Hospitality
Adapting to Consumer Shifts with GMG’s Strategic Vision
Exclusive Interview with Roy Nasrallah, VP of Marketing, GMG

With GMG overseeing a diverse portfolio across multiple sectors, how do you ensure each brand maintains its unique identity while aligning with the broader company vision?
At GMG, we believe in nurturing the distinct character of each brand while staying true to our overarching commitment to quality, innovation, and consumer-centric growth. Our approach starts with data-driven insights: we collect and analyze consumer feedback and market trends specific to each sector, ensuring our brand teams understand the nuances of their audience. From there, we encourage each brand to use these insights to craft unique strategies, while still adhering to group-wide principles such as a focus on well-being, sustainability, and community engagement. By championing open communication between different brand teams and the broader leadership, we strike a balance—preserving the individual brand’s personality yet ensuring all efforts contribute to GMG’s long-term vision.
In 2024, Farm Fresh introduced the ‘Shnax’ sub-brand for Zillennials. What was the motivation behind tapping into this space with a healthier snacking option?
The idea for Shnax emerged from a deep dive into changing consumer behaviors among Gen Z and younger millennials—what we like to call the “Zillennials.” Our research showed that this demographic was looking for snack products that balanced fun, flavor, and health. We noticed a significant gap in the market for products that met these three criteria in one offering. Shnax is our response: a range of convenient, tasty, and better-for-you snacks that cater to a generation wary of traditional junk food but unwilling to compromise on flavor. We see it as an evolution in snacking—meeting the consumer where they’re at today, and anticipating where they’ll be tomorrow.
The ‘Ultra Crispy’ range was created with the gaming community in mind. What insights drove this decision, and how did the team tailor the product to suit this niche?
We’ve been closely observing the meteoric rise of the gaming sector—once a niche pastime, it has grown into a worldwide cultural phenomenon. Through consumer analytics, we discovered that gamers often want convenient, shareable snacks that don’t interfere with gameplay (less mess, easy to eat). The ‘Ultra Crispy’ range was developed to fulfill these exact needs. Our product research and development teams worked collaboratively with consumer panels of casual gamers, streamers, and e-sports enthusiasts to refine everything from flavor profiles to packaging design. This approach ensured that not only does the product taste great, but it’s also practical for long gaming sessions. Ultimately, ‘Ultra Crispy’ is a testament to how we at GMG adapt existing product lines—or create entirely new ones—based on emerging cultural trends and in-depth consumer insights.
Leading a high-performance marketing team across multiple markets is no small feat. What principles guide your leadership style?
My philosophy revolves around three core principles: empowerment, diversity, and accountability. First, I believe in empowering team members to take ownership of their projects. When individuals feel trusted and supported, they’re more likely to bring fresh ideas and push creative boundaries. Second, I prioritize building a diverse team. Different backgrounds, skill sets, and perspectives lead to well-rounded decision-making and more inclusive campaigns. Finally, accountability is key. We rely on data-driven metrics and well-defined objectives so every team member understands how their role contributes to the bigger picture. By fostering a culture of open communication and recognition, we create an environment where high performance thrives naturally and consistently.
With GMG’s broad reach, how do you evaluate which categories or consumer trends to invest in next?
We rely heavily on data and analytics to shape our investment decisions. First, we track macro trends: shifts in consumer lifestyle, health considerations, and economic indicators that suggest emerging areas of opportunity. Then we layer in industry-specific insights—from analyzing competitor landscapes to engaging with retailers about shelf performance. Importantly, we also keep an ear to the ground through social listening tools and direct feedback channels, allowing us to gauge real-time consumer sentiment. Once we gather these insights, our cross-functional teams—spanning R&D, marketing, and finance—evaluate potential product or category expansions against GMG’s strategic objectives, such as sustainability, affordability, or premiumization. If a new opportunity aligns with our long-term vision and demonstrates strong consumer demand, we commit resources to explore it further.
What are some of the biggest shifts you’re seeing in food preferences across the region, and how is GMG adapting to meet these evolving needs?
