Celebrating Hozpitality Best 30 Sales and Marketing Leaders in the Middle East
In the dynamic Middle Eastern hospitality industry, sales and marketing are twin engines of growth. Sales professionals master the art of persuasion and connection, driving revenue and business expansion. At the same time, marketers craft compelling narratives and strategies to captivate audiences, foster brand loyalty, and shape perceptions in this vibrant marketplace.
In the bustling landscape of the Middle Eastern hospitality industry, where every establishment vies for supremacy, the role of Sales, and Marketing professionals is nothing short of pivotal. Selling is not merely a transactional process but an intricate art form that demands finesse, strategic acumen, and relentless determination.
Similarly, in the fast-paced world of hospitality, just like sales, marketing departments often find themselves grappling with a myriad of challenges. From navigating the complexities of digital marketing to staying ahead of ever-changing consumer trends, the road to success is fraught with obstacles. Moreover, ensuring a cohesive brand identity across diverse channels and markets poses a significant challenge, requiring meticulous planning and strategic execution. Amidst fierce competition and shifting consumer preferences, marketing teams must continuously innovate and adapt, leveraging data-driven insights to drive engagement and deliver measurable results.
At the forefront of this dynamic sector, Sales, and Marketing teams navigate a terrain rife with challenges and opportunities. From staying attuned to ever-evolving industry trends to forging meaningful connections with clients, their journey is marked by continuous adaptation and relentless dedication.
In hospitality Sales, and Marketing, the quest for success begins with a deep understanding of the market landscape. Sales and Marketing professionals immerse themselves in the intricacies of consumer behaviour, market dynamics, and emerging trends, ensuring that they are well-equipped to anticipate and respond to their clientele's evolving needs.
One of the hallmarks of effective Salesmanship in the Middle East is the emphasis on relationship-building and networking. Beyond the confines of boardrooms and Sales, and Marketing pitches, successful Sales, and Marketing professionals invest time and effort in cultivating authentic connections with clients, partners, and industry peers. Whether through attending industry events, networking luncheons, or collaborative initiatives, they recognize the power of human connection in fostering long-lasting partnerships and securing valuable leads.
However, navigating the competitive landscape of hospitality Sales, and Marketing takes time and effort. Sales and Marketing teams constantly face the pressure to deliver tangible results within tight timelines. From meeting ambitious Sales targets to driving revenue growth, the expectations placed on Sales, and Marketing professionals are nothing short of demanding. Yet, precisely, this high-pressure environment breeds innovation, resilience, and tireless determination.
Initiatives such as Hozpitality's Best 30 recognize the exemplary achievements of Sales, and Marketing leaders in the Middle Eastern hospitality industry. These esteemed Sales and Marketing professionals, nominated by both their companies and peers, embody excellence in their fields, consistently showcasing a talent for innovation and achieving outstanding results for their organizations.
