MAY 2024 AN ITP MEDIA GROUP PUBLICATION The future, How Airwater Co. is creating premium mineralised water from air, on-site and at scale In association with: from thin airMAY 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 3 In this issue May 2024 Features 16 2422 Turning air to water Find out more about the company behind the latest sustainability innovation in hotels 16 Meet the marketeers The annual Marketing Power List is back for 2024, with 101 leaders included over 27 pages 224 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MAY 2024 In this issue / May 2024 Regulars Checking In The Royal Mansour Casablanca 6 Trending Big hospitality news stories 8 Careers Hires, interviews and more 12 Checking Out Grand Hyatt debuts in Spain 48 7 lessons Jumeirah Al Qasr’s F&B director 50 Jean-Claude Messant, Royal Mansour Collection Page 6 8 6 14 “An exceptional setting, firmly rooted in its destination”JUNE 2023 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 5 May is always an exciting month in the region’s hospitality industry, not least because Arabian Travel Market rolls into Dubai, bringing the world’s travel and tourism leaders with it. This year, there is also a new celebration of leadership in the calendar, as the fi rst-ever GM Awards takes place on May 28 in Dubai. The power-packed event will honour the region’s general managers, as well as their leadership teams, in 21 categories covering the Middle East and North Africa and the key pillars of hospitality today. There is also much to celebrate in the issue itself, with the return of the Marketing Power List for its third edition. Recognising the brightest marketing minds in the Middle East, this list celebrates outstanding eff orts and the achievements that drive industry innovation and excellence. We also take a look inside the Royal Mansour Casablanca, an iconic property that has been revitalised, blending its Moroccan heritage with contemporary touches. The re-opening heralds the revival of a legendary palace dating back to the 1950s, once a favoured haunt of celebrities, dignitaries and creatives from around the world. It’s great to see new life being breathed into beautiful older buildings. Moving on to something new, Paul Stuart Sykes, general manager at Banyan Tree Dubai, tells us about taking on the hotel following its transition from Caesars Palace, as well as delving into his leadership philosophy and prioritising data-driven insights. A global expert also weighs in on the increasing use of tech and AI in the industry. Rui Vasconcelos, MD of Turisbay Hospitality, warns that human interac- tion should never be underestimated, and is concerned operators are losing touch of what lies at the heart of hospitality. However, in my view, connection creates magic, which is why I am looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible at ATM and The GM Awards later this month. ITP Media Group CEO Ali Akawi Managing Director Martin Chambers Editorial Director Holly Sands Editorial Group Editor Paul Cliff ord Tel: +971 4 444 3777 email: paul.cliff ord@itp.com Editor Veronica Carpio Tel: +971 4 444 3593 email: veronica.carpio@itp.com Associate Editor Misbaah Mansuri Tel: +971 4 444 3358 email: misbaah.mansuri@itp.com Advertising Commercial Director Sally Whittam Tel: +971 4 444 3348 email: sally.whittam@itp.com Advertising Director Richard Mobbs Tel: +971 4 444 3592 email: richard.mobbs@itp.com Senior Commercial Manager Jad Karam Tel: +971 58 214 3807 email: Jad.Karam@itp.com Commercial Manager Naved Aizaz Tel: +971 58 214 3059 email: naved.aizaz@itp.com Commercial Admin Executive Janet Comia Email: janet.comia@itp.com Art Head of Design Rita Ghantous Senior Image Editor Emmalyn Robles Group Video Editor Bharat Tahiliani Video Editor Hana Morsy Videographer Hamid Baabde Production & Distribution Production Manager Denny Kollannoor Production Coordinator Balasubramanian P Circulation Distribution Coordinator Avinash Pereira Circulation Executive Rajesh Pillai Marketing Senior Events & Marketing Manager Eleanor Ashton Events & Marketing Manager Olivia Keene-Smith Associate Events & Marketing Manager Kate Galaktionova Administrative Manager (Marketing) Siti Sumarsono Events Administrative Assistant Aronn Pureza ITP Group CEO Ali Akawi CFO Toby Jay Spencer-Davies PO Box 500024, Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 (0)4 444 3000 Web: www.itp.com Offi ces in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Geneva, London, Mumbai & Riyadh The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. 