People – Hotel News ME https://www.hotelnewsme.com The professional perspective for the hospitality industry Mon, 28 Aug 2023 12:45:53 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3 https://www.hotelnewsme.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/cropped-hotal-32x32.png People – Hotel News ME https://www.hotelnewsme.com 32 32 JW MARRIOTT HOTEL RIYADH APPOINTS CHEF HAMZEH ABU ELFOUL AS NEW CULINARY DIRECTOR https://www.hotelnewsme.com/appointments/jw-marriott-hotel-riyadh-appoints-chef-hamzeh-abu-elfoul-as-new-culinary-director/ https://www.hotelnewsme.com/appointments/jw-marriott-hotel-riyadh-appoints-chef-hamzeh-abu-elfoul-as-new-culinary-director/#respond Mon, 28 Aug 2023 12:45:53 +0000 https://www.hotelnewsme.com/?p=53512 JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh is delighted to announce the appointment of Chef Hamzeh Abu Elfoul as its new Culinary Director. With a distinguished career spanning over 27 years, Chef Hamzeh brings a wealth of international culinary expertise and a remarkable portfolio of luxury hospitality brands to his role. Chef Hamzeh’s journey began in 1996 in […]

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JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh is delighted to announce the appointment of Chef Hamzeh Abu Elfoul as its new Culinary Director. With a distinguished career spanning over 27 years, Chef Hamzeh brings a wealth of international culinary expertise and a remarkable portfolio of luxury hospitality brands to his role.

Chef Hamzeh’s journey began in 1996 in his hometown of Amman, Jordan, where he kicked off at Sheraton & Hyatt Amman. Over the years, he worked across esteemed destinations including the UAE, Oman, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, and beyond. He joined renowned organizations such as Sheraton, Le Meridien, Hayat, Crown Plaza, Hilton, Conrad, Kempinski, Raffles, and Fairmont, leaving an permanent mark of excellence everywhere he worked.

In 2004, he set sail internationally as Sous Chef at Muscat Crown Plaza, followed by a similar role at Le Meridien Mina Seyahi in Dubai. By 2007, he had ascended to the prestigious position of Chef De Cuisine at Raffles Dubai, and he continued to enhance his reputation as Executive Chef at Six Senses Hotel in Ma’in, Jordan.

Chef Hamzeh returned to his roots at Sheraton Amman in 2010 as Executive Chef. He subsequently joined Hyatt Hotel in Taba-Egypt, Kempinski Aqaba Hotel-Jordan, and Hilton Mecca in 2015. His position at Hilton Mecca paved the way for another remarkable venture, the opening of Conrad Mecca, solidifying his status as a master of culinary innovation. His extensive experience in Saudi Arabia further bolsters his profound understanding of the region’s culinary landscape.

Chef Hamzeh Abu Elfoul will introduce captivating new menus for JW Glass Garden, JW Steakhouse, and Kitchen on 3. His keen understanding of local tastes and global flavours will shape each dish to perfection, catering to the discerning palates of both locals and esteemed guests.

Khaled Al Jamal, General Manager of JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh, commented on Chef Hamzeh’s appointment, stating, “I  n Chef Hamzeh, we have found a culinary professional whose global expertise is matched only by his unwavering passion for exquisite dining. His journey, spanning the finest establishments around the world, is a testament to his dedication to the art of cuisine. With Chef Hamzeh at the helm of our culinary team, we eagerly anticipate an era of unparalleled dining experiences, where innovation knows no bounds and every dish tells a story of perfection.”

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JUMEIRAH GROUP MAKES KEY APPOINTMENT FOR BRAND’S FIRST HOTEL IN SAUDI ARABIA https://www.hotelnewsme.com/appointments/jumeirah-group-makes-key-appointment-for-brands-first-hotel-in-saudi-arabia/ https://www.hotelnewsme.com/appointments/jumeirah-group-makes-key-appointment-for-brands-first-hotel-in-saudi-arabia/#respond Mon, 28 Aug 2023 05:45:32 +0000 https://www.hotelnewsme.com/?p=53498 Jumeirah Group, the luxury hospitality company and member of Dubai Holding, has named Rizwan Shaikh as General Manager of Jabal Omar Jumeirah in Makkah, its first hotel to open in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the Group continues on its path of sustainable growth. With over 20 years of luxury hospitality experience across India, […]

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Jumeirah Group, the luxury hospitality company and member of Dubai Holding, has named Rizwan Shaikh as General Manager of Jabal Omar Jumeirah in Makkah, its first hotel to open in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the Group continues on its path of sustainable growth.

