Have a question? +971 56 404 0503
Hospitality
BLENDING HERITAGE WITH HIGH-TOUCH HOSPITALITY
Exclusive interview with Khalid Saeed, General Manager, Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection
With your extensive experience in the UAE’s hospitality industry, how has your local expertise shaped your leadership approach at Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection?
Working in the UAE for more than 26 years has taught me that hospitality here is about much more than service—it’s about culture and connection. At Al Habtoor Grand Resort, we live by our concept ‘Beach Meets Culture, blending our prime location on Jumeirah Beach with authentic touches of Emirati heritage. My leadership style reflects that same balance: operational discipline, financial responsibility, and genuine warmth that makes guests feel part of something special.
Al Habtoor Grand Resort has emerged as a sought-after destination for regional travelers, especially from the GCC. What do you believe is attracting this audience to the property today?
For GCC travellers, our resort offers the perfect mix of space, privacy, and connection. Families appreciate our suites, authentic Arabic design touches from elegant mashrabiya details to a warm contemporary Arabian style along with a wide choice of dining options and of course beachfront location. Business and leisure guests value our proximity to Dubai’s key districts. What sets us apart is consistency—guests know they can return to the same warm service and thoughtful details that make the stay truly memorable.
How is the hotel integrating today’s evolving travel trends, such as wellness, workcation, and experience-driven stays, into the guest journey?
Today’s travelers are seeking balance—wellness, productivity, and inspiring experiences. We meet these needs through our spa, fitness facilities, and a variety of outdoor activities, including four outdoor tennis courts, beach volleyball, a range of watersports for Adults, Kids water slides and splash pad for children. For workcations, we offer high-speed connectivity and dedicated one of its kind Club Lounge in the 25th Floor designed for both comfort and productivity.
We further enhance the guest journey with curated dining experiences and cultural activations. This is where our ‘Beach Meets Culture’ identity truly shines—offering a stay that blends Dubai’s vibrant beach lifestyle with rich heritage, delivering an experience “exactly like nothing else”.
What role does digital innovation play in your operations and guest engagement strategy?
Digital innovation is a vital part of how we enhance the guest journey. Mobile check-in, digital concierge services, and tailored communications give guests convenience and personalisation, while analytics guide us in anticipating their needs. Yet hospitality is still about people—technology helps us deliver efficiency, but the human connection is what makes the experience unforgettable.
In such a competitive hospitality landscape, what marketing or sales strategies have proven most effective for you in driving both occupancy and loyalty?
Our strategy is built on clear positioning and disciplined execution. Personalized service, a strong focus on guest satisfaction, competitive promotions, and our ability to cater to a diverse mix of source markets have been key drivers of loyalty. Marriott Bonvoy also plays an important role, connecting us to a global community of travelers who value consistency and recognition. At the same time, we place strong emphasis on regional campaigns, strategic partnerships, and tailored promotions that resonate particularly well with the GCC market. What differentiates us is our ‘Beach Meets Culture’ identity, which allows us to highlight experiences that feel “exactly like nothing else” —whether it’s family-friendly recreation, cultural activations, or diverse dining.
What does success look like for you at Al Habtoor Grand Resort over the next year?
For me, success is about balance—achieving financial goals, creating unforgettable guest experiences, and keeping our team inspired. Over the next year, I want to strengthen our position as the resort where the spirit of place shines through—offering a stay that’s truly one of a kind. When our guests leave with lasting memories, our owners see measurable results, and our associates feel proud of where they work—that’s what true success looks like. True leadership is about empowering people to deliver results together, not alone.
Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa has announced its Ramadan Iftar offering, “Ramadan Nights: Iftar Under the Stars,” available throughout the holy month at La Piscine.
The Iftar is priced at AED 245 per person on weekdays and AED 260 per person on weekends. Children aged 5 to 12 years receive 50% off, while children below 5 years dine complimentary.
Guests can enjoy favourites such as Arabic hot and cold mezzeh, an Ouzy corner, and an Arabic mixed grill and carving station. The experience is hosted at La Piscine’s beachfront and poolside outdoor restaurant lounge, featuring private gazebos and a relaxed, open-air setting.
A range of special offers is available during Ramadan. Guests can enjoy 15% off with the Early Bird offer when bookings are confirmed with a deposit before the start of Ramadan. For group bookings, one guest dines complimentary for every 10 full-paying adults.
Hospitality
ROHINI AT MÖVENPICK JLT PRESENTS A REPUBLIC DAY SET MENU, FEATURING TRICOLOUR-INSPIRED DESSERTS
This Republic Day, Rohini at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers is adding a cheerful tricolour moment to the table with three new desserts inspired by the colours of the Indian national flag. Created especially for the Republic Day weekend, the desserts bring a playful and visually striking element to the dining experience, giving guests a fresh reason to stop by.
