Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches (ADHA-LR), rooted in Emirati hospitality and shaped by Swiss education excellence, has highlighted key insights emerging from the third edition of the Future Leaders Challenge, held from 9 to 12 February 2026. Over 100 students from prestigious institutions worldwide, including four students from the Academy, tackled real-world challenges impacting the hospitality and tourism landscape.

Themed, ‘Community over Competition,’ the Future Leaders Challenge 2026 provided participating students with a platform to interact with educators and industry leaders, gaining valuable real-world insights into the regional hospitality and tourism sectors. The three-day challenge highlighted key learnings, including leveraging technology that empowers teams and aligning operational excellence with long-term sustainability goals. Furthermore, the FLC Advisory Board sessions during the finals highlighted the critical need for stronger industry academia integration, and future-ready leadership development, reinforcing the sector’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and long-term resilience. The finals also brought together hospitality and tourism education leaders from across the Middle East and Africa, creating a platform for strategic dialogue on curriculum relevance, workforce alignment, and industry–public sector priorities in preparing the next generation of talent.

Alhosani and three of his peers from Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches participated in the innovative challenge, collaborating in teams with students from across the world to develop actionable solutions to current issues impacting the landscape, such as industry attractiveness, growth, sustainability, innovation and more.

The 2026 Future Leaders Challenge invited students from across the Middle East & Africa to tackle a key industry question: ‘How can the hospitality, tourism, and events sector design future-ready experiences for guests and employees that combine authenticity, inclusivity, and innovation?’ Participants were asked to propose prototypes such as guest journeys, employee programs, service models, or digital-human concepts demonstrating how the sector can remain attractive, competitive, and globally impactful.

Alhosani and his group stood out among 18 competing teams, securing third place for their NSX Platform concept – a forward-thinking model that leverages neuroscience and AI to help hospitality professionals respond to emotional cues. By shifting the focus from scripted service to a deeper understanding of how guests think and feel, the model equips employees with the tools and knowledge to lead with empathy and create more personalized guest experiences.

Reflecting on this win at the Future Leaders Challenge 2026, Professor Scott Richardson, Academic Dean at Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches, says: “We are incredibly proud of Mansoor’s success at the Future Leaders Challenge. It is a testament to how our students are prepared to think creatively, work collaboratively, and navigate the complexities of this industry, while staying true to the values and authenticity of Emirati hospitality. It is a privilege to guide them on this journey and see their talent recognised on a global stage.”

The Academy’s performance at this year’s event reflects its commitment to developing leaders who have a culturally grounded yet globally informed perspective for every touchpoint of the guest and employee experience. By delivering transformative education that blends Swiss academic standards with real-world industry exposure, Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches prepares students to tackle the fast-paced hospitality landscape in the UAE and beyond.

Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches continues to lead the way in shaping the future of hospitality careers and advancing the UAE’s Tourism 2030 strategy to be a global hub for innovation and sustainable hospitality leadership. By empowering young talent with future-ready skills and knowledge, the Academy ensures the region’s evolving challenges are met with resilience, cultural integrity, and an innovative mindset.

The judging panel this year was made up of a talented line up of industry thought leaders, part of the Advisory Board of the Future Leaders Challenge. These included Khalid AlAwar, Director – Stakeholders and Government Relations Dubai Economy and Tourism, Eddy Tannous, COO of Rotana Hotel Management Corporation, Colin Abercrombie, Strategy Director at NEOM Hotel Division, Tim Cordon, COO Middle East & Africa & APAC, Radisson Hotels, Mahir Abdulkarim Julfar, Executive Vice President, Dubai World Trade Center, Mark Kirby, President, One&Only Resorts, Judi Nwokedi, Chair Gauteng Tourism Authority, South Africa, Jonathan Sheard, SVP Operations Middle East, Africa and Türkiye, Accor Hotels, Marie-Louise Ek, VP HR Middle East & Africa, Hilton, Hubery Ummels, Founder and Owner, GameChangers and Future Leaders Platform, Nuno Filipe Ribeiro, Executive Director – Commercial Affairs & Investments.

This Ramadan, Millennium Lakeview Hotel, invites guests to indulge in a Ramadan experience that brings together timeless luxury and approachable sophistication, where every detail is curated for comfort, connection, and elevated dining.

For a surreal and memorable Iftar experience, embrace the spirit of togetherness at Lakehouse Bistro, a relaxed, lake-facing dining destination overlooking the gorgeous waterfront. As the sun sets, guests can embrace the magic of Iftar with their loved ones against a stunning sunset backdrop in a serene, open-air setting. The poolside Iftar’s outdoor seating arrangements are carefully designed to immerse guests in Arabian heritage, offering a diverse array of options.

Indulge in Middle Eastern and international iftar dishes, including non-vegetarian and vegetarian options, and a variety of desserts daily from sunset, starting 18th February.

The specially curated Iftar menu brings together exquisite Arabic classics and distinctive Ramadan flavours. Begin your fast-breaking ritual with traditional refreshments such as Tamr Hindi, Qamar Al Din, and Karkade, followed by a generous selection of fresh and oriental salads. Guests can then indulge in live culinary stations, including a Mixed Grill featuring Shish Touk and Lamb Kofta, a carving station with traditional Ozi, and a fried mezze counter serving meat kibbeh, fatayer, and potato tajine. The main course selection further delights with Kebabs Halla, grilled beef steak, Fish Harra, and aromatic Chicken Biryani.

Celebrate the spirit of the Holy Month with Millennium’s HALA RAMADAN STAY OFFER, thoughtfully curated for a comfortable and meaningful Ramadan experience. Guests can enjoy 10% off the Best Available Rate along with specially prepared Iftar and Suhoor during their stay, combining convenience, warmth, and value.

The package includes a Suhoor set menu served in-room before fasting time and Iftar served just after sunset, ensuring a seamless and restful experience throughout the month. Available for bookings from 27 January to 18 March 2026 and valid for stays from 17 February to 18 March 2026, this limited-time offer invites guests to make their Ramadan truly special with attentive hospitality and comforting touches. Use the promo code HALARAMADAN when booking.

Rooted in the spirit of a four-star urban business hotel, Millennium Lakeview Hotel reflects a brand promise that is convenient, efficient, and enjoyable, chic and affordable, yet modern and service-driven. With diverse cuisines and tastes available across its dining venues, the hotel’s Food & Beverage specialists carefully tailor offerings to local preferences and seasonal experiences such as Ramadan.

This Ramadan, Lakehouse Bistro welcomes guests to gather, reflect, and celebrate over a soulful Iftar in a setting that blends serenity, flavor, and heartfelt hospitality.

The Authors’ Lounge at voco Bonnington JLT introduces its Blind Date with a Book, a book themed lounge experience built around reading and café style indulgence. The package is priced at AED 69 and includes one beverage, including tea or coffee, one dessert, and a surprise wrapped book.

Created for readers and café goers alike, the Blind Date with a Book offer combines the comfort of a quiet lounge setting with the pleasure of discovering a new title. Guests receive a wrapped book selected as a surprise, paired with a coffee and dessert from the lounge menu, encouraging slow moments and relaxed reading.

With its library inspired interiors, comfortable seating, and quiet atmosphere, Authors’ Lounge provides a natural backdrop for book led experiences. The space supports relaxed visits within an upscale lounge environment.

Authors’ Lounge remains a steady favourite for those who value calm spaces and thoughtful dining. In line with voco Bonnington JLT’s approach to warm hospitality and quality dining, the lounge focuses on attentive service and an inviting environment that appeals to both hotel guests and the wider JLT community.

What to expect