With over 20 years of luxury hospitality experience across India, Singapore and Saudi Arabia, 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 for 2024.

Thomas B. Meier, Chief Operating Officer of Jumeirah Group, said: “We are delighted to welcome Rizwan to Jabal Omar Jumeirah. As we look to expand our presence in strategic locations across the globe, Saudi Arabia is a key market for our brand. We are confident that Rizwan’s impressive track record in delivering operational excellence, as well as his expertise in luxury hospitality in the Kingdom, will build on Jumeirah’s incredible success story and lead Jabal Omar Jumeirah to new levels of luxury and service for Saudi Arabia.”

Shaikh joined Jumeirah Group with a wealth of experience in luxury hospitality, including tenures at Taj Hotels, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts. His consistent delivery of outstanding profitability, development of new sales channels and loyalty programmes and operational innovation to enhance the guest experience and value proposition, saw him quickly progress from front office to management, becoming the youngest General Manager at Oberoi Hotels and Resorts. Recognised for his innovative solutions to drive revenue and increase Average Daily Rate (ADR), Shaikh also brings a wealth of experience in launching new luxury hotels, having overseen the launch of two in India and Saudi Arabia, with the latter gaining a five-star rating in the Forbes Travel Guide shortly after opening.

Commenting on his new role, Shaikh said: “I am delighted to lead the team at Jabal Omar Jumeirah and feel privileged to be part of such a significant new chapter for the Group as it enters the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Having spent a number of years in the Kingdom, I look forward to embarking on this exciting journey and welcoming our first guests to experience the exceptional Jumeirah guest experience in the coming months.”

Located at the sacred heart of the Muslim world, Jabal Omar Jumeirah, has been designed to create a serene, luxurious haven for guests as they experience a deeply significant life event. Spread across four towers and featuring several signature dining venues, the hotel will open as part of the second phase of the city’s flagship Jabal Omar project, designed by Fosters + Partners.

For more information about Jabal Omar Jumeirah, please visit jumeirah.com/makkah

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DOUBLETREE BY HILTON SHARJAH WATERFRONT HOTEL & RESIDENCES HOSTS SUCCESSFUL MEDICAL CAMP IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PRIME MEDICAL CENTER https://www.hotelnewsme.com/hotel-news-me/doubletree-by-hilton-sharjah-waterfront-hotel-residences-hosts-successful-medical-camp-in-partnership-with-prime-medical-center/ https://www.hotelnewsme.com/hotel-news-me/doubletree-by-hilton-sharjah-waterfront-hotel-residences-hosts-successful-medical-camp-in-partnership-with-prime-medical-center/#respond Fri, 25 Aug 2023 06:41:02 +0000 https://www.hotelnewsme.com/?p=53472 DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences is pleased to announce the successful execution of a health-focused initiative in collaboration with Prime Medical Centre. On the 23rd of August 2023, the hotel proudly conducted a comprehensive medical camp within its premises, aimed at promoting health and wellness for the team members.   The medical […]

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DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences is pleased to announce the successful execution of a health-focused initiative in collaboration with Prime Medical Centre. On the 23rd of August 2023, the hotel proudly conducted a comprehensive medical camp within its premises, aimed at promoting health and wellness for the team members.

 

The medical camp witnessed enthusiastic participation from a diverse range of team members who were all eager to take charge of their health. With a dedicated focus on providing holistic well-being, the event featured routine health screenings, including blood sugar level assessments, blood pressure measurements, and Body Mass Index (BMI) calculations and much more. The camp was designed to empower all the team members of the hotel with the valuable insights into their health status and encourage them to adopt healthier lifestyles.

