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The Ritz-Carlton: Inspiring Life’s Most Meaningful Journeys

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Exclusive interview with Christian Hoehn, GM, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

How does Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal align with the overall brand values of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company?

The Ritz-Carlton is synonymous with luxury, elegance, and unparalleled service. The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, embodies these brand values through its commitment to creating exceptional experiences that resonate with the rich legacy of the brand, making every moment ‘legendary’, ‘gracious’ and ‘inspiring’ to our guests. Situated in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the hotel mirrors the global reputation of The Ritz-Carlton while embracing the local culture and heritage, ensuring that every guest leaves with an indelible mark.

What unique aspects of The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal contribute to creating an unforgettable guest experience?

One of the unique aspects of The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, is its breathtaking architecture and design inspired by the Renaissance era, set against the stunning backdrop of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Both the tangible elements, such as the meticulously landscaped gardens and luxurious interiors, and the intangible aspects, like the hotel’s dedication to personalized service, work together to create an unforgettable guest experience. This dedication is evident in every interaction, from the signature Emirati warm welcome at check-in ‘Hayyakum’ to the attentive assistance provided throughout the stay.

The hotel offers a variety of dining experiences, from Afternoon Tea at Alba to The Tomahawk Experience at The Forge. How do you ensure that each dining event meets the highest standards of culinary excellence?

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, offers an array of dining experiences that cater to diverse palates. At Alba, guests can indulge in refined Afternoon Tea, enjoying an assortment of delicate pastries and fine teas in an elegant setting. For a more robust culinary adventure, The Forge presents The Tomahawk Experience, where diners can savor expertly prepared prime cuts of meat. Ensuring that each dining event meets the highest standards of culinary excellence involves meticulous attention to detail, from sourcing the finest ingredients to employing skilled chefs who bring creativity and passion to their craft. Each dish and the overall dining experience is crafted to perfection, reflecting the commitment to quality that defines The Ritz-Carlton brand.

How do you integrate the local culture and heritage of Abu Dhabi into the guest experience at the hotel?

Integrating the rich culture and heritage of Abu Dhabi into the guest experience is a cornerstone of The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal’s philosophy. Our team takes pride in embodying Emirati traditions to provide an authentic and enriching experience for our guests. From the moment guests arrive, they are greeted with a warm “Hayyakum” and offered traditional Emirati refreshments, including aromatic coffee and sweet dates. As a mark of respect and cultural appreciation, we always say farewell with “Fi-amaan-allah” and express our gratitude with “Shukran”.

Our commitment to showcasing Emirati culture extends to Mijana, our signature Middle Eastern restaurant, where guests can savor traditional Emirati dishes prepared with the finest local ingredients. This dining experience is a culinary journey through the region’s rich flavors and culinary heritage.

Additionally, our concierge team is always at hand to arrange local tours to significant landmarks. Guests can explore the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, and visit Wahat Al Karama, a timeless tribute honoring Emirati martyrs, located directly opposite the hotel. These tours provide guests with a deeper understanding of Abu Dhabi’s history and cultural significance.

By weaving these cultural elements into the fabric of our guest experiences, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, ensures that every stay is a journey of discovery and appreciation for the local heritage.

Happiness: a journey or a destination?

Happiness is certainly a journey – at The Ritz-Carlton, we inspire life’s most meaningful journeys in line with our brand vision. By creating memorable experiences and nurturing a sense of well-being, we aim to enhance every guest’s happiness. From our personalized service to luxurious amenities and cultural immersions, every aspect of our hotel is designed to foster joy from the beginning to the end. Ultimately, we strive to ensure that each guest leaves with cherished memories that last a lifetime.

Hospitality

Five Tips to Make Your Winter Dining Experiences Truly Unforgettable

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Dining Experiences

By Cory McLeod, Director of Events at Dish Catering

As the UAE embraces its much-anticipated winter season, there’s no better time to celebrate the festive spirit than by dining under the stars. With cooler evenings and stunning open-air venues, outdoor gatherings have become a quintessential way to mark the holiday season. From elegant al fresco dinners to casual garden parties, the magic of dining outdoors adds a unique charm to every celebration.

This year, outdoor dining is about more than just food—it’s about creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Whether it’s the warmth of string lights in a cosy courtyard, a rooftop terrace overlooking the city, or a desert escape surrounded by sand dunes, the UAE’s diverse landscapes offer endless inspiration for the perfect outdoor location. For many, the joy of hosting lies in the little details, from beautifully set tables adorned with seasonal décor to menus that combine traditional festive flavours with a modern twist.

