< Previous10 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MAY 2024 Almal Real Estate Development has unveiled its flagship hospitality project on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah. The luxury hotel and residence complex will feature over 422 hotel rooms and fully managed residential units, a beach club, bars and restaurants, and infi nity pools, all adjacent to the Wynn resort. Palladium Hotel Group has been appointed to manage The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel and The Unexpected Al Marjan Residencies, under the Ushuaïa Unexpected Hotels & Residences. The Spanish hotel operator brings over 50 years of hospitality expertise, managing more than 40 hotels across nine brands in seven countries. Established in Ibiza in 2011, Ushuaïa Unexpected Hotels & Residences is known for off ering luxury experiences, blending music and entertainment. Dmytro Starovoitov, founder of Almal Real Estate Development, said: “Our new development embodies Almal’s commitment to delivering unmatched luxury and sophistication in the realm of hospitality and entertainment. As a full-service investments and development company, we are excited to bring The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel & Residencies to the UAE.” Jesús Sobrino, CEO at Palladium Hotel Group, commented: “It is a great honour to have the trust of Almal Real Estate Development on this unique project, which will bring together a love brand to a destination of reference for the luxury segment as it is UAE.” The Unexpected Al Marjan Island Hotel announced for RAK Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is now welcoming reservations, with rooms starting at US$2,980 per night Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is now accepting bookings in anticipation of its grand opening this spring. Set to welcome its first guests at Saudi Arabia’s The Red Sea in May 2024, it is the inaugural property form the Ritz- Carlton Reserve brand in the Middle East. There are only six exclusive Ritz- Carlton Reserves worldwide. Accessible via chartered boat or seaplane from the newly inaugurated Red Sea International Airport, Nujuma is situated on a private island within the Red Sea’s Blue Hole cluster of islands. There are one-to-three-bedroom villas, with shell-inspired architecture and interiors adorned with locally sourced art, colours, textures, and materials inspired by nature. Each of the 63 villas has a sea-view pool and telescopes for stargazing. Abdulla Al Abdouli, CEO at Marjan, added: “As the master developer of freehold properties in Ras Al Khaimah, we are thrilled to continue shaping the future of upscale living on Al Marjan Island. We are always dedicated to providing rewarding opportunities for investors and unparalleled experiences for residents and guests, further enhancing the allure of the island as a premium lifestyle destination.” At the time of writing, rooms start at US$2,980 per night (SAR11,170). Surrounded by world’s fourth-largest barrier reef system, The Red Sea encompasses over 28,000 sq km of natural beauty, including more than 90 untouched islands, dormant volcanoes, expansive desert dunes, rugged mountain canyons, and culturally significant historical sites. Dining at Nujuma will take in four speciality restaurants, taking in al fresco spots, social gatherings inspired by Saudi hospitality, fresh catches from the sea outside and astrology-inspired mocktails. There will also be the Neyrah spa, fitness centre, swimming pools, a children’s club, and a diverse array of leisure and entertainment offerings. Guests can also explore the Conservation House, water sports and underwater adventures. NewsPartner content MAY 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 11 In the heart of Dubai stands the fi rst-ever 25hours Hotel in the Middle East – a beacon of contemporary hospitality overlooking the Museum of the Future. Opened in December 2021, 25hours Hotel One Central beckons travellers and city residents alike to immerse themselves in a realm where ancient Bedouin traditions meet avant-garde design. At the forefront of this urban oasis is Mads Wolff, a seasoned hospitality expert whose career spans three continents. