The GM of Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection By Hilton on career passion and an upcoming sporting tournament.

What first drew you to the hospitality sector and has it lived up to your expectations?
I joined this industry as a part-timer, while I was pursuing my higher education. It did not take long for me to fall in love with the industry. My passion for hospitality led it to become my professional career. I am delighted that I made this decision against all odds, and I firmly believe that I made the correct choice. Hospitality is a dynamic industry. Throughout my years, I have faced many challenges and, looking back, it has been an absolutely wonderful journey. I have travelled the world and worked across continents, met great personalities and gained a wealth of experience. After three decades, I am proud to be where I am in the hospitality industry – all thanks to the bold decision that I took, as my heart was meant for this industry.

Fuwairit Kite Beach (FKB) is Hilton’s first kitesurfing resort and the only Tapestry property in the Middle East. How does it differ from other properties you have managed?
Indeed, Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is a one-of-a-kind property. Hilton manages several iconic beach resorts around the world. However, this is the first property to be crowned with a kitesurfing experience to go with the worldrenowned Hilton hospitality. Qatar is expanding and properties like ours will definitely attract many tourists, who are keen on leisure sports like kitesurfing in the near future. The resort is uniquely adorned with decorative details and focuses heavily on environmental sustainability. We opened our doors in October 2022 to cater to the accommodation demand of the FIFA World Cup held in Qatar and in our first year of operation, we’ve faced challenges and successfully overcome all of them thanks to our great team. In my career, I have managed hotels and resorts in cities and remote areas, however, I find it a privilege and an honour to manage Hilton’s first kitesurfing resort and the only Tapestry Collection by Hilton property in the Middle East.

How did you prepare to take over such a unique hotel in such a unique and beautiful setting?
Being in hospitality our first priority is to delight guests and ensure they have a great experience to reminisce on. I joined Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton with the aim of taking it to greater heights and further developing the guest journey. As an experienced hospitality professional and a general manager, I am well acquainted with guest expectations and values. I have an amazing team on the property who are tirelessly striving for service excellence. Therefore, it did not require me to prepare for this to undertake this new position.

What’s coming up for guests in the future – are there any more tournaments or events planned?
Guests will be entertained with new food and beverage offerings as well as unforgettable experiences at the resort. With more winds coming in the winter season, the resort will be the host destination for the GKA Freestyle Kite World Cup Finals Qatar 2023, which is the biggest highlight of the year for Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. We are anticipating greater participation in the upcoming season.

Do you take part in any of the sports on offer at FKB and, if yes, which are your favourites?
I enjoy playing beach volleyball and padel with my team. Engaging in sports helps me to relieve stress, improve concentration and focus on my goals. I am yet to try kitesurfing, but I am hopeful of crossing it off of my bucket list during this summer.