Rising to the challenge with Bassam Zakaria of Dusit International
An award-winning hospitality professional with over two decades of experience at prestigious hotels across Europe and the Middle East, Bassam Zakaria is passionate about fostering teamwork, particularly in his current role as area general manager of Dusit International. We caught up with him to learn more about his responsibilities, how he handles challenges and the trends shaping decision making at Dusit.
Outdoor retreats: enchanting harmonious havens
When thoughtfully designed, an outdoor space undoubtedly elevates the guest experience, offering visitors a welcome sanctuary and opportunity to connect with their surroundings on a deep level. Alessio Constantino, head of architecture at Bluehaus, shares his thoughts on how to successfully transform an outside space into a relaxing, restorative oasis, while tapping into the region’s natural beauty.
Surge in Makkah’s licensed hospitality facilities hits 80 percent
Saudi Arabia experienced a significant rise in the number of licensed hospitality facilities in Makkah, reaching 1,030 by the end of 2024. This marked an impressive 80 percent increase compared to the previous year, according to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism. Consequently, Makkah now leads the kingdom in the number of licensed facilities and rooms.