Here is the list of Hozpitality's Best 30 Sales, and Marketing Leaders in the Middle East:
Ahmed Ibrahim, Director of Sales, The Tower Plaza Hotel
Alisher Yakubov, Cluster Assistant Marketing & Communications Manager, Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa
Amer Khoury, Director of Sales & Marketing, Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel
Ankitha Rajendaran, Group Marketing Manager, RMAL Hospitality
Arijit Paul, Sales & Marketing Director, Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan Hotel & Convention Centre Dubai
Ashok Kapur, Director of MICE Global Sales – Middle East and Director of Sales, Taj Dubai
Dana Nikolic, Business Development Manager, FIVE Communications
Danelle Ruth Palang, Director of Marketing, Dusit Thani Dubai
Diala Serhal, Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing, Pullman Dubai Jumeirah Lakes Towers - Hotel & Residence, Novotel and ibis Abu Dhabi Gate Hotels
Gregory Savio D'Souza, Commercial Director of Sales & Marketing, Bab Al Qasr
Harold Alvarez, Director of Sales, Swissotel Al Murooj Dubai
Harpreet Singh, Assistant Director of Sales, Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai
Imran Sheik, Executive Assistant Manager In–Charge of Sales & Marketing, Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Ajman
Karishma Chopra, Director of Marketing, Centara Mirage Beach Resort
Lilia Kulishenko, Marketing & Communications Manager, Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort
Maris Loo, Director of Sales & Marketing, InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa
Megan Hewitt-Dean, Head of Marketing and Communications, Dubai Golf
Moataz Desouki, Director of Sales & Marketing, Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers
Mohamed Taher, Director of Strategic Sales & Events, Palazzo Versace Dubai
Mohannad Thabet, Marketing and Communication Manager, Emaar Hospitality Group
Nada Saidi, Multi-Property PR & Marketing Manager, Delta Hotels City Center Doha | Element City Center Doha | Element West Bay Doha | Al Samriya, Autograph Collection Doha
Nasser Zakaria, Cluster Sales Manager, Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel and Coral Beach Resort Sharjah
Paromita Ohri, Director of Marketing & Communications, Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah
Pushpendra Sah, Director of Sales, Ramada Hotel and Suites by Wyndham Dubai JBR
Raed Kai, Director of Sales & Marketing, The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai
Robert Nicolas, Director of Sales & Marketing, The Chedi Al Bait
Salim Lakdawala, Head of Marketing and E-commerce, The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel, Ramada Downtown, ibis Styles Jumeira and Ramada JBR
Sama Kainat, Marketing Manager, Holiday Inn & Staybridge Suites Dubai Business Bay
Sona Rawal, Cluster Director of Sales, Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, Wyndham Dubai Deira, Days Hotel by Wyndham Dubai Deira and Super 8 by Wyndham Dubai Deira
Sudheer Mekkattu, Cluster Marketing & Communication Manager, Adagio, Ibis Styles, Mercure Deira Dubai Cluster
Hozpitality’s Best 30 Sales and Marketing Leaders in the Middle East
Ahmed Ibrahim
Director of Sales
The Tower Plaza Hotel
Boasting over 20 years of experience in the hospitality and aviation industries across the MENA region, Ahmed brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record to the Director of Sales role.
Alisher Yakubov
Cluster Assistant Marketing & Communications Manager
Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa
With nearly five years of progressive experience and expertise in digital marketing, Alisher is committed to creating impactful strategies that enhance guest experiences, foster brand loyalty, and contribute to sustained growth and success.
Amer Khoury
Director of Sales & Marketing
Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel
With over 17 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Amer Khoury has held vital roles in renowned brands such as Intercontinental, Marriott, and Radisson Blue, contributing significantly to their success.
Ankitha Rajendaran
Group Marketing Manager
RMAL Hospitality
Throughout her career, Ankitha has excelled in strategic brand elevation, crafting and executing impactful marketing strategies for RMAL Hospitality's F&B franchise brands. Her efforts have significantly enhanced her visibility and reputation in the competitive UAE market.
Arijit Paul
Sales & Marketing Director
Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan Hotel & Convention Centre Dubai
Arijit's leadership style is characterized by vision, innovation, and collaboration. He fosters a culture of trust and teamwork, empowering his team to think outside the box and pursue bold ideas. Under his guidance, Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan Hotel has experienced remarkable growth and success in the competitive Dubai hospitality landscape.
Ashok Kapur
Director of MICE Global Sales – Middle East
and Director of Sales, Taj Dubai
Ashok Kapur is a seasoned hospitality professional with a global portfolio spanning nearly three decades. With extensive experience in diverse markets such as Southeast Asia, the USA, Europe, and the Middle East, Ashok demonstrates adaptability and a comprehensive understanding of various hospitality landscapes.
Dana Nikolic
Business Development Manager
FIVE Communications
As a key member of the FIVE Communications team, Dana plays a pivotal role in driving the agency's success while embodying its values and ethos. Her commendable leadership skills are evident as she leads and motivates her team to achieve outstanding results. Dana's ability to inspire and guide her team members sets her apart as a leader in the industry.