Drawing from familiar Indian sweets, the dessert selection offers a lighthearted nod to the occasion. The trio includes Tiranga Kalakand, Pistachio Malai ke Motichur, and Jalebi with Kesar Rabdi, adding a sweet finish that feels both nostalgic and timely. Served as part of Rohini’s Republic Day set menu, the desserts stand out as a highlight worth saving room for.
Available from 24th to 26th January, the Republic Day set menu also features a well-rounded selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian starters and mains. Guests can choose from popular favourites such as Dahi Bhalla, Zafrani Murgh Tikka, Dal Makhni, Rajasthani Laal Maas, Paneer Methi Malai, and Purani Dilli-style pulao, offering plenty of choice across classic Indian flavours.
A familiar name for Indian dining in JLT, Rohini offers a comfortable and welcoming setting for those dining out over the long weekend. With its Republic Day set menu and tricolour-inspired desserts, it makes for an easy and enjoyable way to mark the occasion.
Looking back on their recent visits to Abu Dhabi, Chris Hemsworth shared how it’s the perfect choice for family travel, with days that mix high-energy fun with quality time you’ll remember for years to come.
“I love travelling to Abu Dhabi with the kids because there’s so much on offer. From action-packed thrills to calm, immersive and educational moments, Abu Dhabi has it covered. Experiencing nature, culture, and adventure together reminds us of what really matters: time shared, moments made, memories locked in.”
For Elsa Pataky, the easy mix of experiences makes travelling here so enjoyable as a family: “Abu Dhabi has this beautiful balance: thrilling adventures for the kids, cultural experiences for the adults, and endless opportunities for the whole family to connect and enjoy time together.”
Here’s where Chris and Elsa went on their latest visit
- CLYMB Abu Dhabi
Try indoor climbing and skydiving on Yas Island. During their visit, Chris and Elsa’s family tried it all, with routes for all ages and experience Challenge yourself in the skydiving chamber or try to tackle progressively harder climbing routes, from beginner level to advanced.
- Surf Abu Dhabi
On Hudayriyat Island, Surf Abu Dhabi offers controlled wave conditions suitable for first-time surfers and almost every age. Sessions can be tailored to different abilities, so it’s an easy way for parents and children to try a new sport in a relaxed, with plenty of options for food and drinks.
- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
The fast-paced rides and indoor attractions are designed for all ages, making it easy for families to spend an entire day together. Families can move between high-energy experiences and gentler rides, entertaining little ones alongside adults with a need for speed.
- Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
Explore themed lands inspired by well-known characters, from Batman to Scooby Doo and The Flintstones, with rides and interactive experiences designed for all ages. It’s a colourful and fun space for families looking for a full day of entertainment together.
- teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi
Art meets innovation with this interactive environment where immersive digital art installations respond to your every move. The unique spaces encourage curiosity and exploration, making it a natural stop for families looking to slow their pace and enjoy creative moments.
- Yas Waterworld
Inspired by Emirati pearl-diving heritage, Yas Waterworld has a wide range of slides, wave pools and family-friendly rides. With 60+ attractions designed for different age groups, there’s space for both high-energy fun and relaxed downtime.
Beyond Chris and Elsa’s itinerary, families can explore new cultural highlights, like Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum, or take a short trip to Al Ain Region, where culture, nature and heritage offer even more ways to spend time together—just 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi City or Dubai.
RAMADAN NIGHTS: IFTAR UNDER THE STARS AT LA PISCINE, AL RAHA BEACH RESORT & SPA
AARK DEVELOPERS APPOINT ONE BROKER GROUP AS EXCLUSIVE SALES PARTNER FOR KARL LAGERFELD BEACH RESIDENCES IN AL MARJAN ISLAND
ROHINI AT MÖVENPICK JLT PRESENTS A REPUBLIC DAY SET MENU, FEATURING TRICOLOUR-INSPIRED DESSERTS
-
Tech News2 years agoDenodo Bolsters Executive Team by Hiring Christophe Culine as its Chief Revenue Officer
-
VAR9 months agoMicrosoft Launches New Surface Copilot+ PCs for Business
-
Tech Interviews2 years agoNavigating the Cybersecurity Landscape in Hybrid Work Environments
-
Tech News6 months agoNothing Launches flagship Nothing Phone (3) and Headphone (1) in theme with the Iconic Museum of the Future in Dubai
-
News10 years ago
SENDQUICK (TALARIAX) INTRODUCES SQOOPE – THE BREAKTHROUGH IN MOBILE MESSAGING
-
Tech News2 years agoBrighton College Abu Dhabi and Brighton College Al Ain Donate 954 IT Devices in Support of ‘Donate Your Own Device’ Campaign
-
VAR1 year agoSamsung Galaxy Z Fold6 vs Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Clash Of The Folding Phenoms
-
Editorial1 year agoCelebrating UAE National Day: A Legacy of Leadership and Technological Innovation