As the food scene in the UAE has evolved to embrace these outdoor experiences, local caterers are rising to the occasion, crafting menus that balance tradition and innovation. Take a classic Christmas dinner, for example. It’s no longer just about turkey and stuffing; festive menus now embrace a wide range of culinary influences, reflecting the diverse tastes and dietary preferences of the UAE’s multicultural community. At the heart of these experiences is the ability to personalise the feast, whether hosting an intimate family dinner or a corporate holiday event.

For those planning large-scale gatherings, the convenience of seamless organisation has become a game-changer. Digital-first approaches are transforming the way events are planned, particularly in corporate settings. Platforms like blastcatering.com enable businesses to customise menus with ease, ensuring that every detail—down to the last dessert—is perfectly tailored to their needs. This level of innovation makes it easier than ever to plan outdoor office parties or client appreciation events that leave a lasting impression.

On the other hand, for private celebrations, attention to the dining experience is paramount. With the likes of Dish Catering, its expertise in curating high-end seasonal menus has become synonymous with luxury outdoor dining in the UAE. By bringing festive flavours to life in spectacular open-air settings, the focus of these caterers is always on delivering dishes that not only taste exquisite but also elevate the overall experience of dining outdoors.

This festive season, outdoor dining is more than just a trend—it’s a celebration of togetherness, creativity, and the beauty of winter in the UAE. With this in mind, here are five tips to make your winter dining experience truly unforgettable—whether you’re hosting at home or planning an office event:

1. Set the Scene with Thoughtful Décor

Transform the outdoor space into a festive haven with a mix of seasonal and natural décor. Fairy lights, lanterns, and candles can create a warm, inviting glow, while table settings featuring greenery, pinecones, and rustic accents will add a touch of winter charm. Personal touches like handwritten place cards or custom menus can elevate the atmosphere and make guests feel special.

2. Serve Seasonal Delights with a Twist

While classics like roasts and mince pies are always a hit, consider offering dishes with a creative twist to surprise guests. Expertly crafted menus can balance festive traditions with innovative flavours, ensuring every bite is a conversation starter. For corporate events, tailored dishes catering to diverse preferences will leave a lasting impression.

3. Keep Guests Warm and Comfortable

Even in the UAE’s mild winter, evenings can get chilly. Provide soft blankets, portable heaters, or fire pits to keep everyone cosy. Offer warm drinks like spiced apple cider, hot chocolate, or mulled beverages as guests arrive to set a welcoming tone and keep spirits high.

4. Add Interactive Elements

Make the gathering even more memorable with interactive live stations, where guests can watch their meals being freshly prepared and personalise dishes to their taste. For an immersive dining experience, live stations bring culinary theatre to life, offering a vibrant range of cuisines to suit every palate. From Latin American and Adriatic flavours to Iberian, American, Asian, and sizzling grill options, these stations add a touch of excitement and sophistication to any event. This dynamic dining experience not only enhances the atmosphere but also creates a unique connection between the food and your guests.

5. Plan for Seamless Dining

For stress-free hosting, opt for dining options that combine convenience with elegance. Whether it’s a buffet-style setup encouraging a relaxed communal vibe, a Carvery Menu that brings hearty favourites to life, a Family-Style Feast designed for sharing and connection, or an elegant Sit-Down Dinner for a more refined experience, the right choice can elevate your event. Effortless coordination is key to making your event shine, and innovation plays a vital role in streamlining the process. For corporate or larger-scale gatherings, platforms that offer digital menu customisation and easy ordering can simplify planning, ensuring every detail is perfectly tailored. With solutions like tech-forward ordering platforms, even the most complex events can run smoothly, allowing you to focus on creating lasting memories. Combining these dining options with seamless organisation ensures an enjoyable experience for both hosts and guests, making your festive celebration truly unforgettable.

Whether you’re gathering with loved ones around a rustic dining table in your garden or hosting a sophisticated soirée on a city rooftop, the possibilities for creating magical moments are boundless. So, embrace the season, savour the flavours, and let the great outdoors set the stage for your most memorable festive celebrations yet.

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Hospitality

The State of Hotel Sales, Marketing, and Revenue Optimization Talent

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HSMAI

How do you meet the needs of multigenerational workforces? How is the rise of the gig economy and fractional staffing models changing talent sourcing? How do you retain tomorrow’s leaders? How do you unlock the full potential of AI in your organization?