 

Ligia Brasoveanu, General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “We are honoured to partner with Prime Medical Centre for this meaningful endeavour. At DoubleTree, we view our commitment to colleague’s well-being as an essential part of our hospitality philosophy. This medical camp aligns perfectly with our commitment to CARE, to Create A Rewarding Experience to our team members.”

 

The team members had the opportunity to address any concerns they had about their health and receive personalized advice from qualified medical experts. The partnership between DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences and Prime Medical Centre demonstrates the hotel’s strong commitment to promoting the health and wellness of each and every team member of the hotel.

 

This initiative underscores DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences’ proactive approach to responsible corporate citizenship. By prioritizing the health of the team members, the hotel continues to make positive contributions to the local community.

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DCT ABU DHABI’S TOURISM YOUTH SUMMER CAMP EMPOWERS THE FUTURE OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM https://www.hotelnewsme.com/news/dct-abu-dhabis-tourism-youth-summer-camp-empowers-the-future-of-hospitality-and-tourism/ https://www.hotelnewsme.com/news/dct-abu-dhabis-tourism-youth-summer-camp-empowers-the-future-of-hospitality-and-tourism/#respond Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:55:14 +0000 https://www.hotelnewsme.com/?p=53463 The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) today celebrated the graduation of 56 Emirati students from its 2023 Tourism Youth Summer Camp, a two-week introduction to Abu Dhabi’s tourism and hospitality industry where participants nurtured essential teamwork and leadership skills, gained hands-on experience and received insights from professionals within the […]

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The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) today celebrated the graduation of 56 Emirati students from its 2023 Tourism Youth Summer Camp, a two-week introduction to Abu Dhabi’s tourism and hospitality industry where participants nurtured essential teamwork and leadership skills, gained hands-on experience and received insights from professionals within the field.

The graduation ceremony, held at Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas was attended by the students and their parents, as well as key industry partners and government officials including H.E. Mouza Obaid Al Nasseri, Executive Director of Small & Medium Enterprises, Department Of Economic Development; Shaikha Al Nuwais, Vice President Owner Relationship Management at Rotana Groups; Hamad Mohammed Alsudain, Licensing & Regulatory Compliance Director at DCT Abu Dhabi; Mouza Theib Al Mansoori, Recruitment Department Manager at Human Resources Authority; and Najla Al Nahdi, Chief Human Resources Officer at Abu Dhabi National Hotels.

In line with the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, DCT Abu Dhabi’s annual Tourism Youth Summer Camp allows young UAE nationals interested in exploring a career in the emirate’s tourism and hospitality industries to learn about Abu Dhabi as a tourism and cultural destination. The programme includes a work placement at one of the emirate’s top hotels, where participants discover the different components of the tourism business and how they contribute to the growth and development of the emirate’s economy.

At the end of the programme, each student is equipped with knowledge and experience in various aspects of the tourism and culture sectors and an understanding of their important role in achieving Abu Dhabi’s strategic ambitions, having gained valuable professional skills and greater confidence to pursue a career in the industry.

Graduates from the 2023 camp were guided by seasoned mentors throughout the programme, gaining important industry insights and fostering valuable connections for their future careers. Their work placements provided them with first-hand experience in the diverse and multicultural tourism sector and introduced them to the wide range of job opportunities available in the field.

HE Saleh Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “I am immensely proud of the students who have dedicated themselves to learning the ins and outs of Abu Dhabi’s tourism industry and gaining important work and life experience through our Tourism Youth Summer Camp. This programme is a unique platform for launching young talent, ensuring a new generation of professionals are ready to take on the challenge of growing Abu Dhabi’s thriving tourism landscape. They are the promising future of the Emirati workforce, and we are confident that the knowledge and experience they have gained over these two weeks will be invaluable as they pursue their careers and share Abu Dhabi with the world.”

This year’s programme featured an array of activities designed to foster teamwork and develop participants’ professional skills. Workshops focusing on topics such as customer support provided students with valuable insights into delivering exceptional service. To deepen their understanding of the industry, educational field trips to renowned attractions Louvre Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and Qasr Al Hosn were organised, offering hands-on learning experiences.

During the students’ five-day placements at 24 prestigious Abu Dhabi hotels (4-to-5-star hotels), they were rotated through various departments including front desk, food and beverage service, kitchen, recreation, and events, gaining a thorough understanding of the different components of the hospitality industry.