Danelle Ruth Palang
Director of Marketing
Dusit Thani Dubai
Danelle's expertise encompasses various marketing facets, including digital marketing, brand strategy, public relations, and market research. Her passion for the hospitality industry shines through in her work as she crafts compelling narratives that resonate with target audiences, leading to increased brand loyalty and revenue generation.
Diala Serhal
Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing
Pullman Dubai Jumeirah Lakes Towers - Hotel & Residence,
Novotel and ibis Abu Dhabi Gate Hotels
With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality sector, Diala is a seasoned leader with a wealth of expertise in sales and marketing. Currently overseeing sales and marketing for three hotels across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, her role as the Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing (CDOSM) for Novotel and Ibis Abu Dhabi Gate and Pullman Dubai JLT showcases her versatile skill set.
Gregory Savio D'Souza
Commercial Director of Sales & Marketing
Bab Al Qasr
Under Greg's dynamic leadership, Bab Al Qasr Hotel has experienced a significant increase in RevPAR, reflecting his proficiency in driving revenue growth and optimizing profitability. He has maximized revenue potential through innovative marketing strategies and effective sales initiatives while ensuring a superior guest experience.
Harold Alvarez
Director of Sales
Swissotel Al Murooj Dubai
With a wealth of experience in sales leadership, strategic planning, team management, and achieving revenue targets, Harold brings invaluable expertise to his role. His strong communication skills, negotiation abilities, and proven track record of driving sales growth set him apart in the competitive hospitality industry landscape.
Harpreet Singh
Assistant Director of Sales
Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai
With a decade of widespread experience in the hospitality industry, Harpreet has an outstanding track record of developing key growth sales strategies, tactics, and action plans. He started his hospitality career in 2014 and has worked for different hotel brands.
Imran Sheik
Executive Assistant Manager In–Charge of Sales & Marketing
Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Ajman
Under Sheik’s leadership, Ramada Ajman achieved significant milestones, including contributing to the city's highest occupancy rates and improving its Revenue Generation Index. Imran's innovative mindset has led to the development of tailored staycation packages and partnerships with charter operators, boosting room and F&B revenue.
Karishma Chopra
Director of Marketing
Centara Mirage Beach Resort
With over nine years of experience in Marketing Communication, Public Relations, and social media, she is a self-driven and motivated professional with a diverse skill set encompassing digital and traditional marketing within the Hospitality and Lifestyle industry.
Lilia Kulishenko
Marketing & Communications Manager
Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort
With a distinguished career in hospitality dating back to 2007, Lilia Kulishenko exemplifies excellence in the field. Her profound understanding of each department's intricacies has been instrumental in crafting effective marketing strategies that align with the company's vision and are understandable and achievable for the entire team.
Maris Loo
Director of Sales & Marketing
InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa
Maris embodies a remarkable fusion of passion, expertise, and leadership within the realm of sales and marketing. Her unparalleled enthusiasm propels her through complex market terrains while cultivating a collaborative atmosphere, inspiring her team and yielding tangible business outcomes.
Megan Hewitt-Dean
Head of Marketing & Communications
Dubai Golf
With 14 years of experience in start-up and multi-billion-dollar organizational environments, Megan has a proven track record of creating access to new markets within mature industries. She is keenly interested in taking projects from concept to shelf, driving innovation at every stage.
Moataz Desouki
Director of Sales & Marketing
Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers
With over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Moataz stands out as a seasoned Director of Sales and Marketing. He is currently making his mark at Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers. His career journey, starting as a Sales Executive and rising to prestigious brands such as Rotana, Sheraton, and JW Marriott, showcases his relentless drive and strategic insight. With skills in Negotiation, Hospitality Management, Sales, Hotel Management, and Rooms Division, Moataz completed his education at Alexandria University, further enhancing his knowledge and skills.
Mohamed Taher
Director of Strategic Sales & Events
Palazzo Versace Dubai
With over three decades of experience, Mohamed is a seasoned Commercial Director boasting cross-functional expertise in sales, business development, marketing, and public relations.
