Hospitality
The State of Hotel Sales, Marketing, and Revenue Optimization Talent
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.”
Hospitality
RAMADAN STAYCATION OFFER AT ADDRESS HOTELS + RESORTS AND PALACE HOTELS
Celebrate Ramadan at Address Hotels + Resorts – 25 Percent Off Stays with Curated Iftar Experiences

As the holy month unfolds, Address Hotels + Resorts and Palace Hotels + Resorts invite guests to step into a Ramadan defined by stillness, intention, and refined indulgence. Thoughtfully curated to honour the spirit of the season, the Ramadan Exclusive with Iftar offers a graceful balance of reflection, togetherness, and contemporary luxury.
Spanning a distinguished collection of city, waterfront, and coastal retreats, the experience is available across Address Downtown, Address Dubai Mall, Palace Downtown, Address Sky View, Address Creek Harbour, Palace Dubai Creek Harbour, Address Beach Resort Fujairah, and Palace Beach Resort Fujairah. Each destination reflects a different expression of Ramadan, from the vibrant rhythm of the city to the calm elegance of the coast.
In the heart of Downtown Dubai, Address Downtown, Address Dubai Mall and Address Sky View offer an elevated urban retreat, where sweeping skyline views, iconic architecture, and seamless access to the city’s most celebrated landmarks create an atmosphere of understated sophistication. As daylight fades, the city’s energy softens, giving way to intimate evenings shaped by the quiet rhythm of Ramadan.
A short walk away, Palace Downtown presents a more tranquil expression of luxury. Defined by palatial Arabian architecture, serene waterways, and views of the Dubai Fountain, the hotel becomes a sanctuary of calm, inviting guests to unwind and reconnect after Iftar in an environment that feels both grand and deeply personal.
Along the peaceful waters of the Creek, Address Creek Harbour and Palace Dubai Creek Harbour offer a sense of escape marked by open skies, gentle promenades, and waterfront serenity. Here, time slows naturally, allowing guests to embrace the contemplative nature of the season while surrounded by refined comfort.
For a coastal retreat, Address Beach Resort Fujairah and Palace Beach Resort Fujairah offer a secluded Ramadan experience where the sound of the sea and dramatic mountain backdrops frame reflective mornings and indulgent evenings. Designed for meaningful moments, these destinations allow guests to gather, reflect, and savour the quieter beauty of the holy month.
Thoughtfully designed with flexibility in mind, the Ramadan Exclusive with Iftar invites guests to slow down and reconnect in settings where every detail speaks to comfort, elegance, and intention.
Available for stays from 18 February to 18 March 2026, this special offer ensures a family getaway filled with elegance, excitement, and comfort. Guests can enjoy exclusive tier-based savings by booking directly through the Address Hotels + Resorts website.
Ramadan Staycation Experiences at Address Hotels Resorts
Discover luxurious Ramadan offers at Address Hotels with curated iftars, suhoors, and serene retreats. Ramadan Dining Offers at Address Hotels + Resorts and Palace Hotels.
Address Downtown
IFTAR AT CETARA

As evening descends over Downtown Dubai, Cetara at Address Downtown becomes a luminous retreat for Ramadan. Framed by the iconic Burj Khalifa, the restaurant invites guests to dine indoors in refined elegance or under the open sky on its chic terrace, where soft lights and serene surroundings set the stage for a truly memorable Iftar. Every moment is suffused with warmth and hospitality, creating an atmosphere that feels intimate yet effortlessly grand.
The culinary journey at Cetara features a generous buffet of traditional Arabic flavours and refreshing beverages, thoughtfully curated to delight every sense. From the first sip to the last bite, the evening unfolds as a celebration of togetherness and tradition, where each dish, each detail, and each shared moment transforms Ramadan at Address Downtown into an experience of connection, grace, and enduring sophistication.
Venue: Cetara, Address Downtown
Time: Throughout Ramadan, | Sunset to 9:00 PM
SUHOOR AT ADDRESS DOWNTOWN

As the city slows and the night deepens over Downtown Dubai, The Garden and Lobby Lounge offers a serene escape for Suhoor, where gentle lighting, leafy surroundings, and elegant interiors create an atmosphere of calm sophistication. This adults-only retreat invites guests to unwind, reflect, and connect in a space designed for quiet moments during the Holy Month, surrounded by the understated luxury of Address Downtown.
The evening features a thoughtfully curated special à la carte menu, showcasing nourishing dishes crafted to sustain and energise the body for the day of fasting ahead. Here, Suhoor becomes more than a late-night meal. It is an intimate experience of mindfulness and grace, where culinary care, tranquil surroundings, and attentive hospitality come together to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan in one of Downtown Dubai’s most distinguished settings.
Venue: The Garden & Lobby Lounge, Address Downtown
Time: Throughout Ramadan, 10:00pm onwards
Address Dubai Mall
IFTAR AT SOLARA

