Honoring the high-flyers
Eleven trailblazing entrepreneurs were selected as finalists at the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Startup Den 2023 recently, after edging the competition and impressing an esteemed judging panel with their forward-thinking, innovative business concepts. In a series of exclusive interviews compiled by HN and conducted by FHS, each finalist takes us on their start-up journey, from idea to implementation, and hurdles to highpoints.
5 nightlife influencers on achieving after-dark success
Staying ahead in a fiercely competitive, ever-changing environment and retaining customer loyalty are just some of the hurdles that operators in the nightlife segment face. HN caught up with some of the region’s leading industry influencers to discover more about how they navigate the notoriously challenging nightlife nightlife scene.
Six Senses AlUla KSA set to open in 2027
Six Senses signed a hotel management agreement with AUla Development Company to open Six Senses AlUla in KSA in 2027.
A voyage to Planet Terra with chef Rusvel Trujillo
Hailing from Chiapas in Mexico, chef Rusvel Trujillo brings over 17 years of F&B experience to Planet Terra’s culinary team. Here, the dynamic chef describes his journey from Mexico to Dubai.
Eye on Dubai’s hospitality scene with Mohammed Iqbal
With over 25 years of experience in hospitality, Mohammed Iqbal understands the industry inside out. As GM of Khalidia Palace Hotel Dubai, we hear what he has to say about luxury hotel market and why Dubai remains such an attractive destination.
ENVI Lodges set to open ENVI Al Jabel Al Akhdar Oman
ENVI Lodges has partnered with Oman’s Ministry of Defense Pension Fund to create the first-of-its-kind ecolodge in Oman. Situated in the heart of Al Jabel Al Akhdar, this sustainable mountain lodge aligns with Oman’s National Tourism Strategy 2040.
Talaya and Le Pré’s merger forges a powerful partnership
Talaya and Le Pré have announced their merger. Thus, the strategic move will combine their strengths, expertise and resources to create a powerful partnership. Driven by a shared vision, they are committed to delivering exceptional value and unmatched customer experiences.
Talking about Saudi Arabia with Aldert van Zyl, GM of Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh
Aldert van Zyl has over 20 years’ experience in hospitality across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He believes that consistency is the key to success and does not shy away from risks, especially in his role as GM of the Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention and Exhibition Center. Here, he tells us about his journey to the top, his plans for the hotel and how KSA’s hospitality scene is evolving.
Spotlight on Coral Beach Beirut with new GM Georges Chakra
Georges Chakra, general manager of Coral Beach Beirut, has a proven track record in the hospitality industry. With extensive experience in overseeing all aspects of the hotel, he shares his vision for establishing and cultivating a customer-centric service culture, as well as ensuring the smooth day-to-day operations that consistently surpass guest expectations.
Future-proofing the food industry
Tatiana Antonelli Abella, founder and managing director of Goumbook, explains how the region’s hospitality sector can spearhead efforts to create a more responsible and sustainable food ecosystem.