Hospitality

Who Says Luxury Can’t Care? The H Dubai Rewrites the Rulebook!

Published

1 year ago

July 12, 2024

Integrator Web-Editor

Integrator Media had an exclusive interview with Sophie Blondel, General Manager, The H Dubai Hotel

What personally motivated you to champion sustainability and accessibility at The H Dubai?

I’m deeply committed to social responsibility and ethical practices, which fuels my personal motivation to champion these crucial causes. Understanding the significance of businesses operating ethically and their positive impact on society and the environment is fundamental to me. This commitment is not just rooted in professional obligations but also reflects my core values, awareness of global challenges, and a sincere desire to create a meaningful difference through my work.

What drove you to pursue the Certified Autism Center designation for The H Dubai, and how did it reflect your personal values?

I pursued the Certified Autism Center designation as a testament to our commitment to honesty and transparency in our business practices. It’s an acknowledgment of the imperative to enhance our hotel’s services for autistic guests, showcasing a genuine concern for the well-being and comfort of all our guests. By prioritizing a welcoming and inclusive environment, we ensure that everyone feels valued and respected.

This designation not only elevates the reputation of The H Dubai and attracts a broader range of guests but also mirrors my personal values of honesty, care, and integrity. It’s a reflection of the values embraced by our entire team, underlining our dedication to providing exceptional experiences while staying true to our principles of inclusivity and compassion.

What inspired the idea of hosting iftar events for kids from the Dubai Autism Center and Georgetown Early Intervention Center?

The inspiration stemmed from various factors that naturally led us to this initiative. Last year as we were looking at partnering with an organisation to host an Iftar as part of our CSR initiatives, the altruistic spirit of a former employee who was actively involved in a biker association supporting autism awareness deeply influenced us. Additionally, my personal experiences during college, where I was also engaged in weekly activities supporting autism awareness, played a significant role.

Furthermore, the exceptional personality of Zahra Alijasmi from the Georgetown Early Intervention Center further solidified our decision. Zahra came to the hotel and provided a training and awareness session to all team members and seeing the number of colleagues who attended the training, we were certain that this is the right initiative that we as a team would like to support.

The timing was also crucial; when we were ready and equipped, the opportunity presented itself, aligning perfectly with our values and mission.

Combining these reasons, we organically decided to host an iftar event for children from Georgetown Early Intervention Centre as a testament to promote inclusivity and autism awareness. Building on this success, partnering with Dubai Autism Centre this year felt like a natural progression, allowing us to extend our support to children, their families, and the dedicated educational teams not just once, but twice. These events not only fostered a sense of togetherness but also provided a platform to celebrate Iftar joyfully and inclusively.

Based on your experiences, what key piece of advice would you give to leaders aiming to integrate CSR deeply into their business models?

The pivotal advice I would give is to ensure that CSR initiatives mirror the values and objectives of the organization. When CSR efforts align seamlessly with the company’s core beliefs and long-term aspirations, they gain depth and longevity. It’s crucial to integrate CSR into the overarching business strategy rather than treating it as a standalone entity. This involves ingraining CSR considerations into decision-making processes across all facets and departments of the organization.

Furthermore, engaging stakeholders is paramount. This includes employees, customers, suppliers, and local communities. Actively seek their input, involve them in decision-making processes, and maintain transparent communication regarding CSR initiatives to cultivate trust and garner support.

Collaboration is another key aspect. Partner with other organizations, NGOs, government bodies, and industry peers to amplify the impact of CSR endeavours. By pooling resources and expertise, companies can effectively address complex social and environmental challenges.

Lastly, recognize that meaningful change requires dedication and time. Be prepared to invest resources and effort into initiatives that hold the potential to create lasting positive impacts.

Among all the projects you’ve led at The H Dubai, which one resonates with you the most on a personal level?

The recent Art Exhibition and workshop with the Dubai Autism Center kids, orchestrated by the exceptionally talented Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke, and hosted at The H Dubai hotel to mark the World Autism Awareness Month, struck a chord with me on a profoundly personal level. It brought back memories of my own past experiences assisting autistic children with their studies in Normandy. Witnessing the transformative influence of creativity and human connection firsthand during this event left a lasting impact on me.

You recently held a World Tourism Day panel on inclusive tourism, so what was the purpose behind this discussion?

