The Future Hospitality Summit Podcast

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Welcome to the Future Hospitality Summit podcast. Future Hospitality Summit is the world’s most influential annual gathering of hotel owners, investors, hotel brands, restaurant leaders, airlines & aviation authorities, destination developers, asset manag

Future Hospitality Summit


    • Sep 30, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 20m AVG DURATION
    • 197 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from The Future Hospitality Summit Podcast

    FHS Podcast Episode 163: Five Worlds, One Vision, Marc Dardenne, CEO, Modon Hospitality, Unveils Afiniti

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2026 18:54


    Marc Dardenne, CEO of Modon Hospitality, joins the FHS Podcast to discuss how guest expectations are reshaping the future of hospitality and why travellers are increasingly choosing experiences over destinations alone. He introduces Afiniti, Modon Hospitality's new experience-led hospitality brand, designed around five distinct worlds: family, adults-only, adventure, urban resort and wellness. Rather than asking guests to choose a destination first, Afiniti is built around the type of experience they want to have, with each property offering its own character while remaining part of one connected brand environment. Pasted text Marc also explains how branded residences will form an important part of the concept, allowing guests to buy into the lifestyle while accessing hotel-style services, management and rental options. Pasted text Looking ahead, he shares Modon Hospitality's plans to grow Afiniti from its Abu Dhabi base into new destinations across the UAE and internationally, including Ras Al Hekma, island destinations, Africa and Europe. The focus, he says, is not on chasing hotel numbers, but on building the brand carefully, maintaining control over the guest experience and creating a long-term platform that can grow with consistency. Pasted text

    Episode 161: The UAE's Next Chapter: A Conversation on Tourism and Investment

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2026 19:44


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Mohammed Al Ahbabi, Director of Tourism Development at the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism, joins us to discuss the UAE's continued strength as a global tourism and investment hub. The conversation explores what is driving the country's resilience, how the Ministry is supporting long-term tourism growth, and where the next opportunities are emerging across investment, destination development, infrastructure, talent and lifestyle.

    Episode 156: From Cairo to the Red Sea - The Investment Case for Egypt's Hospitality Market

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2026 31:59


    Mohamed Zaghloul, Board Member & VP of Hospitality Development at Zaghloul Holding, joins the FHS Egypt Podcast to discuss eight decades of real estate and hospitality development in Egypt - from the family business roots of the 1940s through to today's pipeline of 3,000 rooms. Mohamed shares his perspective on Cairo's multi-segment advantage, the flight capacity bottleneck holding back Egypt's tourism growth, the rise of medical and ecotourism, and why Gulf capital flowing into the market is a net positive for local operators. A grounded, owner-side view on where Egypt is and where it's heading.

    Episode 162: Madinah's New Investment Story: Building a Destination for the World

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2026 22:40


    In this episode, Dr. Moath Alyahya, Chief Executive Officer of Knowledge Economic City, explores how Madinah is evolving into a broader investment, hospitality and mixed-use destination. The conversation looks at KEC's expansion strategy, major developments including Knowledge Gardens and the Islamic World District, changing demand beyond religious tourism, and how new partnerships and investment structures are helping shape the city's next chapter under Vision 2030.

    Episode 159: Branded Residences: Where Luxury, Living, and Capital Meet with Riyan Itani

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2026 33:15


    In this episode, Riyan Itani, Founder of Global Branded Residences Ltd., explores how branded residences are evolving at the intersection of luxury, real estate and investment. The conversation looks at what drives brand premiums, why standalone residences are gaining ground, how buyer expectations are changing, and why the Middle East has become one of the sector's most dynamic growth markets.

    Episode 158: The Story Sells: Richard Stevens on Branding Bold Hotel Brands

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2026 51:45


    In this episode, Richard Stevens, Director at Sectorlight, explores why strong hospitality brands are built through story, not just design, and how a clear brand narrative can shape everything from market positioning to guest perception. The discussion looks at what makes a hotel brand distinctive in an increasingly crowded market, how developers can create concepts that feel bold without losing commercial relevance, and why branding needs to be considered early in the development process. Richard also shares his perspective on the relationship between storytelling, place, design, and long-term brand value, and what it takes to create hospitality concepts that people remember.