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Wolff has left an indelible mark on iconic destinations worldwide. His journey from the Michelin-starred culinary realm to the helm of 25hours Hotel One Central embodies a commitment to innovation and excellence. As general manager, Wolff has infused the hotel with his vision, transforming it into a dynamic playground where guests can indulge in unparalleled experiences. From the moment visitors step into the lobby, they are greeted by the Fountain of Tales, a monumental fountain adorned with over 5,000 books—a homage to storytelling and exploration. Above, Dominik Bulka’s whimsical artwork, Under the Same Sky, sets the tone, inviting guests to embark on a journey through Dubai’s narratives and ethos. Art aficionados will find themselves immersed in a curated collection that celebrates the city’s rich heritage and modern vibrancy. From contemporary interpretations of Bedouin rituals to local artist collaborations, every corner of the hotel resonates with the spirit of Dubai. Culinary adventures abound at 25hours Hotel One Central, with a diverse array of dining options to tantalise every palate. From the fusion delights of Nomad Day Bar to the traditional Bavarian fare at ERNST, each venue offers a unique gastronomic Discover Nomadic luxury at 25hours Hotel One Central journey. The rooftop Monkey Bar, with its panoramic views of the Museum of the Future, beckons guests to savour cocktails and shisha under the stars. Beyond gastronomy, the hotel offers a variety of amenities. The Gallery on the first floor serves as a hub for productivity and creativity, with co-working spaces, meeting rooms, and event venues bathed in natural light. The Analogue Upgrade invites guests to disconnect from the digital world and indulge in retro delights, from vinyl records to typewriters. For moments of relaxation, The Extra Hour spa offers a sanctuary of tranquillity, while the rooftop pool and Monkey Pool Bar provide a blissful escape amidst Dubai’s skyline. Whether unwinding in the sauna or exploring the city on Schindelhauer Bikes, guests are treated to an array of leisure pursuits. The essence of luxury extends to the hotel’s accommodations, where each room and suite is a testament to comfort and style. From the nomadic-inspired Bedouin Room to the extravagant Hakawati Suite, every space exudes charm and sophistication. Central to Wolff ’s leadership is a commitment to nurturing a vibrant community within the hotel. His genuine care for his team members has fostered an environment where individuals thrive, setting new standards in the hospitality industry. As 25hours Hotel One Central continues to captivate guests with its fusion of tradition and innovation, Mads Wolff ’s legacy endures as a beacon of excellence in the world of hospitality. With his visionary leadership, the hotel remains a testament to the art of hospitality, inviting travellers to embark on a journey of discovery in Dubai. Explore the fusion of culture, cuisine, and creativity that defi nes this vibrant urban oasis overlooking Dubai’s iconic Museum of the Future12 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MAY 2024 Careers Waldorf Astoria DIFC welcomes new executive chef Waldorf Astoria DIFC has appointed Gurkan Gozyilmaz as executive chef across all its F&B venues. The hotel is known for its award-winning steakhouse, Bull & Bear, as well as Peacock Alley, Cake Boutique, WAQUD and St. Trop, the rooftop lounge. With a background spanning two decades of international and regional roles, Gozyilmaz combines diverse cultural influences with local flavours, his new employers say. The chef will also manage in-room dining, events and weddings. Beginning his executive chef journey at Palazzo Versace Dubai in 2018 and most recently serving at Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, Gozyilmaz has garnered culinary experience in locations including Madinat Jumeirah & Jumeirah Bodrum Palace, JW Marriott Miami USA, Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman, and Mandarin Oriental – Bodrum Turkey. Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort has appointed Karim Abdelhamid as general manager. With over 25 years of experience in managing luxury and lifestyle properties worldwide, Abdelhamid joins from The First Group in Dubai, where he was vice president of hotel operations. Abdelhamid commented: “I am very honoured to return to the Sofitel brand and begin this new chapter as Sofitel marks its 60th Diamond Anniversary. “Having previously worked with Sofitel Legend Old Cataract and Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square, I am thrilled to be leading an exceptional team of talents at Sofitel Al Hamra, setting new benchmarks in terms of bespoke experiences and extending the French luxury lifestyle and elegance alongside the Arabian spirit.” His new employers say Abdelhamid’s skills in F&B F&B operations, especially in executing banquets in large convention centres across the US and UAE was a key factor in hiring him. Previous roles include at The Plaza Hotel – A Fairmont Property, The Knickerbocker Hotel, and The Ritz-Carlton Central Park in New York, as well as Sofitel Legend Old Cataract in Egypt. He has also worked in Philadelphia, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, and at InterContinental Festival City in Dubai. Abdelhamid’s focus will be on shaping the upcoming Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, a member of La Maison – Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems. Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort appoints general managerCareers / Appointments MAY 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 13 William Costley joins TIME Hotels as chief operating officer TIME Hotels has appointed William Costley as chief operating officer (COO). The new COO moves from Minor Hotels, where he was SVP in Bangkok for almost two years. Before that, he was at Hilton for 32 years, rising to SVP Operations for the Arabian Peninsula and Turkey before leaving in 2022. In his capacity as COO, Costley will oversee the day-to-day operations of all TIME Hotels properties, working to enhance the brand’s operational efficiency, drive revenue growth and maintain high standards of personalised guest service. He said: “I am thrilled to be part of the TIME Hotels family and to contribute to the continued success of this esteemed brand and I look forward to collaborating with the talented team at TIME Hotels to deliver unparalleled experiences for our team members and guests across all operating and future properties to be added to our portfolio.” Costley’s appointment comes as TIME Hotels continues to expand globally. Mohamed Awadalla, CEO of TIME Hotels, said: “We are delighted to welcome William as our new chief operating officer. His extensive industry experience and passion for hospitality make him the perfect fit for this role. We are confident that his leadership will be instrumental in driving our growth in the years ahead” Gulf Hotels Group promotes Amid Yazji to cluster general manager Gulf Hotels Group has promoted Amid Yazji to cluster general manager, responsible for overseeing the management of Gulf Hotel, Novotel Al Dana Resort, Gulf Executive Residences Juffair, and Bahrain Airport Hotel. With over 25 years of experience in hospitality management, Yazji is a seasoned professional. Having spent over a decade leading hospitality operations at Novotel Bahrain Al Dana Resort, Yazji significantly contributed to the hotel’s profitability by implementing successful strategies to optimise revenue generation, streamline operations, and cultivate a culture of service excellence. Prior to his tenure in Bahrain, Yazji held leadership roles in hospitality teams across GCC, Levant, and Russia, and played integral roles in pre and post-opening operational functions within renowned operators including Accor, Marriott, Hyatt, Four Seasons, and Hilton. In his new capacity, Yazji will be responsible for the strategic direction and operational management of Gulf Hotels and aims to further enhance the group’s reputation. He said: “I am thrilled to assume the role of cluster general manager for these iconic properties including the group’s flagship hotel. The Gulf Hotel Bahrain is a renowned establishment known for its commitment to excellence and unparalleled service. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team here to elevate the guest experience and drive continued success for the hotel.” Yazji’s core competencies lie in effective decision-making, enhancing guest satisfaction scores, fostering employee engagement, and developing leadership. He boasts a commendable record of achieving and surpassing hotel targets and goals, optimising costs and building robust relationships, according to his new employers.14 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MAY 2024 Paul Stuart Sykes The new recruit The new GM at Banyan Tree Dubai shares insights into his leadership philosophy, strategic initiatives and the role of technology in hospitality Careers / New Recruit When Paul Stuart Sykes took over as general manager at Banyan Tree Dubai, he had a vision for the hotel, characterised by his hands-on approach and dedication to the wellbeing of his team and guests. In conversation with Hotelier Middle East, he delved into his leadership philosophy to enhance the guest experience, strategic initiatives, prioritising environmental sustainability and the role of data-driven technologies in shap- ing the future of hospitality. Born to a family of culinary and wine connoisseurs, with his father being a restaurant entrepreneur, the GM’s journey into the hospitality industry has been driven by passion. He said: “From an early age, I was drawn to the art of hospi- tality, which inspired and led me to pursue a career in F&B. My vision is for the resort to truly be a sanctuary for the senses, setting it apart from the myriad of other hotels in Dubai. Given our serene spaces, tranquil beach and chilled pools, we off er each guest an opportunity to reconnect with themselves.”MAY 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 15 His career spans luxury hotels around the world, where he worked with and learned from some of the top leaders in the business, joining the Banyan Tree family in 2015 as an F&B Manager at Banyan Tree Mayakoba. Under