As the sun dips behind the Dubai skyline, Solara at Address Dubai Mall emerges as a vibrant yet refined destination for Ramadan evenings, with captivating views that frame the Burj Khalifa and the city’s shimmering pulse. Known for its effortless blend of boho‑luxe style and cosmopolitan energy, Solara’s setting invites guests to gather in an environment where light, laughter, and shared moments take centre stage, making every Iftar feel both elevated and inviting.
The refined Ramadan Iftar experience unfolds with a lavish buffet of carefully curated flavours and complimented by sharing-style main courses, thoughtfully composed to celebrate both tradition and contemporary dining. Live performances add a sense of warmth, enhancing the elegant atmosphere and encouraging connection in every shared moment. Solara brings together its signature spirit of conviviality and breathtaking views, offering a distinctive setting for meaningful gatherings throughout the Holy Month.
Venue: Solara, Address Dubai Mall
Time: Throughout Ramadan, Sunset to 9:00pm
SUHOOR AT SOLARA

As the city slows and the night takes on a tranquil glow, Solara at Address Dubai Mall becomes a refined haven for Suhoor. Elegant interiors, soft lighting, and a warm Ramadan ambiance create a welcoming space for families, couples, and groups to gather. With every detail designed to offer comfort and sophistication, the lounge encourages quiet reflection and meaningful conversation amidst the vibrant rhythm of Downtown Dubai.
Guests can enjoy a thoughtfully curated set menu, blending traditional favourites with contemporary dishes, all enhanced by the soothing melodies of a live Oud player. This serene late-night experience transforms Suhoor into more than a meal, offering a moment of calm, connection, and shared joy that embodies the spirit of the Holy Month.
Venue: Solara, Address Dubai Mall
Time: Throughout Ramadan, 10:00pm onwards
SUHOOR AT THE PATISSERIE

As the night settles gently over Downtown Dubai, The Patisserie at Address Dubai Mall offers a refined and intimate Suhoor experience, designed for relaxed late-night gatherings during the Holy Month. Overlooking the vibrant cityscape, the setting blends understated elegance with a warm Ramadan ambiance, creating a welcoming space for quiet conversation, reflection, and shared moments.
Guests are invited to enjoy a thoughtfully curated set menu featuring a selection of hot and cold appetisers, complemented by a soft beverage and shisha. From hazelnut hummus with smoked olive oil and vibrant vegetable crudités to crushed caramelised butter squash with dukkha spice, smoky batenjan mutabbal, shrimp croquettes, and crispy zucchini with tzatziki, each dish is crafted for balance, flavour, and comfort late into the night. The experience is ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet elevated Suhoor in the heart of Downtown Dubai.
Venue: The Patisserie, Address Dubai Mall
Time: Throughout Ramadan, 10:00pm onwards
Address Creek Harbour
IFTAR AT LUMA POOL LOUNGE

Set against the shimmering waters of Dubai Creek Harbour, Luma Pool Lounge at Address Creek Harbour offers a relaxed yet sophisticated setting for Ramadan Iftar. Framed by the gentle glow of the pool and the surrounding skyline, the lounge creates an inviting atmosphere for families, local residents, and corporate groups to gather and share meaningful moments. With its contemporary design and tranquil waterfront views, Luma Pool Lounge offers a sense of calm and connection amidst the energy of the city.
Guests can enjoy a thoughtfully curated Iftar buffet, designed for ease and enjoyment throughout the Holy Month. The evening encourages guests to unwind, connect, and savour every moment, making Ramadan at Luma Pool Lounge not just a meal, but a celebration of togetherness and conviviality in one of Dubai Creek Harbour’s most distinguished settings.
Venue: Luma Pool Lounge, Address Creek Harbour
Time: Throughout Ramadan, Sunset to 9:00pm
SUHOOR AT LUMA POOL LOUNGE