Participants also completed a group project that required them to look into real case studies related to tourism industry challenges and gaps that are aligned with Abu Dhabi Vision 2030.  The projects were evaluated for innovation and creativity, use of technology, communication skills, and ease of implementation. The winning team, comprising 11 participants, presented a case study related to sector Emiratisation and its importance, and were awarded a cash prize at the graduation ceremony by Hamad Mohammed Alsudain, Licensing & Regulatory Compliance Director at DCT Abu Dhabi and Layla Radhwan Al Ali, Section Head of Sector Emiratisation & Capability Development at DCT Abu Dhabi.

For more information about DCT Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Youth Summer Camp, please visit https://dct.gov.ae/en/what.we.do/tourism/industry.initiatives.emiratisation/tourism.youth.program.aspx

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EACH BRAND HAS A STORY. EACH STORY HAS A GUIDE. https://www.hotelnewsme.com/interviews-features/each-brand-has-a-story-each-story-has-a-guide/ https://www.hotelnewsme.com/interviews-features/each-brand-has-a-story-each-story-has-a-guide/#respond Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:46:18 +0000 https://www.hotelnewsme.com/?p=53459 Sarah Trad Co-owner, Closed Captions Communications walks us through why a brand story is as important as its name and logo, and what to focus on while writing yours. It’s poetic to talk about souls and discovering your brand’s exquisite essence before revealing it to the world. But what is a “soul,” and why does […]

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Sarah Trad Co-owner, Closed Captions Communications walks us through why a brand story is as important as its name and logo, and what to focus on while writing yours.

It’s poetic to talk about souls and discovering your brand’s exquisite essence before revealing it to the world. But what is a “soul,” and why does it matter so much?

As a journalist by training and practice, I have a lot of questions. When I started dabbling with creative writing for restaurants, it was mainly to uplift their menus or their company’s corporate decks. Until one day, when I found myself facing the most challenging yet prosperous project: creating the personality and tone of voice, along with writing the brand story, mission statement, and values, for a brand new Mediterranean restaurant to be opened in The Palm, Jumeirah.

That day, and for a month after, questions poured on me like the green code lines from the Matrix. I went on an educational journey focused on branding, creative narrative for companies, the F&B sector in the MENA, and the simplest quest that combines them all, how to bring out the best of a company through genuine words.

As someone who months later chose to courage through impostor syndrome and into the “business owner” world with my older brother, by launching our own branding narrative studio, I’ll lay out what a brand story is as simply as I can.

  1. It answers questions. The who, what, where, when, and most importantly why, should all be answered within a brand story. Merge your company’s core values as well, even if not explicitly.
  2. It reads well. A story audacious enough to request people’s attention better be a good, well-written one.
  3. It shows a human face. Companies are entities; a space with employees who work to produce a service/product. Brands are ideologies; a realm where supporters meet on common ground and indirectly help the brand grow bigger and better.
  4. It focuses on customers. A company is built to either serve the ego of its owner or the needs of people. Choosing the latter is wiser.
  5. It entices a switch. Not only will your company offer similar services/products to your competitors, but it will also share the same customer base. You want them to switch? You gotta show them your unique selling propositions (USPs).

Some out-of-touch companies put the “why” aside while, in fact, it’s the most genuine answer to that question that attracts people. Why are you in this business? Why should I care about yet another restaurant by the sea? Why should I become your customer? The switch from brand to brand is not easy, and most probably your company did not invent or discover the wheel, which means you’ll be jumping into already populated waters in almost all fields. The least you could do is be genuine with your intentions and purpose.