his leadership, Banyan Tree Mayakoba received multi- ple accolades, including the Forbes Travel Guide 5-Star Award, both for the hotel and one for the spa, along with the Customer Excellence award from Expedia. Speaking English, Spanish, and Italian, Paul has worked with various Banyan Tree properties across Mexico, Morocco, and now the UAE, where he is dedicated to making Banyan Tree Dubai one of the city’s most successful hotels. Enhancing the guest experience As the fi rst general manager of Banyan Tree Dubai, Sykes envisions the newly opened property as an oasis of calm and relaxation, off ering guests a unique blend of traditional Middle Eastern hospitality with Asian touches and contem- porary luxury. Since switching over to a Banyan Tree property, the facilities have been upgraded, while new F&B off erings include Alizee, Alizee Pool & Beach, providing guests with a coastal-inspired dining experience, and Tocha, which embraces Japanese craftsmanship and teahouse rituals. Sykes explained how he plans to leverage his experience and leadership philosophy to enhance the guest experience at Banyan Tree Dubai. He said: “I’ve been part of the Banyan Tree family for years, working across various properties from Mexico to Morocco and now the UAE. Upholding the brand’s core values of honesty, integrity, and respect is a key part of my role, and providing guests with the unforgettable experience that Banyan Tree is renowned for. “My leadership philosophy revolves around the belief that our team members are the heart and soul of our service delivery. I prioritise their development and empowerment, understanding that they are instrumental in providing Banyan Tree’s signature service. We’ve implemented several strategic initiatives, including personalised guest experiences tailored to individual prefer- ences, integrating Banyan Tree rituals at various touch points across the property, sustainable practices into daily operations to appeal to environmentally-conscious travellers, and elevat- ing our culinary options through various collaborations. “With wellness at the core of Banyan Tree, we have now intro- duced complimentary wellness activities, available regularly to guests who stay with us. “Additionally, we always aim to give back to the community, and very recently hosted an Iftar in collaboration with Heroes of Hope, a not-for-profi t group that develops sporting, social and interpersonal skills for people of determination.” Is technology shaping the future of hospitality? Sykes Riquelme explained what role he sees tech playing in shaping the future of hospitality, and how he is utilising them at Banyan Tree Dubai. He said: “Data-driven technologies are “Team members are the heart and soul of Banyan Tree’s service” Careers / New Recruit poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of hospitality by off ering valuable insights into guest preferences, behaviours, and trends. At Banyan Tree Dubai, we recognise the immense potential of these technologies and are actively leveraging them to enhance the guest experience. “One of the key initiatives we are working on, is implementing a guest-centric program that utilises data collected to create customised itineraries tailored to individual preferences before a guest’s arrival. This is to ensure a personalised and seamless experience for each guest. “In today’s dynamic landscape, embracing technological advancements is crucial to ensuring an unrivalled guest expe- rience. We are committed to staying at the forefront of innova- tion and continuously integrating new practices to elevate the hospitality standards for all our valued guests.” Prioritising environmental sustainability Sustainability is an integral part of Banyan Tree Dubai’s identity, and the property has adopted environmentally friendly prac- tices from the fi rst day it opened its doors. Sykes Riquelme highlighted: “Some of our key initiatives include more investments in renewable energy, embracing responsible practices through the use of eco-friendly cleaning products, a dedicated waste management system, and utilising sustain- able materials in construction and design. “To establish a comprehensive approach to sustainability, we’re also working to introduce more wellness features, such as organic and locally sourced food options, yoga and meditation classes, and more.” Fostering a culture of collaboration and empowerment At Banyan Tree Dubai there is a fl at organisational structure, prioritising teamwork, open commu- nication, and a customer-focused approach. Sykes Riquelme said: “This means that all team members, from front-line staff to senior managers, will have a voice in decision-making and will be encouraged to contribute ideas and feedback on how to improve our operations. We also host numerous training sessions for our staff , introducing Banyan Tree’s signature hospitality