    Episode 157: Building for Growth: Hospitality Development in a Changing Market

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2026 30:02


    In our latest FHS podcast, we sit down with Ayman Ezzeddine, Director of Development, Middle East at Radisson Hotel Group, as he walks us through the behind-the-scenes of hotel development. Our conversations ranged from resilience to what makes an opportunity worth pursuing. With hospitality across the Middle East evolving at remarkable speed, we explore the forces shaping the region's next phase of growth, the markets catching developers' attention, and what it takes to build partnerships that create long-term value for owners, operators, and destinations alike.

    Episode 156: From Cairo to the Red Sea - The Investment Case for Egypt's Hospitality Market

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2026 31:59


    Mohamed Zaghloul, Board Member & VP of Hospitality Development at Zaghloul Holding, joins the FHS Egypt Podcast to discuss eight decades of real estate and hospitality development in Egypt — from the family business roots of the 1940s through to today's pipeline of 3,000 rooms. Mohamed shares his perspective on Cairo's multi-segment advantage, the flight capacity bottleneck holding back Egypt's tourism growth, the rise of medical and ecotourism, and why Gulf capital flowing into the market is a net positive for local operators. A grounded, owner-side view on where Egypt is and where it's heading.

    Episode 155: Building Swiss Hospitality in the Heart of Abu Dhabi

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2026 27:25


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Building Swiss Hospitality in the Heart of Abu Dhabi, Georgette Davey, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy - Les Roches, discusses how the Academy is bringing Swiss hospitality excellence to one of the region's fastest-growing tourism and hospitality markets. She shares how hospitality education is evolving to meet the needs of a changing industry, the importance of developing future-ready talent, and why Abu Dhabi is uniquely positioned to become a leading hub for hospitality learning, leadership and innovation.

    Episode 154: Egypt's Hospitality Landscape - Capital Flows, Liquidity and the Road to Maturity

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2026 29:35


    In this episode of the FHS Egypt Podcast, Daria speaks with Amr El Nady, Head of Hotels & Hospitality MEA and Managing Director of the Global Hotel Desk at JLL, about the evolving hospitality investment landscape in Egypt. Amr explores the growing momentum behind the market, including increased participation from regional developers and Gulf capital, continued activity from domestic investors, and hotel development expanding across Cairo, the Red Sea and the North Coast. The conversation also examines what investors are looking for beyond occupancy and ADR, from operating margins and asset competitiveness to governance, transparency and the ability to repatriate capital. Amr highlights that while Egypt offers attractive operating fundamentals and significant room for additional hotel supply, greater transaction transparency and clearer exit pathways will be important in attracting a broader pool of institutional and international capital. Drawing on lessons from more mature hotel investment markets, the episode considers how ownership structures, access to debt, professional asset management, legal frameworks and greater market liquidity could further strengthen Egypt's investment proposition.

    Beyond Heritage: Building Egypt's Next Generation of Lifestyle Destinations

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2026 21:32


    In this episode of the FHS Egypt Podcast, we are joined by Nina Vithlani, Managing Director MENA at Sectorlight, to explore how Egypt can build distinctive, world-class destinations that resonate with local, regional, and international audiences alike. Drawing on her experience working across major projects in Egypt and the wider Middle East, Nina unpacks what makes Egypt such a unique place branding opportunity, and why the conversation is shifting from ancient history and leisure tourism toward luxury hospitality, branded residences, and lifestyle-led development. From Cairo's urban energy to the North Coast's potential as an all-year-round lifestyle destination and the Red Sea's established nature and wellness credentials, Nina breaks down how each of Egypt's key markets can define its own identity without competing with one another. She also addresses how developers can appeal to domestic, GCC, and international buyers without diluting their proposition, and why authenticity and a destination-first strategy are the keys to long-term value. The episode also covers the rise of wellness as a differentiator, the pace of development in Egypt, and the growing need for education and capability-building in selling super-premium branded residences to international investors. Tune in for a candid and insightful conversation about where Egypt is headed, and what it will take to get there.

    Episode 149: Wyndham and the Future of Saudi Hospitality

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2026 24:28


    In this episode of the FHS Saudi Arabia podcast, Daria is joined by Mohamad Haj Hassan, Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, to explore the forces shaping hotel growth in one of the world's most closely watched hospitality markets. The conversation looks at what makes Saudi Arabia such a compelling opportunity for global hotel brands, how Wyndham's franchising model supports the Kingdom's current phase of development, and what local investors and owners now expect from their brand partners.

