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, Dr. Essa Faqeeh, CEO, Al Areen Hospitality talks to us about how AI and technology are transforming the way hospitality leaders and their hotels operate.


AI is changing the world. How, in your opinion, is it impacting the hospitality industry?

The hospitality industry is experiencing a significant transformation through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). As personalized experiences become crucial for today’s travellers, AI offers innovative solutions to enhance guest satisfaction and streamline operations. Hotels are utilizing AI to redefine customer service, showcasing practical examples and exploring the future potential of this technology.

AI enables hotels to deliver highly personalized experiences by analyzing guest data to understand individual preferences. This allows services to be tailored specifically to each guest’s needs, creating a more memorable stay. Additionally, AI-powered features such as virtual assistants and chatbots provide quick and efficient assistance, simplifying tasks like making reservations, requesting services, and gathering information. These advancements contribute to an overall enhanced guest experience.

For hotel staff, AI increases efficiency by automating routine tasks, allowing them to focus on more complex and valuable activities that require a human touch. AI analytics offer insights into guest behaviour, enabling data-driven decisions that optimize hotel operations. With AI’s support, staff can provide more personalized service, resulting in higher guest satisfaction and loyalty. Furthermore, the adoption of AI opens up opportunities for staff to upskill, as they develop new competencies in areas like data analysis and AI literacy.

On a broader scale, hotels that effectively leverage AI gain a competitive edge, offering superior guest experiences and operational efficiencies. AI also drives innovation across the hospitality industry, leading to the development of new products, services, and business models.


What have been your biggest learnings from applying AI to hospitality?

AI is bringing a lot of exciting changes to the hospitality industry, making things easier for both guests and businesses. One of the biggest perks I’ve witnessed with the advent of AI is improved customer satisfaction. Hotels can better understand guest preferences and address issues quickly, which helps them offer more tailored services and keep guests happy.

AI can also boost revenue. By analyzing market trends and guest behaviour, it can adjust room rates in real time to make the most out of every booking. This means hotels can maximize their profits while still meeting guest demands.

On the operations side, AI takes over repetitive tasks like data analysis and pricing, freeing up staff to focus on more personal guest interactions. This not only streamlines processes but also improves overall service quality.

AI provides valuable insights that help hotels make smart, data-driven decisions. By tapping into these insights, hotels can improve their offerings and stay ahead in the competitive market. Overall, using AI gives hotels an edge by enhancing guest experiences, boosting efficiency, and driving innovation.


Can you share some of the most significant lessons that have shaped your approach to hotel management?

Focusing on creating exceptional guest experiences, empowering the team, and continuously improving operations have been vital to my leadership journey. By understanding your guests’ needs, personalizing their experiences, and fostering a positive work culture, a leader can create a memorable and successful hospitality business.


What future trends in hospitality do you envisage and how can hospitality leaders prepare to address them?

The future of AI in hospitality is promising, with key trends shaping the industry. Hyper-personalized experiences will see AI predicting guest preferences and adjusting room settings in real time. Enhanced guest engagement through AR/VR will provide immersive virtual tours and interactive entertainment. Voice-enabled assistants will offer seamless control over hotel services.

AI-powered sustainability efforts will optimize energy use and monitor waste production, reducing environmental impact. Ethical AI practices, including data privacy and bias mitigation, will become essential to build trust with guests. As AI advances, hotels will further innovate, providing personalized, sustainable, and engaging experiences for their guests.

Invest in technology to enhance guest experiences, boost efficiency, and gather valuable data. Focus on sustainability by adopting energy-saving practices and reducing waste. Prioritize guest experience through continuous feedback and service adaptation. Offer unique experiences by partnering with local businesses and organizing special events. Stay informed about industry trends to remain competitive. Embracing these strategies will help hotels achieve long-term success in the ever-evolving hospitality industry.


How best can hospitality leaders leverage technology to maximize success?

Technology is a crucial tool for leaders in hospitality. It can enhance operational efficiency, improve guest experiences, and drive revenue. Key benefits include automation, such as streamlining check-in, check-out, and room service to boost efficiency and cut costs. Personalization through data analytics allows for tailored guest experiences, while improved communication is achieved by engaging guests via chatbots, virtual assistants, and social media. Additionally, operational insights from data-driven decisions help optimize processes.

While technology is essential, it’s equally important for leaders to maintain a human touch in their interactions with guests. By combining the best of both worlds, hospitality leaders can create exceptional experiences that drive customer satisfaction and loyalty.