Zeynep Öden Ağagi
Director of Sales & Marketing, Al Areen Palace & Spa by Accor

You have worked with some of the biggest names in the hospitality sector. What first drew you to this field?
Every single day I have the chance to touch the lives of human beings, no matter what their title, gender or age is. I think I am definitely in the right industry for that.
Inspiring young talents, especially showing young women they can both have a family life and be successful in their career.
I value authenticity and transparency above everything, apart from productivity. I value real relationships with people and shy away from being artificial.
In the luxury hospitality industry, you are as strong as your team and my talent is developing teams.

What is the strangest or funniest thing that you have witnessed over your long career?
Adaptability serves not only the business landscape, which is all about adapting to changing trends – especially for the last two years with Covid – but also the way we adapt to different personalities, cultures, cities and brands.
In several destinations I have worked, I had the pleasure of welcoming high-profile delegations such as His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa as well as several presidents and CEO’s of top international companies. At the same time, I have worked on several corporate social responsibility projects, with amazing talents in our industry at all ages.
I cannot pick one single memory – the hospitality industry is so dynamic and colorful. None of the days in my career have I had a regular office day; none were the same. One of my nice experiences was to sell an outside catering event abroad and to travel from Istanbul with 17 chefs to cater to a royal wedding. I assisted the culinary team and designed the Turkish Delight plates for a full afternoon.
As long as you are passionate, hardworking and don’t lose your sense of humour then every single day is worth remembering.

You are part of the transition team as Al Areen Palace will be rebranded, can you tell our readers what to expect?
Property enhancements will include the refurbishment of the 78 villas, all with private pools. We will introduce signature wellness experiences and extensive food and beverage concepts in six different outlets. Al Areen Palace and Spa by Accor provides a unique experience with complete privacy in an alluring, peaceful haven.
Our transformation has already started and our guests will now experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the starry desert panorama with butler service.
Some of our visitors have already noticed that the property façade is turning white and the beautiful flora of Bahrain, ‘Island of a million palm trees’, will be reflected in the elegant interior design.
For the moment, I can tell you that the property is getting ready to be transformed into one of the most luxurious brands of Accor and will be the newest international attraction for the Kingdom.