Over the last few years, we’ve witnessed a convergence of health-consciousness and convenience across nearly every demographic. Consumers are increasingly interested in clean labels, functional foods, and nutritious snacks—but they also need those products to be easily accessible. Recognizing that beverages are the second-fastest growing category after snacking, we recently announced BePerly Vitamin Water—our foray into the healthy beverage space—catering to consumers who want both hydration and wellness in one offering. By listening to our consumers and closely tracking real-time market data, we adapt quickly to these shifts, ensuring GMG stays aligned with the most current lifestyle preferences.
Hospitality
Al Bustan Centre & Residence concludes successful participation at Arabian Travel Market 2026
Al Bustan Centre & Residence concluded a successful participation at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026, where it connected with travel industry partners and explored new business opportunities across the GCC, Europe, CIS, Asia and other international markets.
During the exhibition, the established Dubai hotel apartment property held productive discussions with tour operators, destination management companies, travel agencies, corporate travel partners and international buyers. The meetings focused on building long-term partnerships that can generate sustainable, year-round business.

The property also highlighted the growing demand for accommodation that combines hotel services with the comfort, space and flexibility of a home. This trend is creating new opportunities across corporate accommodation, relocation, extended stays, family travel and group business.
Moussa El Hayek, Chief Operating Officer of Al Bustan Centre & Residence, said the positive response received during ATM reflected the travel industry’s continued confidence in Dubai as a global destination for tourism, business and long-term living.
“Our participation at Arabian Travel Market was highly productive and gave us an important opportunity to reconnect with existing partners while meeting new buyers and travel professionals from several international markets,” El Hayek said.
“Dubai continues to demonstrate that tourism growth is not only about increasing visitor numbers; it is about building a complete destination where people can visit, work, live and return. For hotel apartments such as Al Bustan Centre & Residence, that creates a strong opportunity to serve the evolving needs of today’s traveller.”
Dubai’s combination of tourism, business, lifestyle and residential opportunities has created a broad hospitality ecosystem. Travellers may initially visit for a holiday, meeting or event before returning for work, investment, relocation or a longer stay.
Al Bustan Centre & Residence differentiates itself by providing spacious accommodation, flexible short- and long-stay options, convenient connectivity and facilities that support guests’ everyday needs. The property continues to modernise and adapt its services in response to changing expectations.
Technology and sustainability were also central to the property’s discussions at ATM. Al Bustan believes digital solutions should simplify the guest experience and improve operational efficiency while preserving the personal service at the heart of hospitality.
The property recently received the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp 2025 – Hotel Apartment Standard, awarded by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. The recognition reflects its ongoing commitment to responsible hospitality, supported by its long-standing collaboration with Emirates Environmental Group and participation in environmental initiatives.
“Sustainability must become part of everyday hotel operations rather than simply being treated as a marketing initiative,” El Hayek added.
Following ATM 2026, Al Bustan Centre & Residence will continue discussions with potential partners while strengthening its presence across traditional and emerging source markets.
“We look forward to building on the conversations held at ATM and developing practical, long-term collaborations that create value for our partners and support Dubai’s continued tourism growth,” El Hayek concluded.
Hospitality
Minor Hotels Signs Avani+ Hanoi in the Vietnamese Capital
Minor Hotels, a leading global hotel owner and operator, has signed a management agreement with Trading Construction Works Organization to operate Avani+ Hanoi, a 310-key hotel in Hanoi’s Bach Mai Ward.
Scheduled to open in 2028, the hotel forms part of a mixed-use precinct anchored by Hinode City, a new lifestyle mall, alongside 1,099 residential and serviced apartments. Located at the intersection of Minh Khai and Kim Nguu Street, the development benefits from a vibrant neighbourhood and convenient transportation links with the city’s Old Quarter a 10-minute drive away.
Avani+ Hanoi marks a continuation of Minor Hotels’ growth in Vietnam, where the group operates four properties under its Anantara and Avani brands – Anantara Hoi An Resort, Anantara Mui Ne Resort, Anantara Quy Nhon Villas and Avani Quy Nhon Resort – along with luxury train carriages, The Vietage by Anantarav. The signing extends the group’s footprint into one of Vietnam’s key metropolitan areas and establishes its first property in the nation’s capital of Hanoi.
