What does it take to be a Hospitality Leader? In an industry that never slows down, it takes utmost dedication and a mindset for continuous innovation to deliver quality guest experiences day in and out. Gulf Insider highlights leaders of the hospitality industry in Bahrain to understand what’s new, what’s next, and what makes them the best.
In this exclusive interview, Adil Souate, General Manager, Onyx Rotana gives us his insights on new trends that are encouraging the hospitality industry to push beyond imagination while improving efficiency.
Can you discuss a recent successful innovation that has made an impact on your guests, your team, or the larger hospitality sector?
As a brand-new hotel, we successfully opened on 9th July 2024, the real innovation was in the design of the hotel and its facilities to provide our guests with a luxurious, well-thought-out, and unique product. We also provide a diverse room mix, exclusive amenities, wellness facilities, an infinity pool, kids’ entertainment, meeting rooms, and advanced technology solutions. These features, combined with exceptional service, cater to a range of guests, from business travellers to families and long-stay guests.
What did you learn from this innovation and the process of implementing it?
By being innovative, we managed to surprise and delight our guests with unique features, amenities, and services that made them feel valued and special. We studied and anticipated ways and solutions that cater to our guests’ needs, preferences, and above all, their expectations. This is how we managed to offer a unique product that can ensure a memorable and personalized experience for our guests.
Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped your approach to hotel management?
I fell in love with the hospitality industry when I was working part-time in London in restaurants while studying. Since then, my career aspirations have centred around constant growth and skill enhancement. Starting from the entry-level, I have worked in all ranks, mastering each role before moving to the next. Each level has equipped me with various skills and competencies that prepared me for my current role today.
What are your goals for the hotel in the coming year?
Our goal is for Onyx Rotana to be the top choice for a luxury family resort-style experience in Bahrain, offering innovative products, amenities, and superior services. At Onyx Rotana, we focus on ensuring that every guest has a memorable experience, from booking to departure. We offer value through exceptional service, superior amenities, and unique experiences. Each guest segment is carefully studied, and we tailor our amenities and services to not only meet but exceed their expectations.
What future trends in hospitality do you envisage, and how is your hotel preparing for them?
New technology innovations are reshaping the hospitality industry, allowing businesses to automate tasks and significantly improve efficiency. Dining trends are evolving as international flavours gain popularity, with people becoming more adventurous in their culinary choices.
Additionally, there will be a growing focus on sustainability and the use of locally sourced ingredients. In terms of hotel management and staffing, the rise of technology is reducing the need for traditional staff roles, as tasks that once required skilled personnel are now automated. Mobile apps are becoming the preferred method for booking rooms and services, decreasing the need for front desk staff.
Guest experience is also becoming more personalized, with technology being used to track guest preferences and movements. The demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly practices will continue to grow, as more guests become conscious of their environmental impact. Finally, social media and digital marketing will dominate hotel marketing strategies, driving engagement and visibility.
As a hotel, we are always anticipating and adopting the changes to perform well as a business while offering a more unique and personalized experience to our guests.
What, in your opinion is the one major quality every hospitality leader must possess?
In my opinion, a hospitality leader should have integrity which is the cornerstone of trust in leadership, as it inspires confidence among team members. Hospitality leaders build credibility by being transparent, keeping their promises, and admitting when they are wrong. Other qualities are self-awareness, courage, respect, compassion, good and open communication, and resilience.