Under the night sky at Luma Pool Lounge, Address Creek Harbour, Suhoor takes on a serene, refined character. Framed by tranquil waters and softly lit surroundings, the lounge offers a peaceful setting where guests can gather, relax, and enjoy the calm of late-night Ramadan dining. With its contemporary design and waterfront views, the venue provides an intimate yet inviting atmosphere for the local community, residents, and corporate groups alike.
The evening unfolds around a carefully curated à la carte menu, where timeless flavours are reimagined through contemporary culinary expression. In this tranquil setting, Suhoor becomes more than a meal. It is a moment of reflection, connection, and quiet indulgence, where the spirit of Ramadan is celebrated by the water in one of Dubai Creek Harbour’s most distinguished locations.
Venue: Luma Pool Lounge, Address Creek Harbour
Time: Throughout Ramadan | 10:30pm to 1:00am
Palace Downtown
IFTAR EXPERIENCE AT EWAAN

Set within the palatial surroundings of Palace Downtown, Ewaan embodies refined grandeur, where sweeping arches, intricate detailing, and Arabian inspired interiors create a setting perfectly attuned to the spirit of Ramadan. This season, Ramadan evenings unfold within a thoughtfully reimagined dining concept, where heritage is celebrated through space, ritual, and culinary artistry, accompanied by the gentle melodies of oud music that set a calm and reverent tone.
Ramadan at Ewaan is a culinary journey rooted in generosity and tradition, presenting a contemporary interpretation of classic Ottoman and regional flavours. It begins with traditional Ramadan juices, freshly baked Arabic breads, and a rotating selection of classic soups, anchored by the restaurant’s signature lentil soup as a warm and welcoming prelude. The journey continues through abundant displays of traditional mezze and vibrant salads, alongside international selections, chilled seafood, and hot mezze. Guests are invited to interactive live cooking stations, from shawarma and manakish to grill and carving stations showcasing premium meats and seafood, before the evening concludes with an impressive dessert showcase of classic Arabic sweets and rotating international confections. Designed for sharing meaningful moments with family and loved ones, Ramadan at Ewaan is a celebration of heritage, abundance, and enduring elegance.
Venue: Ewaan, Palace Downtown
Time: Throughout Ramadan, Sunset to 9:00pm
SUHOOR GATHERING AT EWAAN

Beneath the gentle glow of palace chandeliers, Ewaan, Palace Downtown transforms into an intimate sanctuary of Ottoman elegance. The air is filled with the soft, enchanting strains of oud melodies, while the grandeur of sweeping arches and intricate detailing frames a serene space for guests to relax, connect, and share quiet moments with family and loved ones.
Guests are invited to indulge in a generous buffet of traditional Ottoman specialities, complemented by live cooking stations and decadent desserts. Every element of the evening is designed to elevate Suhoor into a memorable experience, blending culinary artistry, heritage, and meaningful connection in one of Dubai’s most distinguished settings.
Venue: Ewaan, Palace Downtown
Time: Throughout Ramadan, 10:00pm onwards
Palace Dubai Creek Harbour
CURATED SUHOOR AT AL BAYT

The quiet charm of Al Bayt, Palace Dubai Creek Harbour makes Suhoor a moment to slow down and savour the night. Framed by the gentle shimmer of the creek, the restaurant offers a relaxed and inviting space where families, friends, and residents can gather to enjoy meaningful late-night moments. Live oud melodies fill the air, creating an atmosphere that is calm, welcoming, and deeply evocative of Ramadan.
Guests can explore a carefully curated à la carte menu while enjoying optional shisha, allowing each evening to unfold at a leisurely pace. From the serene waterfront views to the elegant presentation of every dish, Suhoor at Al Bayt offers a sensory, immersive experience that celebrates connection, reflection, and the spirit of the Holy Month in a setting that is unmistakably its own.
Venue: Al Bayt, Palace Dubai Creek Harbour
Time: Throughout Ramadan | 9:30PM to 1:00PM
CURATED IFTAR AT ORME OSTERIA

As night falls at Palace Dubai Creek Harbour, Orme Osteria reveals a more indulgent expression of Iftar, where elegance and generosity unfold in equal measure. The setting is warm and composed, inviting guests into an evening shaped by quiet sophistication, soft light, and the unspoken pleasure of coming together during Ramadan.
The experience centres on an elegant buffet, complemented by traditional Arabic beverages and presented with a sense of refinement that encourages lingering. Each moment is designed to be savoured at an unhurried pace, creating a polished yet welcoming atmosphere where Iftar becomes a ritual of connection, indulgence, and understated luxury.
Venue: Orme Osteria, Palace Dubai Creek Harbour
Time: Throughout Ramadan| Sunset to 9:00 PM
CURATED SUHOOR AT ORME OSTERIA

