As Dubai's dining scene grows ever more competitive, Sofitel Dubai Downtown is raising the bar with the appointment of David Watson as Food & Beverage Manager—marking a bold step in the hotel's vision to position itself as a leading culinary destination in the heart of the city.
The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai has announced the promotion of Raed Kai to director of operations. This milestone is a reflection on Kai's 16-year journey with the brand.
In the ever-evolving symphony of Sofitel Dubai Downtown, a new crescendo has been reached. With quiet determination and a mind sharpened by precision, Sasindu Don has journeyed from Financial Controller to Director of Finance, orchestrating success with the kind of clarity and calm that defines true leadership.
Fairmont The Palm is delighted to announce the appointment of Dhaval Patel as the new Director of Revenue Management, effective 2nd June 2025. With more than 15 years of global experience in luxury hospitality revenue strategy, Dhaval brings a data-driven mindset and a proven track record of commercial success to the leadership team.
Fairmont The Palm is pleased to announce the appointment of Stavros Fassaris as the new Director of Food and Beverage. Born and raised in Greece, Stavros brings over 15 years of international experience in high-end hospitality, with a career spanning Europe and the Middle East.
Minor Hotels, a global hotel owner, operator and investor, has signed a strategic hotel management agreement for a prominent beachfront property on Dubai’s iconic Palm West Beach in collaboration with valued partners, Seven Tides. Effective by 1st August 2025, the addition of this new resort and serviced residences—currently operating as Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel—to Minor Hotels’ managed portfolio further strengthens the group’s growing footprint in the United Arab Emirates and establishes it as the largest operator on the Trunk of the Palm.
Marriott International has appointed Rhiannon Callaghan as Multi-Property Director of Marketing & PR for Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf, Dubai, Marriott Executive Apartments Al Jaddaf and Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai Creek. A dynamic hospitality marketing professional, Rhiannon brings with her a strong record of success in driving brand performance, digital strategy and guest engagement across the luxury hospitality sector.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek has appointed Chef Jay Williams as its new Culinary Director, bringing over two decades of international culinary and hospitality experience.
With over a decade of experience across luxury properties in the Middle East and India, Ashish brings deep expertise and visionary leadership to the role. A seasoned Ritz-Carlton professional, he has held key positions at Al Bustan Palace, Oman and The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, consistently driving guest satisfaction and operational success. In his new role, Ashish will oversee all F&B operations at the Dubai property, ensuring the continued delivery of refined dining experiences.
Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre Hotel & Residences proudly announces the promotion of Laura Nicli to General Manager. With over 18 years of experience in the global hospitality industry, Laura has demonstrated outstanding leadership, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to guest satisfaction, team engagement, and sustainability.
STORY Hospitality, the international hospitality brand redefining meaningful travel, is pleased to announce the appointment of Yassin Mahmoud as General Manager of The H Dubai. A seasoned hospitality leader with over 17 years of global experience, Mahmoud brings a dynamic blend of operational expertise and people-first leadership to one of Dubai's most renowned and recognised hotels.
BLINK Design Group has released new images of its striking two-phase transformation of the former Caesars Palace Dubai into Banyan Tree Dubai. The first phase, which took just one month, offered a subtle yet strategic refresh, breathing new life into pivotal public spaces - from the arrival experience and lobby lounge to the all-day dining destination - infusing each with a refined sense of place. The second design chapter, one year in the making, marked a more transformative evolution, reimagining the wellness offering at every level. Here, the Banyan Tree Spa, gym, and salon were meticulously redesigned as part of the property's metamorphosis from Caesars Palace to the serene sophistication of Banyan Tree.
Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah has announced the strategic appointment of Rania Chamoun as hotel manager. This leadership move reflects the property's focus on enhancing guest experience and operational agility as it continues to grow its reputation.
The Peruvian chef with over 20 years of global experience will lead culinary direction of the hotel's four signature venues.
Marriott International has appointed Shahzad Butt as the new multi property general manager for Aloft Dubai Airport, Element Dubai Airport, Aloft Al Mina, and Element Al Mina.
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, one of Accor's leading luxury brands, announces the appointment of Emma Darby as Global Vice President Spa & Wellness. In this role, Emma will assume overall responsibility for spa and wellness operations across Fairmont's global portfolio of 92 properties. The diverse collection of luxury properties and flagship spas in iconic destinations worldwide, includes Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Canada, Fairmont Century Plaza, Los Angeles, Fairmont Mayakoba, Mexico, and Fairmont Riyadh, KSA, delivering a truly holistic wellness experience.
Marriott Marquis Dubai at Jewel of the Creek is delighted to announce the appointment of Chef Oscar Cimmino as the new Executive Chef. With over 10 years of experience in Italian cuisine, Chef Cimmino brings his passion for authentic Neapolitan flavours and innovative culinary techniques to the hotel, further enhancing the property's reputation for exceptional dining experiences.
Fatemeh's appointment marks a significant milestone in a career defined by dedication, adaptability, and a passion for people development. Beginning her professional journey in the retail sector, Fatemeh made a successful transition into hospitality, where she has flourished over the past seven years with InterContinental Dubai Marina.
Premier Inn Dubai International Aiport has been awarded Best Airport Hotel in the Middle East at the prestigious Business Traveller Middle East Awards 2025, in recognition of its seamless guest experience, prime location, and exceptional service tailored to meet the needs of today’s travellers.
IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world's largest hotel groups, has signed a management agreement with API Hotels & Resorts to launch the first Kimpton hotel in the UAE. Set to open its doors in Q1 2026, Kimpton Dubai marks the brand's debut in the emirate and continues the regional expansion for IHG, which now has more than 122 hotels and close to 44,000 rooms across nine Middle East countries.