With a deep passion for the hospitality industry, the General Manager of Onyx Rotana and Onyx Residences by Rotana shares his leadership style, what makes his job a rewarding profession and his favourite relaxing spot!

In managing both Onyx Rotana and Residences, how do you balance the high standards in both hospitality and residential services and ensure customer satisfaction across such diverse offerings?
Hospitality encompasses many definitions but, at its core, it is about making people feel welcome and at home through comfort and thoughtful service. At Onyx Residences, we have brought this concept into the residential real estate sector, offering an unparalleled living experience for both locals and expatriates seeking luxurious properties.
Our approach focusses on creating a ‘wow’ factor for residents, offering facilities and services typically found in high-end hotels and resorts. From the moment they arrive via a private driveway with a porte-cochère, residents are greeted by a grand lobby, front desk services and a lobby attendant. Valet parking, concierge services, housekeeping, maintenance and comprehensive facility management are all part of the lifestyle package we provide.
Both our hotel guests and residents benefit from the exceptional quality of amenities at Onyx Rotana & Residences, enjoying the same high standards of care and attention. Our mission is to create an environment where every moment feels indulgent and memorable.

Leadership is key in your role. How do you build a strong, motivated team? Are there any particular practices or values you emphasise to encourage high performance and exceptional guest service?
I prioritise building strong, collaborative relationships with my team by being fair, transparent, reliable and consistent – qualities that are especially important in a multicultural work environment. At Onyx Rotana & Residences, my focus is on developing and managing an efficient team by actively investing in their training, professional growth, safety and well-being. I also emphasise coaching to enhance the overall performance and success of the property.
Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to benefit from the guidance and support of mentors who have shaped my professional and personal development. Now, I aim to give back by mentoring my colleagues, sharing my experiences and passing on the knowledge and lessons I’ve gained. My goal is to inspire and empower others to realise their full potential, fostering a more dynamic and skilled workforce that continues to elevate our flagship property’s standards.

What’s one surprising thing most people don’t know about running a hotel? Any myths you’d love to debunk?
Managing a hotel is both a rewarding lifestyle and a series of ongoing business decisions, but it’s not a path for everyone. While this industry is incredibly fulfilling, it comes with its challenges. Being on call 24/7, managing guest expectations, handling daily operations, adapting to changes and staying ahead of an ever-growing task list can create significant pressure. Success in hospitality requires specific personality traits, unwavering motivation and a strong work ethic – and I absolutely thrive on it! There’s often a misconception about hospitality being an industry to avoid due to its long, irregular hours. While it’s true that hospitality operates 24/7, 365 days a year, we’re not so different from industries like healthcare, aviation or emergency services. Those of us in this field do it out of passion; we genuinely love taking care of others. That said, hospitality also offers roles with better work-life balance, such as back-of-house positions, managerial roles and administrative functions.

What’s your go-to ‘comfort food’ after a long day managing the properties? Do you have a favourite dish from the hotel’s menu?
Pizza is my ultimate comfort food – whether I’m having a tough day or just need something quick and satisfying for dinner, a fresh, hot pizza always hits the spot. As for my favourite dish on our menu, it’s the grilled lamb rack served with vegetable ratatouille – a perfect blend of flavours and sophistication!

Managing two properties can be a demanding job. When you do get some downtime, where’s your favourite getaway spot to relax and recharge?
For me, downtime comes when the job is done and our guests are genuinely satisfied – that’s my greatest sense of accomplishment. When I’m off, I enjoy escaping to the beach, when the weather allows, and indulging in cooking my favourite Moroccan Tagine, which is both relaxing and fulfilling. ✤