At the quietest hours of the night, Palace Dubai Creek Harbour takes on a softer, more intimate glow, and Orme Osteria transforms into a haven of reflection and indulgence. Suhoor here is not simply a meal but a carefully curated experience, where gentle lighting, the stillness of the late hour, and the warmth of the setting create a memory that lingers.
Guests are invited to savour a meticulously crafted set menu, thoughtfully composed to nourish and delight. Within Orme Osteria’s refined surroundings, Suhoor becomes a celebration of quiet luxury, a pause for connection, comfort, and culinary excellence as the night unfolds.
Venue: Orme Osteria, Palace Dubai Creek Harbour
Time: Throughout Ramadan| 9:30 PM to 1:00 AM
Hospitality
HOUSE OF ELEGANZA UNVEILS THE RAMADAN COLLECTION
As global silver prices continue their steady rise and conversations around value shift toward meaningful ownership, House of Eleganza announces the launch of The Ramadan Collection — a refined new series that reclaims silver as the most thoughtful gift of the season.
Rooted in centuries of cultural tradition, silver has long symbolised prosperity, protection, and celebration. From marking milestones to honouring distinguished guests, it has carried both emotional and material worth. In an era of fleeting trends and disposable gifting, silver stands apart — enduring in beauty, utility, and legacy.
Founded in Dubai and inspired by Europe’s great silversmithing traditions, House of Eleganza approaches silver not as an accessory, but as a language of elegance — one that tells stories of heritage, craftsmanship, and intentional living.
A Celebration of the Crescent
Launching ahead of the holy month and Eid, The Ramadan Collection is a sculptural tribute to reflection, generosity, and new beginnings. At its centre is the Crescent Moon Platter — an elegant statement piece inspired by the symbolic glow of the moon during the holy month.
Available in hammered silver, high-polish finishes, and intricate variations featuring Arabic calligraphy and geometric arabesque motifs, each piece is designed to live beautifully across occasions — whether as the focal point of an Iftar table, a gesture of appreciation for a valued business associate, or an heirloom passed down through generations.

Craftsmanship Meets Enduring Value
Every House of Eleganza creation is hallmarked and certified, crafted by master European silversmiths using time-honoured techniques. As consumers increasingly prioritise conscious purchasing, silver offers a rare duality: aesthetic refinement paired with tangible, appreciating value.
“Ramadan is a time of connection and generosity,” says Harrishma Kapur, Founder & Creative Director of House of Eleganza. “With this collection, we wanted to translate the symbolism of the moon into silver pieces that feel soulful, meaningful, and timeless — gifts that truly last.”
As gifting becomes more intentional and silver continues to appreciate globally, The Ramadan Collection arrives at a moment when tradition and modern living intersect seamlessly. Because the most beautiful gifts are not just received — they are remembered.
Hospitality
JOE’S CAFÉ DUBAI ELEVATES THE RAMADAN EXPERIENCE WITH ICONIC BURJ KHALIFA VIEWS
This Ramadan, Joe’s Café Dubai invites guests to gather for a moment of togetherness in one of the city’s most elegant dining settings. Nestled within Fashion Avenue at Dubai Mall and overlooking the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain, Joe’s Café presents a luxury Iftar experience that blends British heritage with the warmth and spirit of Ramadan.
Built around the theme of “A Moment of Togetherness”, the Ramadan experience at Joe’s Café is thoughtfully designed for families, friends, and corporate groups to break their fast at sunset. The specially curated Iftar menu reimagines British classics with Ramadan warmth, featuring a selection of premium and balanced flavours.
Joe’s Café’s specially curated Ramadan Iftar menu is priced at AED 320 per person and showcases a refined selection of signature dishes designed for both comfort and indulgence.
Guests can begin with warming lentil soup, followed by starters such as Calamari Fritti or a fresh Avocado Quinoa Salad. The main course highlights include the slow-baked Lamb Shank served with aromatic lamb rice and yoghurt, perfectly grilled salmon with pea purée and ratatouille, garlic-flavoured grilled chicken with steak fries, and the much-loved Risotto Al Mare featuring calamari, prawns, and hammour in Joe’s signature pink sauce. Traditional Ramadan beverages including Jallab, tamarind, mixed dates and dry apricot drinks complement the experience.
As the call to prayer marks the end of the day, guests are welcomed into an atmosphere of refined comfort, attentive service, and understated luxury, where Iftar feels both elevated and familiar. With its fashion-heritage roots, skyline views, and lifestyle-led dining philosophy, Joe’s Café Dubai stands out as a must-visit Ramadan destination for those seeking an Iftar that is both culturally resonant and luxuriously composed.
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