25. Sandeep Walia

COO Middle East

Company: Marriott International

Country: U.A.E. Nationality: Indian

Sector: Hotels & Hospitality

Walia heads the operations of 190 functional properties. In 2021, Marriott International added 20 new properties to the region’s portfolio and is expected to open around 25 new properties in 2022. Marriott International announced more than 20 new deals in the Middle East in 2021, including one with the Red Sea Development Company to bring the St. Regis and EDITION brands to Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Project. Walia joined the company in 2005 as area vice president for the U.A.E. before taking his current role in July 2021. He is also a member of the Young Presidents Organization.