Mohamed Hawwam, GM of Sofitel Dubai Downtown, is a seasoned hospitality professional. Advocating human-first leadership and driven by a passion for integrity, excellence and sustainability, he emphasizes the role luxury hotels should play in promoting environmental sustainability.
What have been your major career milestones?
I have reached several key milestones in my hospitality career. Starting in the front office at a renowned international hotel chain, I rose through the ranks by virtue of my dedication and innovative approach. A significant accomplishment was being appointed hotel manager at a luxury hotel in Jeddah, where I successfully enhanced guest satisfaction and service excellence. Another pivotal moment was my role as the director of operations at Sofitel Dubai Downtown, where I implemented strategic initiatives and improved profitability during challenging times like the pandemic period. Now, as GM of Sofitel Dubai Downtown, I continue to strive for excellence and innovation in the hospitality industry, guided by Sofitel’s pillars of French zest, cultural values, heartfelt service and committment to luxury.
What is the latest trend you are eager to explore?
One of the latest trends I am eager to explore is the integration of personalization through digitalization. This allows us to create unique and memorable guest experiences. Additionally, sustainable tourism is gaining traction, with guests seeking meaningful experiences that positively impact the environment and local communities. Consequently, by incorporating eco-friendly practices and sustainable food sourcing into our offerings, especially in a city hotel, we can cater to this increasing demand. This will also position Sofitel Dubai Downtown as a leader in the evolving hospitality landscape.
Why is sustainability increasingly important in the hospitality industry?
Sustainability is crucial in the hospitality industry due to the significant environmental impact hotels can have. Through energy consumption, waste production and resource usage, hotels can affect the environment. Adopting sustainable practices not only helps protect the environment but also meets the growing expectations of eco-conscious travelers. At Sofitel Dubai Downtown, we are championing several sustainability initiatives. These include eradicating single-use plastics, implementing energy-efficient systems, and sourcing local and organic food products. Additionally, we have our in-house water bottling plant. By integrating these initiatives, we aim to minimize our ecological footprint. This provides a luxurious and responsible guest experience, in line with Accor’s commitment to creating a sustainable future.
What role do you believe luxury hotels should play in promoting environmental sustainability?
Luxury hotels have a unique responsibility to promote environmental sustainability by setting high standards. They demonstrate that eco-friendly practices can enhance the luxury experience. At Sofitel Dubai Downtown, we have seamlessly woven sustainability into our management approach. Our initiatives include using energy-efficient lighting and implementing comprehensive recycling and food waste programs. Additionally, we are committed to giving back to the community through various CSR initiatives. These include tree-planting activities and collaborations with local associations. These efforts have enabled us to hire people of determination, providing them with opportunities to learn our craft and become “heartists.” Our goal is to create an environmentally responsible hospitality model. This model not only delights our guests but also positively impacts the planet and the community.
Looking ahead, what are your goals for Sofitel Dubai Downtown?
My goals for Sofitel Dubai Downtown include enhancing our reputation as a leading luxury hotel. We aim to consistently exceed guest expectations and deliver exceptional service. Additionally, we aim to innovate by integrating cutting-edge technology. This will streamline operations and personalize guest experiences. Furthermore, we will continue to champion sustainability. We aim to achieve certifications and recognition for our eco-friendly initiatives. Another key goal is to foster a strong, motivated team. This will be done by providing ongoing training and development opportunities. Ultimately, we strive to position Sofitel Dubai Downtown as a benchmark for excellence in the hospitality industry in Dubai. Additionally, we will focus on the development of our outside catering services. This includes enhancing our F&B offerings and upgrading our product, as Sofitel Dubai Downtown celebrates its 10th anniversary.