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Published by and © 2024 ITP MEDIA GROUP FZ-LLC From the editor Veronica Carpio, Editor6 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MAY 2024 Checking in The Royal Mansour Casablanca With a rich history dating back to the 1950s, the Royal Mansour Casablanca revives a legendary palace, blending timeless sophistication with contemporary fl airMAY 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 7 In Marrakesh, the Royal Mansour has established itself as a symbol of extraordinary lifestyle. Distinctive. Unmatched and unparalleled. This exceptional standard of hotel excellence is now embodied in a second location, nestled in the heart of Morocco’s bustling city, Casablanca. The Royal Mansour Casablanca heralds the revival of a legendary palace dating back to the 1950s, once a favoured haunt of celebrities, dignitaries, and creatives worldwide. The property comprises 149 rooms, suites and private apartments, along with three restaurants including one boasting a panoramic view from the 23rd fl oor, fi tness and spa facilities spanning two levels, a conference centre, and a grand ballroom. The Royal Mansour Casablanca stands as a testament to a rich narrative, breathing fresh life into a cherished locale in the heart of Casablanca’s residents. Seventy years since the inauguration of Casablanca’s initial 5-star hotel, the Royal Mansour faithfully reintroduces the design ethos of 1950s modernist architecture, reinstating the original patio’s proportions, lush greenery, refined furnishings, and the grand staircase, all reimagined. While upholding tradition, stringent construction standards are met, encompassing sustainability, accountability, safety and technology. Checking in The Rooms and suites are adorned with marble, intricate hardwoods, opulent textiles, and bespoke lighting fi xtures, complemented by a rare assortment of artworks. The Royal Mansour Casablanca harmonises unique aesthetics with a welcoming ambiance and impeccable service, adhering to the ethos and DNA of the Royal Mansour. The vibrant pulse of Casablanca The unveiling of the Royal Mansour Casablanca coincides with the rise of the “White City” on the global tourism stage. A pioneering destination, Morocco’s economic capital is undergoing a remarkable metamorphosis amidst a palpable sense of excitement. Departing from the expected, Casablanca captivates as it embodies an authentic and pleasure-seeking modern Morocco, where commerce, art, cultureand conviviality converge with the enduring traditions of the Medina. “This new hotel in Casablanca has its own personality, consistent with the identity of the city. As in Marrakech, the Royal Mansour signature is here: you will fi nd the excellence of service, discretion and confi dentiality so dear to our guests. And all in an exceptional setting fi rmly rooted in its destination”, said Jean-Claude Messant, general manager at the Royal Mansour Collection.8 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MAY 2024 Four Seasons private jet is available to charter at US$115,000 a day The Four Seasons private jet experience is now available for private charter bookings for a limited time, allowing guests to set their own itinerary. The experience is available between August 4 to 26 and December 20 to 27. Upon booking, their team will collaborate with guests to craft a personalised itinerary, drawing upon the expertise of Four Seasons hotels and resorts worldwide. The Four Seasons custom-designed airbus A321neoLR includes accommodation for up to 48 guests and a dedicated crew of 10 members. Priced at approximately US$115,000 per day, the package encompasses all flights, on-board services, meals, and airport assistance. Additional arrangements, such as ground transfers and tours, can be arranged through the guest experience team. The jet has an extended range of eight to nine hours (approximately 7,400 kilometres or 4,600 miles) for non-stop flights. Longer flights require technical stops for refuelling and servicing. News The Red Palace is being transformed into an ultra-luxury boutique hotel Originally constructed in 1943 by King Abdulaziz for his son, Crown Prince Saud, The Red Palace holds a special place in Saudi Arabian history. Situated in the historic Al-Futah district in the heart of old Riyadh, it stands as the fi rst reinforced concrete