RAFFLES IS A BRAND KNOWN FOR ITS LEGENDARY SERVICE AND SOPHISTICATED ELEGANCE. AS THE NEW GENERAL MANAGER, WHAT IS YOUR OVERARCHING VISION FOR RAFFLES AL AREEN PALACE, AND WHAT DO YOU SEE AS ITS UNIQUE POSITION WITHIN THE LUXURY HOSPITALITY LANDSCAPE OF BAHRAIN?
Raffles is synonymous with ultra-luxury, and my vision is to carry forward that legacy while infusing it with a distinct Bahraini and Arabian touch. This combination of legendary service and authentic local hospitality will define Raffles Al Areen Palace as a unique destination in Bahrain.
RAFFLES AL AREEN IS DESCRIBED AS A ‘PALACE OF THE SECRET GARDEN’ AND IS KNOWN FOR ITS ALL-VILLA CONCEPT AND PRIVACY. HOW DO YOU PLAN TO BUILD ON THIS UNIQUE OFFERING TO CREATE UNFORGETTABLE AND HIGHLY PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCES FOR BOTH LEISURE AND BUSINESS GUESTS?
Al Areen Palace is one of the most refined products in the company and in the region. Its all- villa layout makes it exceptionally private and unique. Our goal is to elevate this by anticipating guests’ needs, even before they express them. We want to deliver seamless, personalized experiences that combine the legendary Raffles service with Bahraini warmth and generosity, ensuring every guest feels cared for in ways they didn’t even expect.
A HOTEL’S SUCCESS IS DEEPLY TIED TO ITS PEOPLE. WHAT IS YOUR LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY, AND WHAT STRATEGIES WILL YOU IMPLEMENT TO INSPIRE AND EMPOWER THE RAFFLES AL AREEN TEAM TO DELIVER THE BRAND’S SIGNATURE SERVICE EXCELLENCE?
It all starts with people. You can have the best product and service manuals, but without happy and motivated employees, success is impossible. My philosophy is to provide the best workplace, strong facilities, and an environment where teamwork thrives. The Al Areen team is already harmonious and passionate, and my role is to nurture that pride, invest in their growth, and empower them to deliver the finest service possible.
THE HOTEL FEATURES SEVERAL UNIQUE F&B OUTLETS, INCLUDING A ROOFTOP RESTAURANT AND YCONE PARIS PATISSERIE. WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE CULINARY DIRECTION OF THE HOTEL, AND HOW WILL YOU ENSURE IT REMAINS A MUST-VISIT DESTINATION FOR BOTH HOTEL GUESTS AND LOCAL RESIDENTS?
We are developing new culinary experiences that will make Al Areen Palace a true F&B destination. Alongside our existing outlets, we have two more concepts set to launch soon. The goal is simple: we want people to be willing to drive to Al Areen just to enjoy a dish they can’t find anywhere else. Signature creations that define our identity will set us apart.
BAHRAIN’S HOSPITALITY MARKET IS DYNAMIC AND COMPETITIVE. HOW DO YOU PLAN TO KEEP RAFFLES AL AREEN PALACE AT THE FOREFRONT OF THE INDUSTRY, AND WHAT ARE YOUR STRATEGIES FOR ADAPTING TO EVOLVING GUEST EXPECTATIONS AND MARKET TRENDS?
We must remain attentive to our diverse guest segments, which include business travelers, families, individuals, and those seeking retreats. By tailoring facilities and services to meet these varying needs and continuously evolving with guest expectations, we can ensure Raffles Al Areen Palace remains a leader in Bahrain’s luxury hospitality market.
LEADING A LUXURY PROPERTY INVOLVES A DELICATE BALANCE OF MAINTAINING HIGH STANDARDS AND ENSURING FINANCIAL SUCCESS. CAN YOU DISCUSS YOUR APPROACH TO REVENUE MANAGEMENT AND COST OPTIMIZATION WITHOUT COMPROMISING THE RAFFLES BRAND’S REPUTATION FOR QUALITY AND GUEST SATISFACTION?
Financial success comes from excellence in service. By having the right people in place, refusing mediocrity, and delivering every experience to the highest standard, we build guest loyalty and attract more business. When we care for our employees, they in turn care for our guests. This cycle drives revenue while preserving the essence of Raffles: quality, authenticity, and guest satisfaction.
THE HOTEL IS LOCATED WITHIN THE LARGER AL AREEN TOWNSHIP DEVELOPMENT, NEAR MAJOR CULTURAL AND ENTERTAINMENT LANDMARKS. HOW DO YOU ENVISION THE HOTEL BECOMING AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY, AND HOW WILL YOU INCORPORATE BAHRAINI CULTURE AND HERITAGE INTO THE GUEST EXPERIENCE?
First, I would like to acknowledge GFH’s pioneering efforts in developing this area. Their vision has created a remarkable destination that complements our hotel. We will integrate Bahraini culture and heritage into our service and experiences, ensuring guests feel a genuine connection to the Kingdom while enjoying world- class luxury.
LOOKING AHEAD, WHAT IS ONE SPECIFIC INITIATIVE OR PROJECT YOU ARE MOST EXCITED TO LEAD IN YOUR FIRST YEAR AS GENERAL MANAGER, AND WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACHIEVE WITH IT?
I am particularly excited about expanding our F&B offerings. My vision is to establish Raffles Al Areen Palace as a culinary destination in Bahrain, where guests and residents alike come specifically for our signature dishes.