    Episode 146: Building Saudi Arabia's Next Wave of Mid-Market Hospitality

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2026 45:19


    In this episode, we speak with Dory Mouawad, Director of Operations KSA at Ewaa Hotel Group, about the changing face of Saudi Arabia's hospitality market and the rising importance of budget and mid-scale hotels. With more than 25 years of experience in Middle East hospitality, Dory shares his perspective on what it takes to build a scalable hotel brand in the Kingdom, the operational discipline behind Ewaa Express, and how guest expectations are evolving as Saudi Arabia's tourism landscape expands. The conversation explores why consistency, profitability, service quality, and simplicity are becoming critical to long-term growth — and why the next phase of Saudi hospitality will need hotel products that are practical, accessible, and built for scale.

    Episode 145: The Neuroscience of Hospitality

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2026 53:08


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Anant Sharma, CEO of Matter Of Form, is joined by Muneeb Mushtaq, Chairman of Airzai, to explore the neuroscience of hospitality and the powerful role scent, sound and sensory design play in shaping how people feel, behave and remember a place. The conversation looks at how sensory design is moving from a finishing touch to a strategic part of brand building, helping hospitality brands create emotion, differentiation and deeper guest connection. From the influence of scent on memory and behaviour to the role of sound, atmosphere, AI and cultural context, Anant and Muneeb discuss how emotionally intelligent experiences can transform physical spaces into more meaningful and memorable destinations. With Saudi Arabia building some of the world's most ambitious hospitality projects, this episode also explores why the Kingdom is such an exciting market for sensory innovation, brand experience and the future of guest engagement.

    Episode 144: Scaling Authentic Saudi Hospitality: Elaf Group's Transformation Journey

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2026 38:07


    In this episode, we speak with Jalil Mekouar, Chief Executive Officer, Elaf Group, about what makes Saudi Arabia's hospitality opportunity unlike any other market in the world today. Drawing on more than 35 years of experience across hospitality, real estate, investment, operations, asset management, and technology, the conversation explores Elaf Group's transformation journey, the next phase of Saudi Arabia's hospitality growth, and the shift from ambition to operational excellence. From evolving guest expectations and the changing definition of luxury to the rise of emerging destinations and the role of local Saudi operators, this episode offers a deep look at how the Kingdom's hospitality sector is maturing, scaling, and creating new opportunities for investors, brands, and industry leaders.

    Episode 143: Amsa Hospitality's Revolution in Saudi Hospitality

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2026 19:23


    In this episode, Muin Sehran, CEO of Amsa Hospitality, shares how the company is helping shape the next chapter of Saudi Arabia's hospitality sector, from building brands that reflect the Kingdom's identity to responding to the growing demand for authentic, locally rooted guest experiences. The conversation explores how Saudi hospitality is evolving beyond traditional hotel development, creating new opportunities for owners, operators, investors, and talent across the Kingdom.

    Episode 142: Saudi Arabia Through the Eyes of Radisson Hotel Group

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026 31:36


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Elie Milky, Vice President of Development Middle East, Cyprus, Greece & Pakistan at Radisson Hotel Group, shares why Saudi Arabia remains one of the most resilient and compelling hospitality markets in the region. Speaking amid a period of geopolitical turbulence, Elie discusses how Radisson Hotel Group views the current landscape through the lens of opportunity rather than uncertainty. He also explores the group's expansion strategy, its growing footprint across the Kingdom, and why Saudi Arabia continues to be a key market for Radisson's future growth.

    Episode 141: Saudi Arabia's Tourism Transformation Through the Eyes of Rotana

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2026 27:45


    In this episode of the FHS podcast, Eddy Tannous, Chief Operating Officer, Rotana Hotels, shares Rotana's expansion strategy in the Kingdom. From expansion into secondary cities to bringing the world to Saudi Arabia with events like the Expo and the World Cup, Saudi Arabia is planning the next chapter of global hospitality, and Rotana is spearheading this transformation.

