an integral part of the team responsible for converting the Nassima Royal Hotel to voco Dubai and ensuring IHG's brand values are woven into the culture and policies of the hotel. As a Hotel Manager, Tamara was also tasked to introduce the new brand within the IHG family to the Middle East / UAE market.

AS HOTEL MANAGER, HER KEY FOCUS AND RESPONSIBILITIES WERE DEVELOPING, ORGANIZING AND COORDINATING ALL THE ACTIVITIES OF THE VARIOUS OPERATIONAL DEPARTMENTS AT PHOENICIA BEIRUT AND MAXIMISING OPPORTUNITIES TO IMPROVE EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE AND OVERALL HOTEL PROFITABILITY.

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HCNME SUSTAINABILITY

WANT TO SAVE THE PLANET? START BY CHANGING THE EDUCATION SYSTEM “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” – Malcolm X

BY ARADHANA KHOWALA, CEO & FOUNDER, APTAMIND PARTNERS, UNITED KINGDOM AND CHAIR OF THE GLOBAL ADVISORY BOARD - THE RED SEA DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

T

he model for modern education has got most things right so far - it has been adaptable, resilient, forward looking and has generally served the society well thus far. However, it now needs to step up. There are growing demands on governments, businesses and individuals to take a lead in confronting societal challenges and find solutions to be an agent of social change. Against this changing backdrop, the current education system is dated and it needs to reorient itself to look towards the future.

The pace of change in schools has been far slower than in business, with the result that students are increasingly less well prepared to thrive during the complex crises of the future: climate change, inequality, globalization,

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and many others yet unknown. Saving the planet requires an inclusive approach that speaks to and involves everyone, depends on the global collective action of an educated society.Education plays a critical role in equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to become responsible stewards of our planet.

Recently UNESCO published data from 100 countries shows that only 53% of the world’s national education curriculum make any reference to climate change and when the subject is mentioned, it is almost always given very low priority. Furthermore, fewer than 40% of teachers surveyed by UNESCO and Education International were confident in teaching the severity of climate change and only about one-third felt able to explain the effects of climate change on their region .

WANT TO SAVE THE PLANET?

The readiness gap Relying on regulations and financial incentives is not enough to shape a more sustainable society. A switch in our way of thinking and acting is needed as well.

In the Deloitte 2023 Global Human Capital Trends survey, 84% of respondents acknowledge that understanding the impact of sustainability on their organisation and defining ownership for driving progress and outcomes is important to their organisation’s success.

Yet only 21% believe that their organisations are very ready to address such issues.

Furthermore, 73% of business leaders believe that universities should place more emphasis on teaching sustainability and corporate responsibility. This indicates a demand for a workforce that is well-versed in sustainability principles.

A new age education system bridges the gap between nurture and a more sustainable mindset than the one which created the damage in the first place.

Link between customer behaviour and education According to Booking's Sustainable Travel Report, 87% of global travellers expressed a desire to stay in eco-friendly accommodations, and 70% said they would be more likely to book accommodations knowing they were ecofriendly. Although not supported by data, the tourists who are educated about the importance of sustainable practices are more likely to choose eco-friendly accommodations, be it hotels with energy-efficient systems, renewable energy sources or water-saving initiatives.

Educated tourists are also more inclined to participate in responsible and educational activities, such as nature hikes, wildlife conservation programs, and guided tours that emphasise environmental awareness.

This is further supported by data from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) which reports that tourists who receive environmental education not only have a

deeper understanding of biodiversity and conservation but also are more likely to advocate for and support conservation initiatives in their travel destinations as well as home countries.

A revolution in the curriculum If young minds have to be part of the solution, we need a revolution in school curriculums especially in this environment where the next epidemic could around the corner. While experts exist for good reason, we need 21st century skills like agility and adaptability, initiative & entrepreneurship and systems and design thinking to solve mega crisis like climate change.

Historically, the theory of education used to be that we would teach basic academic disciplines and our students would then use those skills to learn a business and to perform in their careers. Truth be told, the real world does not operate in a subject paradigm.

The real world operates in a problem paradigm – so you

are either trying to solve a problem for somebody i.e, a climate,population problem or sustainability problem.