Since receiving the “First Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation” in Dubai, we have been actively looking for opportunities and ways to raise awareness and World Tourism Day was a perfect opportunity to cast a light on the topic. The panel aimed to raise awareness and foster understanding regarding the crucial integration of autism-friendly practices into the hospitality industry, with a specific emphasis on luxury 5-star hotels and beyond. The esteemed panel members comprised of thought leaders and mom’s who not only shared views on the future of industry but shared what is needed to achieve complete inclusive environment with first-hand experiences. It sought to underscore the advantages of offering inclusive services for individuals with autism and their families. Furthermore, the discussion aimed to provide actionable advice and insights for those interested in pursuing certification as autism-friendly destinations within the travel and entertainment sectors.

Looking ahead, what new CSR initiative are you most passionate about introducing at The H Dubai?

I’m excited about the prospect of introducing baking classes as a new CSR initiative, especially when tailored to include individuals on the autism spectrum. Our ongoing organization of both adult and children’s baking classes throughout the year, including private sessions, has been well-received. Given our highly experienced pastry team, I am confident that baking classes offer numerous benefits that align seamlessly with our values : such as skill enhancement, therapeutic value and social interaction.

I am also looking forward to the upcoming Vocational Training Programe that is currently being developed together with Dubai Autism Centre for the children at the centre. Under this program the hotel team will first provide vocational training to select students at DAC, following which the final aim is to then provide them with industry internship at the hotel grounds.

Quote: The hospitality industry is dynamic and ever-changing. Leaders must be adaptable and flexible, ready to pivot strategies, embrace new technologies, and respond swiftly to market trends and guest preferences.

Hospitality

MELIÁ DUBAI INTRODUCES GRILL BY ME: A SOPHISTICATED AL-FRESCO DINING EXPERIENCE

Published

29 minutes ago

November 17, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Grill by ME outdoor buffet station at ME by Meliá Dubai with fresh salads, grills, and interactive dining setup at poolside terrace

From the architectural icon that redefined Dubai’s skyline comes a new reason to linger after sunset. ME by Meliá Dubai, the visionary masterpiece and newly honoured with a One Key distinction by the MICHELIN Guide 2025 proudly unveils its latest culinary offering – Grill by ME.

A relaxed yet refined dining affair set beside the hotel’s striking pool terrace, Grill by ME offers guests an elevated open-air buffet where contemporary dining meets effortless style. Bringing together live grill stations, curated beats, and ME by Meliá Dubai’s signature modern energy, the new concept is designed for both intimate evenings and vibrant gatherings – a place to unwind, connect, and savour the city’s unmistakable atmosphere.

The menu celebrates simplicity with style, from fresh salads and handmade pasta to sizzling grills and decadent desserts, all prepared at interactive stations. Every element is thoughtfully curated to create a dining experience that feels relaxed, refined, and distinctly Dubai.

Priced at AED 180 per person including soft beverages, Grill by ME runs Monday to Sunday, from 7 PM to 10:30 PM, at the hotel’s pool terrace. Little foodies aged six to eleven dine at half price.

Recently awarded a One Key distinction by the MICHELIN Guide 2025, ME by Meliá Dubai continues to push boundaries in design, hospitality, and dining. As the only hotel in the world designed inside and out by Zaha Hadid, it remains one of the city’s most iconic destinations – where every detail, from architecture, ambience and service is a work of art.

Hospitality

SUN SIYAM IRU VELI GENERAL MANAGER MASDHOOQ SAEED HONOURED AS BEST GENERAL MANAGER – HOSPITALITY IN MALDIVES AT WORLD GM AWARDS 2025

Published

4 days ago

November 13, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Masdhooq Saeed receiving World GM Awards 2025 trophy on stage at hospitality awards ceremony

Sun Siyam Iru Veli proudly celebrates the achievement of its General Manager, Masdhooq Saeed, who has been awarded Best General Manager – Hospitality in Maldives at the World GM Awards 2025. This recognition is especially significant as he becomes the first Maldivian to receive this prestigious title, marking a milestone moment for both the resort and the nation’s hospitality industry.

Masdhooq’s journey is one of dedication, growth, and vision. Beginning his career in 2001 at the Front Office as a receptionist, he advanced through roles in reservations and villa hosting before moving into management. His steady rise was built on humility and hard work, leading him to join Sun Siyam in 2023 as the General Manager at Sun Siyam Iru Veli. Masdhooq has transformed the resort’s guest experience and strengthened its position as one of the Maldives’ most admired all-inclusive destinations. His forward-thinking leadership has led to remarkable results, from achieving an 8% revenue increase above target in 2024 to driving record-breaking occupancy levels of 90% in early 2025.

“Masdhooq’s achievement is a proud moment for all of us,” said Deepak Booneady, CEO of Sun Siyam. “His journey reflects the very essence of The Home of the Maldivian Spirit, built on passion, perseverance, and purpose. What sets him apart is not only his results, but his heart. He leads with empathy, empowers his team, and reminds us that true hospitality is about people first. We are incredibly proud to have him represent Sun Siyam and the Maldives on the global stage.”