    Episode 139: Designing the Hotels of the Future with Fouad Awan

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2026 27:47


    In this episode, Fouad Awan, Partner & Managing Director, FSK & Partners, discusses the growing importance of ELV systems, building automation, and AI in modern hospitality development, and why these conversations need to happen from the earliest stages of a project. The discussion explores how technology infrastructure directly impacts guest experience, operational efficiency, and long-term asset value across hospitality projects in the Gulf, Africa, and Asia, while also touching on talent development, community impact, geopolitical pressures on business, and the role industry platforms like play in driving collaboration across the sector.

    Episode 137: Bridging Capital Markets: China and the Future of Global Hospitality REITs

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2026 19:08


    In this episode, we explore how global capital is being reshaped across hospitality and real estate, with a particular focus on the growing role of Chinese and Asian investors. From cross-border investment strategies to the development of REIT-style platforms in DIFC and ADGM, the conversation unpacks how firms like F.O.G Capital are working to bridge capital markets and unlock institutional investment.

    Episode 136:The Hospitality Opportunity in Mixed-Use MICE Districts

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2026 20:43


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Ronald Philip, VP - Investment and Corporate Development, Corporate Strategy, Dubai World Trade Centre, discusses how these districts are driving year-round footfall, creating vibrant community hubs, and unlocking new revenue streams for developers and operators alike. From adaptive space planning to experiential guest offerings, this conversation highlights how the convergence of business and leisure is redefining the future of hospitality.

    Episode 135: Repositioning Qatar: Strategy, Scale and Smart Hospitality

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2026 25:13


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, we explore Qatar's maturing hospitality market post-World Cup with Wael Al Sharif, Area General Manager at The Torch Hospitality Group, diving into the sector's current sentiment, the transition from event-driven demand to sustained growth amid supply surges, and strategic shifts for managing iconic assets. We discuss Torch's expansion plans in Qatar and the GCC, how it differentiates beyond architecture through sustainability and smart operations, and what will define success for operators over the next 3–5 years.

    Episode 140: From Momentum to Maturity: Saudi Arabia's Next Hospitality Chapter

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2026 25:36


    In this episode, David Thompson, from The First Group Hospitality, discusses the Kingdom's rapid transformation, evolving investor sentiment, the realities of delivering large-scale hospitality projects, and the opportunities emerging across both major and secondary destinations. The conversation also explores how operators and developers can create sustainable value in an increasingly competitive market, and why collaboration between capital, brands, and government vision will define the next chapter of Saudi hospitality.

    Episode 138: The Attention Economy of Hospitality with Michael Cirino

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2026 22:37


    In this episode of FHS Podcast, we talk about the attention economy of hospitality; it's no longer enough to build beautiful spaces. The real challenge is creating moments that capture attention, spark emotion, and stay with people long after they leave. Joining us is Michael Cirino, Founder and Chief Creative Officer of House of Attention, an award-winning creative studio redefining what hospitality experiences can be. With over two decades of work at the intersection of storytelling, technology, and physical space, Michael has built immersive concepts that blur the lines between dining, entertainment, art, and brand.

    Episode 134: The Art of Investing in Hospitality

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2026 9:52


    Hospitality has evolved from a cyclical alternative into a stable, institutionalized asset class. In this FHS Podcast, Varun Kapur of Kapur and Partners breaks down where global capital is moving. Saudi Arabia and UAE Lead the Way: High government stability and massive infrastructure investment, such as AlUla, make this the hottest market globally. New freehold rules in Saudi Arabia are further accelerating FDI. While Tier-1 cities like London and Paris remain strong, smart money is moving into up-and-coming European hubs like Prague and Milan, alongside the booming domestic tourism market in India.

    Episode 133: Across Borders: Radisson's Development Strategy

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2026 16:00


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Elie Milky, Chief Development Officer for the Middle East, Northeast Africa, Cyprus, and Greece at Radisson Hotel Group, talks about his journey with the company and how his role has evolved alongside Radisson's transformation over the years. He shares insights into the group's strategic shift toward more agile and diversified growth across his regions, explaining how market priorities differ and where investor sentiment remains strongest today.