These questions, and many more pieces of the hospitality industry’s talent puzzle, will be discussed at this year’s HSMAI Middle East & Africa Commercial Strategy Conference, taking place on 26-27 November at Conrad Dubai.

Jason Smith, Vice President Marketing Communications at HSMAI, will be decoding new talent dynamics with a deep dive into the HSMAI Foundation’s State of Talent Report 2024, authored by industry expert Dorothy Dowling, and reveal the biggest challenges facing the industry. The report will jumpstart one of the key content tracks at this year’s conference – human capital.

Structured around nine key trends, the annual report investigates issues such as the impact of the 65+ workforce, managing 4-generation talent pools, transforming employee engagement, leveraging AI for productivity, emotional wellness, cross functional teamwork, culture-defining leadership, and gig and fractional talent models.

“Significant developments and emerging shifts are impacting talent within hospitality. In this report, we shine a light on the implications for the industry’s recruitment and retention strategies. We dive into the trends influencing human capital, particularly in sales, marketing, and revenue optimization, and present actionable strategies for creating inclusive, dynamic and forward-thinking workplace environments”, said Jason Smith, Vice President Marketing Communications, HSMAI.

In the lead up to the conference we asked regional industry leaders about their human capital strategies and the opportunities and challenges they see when it comes to talent attraction and retention.

“In a business where people serve people, it is fundamental to lead with culture and understand what team members need to thrive,” said Marie-Louise Ek, Vice President Human Resources – Middle East & Africa, Hilton. “At Hilton, we are committed to building an inclusive workplace driven by purpose, that offers team members opportunities to grow and feel empowered. This requires curiosity, creativity, and the ability to connect every team member to our purpose. We know that every job makes the stay and happy and engaged team members drive our customer experience as well as benefit our owners and the communities where we operate.” Marie-Louise Ek will be hosting one of the Lightening Rounds at the conference titled: ‘Unlocking Successful Commercial Collaboration: The People-First Approach.’

“At Jumeirah we value our people as our greatest asset, fostering an inclusive and empowering workplace where every colleague feels valued and inspired. Committed to career growth, creativity and exceptional standards, we support team success, motivating our people to deliver outstanding service, contribute to communities, and grow as future leaders,” said Jaime Simpson, General Manager Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, who will be hosting a Lightening Round on ‘The Evolving Workplace’ at this year’s conference.

The comprehensive report concludes that the future of the hospitality industry will likely be a combination of advanced technology and the human touch, delivering exceptional experiences for customers and fostering a supportive work environment for employees.

“Now more than ever, sales professionals are looking for work/life balance, and culture is one of the most important deciding factors in choosing their next employer,” states Tammy Gillis, Sales Industry Expert in the report. “Many salespeople are tired of working on property and getting pulled into operations and want full-time remote or hybrid remote positions. They also value training, coaching, and support which the hotel industry does not consistently provide.”

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Hospitality

Role and impact of exhibitions like Air Expo Abu Dhabi in shaping future of aviation

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aviation

By Shubhra Bhardwaj, Member of Air Expo Organising Committee, Founder & Creative Director of Ferriswheel International

The aviation industry has always been a catalyst for global connectivity and innovation. From the golden age of propeller planes to modern jets and other cutting-edge advancements in aerospace technologies today, aviation has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into an industry that plays a fundamental role in connecting the world.

At the heart of this evolution are exhibitions like Air Expo Abu Dhabi that act as engines for growth, innovation, and collaboration, providing a platform for exchanging ideas that shape the future of aviation.

Air Expo Abu Dhabi: Catalyst for Aviation’s Future

Since its inception, Air Expo has emerged as a pivotal platform for driving innovation and fostering collaboration within the global aviation industry. This year, the Air Expo Abu Dhabi contributed significantly to solidifying the UAE’s leading position in the global aviation landscape. By bringing together industry leaders, experts, and policymakers, as well as facilitating aviation discussions and advancing innovative projects, the event played an instrumental role in strengthening the UAE’s as well as Abu Dhabi’s position in the aviation landscape.

The UAE has embraced a number of new initiatives, including air mobility and advanced pilot training programmes, in line with its commitment to fostering technological advancement, sustainability and innovation in aviation. By establishing the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, the country aims to position itself as a global leader in smart mobility.

