GULF HOTELS GROUP
Experience
I have been privileged to work in several different countries, including Spain, Canada, the UK, Lebanon, KSA and Bahrain at a number of chains, such as Melia, IHG, Habtoor Hospitality, Accor and Gulf Hotels Group.
For the past 15 years, Bahrain has been my home, and it is here that I first joined the Gulf Hotel Bahrain, before moving for the opening of Sofitel Bahrain. I further pursued my career with Accor, moving to Sofitel Al Khobar before returning to Gulf Hotels Group in 2018. I have learned a great deal over the years, spending time in different countries among a variety of communities and cultures. However, the experience I have gained with the Gulf Hotels Group has been unparalleled. As an owner-operator, the group’s work is extensive, and I have personally been involved in a number of projects, from acquisition to rebranding, management contracts, renovation, concept creation and concept designs. It’s been an incredible journey.
Hard work pays off
There is no secret to success; it is the result of hard work and looking for opportunity in any difficulty you face.
Differentiation
We present ourselves as a local Bahraini hotel group with multinational standards.
Our focus is our team — our most important asset — and of course we capitalize on our legacy, being the first five-star property in Bahrain. Our genuine Bahraini hospitality, complemented by quality products and dedicated service, has helped to elevate our reputation over the last 53 years while maintaining our position in the market despite multinational brands entering Bahrain’s hospitality space.
Plans in Saudi Arabia
IHG is working with the Ministry of Human Capital development to develop the hospitality talent pool in the kingdom and ensure they have the right talent to cater to the expected future demand. IHG has a long-standing history of operating in Saudi Arabia, and we have been a firm partner and contributor to Saudi ambitions in tourism and hospitality.
The company is complementing its KSA plans with a strong talent agenda, with a keen eye on hiring and developing Saudi talent to ensure that the company delivers authentic Saudi guest experiences and upskills the communities it operates in, especially in secondary and tertiary cities.
Our growth over the last year is a testament to our commitment to investing in the hospitality sector and developing local talent to showcase true Saudi hospitality to guests from around the world. In line with the Tourism Development Strategy, we will continue to bring our brands to various locations within the country, as we commit to introducing new hospitality experiences and further cementing our role as a member of the Saudi community. With Saudi Arabia moving at a fast pace to achieve its Vision 2030 goals, developing its much-anticipated giga and megaprojects, we are working to roll out our full portfolio in destinations ranging from global metropolitan hubs, such as Riyadh, Jeddah and Makkah, to emerging destinations, such as Al Khobar, Abha and Dammam.