Ishraq Hospitality has appointed Richard Haddad as its new chief executive officer, with a focus on driving growth for its vast hotel portfolio and regional expansion.
Prior to Ishraq Hospitality, Haddad was the CEO of Jannah Hotels and Resorts, where he achieved major milestones, including double-digit profit growth within his first year, opening a new branded hotel and finalizing the acquisition of new properties.
Over the course of his career in the Middle East, Haddad has held managerial positions across renowned hotel groups, including director of product development at Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority.
As CEO, Haddad will be responsible for driving the successful and profitable results of Ishraq Hospitality, overseeing daily operations for the eight-owned properties under IHG, including Holiday Inn Express (HIEX) hotels and Staybridge Suites as well as Crowne Plaza Deira and Crowne Plaza Dubai Jumeirah, with an exciting line-up of new hotel openings in the pipeline.
Sherif Beshara, group CEO at Mohamed and Obaid AlMulla Group, said “Richard is a highly respected and experienced CEO who will guide Ishraq Hospitality and its distinguished hotel portfolio through the next phase of its evolution as operators of some of the most prestigious international hotel franchises. Throughout his career, Richard has led his teams to embrace new strategies and develop top financial performance and value, and I look forward to seeing him succeed with vigor in his new role.”
Haddad commented: “It is an honor to join Ishraq Hospitality, a company I have long admired. I look forward to working with the board, executive leadership team, IHG as stakeholders and the thousands of employees citywide to continue driving our success now and in the future. There are numerous strategic opportunities, and we are well positioned to steer powerfully and confidently ahead.”
