FIVE MINUTES WITH AVLOK SINGH, GM AND COMMERCIAL HEAD AT INTERCITYHOTEL JADDAF WATERFRONT

With over 15 years of experience in hospitality, Avlok Singh, GM and commercial head at Intercityhotel Jaddaf Waterfront, is known for driving brand growth. In this candid interview, he shares industry insights and his plans for Intercityhotel Dubai Jaddaf Waterfront.

What are the challenges you face as GM and commercial head?

The biggest challenge, and thrill, for me is to launch commercial initiatives and focus on guest-centric activations and technology-driven investments to increase profit. My second most important managerial skill is time management, which I believe is an ongoing learning process. My priority is to create cohesive teams that translate my vision and follow my roadmap, empowering them to take the initiative by providing the necessary tools and offering support throughout the process.

What are the main barriers to growth in the MENA region for mid- and upper-midscale hotels?

The promising growth curve across the region has shown that customers are becoming more accepting of this segment. Currently, the biggest barrier is educating guests and potential partners. Our responsibility as brand representatives is to communicate the hotel’s brand story and concept in the most engaging and informative ways possible by training staff to be storytellers and genuine hosts at check-in and check-out, relaying the brand’s philosophy and identity during day-to-day activities. I also believe that teams at mid and upper-midscale properties tend to resist change due to familiarity, and a traditional outlook when it comes to hotel management is another obstacle. As a franchised hotel, we must adapt to changes in our industry, whether in technology or service. Implementing a proactive strategy is key.

What are your plans for Intercityhotel Dubai Jaddaf Waterfront?

Intercityhotel Dubai Jaddaf Waterfront has a very young, homely and contemporary atmosphere. The property is blessed with an outstanding location, and I take pride in calling it “A Hidden Oasis” in the bustling city, a place for guests to experience calm canal-front views from the rooftop, as well as an array of dining terraces. hrewards.com/en/intercityhotel-dubaijaddaf-waterfront