How about how to write a story for a brand? I’ll use the restaurant as an example:

  1. Knead in the brand’s personality and tone of voice. Anything and anyone without a personality is too bland to demand attention, let alone loyalty. When I was working on that first project, the restaurant that had me discover the depth of branding and its amazing impact, I had to detail out who she is, what her personality is like, and how she communicates with people. (Yes, “she” because she’s a person who’s inviting you to her fresh banquet by the sea.) Within the personality exercise, I graded from 1 to 10 the following character traits: Excitement, Ruggedness, Sincerity, Competence, and Sophistication. Then, I filled them out with more details based on how I see her. For her ruggedness score, she nailed a 3/10 because even though one can swim and enjoy the sand while eating, the place remains upscale and neat, with certain high standards. As for the tone of voice exercise, I delegated adjectives to each of the following: Character, Tone, Language, and Purpose. Her tone is straightforward, fun, and inviting, while the language she uses is clear, persistent, and occasionally witty. These will help later on with social media and marketing campaigns and will set out the tone to be used throughout all communications.
  2. Have your target audience in mind. When writing, the community you’re aiming to build should stay in mind. She welcomes everyone, from couples and big groups to children and pets. Instead of listing them one by one to prove to readers that the restaurant is inclusive, I merged them into the story along with what cuisine is being offered and within what atmosphere. The glue to it all would be making the reader feel the vibes they will dine in, imagine the scenery that’ll surround them, and decide for themselves what values they’ll be gaining by choosing this specific restaurant.
  3. Use complex descriptions through simple language. Adding colour to a story makes all the difference. It’s been scientifically proven that engaging stories affect the mind in ways that make the person friendlier, more generous, and receptive to information. Still, simplicity is highly reliable when talking to an ocean of diverse people, so shelve the literary complex terms and analogies.
  4. Explain the problem and the solution. In every story, there’s a protagonist facing an issue and venturing into solving it. With this restaurant, the conflict is finding an upscale space that can accept kids, pets, and people in informal/beach wear (though this is not explicitly mentioned); the climax is the birth of the place with its all-welcoming vibes; the resolution is a spacious restaurant with indoor and outdoor areas, a beach lounge, and a smoothie bar to fit everyone’s taste.

People don’t want to be told who you are or what they should think of you. When you meet someone for the first time, their impression on you is based on your own preferences, not theirs. With how advanced and analytical we’ve become, it’s slightly harder to fall for lies or inflated truths. Marty Neumeier, a branding genius whose many talents and insights propelled Silicon Valley companies into branding competition back in the 80s, has summed up the company-customer relationship in two sentences: “Your brand isn’t what you say it is. It’s what they say it is.” Focus on the reason why you exist (customers’ needs) and why you’ll be making money and helping your employees learn (customers’ money and feedback), and you should be good no matter how small or big your company gets.

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RADISSON HOTEL RIYADH AIRPORT ADVANCES SAUDI VISION 30 WITH LINE-UP OF WELLBEING INITIATIVES https://www.hotelnewsme.com/hotel-news-me/radisson-hotel-riyadh-airport-advances-saudi-vision-30-with-line-up-of-wellbeing-initiatives/ https://www.hotelnewsme.com/hotel-news-me/radisson-hotel-riyadh-airport-advances-saudi-vision-30-with-line-up-of-wellbeing-initiatives/#respond Wed, 23 Aug 2023 09:23:55 +0000 https://www.hotelnewsme.com/?p=53426 Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport has revealed a series of CSR initiatives undertaken by the the hotel to support health-related campaign efforts in the local community. The property collaborated with Daam Broker Insurance, a specialised insurance organisation, and Ali Bin Ali Hospital, a leading medical facility in Riyadh, to provide a line-up of complimentary services to […]

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Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport has revealed a series of CSR initiatives undertaken by the the hotel to support health-related campaign efforts in the local community.

The property collaborated with Daam Broker Insurance, a specialised insurance organisation, and Ali Bin Ali Hospital, a leading medical facility in Riyadh, to provide a line-up of complimentary services to over 100 guests and staff in the hotel lobby. These included free medical check-ups and consultancies, free dental check-ups and consultancies, and free vital sign checks.

In line with its ongoing commitment to support the health and wellbeing of its patrons, Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport also partnered with the Kingdom’s Ministry of Health to host an on-site Blood Donation event for staff and guests to partake in. Donations made over the course of the blood drive will provide much-needed support to the local medical community and its patients.

Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport also demonstrated its dedication to advancing scientific research and development through the recent signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Imam Mohammed Ibn Saud University. The MoU establishes and outlines several strategic goals for both entities that will see scientific research, training, consulting, quality assurance, and experiential learning brought to the forefront of education and business operations with the aim of promoting Saudi Vision 30.