The Air Expo 2024 played a crucial role in showcasing UAE’s progress in this area. The event featured hosting a high-level conference on Advanced Air Mobility, highlighting the potential of electric and autonomous aircraft to revolutionise the future of transportation. Additionally, the unveiling of the first UAE-made electric aircraft, developed in Abu Dhabi, marked a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to develop sustainable aviation solutions. Through these initiatives, the UAE, particularly Abu Dhabi, is not only shaping the future of aviation but also contributing to a more sustainable and innovative world.

Abu Dhabi’s role in the aviation sector extends beyond infrastructure and innovation. The Emirate has solidified its position as a global aviation hub, driving innovation and fostering partnerships with industry leaders. By embracing cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, Abu Dhabi is setting new standards for future-ready aviation and attracting significant investments to the MENA region.

Abu Dhabi is rapidly emerging as a global aviation hub, driven by its world-class infrastructure and innovative approach to air travel. The Emirate’s investment in cutting-edge airports, such as the new Abu Dhabi International Airport, has significantly enhanced its global connectivity. Abu Dhabi is also at the forefront of aviation innovation, with a focus on advanced technologies like cargo logistics and urban air mobility.

Sustainability in Aviation

Sustainability was another key theme highlighted by the Air Expo 2024. The event emphasised the importance of sustainability in aviation, with discussions on reducing carbon emissions and adopting eco-friendly technologies. Furthermore, the event itself demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability by implementing various eco-friendly measures, such as reducing waste, minimising energy consumption, and offsetting carbon emissions. The event also features paperless operations, including digital registration and e-catalogues.

One of the major reasons for the event to adopt these measures was the recognition that the future of aviation hinges on sustainability and relentless efforts to reduce its overall environmental impact. The event served as a catalyst for promoting sustainable aviation. Sustainability is a critical imperative within the aviation industry. Currently, electric and hybrid aircrafts are emerging as promising solutions for a greener future.

Abu Dhabi is committed to shaping a sustainable future for aviation. By championing the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and investing in carbon-neutral green airport infrastructure, the Emirate reinforces its dedication to environmental responsibility and sustainability. These efforts align with the UAE’s broader goals of achieving net-zero emissions and securing a greener future for the generations to come.

Emerging Trends in Aviation

In addition to a comprehensive static display of aircraft, the Expo showcased the latest in aerospace technology, including advanced air mobility solutions and sustainable aviation practices, as well as emerging trends in aviation.

At present, the transformation within the aviation industry is majorly driven by three key trends – digitisation, eCommerce, and sustainability.

Digitisation – AI and big data analytics are revolutionising aviation operations. From optimising flight routes to enhancing security measures, these technologies are driving efficiency and innovation. Additionally, autonomous systems, including drones and unmanned cargo vehicles, are reshaping the future of logistics and urban mobility.

E-Commerce – The surge in online shopping has fuelled demand for efficient cargo logistics solutions. Abu Dhabi’s strategic location and advanced freight infrastructure and systems position it as a global hub for seamless eCommerce operations.

Sustainability – As the world shifts toward greener solutions, the aviation industry is embracing sustainable practices. Airlines and airports are investing in biofuels, reducing carbon emissions, and adopting renewable energy sources to minimise their environmental impact.

Leadership in Diversity and Empowerment

In an effort to highlight the increasing role of women in the aviation industry and promote gender diversity and inclusion, the Air Expo also hosted a conference titled ‘Women in Aviation Middle East’. This conference was attended by Her Highness Sheikha Rawda bint Al Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Member of the UAE Children’s Parliament and the Parliament Committee on Environmental Affairs and Sustainability.

The UAE’s commitment to diversity and empowerment was emphasised through this conference. It set forth an ideal opportunity to promote the contributions of women in aviation and inspire more participation in the industry from newer generations of women. It also emphasised that enhancing inclusivity and representation will present new perspectives, drive innovation, and advance the growth of aviation sector.

Abu Dhabi is actively fostering a thriving aviation ecosystem by promoting innovation and supporting startups and incubators. This strategic approach positions the Emirate as a global hub for aviation excellence. Aligned with the UAE’s Vision 2030, Abu Dhabi continues to lead the region in aviation training solutions.

With advancements in technology, a focus on sustainability, and a commitment to enriching passenger experiences, Abu Dhabi’s aviation industry is poised for a transformative growth. From AI-powered operations to electric and automated aircrafts, the future of aviation is both exciting and challenging. By embracing innovation, prioritising sustainability, investing in advanced air mobility, and fostering a skilled workforce, Abu Dhabi is solidifying its position as a global aviation hub.

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