Whatever the issue at hand, we need innovative solutions that touches the emotions and prepares the next generation of leaders championing for change.

Conclusion Climate change is not a future possibility; it is happening now. The human population is growing and 1 out of 8 billion people do not have adequate access to clean water and food while more than 2.5 billion lack basic sanitation. Is the current level of education sufficient for students whose future is threatened by global problems they will be forced to address? Or might they be better served by a more meaningful and comprehensive mission that includes learning to solve the challenges they will face? Instead of taking a linear and short-term approach which puts the responsibility only on governments and businesses, we also need to focus on building resilience through less obvious agents of change like education. The education system needs to update how they train the next generation to remain competitive and orient their teaching accordingly.

Aradhana Khowala, CEO & Founder, Aptamind Partners, United Kingdom and Chair of the Global Advisory Board - The Red Sea Development Company, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

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HCNME POINT OF VIEW DEAR

RESTAURATEURS

BY MARTIN KUBLER, CHIEF SLOTH AT THE GLUTTONOUS SLOTH, HORECA CONSULTING WITH ATTITUDE

H

ere’s the thing: I’m not one of those people who thinks that opening and running a restaurant is a piece of cake. I get it. Opening and running a successful restaurant isn’t easy. It’s a lot of hard work, sweat and tears. It’s lonely at times and thankless at other points.

Still, it’s what some of us have chosen to do and if you’re one of them, I salute you, because without you our lives would be infinitely duller and less tasty.

Having said that, it’s time we address the basics. You know it’s easy to lose track of the basics and get caught up in all the glamourous aspects of opening and running a restaurant like “Should I buy these new salt & pepper shakers with a build-in USB ports?” I’m with you. I once spent six months picking the perfect

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cutlery and crockery for a place only to then be told by a waiter that guests hate the knives. How dare they?

I address, now onto the basics. Looking at restaurant information online and visiting restaurants makes up a large part of my life and over the past few months I’ve been involved in a project that required me to pay very close to attention to how restaurants present themselves on the Internet, but also in real life.

I have to admit, I’m ready to give up on some folks.

Stick the knife in it. Scream.

Why? Because it’s almost 2024 and they have learned very little from the past few years.

Let’s start where most people start when it comes to restaurants: Google.

Don’t have a website? No problem, not every restaurant needs one. What you do need, though, is a

proper listing on Google Maps, so people can find you. “Proper” here means that the entry features more than just your restaurant’s name and location. ‘Google My Business’ is free, yet some restaurateurs seem to think it charges by character and that’s why they fill as little info as possible. There are a large number of fields on a Google My Business listing for a restaurant: fill them. Something not applicable to you? Mark it as not applicable. Every field you fill makes your place more discoverable and actually helps (potential) guests decide whether to come or not. One of my pet peeves is restaurants who do not feature a copy of their latest menu on their Google Maps listings. It’s the world’s largest billboard, why wouldn’t you use it? It’s as simple as uploading a few images or adding a link to your menu online. That’s it. Other than where your place is, what do you think people are most interested in? What’s on the menu, obviously. Why make it difficult for them to find out?

Along the same lines: Having a website for your restaurant is great, but if you don’t have your menu on it and easily accessible, please go to the back of the queue.

Don’t make it overly fancy – I don’t want to have to do finger acrobatics to scroll through it on my phone.

Just make it readable.

Please don’t make it so that I have to download it before

I can read it. You wouldn’t cover the windows of your restaurant with black foil either. Your website is just another window. Make it a quick and easy to use one.

Speaking about menus: We can go on about these for a long time, but in nutshell, it’s a menu not a Booker Prize winning novel. Again, think user-centric. What do I want to know? What you serve. How much it costs.

What it contains. Whether it’s suitable for me. It’s not my job to search your menu for vegetarian or vegan options or for certain dishes compatible with my dietary requirements. It’s your job to hit me in the face with them.

Lastly, for now, pictures: you might be great at running a restaurant. You might be an outstanding cook. You might not be the greatest photographer in the culinary world. Recognise when it’s time to call in a professional. Pay them.

It’s worth it. Great pictures sell. Especially online. The number of restaurants on the big delivery aggregators without any or with just really sub-standard pictures is astonishing.