Commenting on the partnership, Amir Ataya, General Manager of Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport, said: “The Charity Committee for Orphans’ Care (INSAN) was Radisson Hotel Riyadh Airport’s first partner in 2022. Since that time, we have remained committed to championing services that help and strengthen our local community, seeking to promote research efforts around childhood-related illnesses and support the families of children battling disabilities in our communities.

“The hotel’s recent CSR initiatives and strategic partnerships underscore our prioritisation of health and wellbeing and are a testament to the responsibility and influence we have within the Kingdom’s capital. We remain a key supporter of Saudi Vision 30 and hope to continue driving impact throughout our local communities, and beyond.”

To learn more or book a stay at Radisson Riyadh Hotel Airport, visit www.radissonhotels.com.

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FAIRMONT RIYADH APPOINTS SELMA KURNAZ KAŞDAN AS THE DIRECTOR OF REVENUE STRATEGY AND ROYAL SERVICE https://www.hotelnewsme.com/appointments/fairmont-riyadh-appoints-selma-kurnaz-kasdan-as-the-director-of-revenue-strategy-and-royal-service/ https://www.hotelnewsme.com/appointments/fairmont-riyadh-appoints-selma-kurnaz-kasdan-as-the-director-of-revenue-strategy-and-royal-service/#respond Wed, 23 Aug 2023 06:53:56 +0000 https://www.hotelnewsme.com/?p=53411 Fairmont Riyadh is pleased to announce the appointment of Selma Kurnaz Kaşdan as the Director of Revenue Strategy and Royal Service. Selma brings with her a wealth of experience and expertise, as well as a forward-thinking approach and strategic business acumen.  Selma’s journey in the hospitality industry has been marked by an unwavering dedication to […]

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Fairmont Riyadh is pleased to announce the appointment of Selma Kurnaz Kaşdan as the Director of Revenue Strategy and Royal Service. Selma brings with her a wealth of experience and expertise, as well as a forward-thinking approach and strategic business acumen. 

Selma’s journey in the hospitality industry has been marked by an unwavering dedication to success and innovation, including her previous role as Director of Revenue and Reservation and Royal Service at Fairmont Quasar Istanbul Hotel. Furthermore, Selma has a proven track record in leadership and revenue management, having successfully led four Marriott properties as Cluster Director of Revenue in Doha before she moved to Riyadh. Her leadership in Royal Service, where she managed all departmental aspects and ensured high guest satisfaction, further underscores her multifaceted capabilities. With a strong grounding in revenue management, she has consistently demonstrated her ability to enhance guest experiences by driving incremental revenue and profit through disciplined and strategic decision-making. 

Selma’s educational foundation at Marmara University in Turkey, where she studied Tourism and Hotel Management, laid the groundwork for her impressive career. Fluent in both English and Turkish and proficient in various hotel management systems, Selma’s qualifications align seamlessly with the hotel’s commitment to excellence.

In her new role, Selma’s responsibilities will encompass supervising pricing and distribution strategies to enhance overall financial performance, as well as optimizing revenue across various channels.

“We are thrilled to welcome Selma to our Fairmont Riyadh family,” said Rolf Lippuner, General Manager for Fairmont Riyadh. “Selma’s presence underscores the significance of promoting gender diversity and women empowerment in Saudi Arabia. Her proven track record and exceptional skills make her the ideal candidate to lead our Revenue Strategy and Royal Service departments, providing exceptional guest experiences and driving revenue growth.”

Fairmont Riyadh, stands as a beacon of luxury located between the airport and the city centre, blending elegance and modern comfort. The striking domed façade, subtly chic yet gilded interiors and Fairmont Gold, the hotel-within-a-hotel experience, sets new industry standards, ensuring an unparalleled experience for both business and luxury leisure travellers.

