The Managing Director of The Ned Doha talks pride in the property’s heritage and pays tribute to the frontline teams.

The Ned Doha is part of a unique brand in a unique building – please tell us about the USPs?
The Ned blends history, design and lifestyle in a way that feels instantly iconic. What makes The Ned Doha special is the combination of timeless glamour with modern energy, all inside one of Qatar’s most architecturally significant buildings.
We stand out by being more than a hotel. We are a members’ club, a social hub and a dining destination with seven restaurants, a vibrant events programme, an impressive art collection and truly beautiful public spaces. This balance of heritage and contemporary lifestyle creates an experience that is completely unique in the market.

The hotel has just celebrated its third anniversary in Qatar. How did you mark the occasion and what have been the main changes since you opened?
Celebrating our third anniversary was a proud moment. We marked it by recognising the people who made The Ned Doha what it is today through intimate gatherings, special menus and internal celebrations that reflected our journey.
Over three years, the property has evolved with new dining concepts, expanded programming, elevated partnerships and continuous improvements in service. Qatar has grown rapidly, and we have grown with it while staying true to our identity and sense of community.

Are there any new offerings or developments coming up in the short to medium term that you can share with our readers?
We have several exciting developments ahead. In the short term, we are introducing refreshed menus, seasonal experiences and enhanced programming across our restaurants and member events.
In the medium term, we are focusing on collaborations with global and regional brands in fashion, wellness and culture, along with new social experiences designed to keep The Ned Doha dynamic and relevant. Your career in hospitality has spanned more than 30 years.

What first drew you to this sector and can you share any funny, strange or enlightening experiences from your time in the field?
From a young age, I was drawn to hospitality because every day feels different and full of human connection. The ability to create memorable moments for people is what inspired me to join this field.
Through the years, I’ve experienced everything from unexpected guest requests to memorable encounters that taught me the importance of staying calm, creative and empathetic. What has stayed with me most is the belief that guests will always remember how you made them feel.

If you could swap positions with anyone in the hotel for a day, who would it be and why?
I would choose to spend a day with our front-line team, either at the Front Office or in our restaurants. These roles offer a direct window into our guests’ emotions, expectations and feedback. They are the heartbeat of the hotel, and spending a day in their shoes is the best reminder of why we do what we do.✤