The General Manager of Our Habitas Ras Abrouq talks cultural connections and the importance of small acts of service.

What first attracted you to the hospitality sector and how has it lived up to your early expectations?
From an early age, I was captivated by the idea of creating meaningful experiences for people from all walks of life. Hospitality offered a unique platform where culture, connection and creativity converge – and that truly resonated with me. Over the years, the industry has not only lived up to but exceeded my expectations. The dynamic nature of hospitality continuously challenges and inspires me, especially at

Our Habitas, where human connection and storytelling are at the core of everything we do. Our Habitas group the world over is known for its ‘Luxury for the Soul’ ethos. Can you explain how this is characterised at Ras Abrouq?
At Ras Abrouq, ‘Luxury for the Soul’ is reflected in our intentional design, immersive programming and authentic guest experiences. It’s about creating space for reflection, discovery and joy in a natural, unspoiled environment. Whether it’s a sunrise meditation on the cliffs, storytelling by the fire or learning from local artisans, we go beyond the traditional concept of luxury by offering soulful, transformative experiences rooted in nature and culture.

The property is famed for its emphasis on arts, culture and local heritage connections. What is the event/installation/ immersive experience you’re most proud of in this respect?
One of the experiences I’m most proud of is our ongoing collaboration with local artists and cultural custodians. Our Desert Dialogues series stands out – a programme that brings together Qatari storytellers and musicians to share their craft with our guests. It’s a beautiful fusion of tradition and curiosity, offering a rare opportunity to engage with the soul of the land and its culture in an intimate, respectful way.

If you could swap jobs with anyone in the resort for a day, who would it be and why?
I’d love to swap roles with one of our experience hosts. They are the bridge between the guest and the magic of Ras Abrouq. Spending a day guiding guests through the desert, sharing local tales or leading a stargazing session would be both humbling and energising. It’s a role deeply connected to our purpose and a reminder of why we do what we do.

Do you have a secret talent or bucket list item that our readers might be surprised to learn about?
What truly fulfills me beyond the walls of hospitality is giving back – volunteering with organisations dedicated to humanity and social impact. I’m especially passionate about initiatives that support children and underserved communities. Whether it’s mentoring young minds, giving talks on the transformative power of hospitality or simply showing up where help is needed, I believe that small acts of service ripple far beyond what we can see.
Recently, I had the honour of sharing a heartfelt speech at Condé Nast Traveler’s event, where I spoke about the responsibility we carry as hoteliers – not just to create memorable stays, but to foster genuine human connection and leave the world a little better than we found it. It’s this alignment between purpose and profession that keeps me grounded and inspired. ✤