Salem Al Shahrani named among Hozpitality's Best 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East for 2023
Salem Al Shahrani, Managing Director for FRSS Hotels Makkah at Accor, has been recognized as one of the Best 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East by Hozpitality Group.
Salem Al Shahrani is a renowned hospitality veteran and esteemed luxury hotelier, boasting an impressive career spanning over 25 years in the hospitality and tourism industry. Throughout his journey, Salem has held various senior roles in iconic organizations, amassing a remarkable track record of achievements and establishing a vast network of connections in both local and international markets.
His professional standing speaks volumes, portraying him as a resilient, results-oriented leader and one of the most influential figures in the hospitality sector. In 2021, Salem took on the role of Managing Director at the iconic Makkah Clock Royal Tower, situated in the heart of the holy city of Makkah. This complex comprises four internationally renowned five-star hotels: Fairmont Makkah, Raffles Makkah Palace, Swissotel Makkah, and Swissotel Al Maqam Makkah.
In his current capacity, Salem oversees strategic initiatives and day-to-day operations, managing the hotel's executive teams, a staggering 5,000 keys, and a workforce of over 1,800 hotel employees. Under his leadership, Salem introduced and implemented a groundbreaking methodology, surpassing financial expectations and transforming the dynamics of one of the most intricate markets.
Salem's innovative approach involved creating self-motivated matrices to monitor performance, targets, development, and achievements within the vast complex. This initiative positioned the four hotels as leaders in Makkah and garnered international recognition, establishing them as beacons of hospitality across global markets. His ability to exceed forecasted budgets, attract top talents, enhance products, establish effective funnels, and nurture the careers of his colleagues fostered a sense of ownership, significantly enhancing guest experiences and elevating the brand reputation across all platforms.
Despite his substantial workload, Salem continued his quest for knowledge and personal development, earning his Master of Business Administration in Hospitality from EHL in 2023, the renowned Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne – Hospitality Management School in Switzerland. Furthermore, Salem serves as a board member in key corporations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, contributing significantly to prestigious ongoing projects in the region. His multifaceted expertise and steadfast dedication make him a prominent leader in the hospitality industry.
Meela Seenarain
Dubai, United Arab Emirates UAE