    Episode 129: Rotana Unpacked: Leadership, Investment Trends, and the Future of Hospitality

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2025 48:33


    In this episode, we sit down with the CEO of Rotana for an insightful conversation on leadership, strategy, and the future of hospitality. He shares his personal journey through iconic global brands, the values that shape Rotana's culture, and how the company is aligning vision with long-term investment. We explore the trends influencing global hospitality, Rotana's competitive edge across diverse markets, and the pivotal role Dubai plays in attracting and developing world-class talent.

    FHS Podcast Episode: 128: Inside MEA Hospitality: Knight Frank on Strategy, Valuation & Capital Markets

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2025 43:50


    This episode brings together Knight Frank's MEA hospitality experts to explore how advisory, valuation, and capital markets teams work as one to guide hotel projects from concept to exit. We discuss investor appetite, emerging opportunities across the Middle East and Africa, and the key factors shaping successful hospitality developments in the region.

    Episode 126: New Frontiers of Hospitality: Investment, Innovation, and Emerging Destinations in MEA

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2025 12:06


    In this episode, we explore the dynamic transformation of the Middle East and Africa's hospitality landscape. Industry leaders share insights on new investment opportunities, innovative development models, and the rise of emerging destinations reshaping travel and tourism across the region. From visionary masterplans to evolving guest expectations, this conversation dives into what's driving the next chapter of growth in MEA's hospitality sector.

    Episode 125: Vision, Growth, and Independent Hospitality: The Aleph Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 28:01


    In this insightful episode, we sit down with the visionary leader behind Aleph Hospitality to explore the journey of building one of the region's most successful independent hotel management companies. From the inspiration behind Aleph's founding to overcoming early challenges, the conversation delves into how the company has set itself apart from global hotel chains and rapidly expanded across Africa, the Middle East, and beyond.

    Episode 124: Adapting to Change: Hospitality's New Era in the Middle East

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2025 34:35


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Marco Rentsch, Partner at PwC Middle East, joins us to explore the evolving landscape of hospitality investment and advisory. He shares insights on emerging market trends, key challenges and opportunities for investors, and how strategic guidance is shaping successful hotel developments across the Middle East and globally. Tune in for expert perspectives on navigating the hospitality investment landscape, maximizing returns, and driving sustainable growth in today's competitive market.

    Episode 123: Investing in People, Driving Hospitality Forward

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 34:14


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Dr. Achim Schmitt, Dean of EHL Hospitality Business School, joins us to explore how hospitality education is shaping the future of the industry. We discuss the evolving role of talent, innovation, and sustainability in global hospitality, and examine how visionary programs prepare the next generation of leaders. From emerging trends like AI, experiential travel, and branded residences to opportunities in high-growth regions such as the Middle East, Dr. Schmitt highlights how investing in people and knowledge drives the industry forward.

    Episode 122: Architecting Vision: How Design Shapes the Future of Hospitality Investment

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 28:39


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Daria Smith sits down with Arjan Pit, Managing Director Middle East at UNStudio, to explore how visionary architecture is shaping the future of hospitality and urban development in the region. From leading landmark projects such as Wasl Tower and Expo City Dubai to discussing the balance between creative design and commercial viability, Arjan shares how bold ideas can influence investment decisions. Tune in to hear how Dubai and the wider Middle East are becoming global hubs for innovation, sustainability, and talent in hospitality design.

    Episode 121: Behind the Brand: Eleonora Srugo on the Rise of Branded Residences

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 20:30


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Eleonora Srugo, real estate broker at Douglas Elliman and star of Netflix's Selling the City, shares her perspective on the rise of branded residences and their global appeal. Drawing on her 16 years in New York's luxury market, she discusses why international investors trust brands, how markets like Dubai and Miami are reshaping the conversation, and the shifting demographics driving demand. From institutional investor interest to collaborations with fashion, wellness, and culinary brands, Eleonora offers practical insights into how branded residences are evolving and what this means for developers and investors alike.

    Episode 120: Randy Durband, Chief Executive Officer, GSTC

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2025 36:18


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Randy Durband, CEO of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), joins Daria Smith to discuss how sustainability is becoming a key driver for hospitality investment. They explore the growing importance of GSTC certification for hotels and destinations, the tangible business benefits, and how investors are increasingly factoring in ESG criteria. Randy also shares his insights on overcoming industry barriers to sustainability, especially in fast-growing markets like Dubai. 

