Dana Tabbara, founder and CEO of InQuest Coaching, emphasizes that multicultural teams are essential for Middle Eastern hospitality operations to thrive effectively. Indeed, dozens of nationalities often share the same workspace under pressure. Together, they are always expected to deliver service consistently and seamlessly across operations.

Inclusivity is not an abstract idea; instead, it manifests through communication, leadership practices and the emotional experiences of hotel and restaurant guests. When employees feel respected and understood, they collaborate more efficiently, and moreover, the resulting positive effects extend far beyond the immediate workplace.

Teams thrive on connectivity

Across the Middle East, hospitality and F&B teams routinely unite diverse nationalities, each bringing unique cultural norms, communication methods and problem-solving approaches. Therefore, cultural connectivity does not minimize differences; rather, it embraces and leverages these distinctions to enhance team collaboration and operational effectiveness. For instance, when a restaurant manager recognizes that some staff communicate indirectly while others are direct, they can implement clear protocols successfully. Similarly, hotel teams often create informal “language bridges” or buddy systems so employees can navigate cultural differences without hindering guest services.

Empowered teams deliver

Employees who feel trusted, supported and free from fear of mistakes are much more likely to deliver exceptional, authentic hospitality experiences consistently. In inclusive workplaces, empowerment translates into confidence, whether accommodating dietary needs or proactively enhancing hotel guests’ overall experiences during their stay.

Leadership that listens

Inclusive leadership prioritizes presence over authority; consequently, psychological safety allows team members to share insights, feedback and perspectives without hesitation. In fast-paced hospitality environments, this safety ensures employees feel seen, heard and valued, ultimately improving overall team performance effectively and consistently. Over time, inclusive leadership reduces staff turnover, fosters engagement and builds resilient service cultures capable of handling high-pressure operational demands sustainably.

Guests feel the difference

In a region steeped in tradition, inclusivity reinforces cultural hospitality values, ensuring guests feel genuinely welcome throughout every dining or hotel experience. Although guests rarely see inclusion policies directly, they experience the benefits through attentive service, thoughtful interactions and culturally aware team behaviors consistently. For example, through initiatives such as Accor’s “RiiSE,” Hilton’s “Travel with Purpose,” IHG’s “Journey to Tomorrow” and Marriott’s “Serve 360,” inclusivity becomes operationally strategic. Cultural connectivity empowers diverse teams to collaborate efficiently, ultimately delivering authentic, memorable and emotionally resonant guest experiences throughout the Middle East region.