structure in the city, marking a pivotal moment in the Kingdom’s architectural evolution. Throughout its past, The Red Palace played host to international dignitaries, government officials, and other prominent figures, serving as the venue for numerous state receptions and royal banquets. Subsequently, it served as the headquarters of the Council of Ministers for over thirty years and housed the Court of Grievances until 2002. Boutique Group, the hospitality company committed to preserving Saudi Arabian heritage, acquired the landmark. In 2022, Aedas Middle East won a design competition to reimagine The Red Palace as an ultra-luxury boutique hotel. The goal is to seamlessly blend the palace’s storied past with contemporary luxury, reinstating it as a global icon celebrating a bygone era’s history and grandeur. Under the leadership of global design principal Ignacio Gomez, Aedas will collaborate closely with Paris-based interior architect Tristan Auer to expand and redesign the property. The plan includes off ering over 70 keys, 8 spa suites, and 5 high-end restaurants and cafes, with meticulous attention to detail and a focus on creating a unique and immersive experience for guests. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by a majestic colonnade portal and a landscaped royal garden, setting the stage for the opulent experience that awaits inside. The outdoor space will evoke the palace’s grandeur, while the landscaping will serve to gradually unfold the palatial experience. The façade will blend traditional Najdi architecture with Art Deco elements, showcasing a fusion of vernacular and modern styles. Traditional mud plastering will be interpreted in muted red terracotta plastered concrete. Partner content MAY 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 9 Set to open in early 2025, the Grand Hyatt Dubai Waterpark will off er an unforgettable holiday experience. With its serene ambiance and central location, Grand Hyatt Dubai is poised to become the World’s Most Unique Urban Resort. Nestled amidst the bustling cityscape of Downtown Dubai, Grand Hyatt Dubai stands as a beacon of urban resort luxury, seamlessly blending city sophistication with resort-style relaxation. Strategically located just minutes away from Dubai International Airport and iconic attractions like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, Grand Hyatt Dubai offers guests convenience and access to the pulse of the city. Situated within a sprawling oasis of 37 acres of meticulously landscaped gardens, this iconic hotel is renowned for its exceptional combination of resort amenities, luxurious accommodations. The allure of Grand Hyatt Dubai is set to reach new heights with the introduction of its highly anticipated waterpark, slated to open its doors in early 2025. Positioned as the epitome of urban leisure, this expansive waterpark promises to elevate the guest experience, offering a serene oasis amidst the vibrant energy of the city centre. With the addition of the waterpark, guests can look forward Grand Hyatt Dubai set to become the world’s most unique urban resort to a thrilling experience complete with 15 exhilarating attractions, a wave pool, lazy river, floating beach volleyball court, and luxury cabanas with private pools. As with all Hyatt properties, the waterpark at Grand Hyatt Dubai will be managed with the brand’s renowned hospitality standards. Guests can expect nothing short of an exceptional experience, with a focus on safety, service, and guest satisfaction. Guests staying at Grand Hyatt Dubai resort & waterpark will enjoy unlimited access to the waterpark and other resort facilities. Additionally, guests staying at other Hyatt Hotels in Dubai will receive complimentary one-time access per guest per stay, subject to terms and conditions. As the eagerly anticipated waterpark prepares to open its doors, guests can look forward to a one-of-a-kind experience that seamlessly combines adventure, relaxation, and unparalleled luxury. So, mark your calendars and prepare to make a splash, as the Grand Hyatt Dubai waterpark prepares to usher in a new era of urban resort luxury in early 2025. With 710 luxurious rooms and suites, 12 world-class restaurants, and award-winning spa facilities, Grand Hyatt Dubai sets the standard for luxury hospitality in the region. Boasting panoramic views of Dubai Creek and the city skyline, every aspect of the hotel exudes elegance and sophistication.Next >