Monsef Belmouden Recognized as Commended F&B Director/Leader of the Year at the 3rd Middle East F&B Excellence Awards 2025

The 3rd Middle East F&B Excellence Awards 2025 has once again showcased some of the finest talent in the food and beverage industry. Monsef Belmouden, Director of Food & Beverages at InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa, was commended for his exceptional leadership and contributions to the field. Belmouden’s career, spanning several iconic properties across the Middle East and beyond, has cemented his position as one of the most influential leaders in the F&B sector.

Since September 2023, Belmouden has served as the Director of Food and Beverage at InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa, where he is part of the Executive Committee. He oversees a variety of culinary and dining experiences that have contributed to the resort’s growing reputation. His dynamic leadership and strategic vision have played an instrumental role in shaping the resort’s food and beverage offerings, ensuring guests receive unparalleled service and exceptional dining experiences.

Before joining the InterContinental team, Belmouden’s career included leadership positions at several renowned hospitality brands, most notably at Atlantis The Royal in Dubai. As the General Manager of Gastronomy at this groundbreaking property, he oversaw the largest hotel dining concept in the UAE. With a dining hall featuring 13 restaurants, a speakeasy bar, and a coffee bar with its own roastery, Belmouden’s work at Atlantis was instrumental in the property’s early success and acclaim. His ability to manage large-scale operations with a focus on service excellence helped set the bar for the resort’s world-class dining experiences.

Prior to his time at Atlantis, Belmouden held significant positions at W Dubai – The Palm, where he served as the Operations Manager for Food and Beverage, overseeing key venues such as LIV and the luxury VIP W Lounge. At the Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai, he led the restaurant Feast, one of the hotel’s most profitable outlets, while maintaining exceptional guest satisfaction and team engagement scores.

Belmouden’s international experience also includes a stint at The Oberoi, Marrakech, where he was part of the pre-opening team and took charge of several high-profile dining outlets at this luxury property. His diverse background in luxury hotels across Morocco, the UAE, and beyond has given him a wealth of knowledge and an ability to adapt to various hospitality cultures, allowing him to thrive in different environments.

In addition to his professional experience, Belmouden has continually focused on his professional development, earning certifications such as Advanced Revenue Management from IHG Hotels & Resorts. His commitment to continuous learning and improvement reflects his leadership approach, ensuring that his teams are always well-equipped to meet the ever-changing demands of the hospitality industry.

Monsef Belmouden’s recognition as a Commended F&B Director/Leader of the Year reflects his ongoing contributions to the Middle East’s vibrant food and beverage industry. His ability to lead diverse teams, drive revenue, and maintain service excellence across multiple high-profile properties has made him a standout figure in the sector.

Belmouden’s journey serves as an inspiration to those in the hospitality industry, showcasing the power of visionary leadership and a relentless commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for guests. His accolades continue to highlight his ability to drive success and set new benchmarks in food and beverage management.