The premium lifestyle hotel will bring the Avani brand’s distinctive design and energy to the city, with facilities including an indoor swimming pool and deck, a fitness centre, all-day dining and specialty restaurants along with meeting and function spaces. Avani+ Hanoi’s central location caters to corporate travellers, long-stay and leisure guests.
Avani+ Hanoi and the broader Hinode City mixed-use development are among the latest projects of the Trading Construction Works Organization, a diversified corporation with a presence across real estate, industrial manufacturing and energy sectors.
“This is our first branded hotel in a major Vietnamese city, and the central Bach Mai Ward is the right place to start. Avani+ Hanoi’s prime location gives us a genuine hub in the capital, with strong appeal to both business and leisure travellers seeking a wellconnected urban base.”
Omar Romero, Chief Development and Luxury Officer, Minor Hotels
“This agreement marks the beginning of a long-term partnership with Minor Hotels and reflects our shared vision of bringing international hospitality standards to Hinode City. We are confident that Avani+ Hanoi Hotel will set a new benchmark for premium hospitality in Hanoi while creating lasting value for guests, investors and the wider community.”
Vo Toan Cong, Chairman of Gerbera-II Hospitality One Member Company Limited, a subsidiary of Trading Construction Works Organization.
Hospitality
Celebrate Saudi National Day in AlUla through cultural heritage activations and luxury hospitality

Discover vibrant community events across AlManshiyah Plaza, AlUla Old Town and AlJadidah Arts District, exclusive resort stays, restorative spa experiences, and the annual date harvest season
AlUla is welcoming visitors to celebrate Saudi National Day amidst its breathtaking sandstone canyons, ancient heritage sites and lively cultural districts of the city. With activities taking place on 23rd and 24th September, this year’s celebration brings together traditional folklore, film screenings, interactive workshops, live music and world-class hospitality within one experiential destination.
Cultural Celebrations and Community Activations
Festivities across AlUla’s key districts will feature National Day decorations, illuminated gateways, standing flags along connecting pathways, and background national melodies, with operating hours varying by location and activity.
The main celebration launches on Wednesday, 23rd September across AlUla’s principal hubs. At AlManshiyah Plaza, visitors can enjoy background National Day music, dedicated children’s activities starting at 8:30pm, two live performances of the Saudi Ardah folklore sword dance at 9:00pm and 11:30pm, and vibrant Farmers Market activities.
In AlJadidah Arts District, live musical performances by the AlUla Music Hub take place at the Shurofat of AlJadidah (balconies), featuring two shows between 9:00pm and 11:00pm, while Madrasat Addeera and the AlJadidah Traditional Arts Studios host an adult embroidery workshop from 6:00pm to 8:00pm to craft a keepsake brooch inspired by Saudi motifs, alongside guided tours of the Madrasat Addeera Visitor Centre. Travelers arriving at AlUla Airport on 23rd September will also be greeted with special National Day arrival giveaways, including flowers, chocolates, and commemorative pins.
Celebrations continue Thursday, 24th September, with storytelling taking centre stage through the Qissa bi Qissa activation at Huna Space in AlUla Old Town. Inspired by UNESCO’s Story Circles methodology, this complimentary storytelling programme led by local Rawi guides offers bilingual English and Arabic sessions from 5:00pm to 7:30pm, allowing participants to connect through shared heritage and community narratives.
Across both 23rd and 24th September, film enthusiasts can gather at Cinema AlJadidah, powered by VOX in collaboration with the Saudi Cinema Association’s Shashtna initiative, presenting three nightly screenings between 8:00pm and 2:00am showcasing acclaimed Saudi short films.
Families with young children can take part in a dedicated interactive programme at the AlUla Public Library featuring face painting and creative activities across five sessions from 6:00pm to 11:00pm. Throughout both days, local Productive Families kiosks and the Green Dew booth lined across Old Town and AlJadidah will showcase regional handicrafts, local snacks, and artisanal goods.