Don’t get me wrong, there are many restaurants that already get it (very) right – but there are also far too many that get it very wrong.

What’s the point of spending all this money and energy on opening or running a restaurant if you’re not getting the basics, right?

Bon Appetit!

The Ultimate Heroes

Chef Carmen Rueda

Culinary hero Carmen Rueda Hernández is a one-of-a-kind Chef. After years of hard work, absorbing techniques and skills, she became one of the few Executive pastry chefs of a dessert only restaurant Brix desserts in Dubai. European cream, especially French Cream being one of her star ingredients, Chef Carmen says: “Dairy cream is such a wonderful blank slate. You can add variety of ingredients to it and find it enhances the flavor and complements a variety of dishes.”

Images: @chefcarmenrueda6 , supplied

What is your signature creamy dish?

The snowball is a favorite at Brix desserts built on a base of French cream and composed of many different ingredients that deliver a distinct experience with every spoonful. This dish is a beautiful expression of happy childhood memories that are filled with warmth and happiness.

One thing you will always carry on your travels?

A camera.

A chef who inspires you the most?

Ferran Adria – when I had the chance to work with him, I witnessed first-hand how complex the process of creation can be yet how simple he made it all.

He believes that people will understand and appreciate things that are created correctly. I was also inspired by his commitment to his team.

The best ingredient that matches well with cream?

For me, any citrus combines well with cream.

You can feel the flavour and it balances very well alongside cream.

Biggest misconception people have about desserts?

One of the biggest challenges is to make people understand that they can eat desserts and still not feel like they overate. Having a dessertsonly menu at Brix, we always respect the ingredients, where we use cooking techniques to still provide the flavours without leaving you feeling extremely full. People just assume that when you eat desserts, it’s going to be heavy. But there are other ways of making desserts!

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or FranceAgrimer. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Your favorite utensil or kitchen equipment?

A spatula.

Your favourite fashion statement?

I love to wear dresses – they are so comfortable!

The first thing that you ate in your life that you remember?

Chocolate, dark chocolate to be precise.

HCNME WHO’S COOKING

Q&A WITH

NOBU DUBAI’S EXECUTIVE CHEF

What is your culinary philosophy?

Every Nobu around the world follows the same cooking philosophy - using the finest ingredients, preparing them simply, and cooking the dishes to perfection with incredible sauces.

The most important element is cooking with passion from the heart.

Describe your signature style.

I love cooking with seasonal produce, such as fish from Japan or Europe, and preparing them with great respect and simplicity to let you savour the flavours. As we describe it at Nobu, it's all about being straightforward.

What makes a great Japanese concept?

Everything is interconnected, starting with an impressive culinary and service team, and, of course, the use of Japanese products and the finest available ingredients. This approach allows you to enhance the products without hiding behind garnishes and sauces.

What are the signature must-tries at Nobu Dubai?

The renowned black cod miso, designed by Chef Nobu himself, is a must-try available at all Nobu locations worldwide. Additionally, our Sashimi dishes, yellowtail jalapeño, salmon new-style, white-fish miso, and the popular crispy shiitake salad are highly recommended. Don't forget about the Beef Tobanyaki and, for dessert, the cheesecake! Our menu features many signature dishes that have contributed to the global reputation of Chef Nobu and Nobu restaurants.

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CHEF DAMIEN DUVIAU, Executive Chef, Nobu Dubai

Q&A WITH NOBU DUBAI’S EXECUTIVE CHEF

What makes the newly located Nobu Dubai special?

First and foremost, we offer a fantastic restaurant with beautiful interiors, a great ambiance, and iconic views of all of Dubai. Located in the heart of Dubai on the Palm, the experience is truly magical at night.

The upstairs setting offers a distinct vibe and energy, along with a new bar style and exciting new dishes.

Where do you see the future of Japanese cuisine heading?

I believe Japanese cuisine will continue to grow in popularity, as it has the potential to become one of the most beloved cuisines in the world. Japanese cuisine has been a part of the global food evolution since its inception, maintaining consistent flavours and ingredients while captivating people with its simplicity. This simplicity is a key element of Nobu, as our dishes are both simple and healthy at the same time.