Mohannad Thabet
Marketing & Communication Manager
Emaar Hospitality Group
Since assuming his role in February 2023, Mohannad has played a pivotal role in defining marketing objectives, ensuring brand consistency, and developing comprehensive plans for the hotel. His leadership has been instrumental in creating engaging marketing collateral, overseeing digital campaigns, and fostering lasting relationships with media outlets.
Nada Saidi
Multi-Property PR & Marketing Manager
Delta Hotels City Center Doha | Element City Center Doha |
Element West Bay Doha | Al Samriya, Autograph Collection
With over a decade of experience in digital marketing, Nada brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her dynamic approach to marketing plan development and management has been instrumental in driving growth and brand visibility for the properties under her purview.
Nasser Zakaria
Cluster Sales Manager
Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel and Coral Beach Resort Sharjah
With over twelve years of experience in the industry, in his native country and the UAE, Nasser has demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication throughout his career.
Paromita Ohri
Director of Marketing & Communications
Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah
With a keen focus on building corporate value, Paromita brings a wealth of expertise in aggressive strategic marketing across existing and emerging market sectors. Her illustrious career spans nine successful hotel pre-openings, revenue-driven marketing campaigns, and adept management of public relations initiatives, all of which have garnered her multiple awards and accolades.
Pushpendra Sah
Director of Sales
Ramada Hotel and Suites by Wyndham Dubai JBR
With a dynamic professional background rooted in customer service, Pushpendra excels in providing excellent customer support and is comfortable communicating with individuals from diverse backgrounds, occupations, and cultures. He thrives on challenges and demonstrates a remarkable ability to adapt quickly to new environments and responsibilities, solidifying his credibility as a professional within the organization.
Raed Kai
Director of Sales & Marketing
The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai
Raed epitomizes the essence of a remarkable leader and a genuine human advocate within The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai. His leadership style is characterized by a relentless commitment to supporting his team under all conditions, fostering a fantastic teamwork environment, and creating an atmosphere of excitement and collaboration.
Robert Nicolas
Director of Sales & Marketing
The Chedi Al Bait
With 19 years of experience in the hospitality industry and a wealth of expertise, Robert Nicolas Sahyouni, the newly appointed director of sales and marketing, leads sales, marketing, revenue, and reservations activities.
Salim Lakdawala
Head of Marketing & E-commerce
The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel, Ramada Downtown,
ibis Styles Jumeira and Ramada JBR
Since taking charge as the Head of Digital Marketing, Salim has ensured maximum exposure and revenue through electronic channels and e-commerce initiatives.
Sama Kainat
Marketing Manager
Holiday Inn & Staybridge Suites Dubai Business Bay
A seasoned marketing professional with over nine years of extensive experience in both public relations (PR) and digital marketing. Demonstrating a remarkable track record, Sama has repeatedly showcased the capability to conceive and implement highly effective marketing campaigns that yield tangible results.
Sona Rawal
Cluster Director of Sales
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, Wyndham Dubai Deira,
Days Hotel by Wyndham Dubai Deira and Super 8 by Wyndham Dubai Deira
With over 24 years of professional experience in the hospitality industry, Sona began her journey as a trainee at Welcome Group Maurya Sheraton Delhi (India) before venturing to Dubai in 1999 as a pre-opening team member of the iconic Burj Al Arab.
Sudheer Mekkattu
Cluster Marketing & Communication Manager
Adagio, ibis Styles, Mercure Deira Dubai Cluster
With a rich background spanning 12 years in the hospitality industry, Sudheer has garnered extensive experience with leading brands like Marriott and Accor hotels. Renowned for his expertise in pre-opening strategies and driving business growth, Sudheer is poised to elevate the marketing endeavors of the Adagio, Ibis Styles, and Mercure Cluster to unprecedented heights.
Meela Seenarain
Dubai, United Arab Emirates UAE