About Selim El Zyr

Prior to co-founding Rotana, Selim El Zyr forged his path in hospitality, acquiring international exposure with global brands. He graduated from Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne in 1970 and, after completing his postgraduate studies at Cornell and Columbia Universities, he gained his first job as chief steward in the Waldorf in New York. He then spent 12 years with Hilton International in Germany, Spain, Egypt, Canada and the UAE, before reaching the position of regional director. El Zyr then decided to move into industrial catering, establishing a leading Lebanese fast-food chain in 1982. He then moved to the UAE as vice president for Abu Dhabi National Hotels, overseeing their operations in the emirates, as well as overseas.