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.
Interview with Maximilian Rauch, Ascott’s head of F&B for Middle East, Africa and Turkey
Throughout his impressive career, Maximilian Rauch has held key positions across the hospitality and corporate sectors. In his new role, he will be responsible for Ascott’s portfolio of owners and restaurant operators across the UAE, KSA, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Turkey and Kenya, creating dedicated training programs, implementing customized service solutions and bolstering industry specific partnerships to strengthen the group’s F&B offerings. With his extensive background in culinary management, Rauch tells us how he is planning to elevate Ascott’s F&B offerings.
Saudi Arabia’s vision for sustainable luxury tourism unveiled in Soudah Peaks
In a remarkable step toward diversifying its economy and enhancing its global tourism standing, Saudi Arabia is set to unveil an extraordinary luxury mountain tourism destination, Soudah Peaks. Located at an elevation of 3,015 meters above sea level on the kingdom’s highest peak, this ambitious project is a pivotal part of the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) visionary efforts.
Getting to know Imad Akil, GM of Centro Mada Amman by Rotana
With over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Imad Akil, GM of Centro Mada Amman by Rotana, has successfully led the opening of multiple hotels in the region. In addition, he has played a pivotal role in supporting Rotana’s head office through various field visits and corporate initiatives. We sat down with the accomplished hotelier to discuss the hotel’s sustainability pledge and how the Jordan’s hospitality sector is evolving.
In the kitchen with Biju Mohamed
As executive chef of Elite Group Hotels, Biju Mohamed tells us about his career highlights, plans for 2023 and shows us how to make his famous baked sea bass dish.
Looking into the future of luxury hospitality with David Wilson
HN spoke with David Wilson, an industry veteran and GM of Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, to find out what the future holds for the luxury property.
Medical tourism in the Middle East: the prognosis is good
The region is well placed to tap into the booming medical and wellness tourism segments, according to Ralph Nader, CEO of Amber Consulting, although a formalized strategic approach is needed to support sustainable sectoral growth.
A touch of Provencal charm with chef Rita Yazbek
Chef Rita Yazbek’s culinary journey in the world of hospitality and gastronomy is nothing short of inspiring. Having worked alongside renowned chefs like Adrien Trouilloud and Alain Ducasse, she played an instrumental role in the success of SUD Restobar, which she co-founded. Yazbek is now embarking on an exciting culinary adventure with her new project Cezanne in Dbayeh, just outside Beirut. We find out more about the venue that exudes Provencal charm.
The rise of bleisure travel
In the realm of travel, a new trend has emerged that blends business and leisure. Thomas Kurian, hotel manager of LEVA Hotels, explains how and why bleisure travel in on the rise.