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ONE MICHELIN-STARRED MOONRISE UNVEILS HIGHLY ANTICIPATED NEW MENU UPDATE FROM CHEF SOLEMANN HADDAD https://www.hotelnewsme.com/restaurant-news/one-michelin-starred-moonrise-unveils-highly-anticipated-new-menu-update-from-chef-solemann-haddad/ https://www.hotelnewsme.com/restaurant-news/one-michelin-starred-moonrise-unveils-highly-anticipated-new-menu-update-from-chef-solemann-haddad/#respond Tue, 22 Aug 2023 12:56:45 +0000 https://www.hotelnewsme.com/?p=53393 Moonrise, the prestigious 12-seater restaurant led by the renowned Michelin Guide award-winning Chef Solemann Haddad, is thrilled to unveil the latest edition of its culinary journey. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of culture clashes that he experienced growing up in the Dubai of the 90’s, Chef Solemann Haddad has crafted a unique 11-course menu […]

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Moonrise, the prestigious 12-seater restaurant led by the renowned Michelin Guide award-winning Chef Solemann Haddad, is thrilled to unveil the latest edition of its culinary journey. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of culture clashes that he experienced growing up in the Dubai of the 90’s, Chef Solemann Haddad has crafted a unique 11-course menu showcasing what he has branded ‘Dubai Cuisine’; where childhood memories come alive with his signature explosive flavours.

Moonrise’s culinary team has spared no expense in sourcing the most luxurious and exclusive ingredients from around the world including Japanese hamachi, Hokkaido scallops, the finest lobster, Wagyu and opulent amounts of caviar. Chef Solemann has hand selected an organic, small-batch naturally fermented butter from a small farm in the west of France, adding a unique richness throughout the menu. As always, they also champion the very best Middle Eastern produce; labnah from Syria, organic local Sidr honey, Palestinian olive oil and flavourful tomatoes grown in soil by local farms.

Chef Solemann Haddad’s passion for nostalgia is evident in the new additions to the menu, which take guests on a journey back to his childhood favourites. ’90’s Alfredo’ (jalapeno and lobster claw ravioli with aged Parmigiano-Reggiano alfredo sauce) captures the essence of a childhood comfort food, while ‘Abood Juice Cheesecake’ (White Chocolate Cheesecake, Alphonso Mango, Brown Butter, Local Honey Gel) evokes a trip down memory lane to the cafeteria culture of old Dubai.

Moonrise’s famous signature dishes, ‘Explosion’ (pani puri with foie gras, date syrup, saffron, and pineapple chutney) and the infamous ‘Grilled Cheese’ (36-month-aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, black pepper emulsion on Hokkaido milk bread with black garlic and truffle) remain on the menu by popular demand, while Moonrise’s legendary Sarookh sauce is back, elevating a Hokkaido scallop and Kaluga caviar dish to mouth-watering heights.

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As the culinary journey reaches its conclusion, guests are invited to savour the “Starry Night” experience, where dimmed lights and smoking wood evokes the chilled-out vibe of evenings by the fire in the desert, leaving diners feeling as if they’re sitting by a campfire under a magnificent night sky.

Accompanying the latest culinary journey is a carefully curated wine list that shines a spotlight on Middle Eastern wines, while the new wine pairing expertly enhances the flavours of each course. For non-alcoholic options, Moonrise offers a sophisticated 0% ABV cocktail pairing, including a range of premium HAIYATEA blends, that perfectly complements the dishes.

With their signature fusion of Middle Eastern flavours and Japanese precision, Moonrise’s latest menu offers guests a one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience that celebrates Dubai’s multicultural influences and a cherished childhood in harmonious unity.

Reserve Your Seat at Moonrise

Diners can make reservations now at Moon-rise.xyz to experience the new menu for 850dhs per person (food only) with wine pairing, non-alcoholic cocktails and tea pairings from local tea partner, Haiyatea, available. Moonrise offers two seatings nightly for twelve diners per seating, at 6:30 PM and 9:30 PM, Mon-Sat.

Full Menu can be found here.