A leader defined by empathy and purpose, Masdhooq is deeply committed to nurturing local talent, advancing sustainability, and cultivating a culture of inspired excellence. Through mentoring and leadership development, he has created opportunities for growth and empowerment across departments. He is dedicated to fostering a culture where excellence is inspired, always with the quiet belief that “anything is possible” and that “luxury is a feeling.”

The World GM Awards, also known as the Golden Tree Awards, recognise outstanding General Managers from across the globe for their exceptional leadership, innovation, and service excellence. Winners are selected through a rigorous evaluation process based on performance, guest satisfaction, and community engagement by an expert panel of hospitality professionals.

Hospitality

THE FUTURE IS SET FOR TOURISM’S NEXT ERA AS THE INAUGURAL TOURISE SUMMIT OPENS

Published

4 days ago

November 13, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Speaker in traditional Gulf attire presenting on stage with large blue "TOURISE" text backdrop

With the bold ambition to rewrite the rules of travel, the inaugural TOURISE Summit under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister was officially opened today by H.E. Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of TOURISE.

TOURISE ushers in a new era for global tourism, uniting ministers, delegates, and visionaries from around the world as the premier platform dedicated to shaping the future of global tourism.

Taking place from November 11-13, 2025, immediately following the 50th United Nations Tourism General Assembly, TOURISE is reimagining the way that sectors interact to find opportunities where competitors become partners where investments are optimized and where fragmented silos converge. The event aims to turn bold ideas into real-world solutions and catalyze transformative initiatives that will shape the next 50 years of the global tourism sector.

During his opening speech today, H.E. Ahmed Al Khateeb noted that there has never been a more urgent or opportune moment for convergence of sectors to shape global tourism, with the tourism sector having rebounded to historic highs, with international arrivals and investment surpassing pre-pandemic levels. However, he cautioned that at the same time, the sector faces unprecedented challenges and opportunities: rapid technological disruption, a generational shift toward sustainable and experience-driven travel, and an imperative to build resilience in the face of economic and environmental uncertainty and growing fragmentation around the globe.

His Excellency recognised that TOURISE has arrived at this inflection point, when the world is hungry for new models, new partnerships, and new solutions.

“TOURISE is more than an event, it is a platform for action where we will solve for the challenges all together that have long limited tourism’s full potential among them are challenges in skills, investment, infrastructure, sustainability, and digital transformation. It’s a space where we will work hand in hand to deliver the best outcomes for everyone: returns for investors; more accessible destinations and affordable experiences for travelers; jobs and prosperity for communities as the demand for travel increases. We are not here just to discuss ideas. We are here to act. That is why TOURISE exists.”

Over the course of its three days, TOURISE is set to host a number of key panels and talks featuring global leaders from across sectors. Notable global speakers include:

Ariane Gorin, CEO, Expedia
Ambassador Patricia Espinosa, Founder, onepoint5
Gloria Guevara, Interim CEO, World Travel & Tourism Council
Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Incoming Secretary General of UN Tourism
Luis Maroto, CEO, Amadeus
Francis Suarez, Mayor, Miami
Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports
Lucia Penrod, Co-Founder & Owner, Nikki Beach
Sébastien Bazin, CEO, Accor
Eduardo Santander, CEO, European Travel Commission (ETC)
Harvey Goldsmith CBE, Founder, Nvisible Productions
Thomas Woldbye, CEO, Heathrow Airport
Steve Hafner, Co-Founder & CEO, Kayak.com

The speaker line up showcases how TOURISE unites leaders from sectors rarely seen together, creating counterintuitive, boundary-breaking collaborations. These convergences are not just novel; they are the engine for new business models, improved traveler experiences, sustainable destination development and investment strategies that could only emerge from such a unique, multi-sector platform.

The Summit will cover the big questions redefining travel’s future from AI-powered experiences and frictionless borders to destination design, investment, and the race for tomorrow’s travelers, and transform them into action through high-powered ministerial dialogues, boardroom dialogues, main-stage keynotes and innovation showcases.

The winners of the very first TOURISE Awards will also be announced this evening, recognizing those places that exemplify destination excellence and cater to the evolving expectations of the modern traveler.

Powered by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, TOURISE is more than a three-day summit, it is an always-on, global platform. Crucially, the conversations sparked in Riyadh will continue year-round platform through collaboration and cross-sector partnerships, turning bold ideas into real-world solutions.