Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa Announce New Senior Field Guide

A South African native, Marelie’s new title puts her in-charge of 10 Field Guides who provide indigenous desert-based activities, giving guests access to the mesmerizing desert landscape. Field Guides play an integral part in the guest experience at this resort from assisting with check-in to sharing their wealth of knowledge about the local habitat and the importance of conservation.

Recruited in October 2020, Marelie surpassed expectations with true dedication and passion. Using the pandemic era to her advantage, she completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism Management early last year with ambition to excel further in the hospitality sector. In her new role, Marelie’s primary duties will be to liaise between guests and the leisure operations team. From organizing personalized activities for guests to assisting with ecological work and ensuring regular development and training for the field crew. Along with managing personnel, Marielle will also deploy team members to look after the well-being of the animals. From horses and their stables to Falcons and their mews, with more than six deser activities on offer as well as epicurean excursion such as Dune Dining, Marielle has been trusted to lead the team which will directly impact resort’s GSI (Guest Satisfaction Index) score.

Prior to being with Al Maha Desert Resort, Marielle first occupation in the Middle East was with Minor Group. Serving in a similar capacity, however activities which she conducted in her previous job were more mainstream such as outdoor camping, bike tours and so on. Always an avid nature lover, Marelie finished her diploma in Recreation Management in 2014 and then went on to pursue her passion as a part time facilitator with Zwartkloof, a private game reserve in South Africa. She assisted with corporate team building activities and fun days with children but for Marielle the most exciting part of that tenure was raising two infant Rhino calves.

Arne Silvis, the General Manager of the resort said “Marelie has evolved and adapted exceptionally well to the desert and conservation life. She has not only demonstrated leadership skills but has encapsulated the essence of the resort which is to provide indigenous, captivating and transformational desert experiences to our elite guests. The entire team and I wish her the very best in her new role”

About Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

Al Maha, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, the center of Dubai's heritage and conservation efforts, lies nestled within a green and verdant oasis amongst some of Arabia's most impressive dune and desert landscapes. Resembling a luxurious Bedouin encampment, the resort is just 45 minutes away from Dubai.

Al Maha’s luxurious accommodation includes 42 private guest suites in four different categories, each enjoying their own private space amidst the quiet resort surroundings with their own pool and private deck. The resort offers unique and memorable dining experiences including the signature Al Diwaan restaurant, Deck dining, Dune dining or In-suite dining. Covering a wide spectrum of interests, guests can enjoy educational and memorable desert activities such as camel trekking, wildlife drives or the falconry The resort also features a luxurious Timeless Spa, fully equipped gym and fitness facilities as well as Jacuzzi, steam and sauna rooms, and the stunning infinity pool

About The Luxury Collection® Hotels & Resorts

The Luxury Collection®, part of Marriott International, Inc., is comprised of world-renowned hotels and resorts offering unique, authentic experiences that evoke lasting, treasured memories. For the global explorer, The Luxury Collection offers a gateway to the world's most exciting and desirable destinations. Each hotel and resort is a unique and cherished expression of its location; a portal to the destination's indigenous charms and treasures. Originated in 1906 under the CIGA® brand as a collection of Europe's most celebrated and iconic properties, today The Luxury Collection brand is a glittering ensemble, recently surpassing 100 of the world's finest hotels and resorts in more than 30 countries and territories. All of these hotels, many of them centuries old, are internationally recognized as being among the world's finest. For more information and new openings, visit theluxurycollection.com or follow Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. The Luxury Collection is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the new name of Marriott’s travel program replacing Marriott Rewards®, The Ritz- Carlton Rewards®, and Starwood Preferred Guest® (SPG). The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including earning points toward free hotel stays and nights toward Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com.