A passionate hotelier, Mehmet Tunç Müstecaplıoğlu, area general manager of Orascom Hotels Management – Oman Hotels, strives to train managers and colleagues to take the next step and grow prosperously in their careers. In this exclusive interview, he shares his hospitality experiences in Oman.
How did your career begin?
My journey began in the travel industry working with agencies, where I handled tour operator and ground-handling operations. Later, I transitioned into managing international chain properties spanning both Turkey and Egypt. Our hospitality portfolio also included hotels in Morocco and Greece. In 2015, I moved to Oman and joined Orascom Hotels Management, where I have been ever since.
What challenges are you facing in the industry?
Salalah is our primary market, and it continues to experience steady growth in terms of visitor numbers each year. We are actively seeking more support from airlines to increase their daily flights and overall connectivity to Salalah. As we witness an annual increase in flight options to Salalah, we anticipate continued substantial growth in this destination.
What sets your property apart from the competition?
In Salalah, we offer a fully integrated tourist destination, featuring three resorts with a room inventory exceeding 1,000 rooms, suites and apartments. Additionally, the destination boasts over 25 dining outlets, each offering a culinary experience from various corners. Furthermore, we provide extensive recreation facilities, including tennis and padel courts, volleyball, water sports activities, a spa, health centers and the Hawana Aqua Park.
Our property in Jebel Sifah, the Sifawy Boutique Hotel, caters to staycationers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. With four signature restaurants, a beautiful private beach and a property overlooking the picturesque marina, our guests can create lasting memories with their families and friends.
As the newly appointed area general manager at Orascom Hotels & Development (Oman), what are your plans for the property?
I have been part of Orascom Hotels Management since 2015, and during my tenure, we have undertaken significant initiatives, from expanding our room inventory to opening new F&B outlets. Our most prominent upcoming project involves completing the construction of an extension to our existing property, Fanar Hotel & Residences, adding 123 rooms to the current 577 rooms. This expansion will bring the total to 700 keys, the largest room inventory within Orascom. We are planning an official opening by the end of this year.