Empathy at the top with Diletta Guarino, GM of Six Senses Zighy Bay Oman
Hailing from Rome, Diletta Guarino is an inspirational, hands-on hotelier with over two decades of experience in luxury brands. Here, she tells us how she manages to lead her team to success whilst not losing her human touch.
IntercityHotel Bawshar Muscat opens its doors
The opening of the IntercityHotel Bawshar Muscat marks Deutsche Hospitality’s fourth IntercityHotel branded property in the Sultanate of Oman and the brand’s sixth IntercityHotel branded property in the Middle East.
A new era of customer relationship management
AI-driven CRM tools and chatbots are taking customer engagement to the next level. With today’s guests demanding seamless and personalized experiences, hotels that invest in these industry disruptors will gain a competitive edge, as Lovetto Nazareth, managing director of Prism Digital, explains.
Italian flair in Dubai with Giuseppe Pezzella, group executive chef of Chic Nonna
Giuseppe Pezzella is a culinary innovator. Here, the talented chef discusses his plans to bring a touch of Michelin-starred experience to Chic Nonna.
Regional casinos: a safe bet or a long shot?
While the legalization of gambling in the Middle East has long been a topic of fierce debate, news of industry developments in the UAE have now put this contentious issue firmly back in the spotlight. Against that backdrop, Ralph Nader, CEO of Amber Consulting, assesses the odds of the region positioning itself as a global gaming hub and go-to destination for casino giants.
Bahrain in the spotlight with Skander Ayari
Bahrain’s hospitality sector is evolving rapidly, according to Skander Ayari, hotel manager of Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay in Manama. Here, he discusses the kingdom’s tourism sector and what the Four Seasons brand is bringing to the market.
Revolutionary gastronomy with a unique feminine touch with chef Alena Solodovichenko
Chef Alena Solodovichenko, executive chef at Sfumato and Soiree Wine Bar, is a force to be reckoned with. From achieving a Michelin recommendation to earning an array of prestigious awards, including the GQ Russia Super Woman of the Year Award, she has accomplished a great deal. Here we discover how she seeks to revolutionize urban dining.
ENVI Al Sifah set to open in Oman late 2025
This new eco-retreat, nestled on the pristine shores of Al Sifah, promises an unparalleled beach experience, connecting guests with the beauty of the Omani coastline and its rich cultural heritage. The announcement comes after ENVI announced its entry into the Sultanate with mountain ecolodge ENVI Al Jabel Al Akhdar.
N Café opens at Intercontinental Phoenicia Beirut
In celebration of Noura’s 75th anniversary, Noura unveiled N Café. It is a culmination of meticulous planning and design. Located at the Intercontinental Phoenicia Beirut hotel, N Café offers an elevated café dining experience rooted in Noura’s rich heritage.
Africa on the rise
While East Africa’s travel, tourism and hospitality sectors have faced various challenges in recent years, there are encouraging signs of growth, as Hala Matar Choufany, president for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia at HVS, points out.