practices, as well as guiding them on local customs and cultural norms. Overall, my goal is to build a team that is passionate, motivated, and dedicated to providing our guests with an exceptional service.” Future plans for the hotel “My vision for the property’s future is to establish it as a world- class oceanfront hospitality destination, off ering a unique blend of Middle Eastern traditions with the art of Asian hospitality. By fostering a culture of excellence and innovation among the team and ensuring every guest feels truly welcome, I aim to uphold the brand’s core values. We aspire for Banyan Tree Dubai to become a mainstay in the city’s hospitality landscape, continuously seeking new ways to enhance the overall guest experience.”16 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MAY 2024 for water technology Airwater Co.’s proprietary air-to-water technology redefi nes solutions for water scarcity and reduced single-use plastic A new dawn In the heart of the UAE, Abu Dhabi-based Airwater Co. is changing how the world thinks about water. Working at the forefront of water innovation since 2018, Airwater Co.’s air-to-water technology makes it possible to create water from air onsite, with just a simple power source. The company’s diverse portfolio of atmospheric water generation solutions eliminates the need for traditional water infrastructure and piping, water-intensive purifi cation processes and transportation costs. Crucially, Airwater Co.’s technology also eliminates reliance on single-use plastics. Led by a team of seasoned experts with decades of experience in water innovation, purifi cation and sustainability, Airwater Co. provides commercial and industrial air-to-water solutions built to scale. These include still and sparkling bottled water delivery, atmospheric water generators/dispensers, custom bottling facilities and large-scale water farms. Each of Airwater Co.’s off erings is designed to meet diverse business and ESG needs of global clientele. Innovative solutions In a world where access to clean drinking water is increasingly precarious due to growing populations, escalating demands and mounting environmental adversities, Airwater Co. off ers a straightforward remedy to bolster water security and accessibility without overburdening existing water reservoirs. Tapping into humidity in air, Airwater Co. partners with an array of stakeholders including hotels, resorts, governmental entities, investors and industry trailblazers to propel water sustainability and ESG goals forward. Partnering with hospitality leaders As societies and consumers gravitate towards sustainable experiences and supply chains, the hospitality and leisure sectors are pursuing circular water solutions that align with overarching brand imperatives and regulatory mandates targeting single-use plastics. Airwater Co.’s focus on renewable water solutions blends MAY 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 17 Partner content seamlessly with customisation, off ering many possibilities. Whether indoors, outdoors or off grid, Airwater Co. facilitates the generation of premium mineralised water, without substantial infrastructure investments, power usage, transportation logistics or chemical inputs. Its clientele consists of a constellation of global hospitality giants such as Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Accor Group, Rove Hotels, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Emirates Palace and other industry leaders. Transitioning to reusable glass bottled water solutions and atmospheric water generators, organisations can reduce energy and water consumption, CO2 emissions and single-use plastic. Just 1,000 litres of atmospheric water saves 730,000 plastic bottles and around 60 tonnes of CO2 per year. With a full spectrum of commercial and industrial atmospheric water generation (AWG) solutions, such as premium bottled water delivery, on-site AWG generators and dispensers, custom bottling facilities and expansive water farms, Airwater Co. tailors to diverse settings including hotel rooms, lobbies, common areas, restaurants, offi ces, poolside areas and other locales. Its bottled water delivery, AWG dispensers and bottling facilities can be meticulously confi gured to align with various spaces and ESG objectives. Airwater Co.’s product line-up features its fl agship AIR30 and AIR100 air-to-water generators/dispensers, which produce 30 litres and 100 litres of water daily, respectively, per machine. These machines are frequently deployed both indoors and outdoors to enhance guest convenience on property. Commercial and industrial AWG solutions For organisations needing larger water volumes — ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 litres per day — Airwater Co. provides custom bottling facilities and water farms that utilise AIR1000 and AIR3000 bespoke