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CELEBRATE ONAM AT THE CROSSING WITH A SPECIALLY CURATED 25-DISH MENU https://www.hotelnewsme.com/restaurant-news/celebrate-onam-at-the-crossing-with-a-specially-curated-25-dish-menu/ https://www.hotelnewsme.com/restaurant-news/celebrate-onam-at-the-crossing-with-a-specially-curated-25-dish-menu/#respond Tue, 22 Aug 2023 09:48:00 +0000 https://www.hotelnewsme.com/?p=53383 This August, celebrate the spirit of Onam with Chef Jitin Joshi and Chef Simy Mathew’s specially curated limited-time Onam Sadhya set menu at The Crossing in Dubai. Immerse yourself in Kerala’s culinary heritage with a menu that boasts a unique blend of authenticity and innovation showcased through a 25-dish journey served traditionally atop banana leaves. […]

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This August, celebrate the spirit of Onam with Chef Jitin Joshi and Chef Simy Mathew’s specially curated limited-time Onam Sadhya set menu at The Crossing in Dubai. Immerse yourself in Kerala’s culinary heritage with a menu that boasts a unique blend of authenticity and innovation showcased through a 25-dish journey served traditionally atop banana leaves.

Guest Chef Simy was born in Kerala, raised in Dubai, and is a citizen of New Zealand. She currently spends her time between Belgrade and Dubai and thinks of herself as a ‘citizen of the world’. She has lit up television screens around the globe with her appearances on competition and reality cooking shows in India and Dubai since 2014, sharing her self-taught culinary style and infectious passion for food with a wide audience of keen foodies.

From 21st to 29th August, guests have the opportunity to book a table for either the Vegetarian or Vegan Sadhya at AED 175 per person, while the Non-vegetarian Sadhya is available for AED 195 per person.

Reserve your table and let Chef Jitin and Chef Simy guide you on a gastronomic journey through Kerala’s finest dishes during this beautiful harvest celebration.

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MILLENNIUM HOTELS AND RESORTS MEA SIGNS MOU WITH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID ESTABLISHMENT FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES DEVELOPMENT https://www.hotelnewsme.com/news/millennium-hotels-and-resorts-mea-signs-mou-with-mohammed-bin-rashid-establishment-for-small-and-medium-enterprises-development/ https://www.hotelnewsme.com/news/millennium-hotels-and-resorts-mea-signs-mou-with-mohammed-bin-rashid-establishment-for-small-and-medium-enterprises-development/#respond Tue, 22 Aug 2023 09:04:19 +0000 https://www.hotelnewsme.com/?p=53184 Millennium Hotels and Resorts, MEA is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Dubai’s esteemed entity, Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME). The MOU, signed by Mr Abdul Baset Al Janahi, CEO of Dubai SME, and Mr Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim, CEO of Millennium Hotels […]

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Millennium Hotels and Resorts, MEA is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Dubai’s esteemed entity, Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME).

The MOU, signed by Mr Abdul Baset Al Janahi, CEO of Dubai SME, and Mr Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim, CEO of Millennium Hotels and Resorts, MEA, will mark a significant milestone in their joint commitment to fostering economic growth, enhancing competition, and strengthening the local SME ecosystem.

The partnership aligns with Millennium Hotels and Resorts MEA’s core brand pillars, highlighting the importance of community engagement. Recognising the crucial role of SMEs in driving economic development, Millennium Hotels and Resorts, MEA is deeply committed to supporting local businesses in all its operational locations and aims to establish sustainable partnerships and collaborations that fuel innovation and mutual growth for their enterprises, providing equal opportunity.

Under the MOU agreement, Dubai SMEs will provide Millennium Hotels and Resorts, MEA, with comprehensive information on registered SMEs across various categories allowing the hotel brand to extend multiple opportunities for these SMEs to participate. Each entity will become part of the hotel’s procurement process, enabling them to expand their market reach and diversify their buyer base. The collaboration aims to enhance competition, streamline the tendering process and foster seamless engagement between members and private sector buyers.

In addition to supporting local SMEs, Millennium Hotels and Resorts strongly emphasises sustainability and environmental responsibility. By engaging with SMEs and integrating their expertise into its operations, the hotel chain aims to enhance its sustainable practices further and contribute positively to the local community.

Mr Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim, CEO of Millennium Hotels and Resorts, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are delighted to join hands with Dubai SME and strengthen our support for small and medium-sized enterprises. This MOU underscores our dedication to fostering economic growth, promoting healthy competition, and driving collaboration within the local business community. We firmly believe that by providing opportunities for SMEs, we can collectively contribute to sustainable development and develop an inclusive business environment.”

For further information, visit www.millenniumhotels.com

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