Honouring the harvest
September also marks the annual AlUla Dates Season, running from 18th to 27th September at the Farmers Market in AlManshiyah Plaza, celebrating the destination’s deep agricultural roots and centuries-old date palm cultivation. On 24th September, AlManshiyah Plaza integrates both National Day celebrations and Dates Season activities featuring Saudi Ardah performances, children’s entertainment, and farmers market activities, giving visitors an authentic taste of AlUla’s rich oasis culture and community spirit.
Exclusive hotel stays
For Saudi National Day week, The Chedi Hegra is offering its Emerald Treasures of the Kingdom package directly inside Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests receive a traditional welcome with Arabic coffee and dates, along with a limited-edition gift. The offer includes a Hegra Heritage Bike Tour, an evening Stargazing experience, a National Day afternoon tea or dessert experience, complimentary room upgrades subject to availability, and early check-in and late check-out. Guests also enjoy savings across resort amenities, including 20% off spa treatments and 40% off dining. In addition, the resort’s Prima Classe restaurant features a dedicated Saudi National Day Sharing Experience with a multi-course menu celebrating modern Saudi flavours accompanied by specialty mocktails and Saudi coffee.
In celebration of Saudi National Day, Our Habitas AlUla offers a tranquil retreat with its Saudi National Day Stay Offer for stays between 22nd and 25th September. Guests booking prior to 25th September receive a complimentary villa upgrade, daily breakfast savings on food and beverage outlets, flexible 24-hour check-in and check-out, and a welcome drink upon arrival, while children under 12 stay and dine for free. Outside guests looking to unwind by the water can also purchase the AlUla Pool Day Pass for full access to the resort’s infinity pool.
Banyan Tree AlUla invites guests to settle into luxurious tented villas nestled beneath ancient rock formations. Valid for stays from 22nd to 26th September, the resort’s Saudi National Day package includes daily breakfast, discounts on dining, complimentary stays and meals for kids, flexible 24-hour check-in and check-out, a complimentary upgrade to a pool villa subject to availability and shared access to facilities across both Banyan Tree AlUla and Our Habitas AlUla. For a romantic retreat, couples can choose a Romantic Escape package, complete with daily breakfast, a 90-minute couples’ spa experience, a private dinner at Saffron, and an in-villa romantic bath ritual.
Surrounded by towering rock formations, Shaden Resort features a dedicated National Day promotion for stays between 23rd and 25th September across all room categories, inclusive of daily breakfast and a complimentary dinner. Guests visiting throughout September can also enjoy weekday Sky Cinema outdoor movie screenings under the stars, and weekend poolside sports match broadcasts with mocktails and light bites.
Cloud7 Residence AlUla introduces its Proudly Saudi National Day Offer for guests seeking a vibrant, community-focused bungalow stay. Available to book now for stays from 22nd to 26th September (minimum two-night stay), the package features a 25% discount on bungalow room rates. As an added cultural perk, the offer includes guided tours of the ancient heritage sites of Dadan and Jabal Ikmah, alongside an immersive AlUla Old Town experience.
For Saudi National Day, Dar Tantora the House Hotel is offering its Proudly Saudi package in AlUla Old Town for stays in the Dar Al Luban room category between 22nd and 26th September (bookable until 18th September with a minimum two-night stay). The stay includes a 25% discount on room rates, a traditional five-sense welcome upon check-in, a guided heritage tour of AlUla Old Town, and flexible early check-in and late check-out.
Wellness and spa indulgences
On 23rd September, Our Habitas Spa will offer complimentary sound bath healing sessions for in-house guests, alongside a special offer where booking any massage of 60 minutes or longer unlocks an additional 30 minutes of complimentary spa pampering.
Running through 30th September, Banyan Tree Spa AlUla invites guests to experience holistic treatments combining Eastern and Western wellness philosophies. Guests booking a 60- or 90-minute massage receive 30 complimentary additional minutes or can choose a special 30% discount across 60- and 90-minute massage sessions.
Saudi National Day in AlUla offers a special union of vibrant community tradition, luxury sanctuary and timeless natural beauty, and an extraordinary setting for the national holiday.
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