solutions. As an example, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr in Abu Dhabi, an Airwater Co. partner hotel site, generates, purifi es and bottles 18 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / MAY 2024 “No matter the scale of your operations, we all have the power to create meaningful change” 6,000-plus litres of mineralised drinking water daily. “No matter how large or small your footprint, no matter the scale of your operations, we all have the power to create meaningful change,” said Dave Cupit, COO at Airwater Co. Airwater Co. oversees a comprehensive suite of operations spanning wash, rinse, fi ll, cap and date printing. Additionally, its team manages installation, operation, service, quality control, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) compliance, regulatory and municipal approvals and water testing regulations. To cater to varying needs, Airwater Co. is in the process of developing fi ve-litre and 20-litre models for forthcoming launches, to produce clean renewable water with minimal power inputs. L-R Dave Cupit, COO, Sheila Zhou, VP of Engineering, Alex Guy, CEOMAY 2024 / HOTELIERMIDDLEEAST.COM / 19 Airwater Co. Blending technology and nature Employing a unique blend of nature and innovation, Airwater Co.’s air-to-water technology capitalises on the moisture abundant in the atmosphere, using multi-stage fi ltration and UV light treatment to yield pure, mineralised water when and where it is required. Continuous recirculation and filtration processes ensure superior taste and purity. Airwater Co.’s solutions are meticulously engineered, underpinned by an unwavering commitment to innovation, design excellence and quality assurance. “Embarking on a totally new approach, we were told, ‘It’s never going to work’. That’s all we needed to hear to deliver our next-generation technology,” said Dave Cupit, Global COO at Airwater Co. Its Alpha Airfl ow technology, coupled with UV, antibacterial recirculation mechanisms and proprietary coil designs, improves water capacity while concurrently mitigating energy consumption Creating a ripple eff ect Since its inception, Airwater Co.’s partnerships with numerous hospitality clients have resulted in the eradication of over a million single-use plastic bottles from circulation and thousands of tonnes of CO2 emissions. Airwater Co.’s clients often see cost efficiencies when switching from traditional water sources to its bottled delivery service or AWG dispensers. While savings vary, the popularity of these sustainable solutions is growing in the hospitality sector. Renewable air-to-water technology enhances brand perception, sustainability, enriches guest experiences and delivers signifi cant ESG benefi ts. Facilitating water replenishment aligned with consumption patterns, Airwater Co. empowers companies to fulfi l exact water needs without generating waste or relying on single-use plastic bottles. Each machine furnished by Airwater Co. includes a water data dashboard, showcasing key metrics such as water production, energy consumption, cost effi ciency, environmental impact and climate conditions. The company’s remote diagnostic capabilities ensure optimal service performance, thereby fortifying client satisfaction and operational effi cacy. Airwater Co. believes in the ethos of convenience with a conscience. Its still bottled water, available in sizes ranging from 330ml to 1,000ml and sparkling options in 330ml, 500ml and 750ml sizes, cater to diverse preferences. Additionally, the company has introduced reusable twin-wall vacuum insulated stainless steel bottles, designed especially for poolside settings, with plans underway for the launch of aluminium cans later this year. Clients have the liberty to customise bottles and cans with their brand insignia, thereby fostering a consistent guest experience across properties. Airwater Co. assumes responsibility for providing all glass bottles, recyclable aluminium cans, caps, crates, water delivery and servicing on its machines, thus off ering a comprehensive solution to water provisioning needs. Headquartered in the UAE, with offi ces in Switzerland, the UK and the US, Airwater Co.’s expanding team is singularly focused on engineering innovative renewable water solutions for consumers, businesses and industries around the globe. Airwater Co.’s in-house bottling facilities are able to meet industrial production needs. Sourced from UAE skies Airwater Co.’s focus on the UAE stems from Alex Guy, Airwater Co. CEO and founder, given his own family’s history in the UAE. His grandfather captained the fi rst BP oil tanker (British Signal) to export oil from Abu Dhabi in 1962. With deep ties to the region, he built Airwater Co. to refl ect the region’s innovative spirit, commitment to excellence on the global stage and desire to remedy water challenges facing the country.Next >