New projects redefining the GCC hotel landscape
The hotel industry never stands still, which is ironic when you consider that as an industry, it encourages clients to sit back and relax! Kostas Nikolaidis, Middle East and Africa executive for STR, gives us the lowdown on the fast-paced GCC hotel market, which is definitely raring to go.
Taking the lead: 12 inspirational hoteliers
Hospitality is one of the most rewarding industries out there, which is why so many professionals dedicate their lives to the business. We checked in with 12 hoteliers to hear how their careers began, the lessons they’ve learned and shared since joining the profession and what the next chapter of the industry’s growth story looks like.
Ecolodges in the Middle East: The new big thing
While global interest in ecotourism has been growing at a rapid pace, inflation has also started to shape travel choices. Nagi Morkos, founder and managing partner at Hodema consulting services, guides us around the ecolodges in the region which are increasingly attracting environmentally conscious travelers from around the world.
Where to study hospitality
With so many degrees to choose from, deciding where to study hospitality can be a confusing business. We take a look at 12 institutions in the region that are offering students a range of exciting courses and bringing through the next generation of hoteliers and culinary stars.
The burgeoning bleisure market with Jad Shamseddin, COO of Aleph Hospitality
Those mixing professional business travel with personal leisure time have been coined “bleisure” travelers. Jad Shamseddin, COO of Aleph Hospitality, lifts the lid on this growing segment that should be carefully studied and catered to by hotels worldwide.
What it takes to make it in the culinary world
We asked restaurateur Ziad Kamel and chef Thomas A.Gugler to list the qualities that make all the difference in their fields of expertise.
Driving a more sustainable future for travel with Duncan Fraser Smith, founder of The Cutting Edge Agency
With technology a crucial part of our everyday lives, Duncan Fraser Smith, founder of The Cutting Edge Agency, addresses its potential as a key contributor to a sustainable future for the tourism industry.
Seeking travel inspiration: the role of social media
TikTok is an untapped goldmine for tourism marketing. From tour videos to unconventional experiences, Dr. Maria Frangieh, CEO of Socialprise, explains why this social media platform is an essential tool, especially for brands looking to engage with younger consumers.
12 tools for decision making in a leader’s framework
History tells the tale of those who lead for all the right reasons and others who chose more dangerous routes. Mark Dickinson of DONE! Hospitality Training Solutions examines how different leadership styles affect decision-making processes and what to keep in mind.
Studying hospitality in the UAE and KSA
With mega- and giga-projects becoming increasingly typical of the Middle East’s hospitality landscape, Mansoor Ahmed, executive director and head of development solutions healthcare, education and PPP at Colliers in the Middle East and Africa region, lifts the lid on tourism education in the UAE and KSA, and why demand for skilled hospitality labor looks set to rise.