THE RENOWNED BLACK COD MISO, DESIGNED BY CHEF NOBU HIMSELF, IS A MUST-TRY AVAILABLE AT ALL NOBU LOCATIONS WORLDWIDE.

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HCNME TRAVEL & TOURISM

REDEFINING THE

PARADIGM How RAK Transcends from Family-Friendly Fun to Premium Lifestyle Living

BY TATIANA VELLER, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF STIRLING HOSPITALITY ADVISORS

H

istorically, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) has been the “backyard” retreat for Dubai residents, providing an affordable escape from the busy city life with allinclusive family-friendly packages. In the past two years, the picture of RAK’s future in hospitality has changed drastically; especially with the integrated resort and casino announced by Wynn in late 2022.

Today, upper-upscale and luxury resorts such as Movenpick Marjan Island and InterContinental Mina Al Arab have set up in Al Marjan Island.Both assets aremanaged by Stirling Hospitality Advisors’ advisory team; paving the way for the immense pipeline of premium lifestyle hotels in the northern emirate. So, the question today remains ’Is the public ready to see RAK

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as a completely new destination and pay for it?’ Let’s approach this in two parts separately – the influx of lifestyle hotels and the question of RAK as a premium destination.

First, what does the new fashionable “lifestyle” tag really mean? It’s quite simple. A lifestyle property is a branded hotel or a division of a hotel with the look, feel and atmosphere of a boutique hotel. The growing popularity of this type of positioning is directly explained by the shift of the target market to include new generations. Today, present and future hospitality projects target Millennials and Generation Z. Previous generations used to worry about a certain level of consistency, quality of product, and level of service that Millennials now consider the minimum acceptable baseline. This new generation of travellers are looking beyond that – the golden snitch is now a unique Instagrammable experience.

Successful boutique hotels with great online reviews have been the go-to experiences over the last two decades and, of course, all the international hotel operators want a piece of the proverbial piece - hence the popularity of the lifestyle hotel.

Now, in terms of RAK turning into a premium destination – that’s a whole different story. The emirate has slowly been transforming its image regionally and globally through simultaneous developments taking place. First and foremost, since the Wynn resort announcement, the entirety of Al Marjan Island land has sold out within 10 months of when the news broke, and the pipeline that has formed with the announced projects (most of them signed already) clearly speaks for itself.

Over 30 hotel projects in different stages of development with over 11, 000 keys are currently ongoing across

the emirate. These include large-scale hotel operators such as the Address, Anantara, Westin, Rotana, Mantis, Nobu, JW Marriott, Le Meridien and many more. At Stirling Hospitality Advisors, we’ve constantly been hosting interested developers from China, India, CIS countries, Europe and recently Canada and Australia, which only proves the increase in interest from foreign investors.

Yes, there is no question about it – RAK will and already is transforming into a destination with a very different image. In our opinion, the Emirate is large and diverse enough to host additional sub-markets within clusters that have already started to form. As discussed, Al Marjan Island, associated with the Wynn integrated resort will be a focus for luxury and lifestyle developments. Mina Al Arab, while modern, retains its appeal to families and caters to the local demand for stay-in resorts.

Further northeastern beachfront areas hold potential for integrated wellness, spa, and health resorts. These specialised offerings with longer average stays, justify the longer travel distances from Dubai, as guests are willing to journey for similar experiences. In our opinion, there is a clear market opportunity for both traditional spa and wellness resorts like Six Senses and COMO Shambhala. This also includes medical and integrated wellness resorts such as SHA, Clinique La Prairie, or Canyon Ranch.

Ras Al Khaimah's tourism sector is on a transformative trajectory, and we are proud to be witnessing the transformation unfold before our eyes. At the same time, we play a role in bringing developers from around the world and helping them set up in RAK, find the best possible concept and realise their vision.

food safety plans Efficient. Compliant. Streamlined

Leveraging today’s IoT technology and Emerson’s comprehensive end-to-end services, our customers can rely on us to help their food safety plans become more efficient, compliant and streamlined in order to help grow their business.

Transmitters make it easy and cost efficient to cover an area with Bluetooth Low Energy to internet connectivity to centralize management of temperature monitoring with a fraction of the effort required by alternative technologies.

HOTELNEWSME.COM | APRIL 2021

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