    Episode 111: Eddy Tannous, Chief Operating Officer, Rotana

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2025 30:17


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Jonathan Worsley speaks with Eddy Tannous, Chief Operating Officer of Rotana, to unpack the group's dynamic growth strategy across the Middle East. Eddy shares how Rotana is scaling fast, especially in Saudi Arabia, where 13 hotels are in the pipeline, while maintaining a high-touch, owner-centric approach. The conversation dives into the practical challenges of building talent, managing local operations, and competing with global giants through agility and cultural understanding. They also explore the evolving branded residences sector and the franchise vs. third-party management debate.

    Episode 108: Nina Vithlani, Managing Director MENA, Sectorlight

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2025 16:39


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Riyan Itani, Director & Founder, Global Branded Residences, is joined by Nina Vithlani, Managing Director for MENA at Sectorlight, to explore the explosive growth of branded residences in Asia. They discuss the importance of emotional storytelling, evolving buyer expectations, and how developers and brands can craft meaningful, market-specific identities. From Thailand's booming pipeline to the emerging hotspots of Vietnam and Japan, this episode is packed with insight into what it takes to resonate with high-net-worth buyers in the region.

    Episode 106: Ho Kwon Ping, Founder & Executive Chairman, Banyan Group

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2025 33:21


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Catherine Edwards, Chief Growth Officer, QUO Global speaks with Ho Kwonping, Founder and Executive Chairman of Banyan Group, on the rise of branded residences and how Banyan pioneered the space in Asia. With over three decades in hospitality, Mr. KP Ho shares insights on the group's multi-brand expansion, the growing relevance of standalone residences, and why sustainability - both environmental and social - must underpin long-term real estate success. A candid and wide-ranging conversation on strategy, values, and what the future holds for the industry.

    Episode 105: Omar Romero, Chief Development & Luxury Officer, Minor Hotels

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2025 20:50


    In this episode, Bill Barnett, Managing Director, C9 Hotelworks, sits down with Omar Romero, Chief Development and Luxury Officer at Minor International, to explore how the definition of luxury is evolving—and how branded residences are leading the change. Omar shares insights on redefining luxury through sustainability, wellness, and personalised living, while also shedding light on Minor's upcoming global projects. From wellness tech in residences to the rise of “real estate collectors,” the conversation covers the latest trends shaping high-end hospitality and residential development. Tune in for a candid, forward-looking discussion on what makes branded residences not just desirable, but meaningful.

    Episode 104: Riyan Itani, Director & Founder, Global Branded Residences

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2025 47:10


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Riyan Itani, Director and Founder of Global Branded Residences, discusses the evolution and current state of the branded residences market. He shares insights on the growth of standalone developments, the challenges faced in European markets, and the motivations of different types of buyers. The conversation also explores the role of non-hospitality brands, emerging trends, and the significance of food and beverage offerings in residential developments. Riyan emphasizes the long-term potential of the market and the increasing demand for branded residences globally.

    Episode 103: Ryane Binmahfooz, Brand Development Executive, Baraka

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2025 9:09


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Daria Smith speaks with Ryane Binmahfooz, Brand Development Executive at Baraka, a visionary Saudi real estate company reimagining urban destinations. Ryane shares Baraka's approach to brand development, balancing cultural authenticity with modern design and innovation. They explore how projects like Monolog and Fizz Time capture the spirit of local communities while aligning with the goals of Vision 2030. From storytelling through architecture to integrating digital tools for immersive experiences, this episode highlights how Baraka is shaping the Kingdom's future—one brand at a time.

    Episode 102: Rahul Chaudhary, Managing Director & CEO,CG Corp Global & CG Hospitality Holdings

    Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2025 24:28


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Marina Franolic speaks with Rahul Chaudhary, Managing Director & CEO of CG Corp Global and CG Hospitality Holdings. Rahul shares the bold investment strategy behind CG's presence in nearly 200 hotels across emerging markets — from Sri Lanka and India to the Middle East and Africa. He reflects on building through conflict, the rise of wellness as the new luxury, and why sustainability and digitisation are redefining hospitality. The conversation also touches on geopolitical challenges, tourism's power to unify, and CG's mission to create purposeful travel experiences rooted in simplicity, authenticity, and resilience.

    Episode 101: Antonio López de Ávila Muñoz, Director of Innovation, Education and Investment, UN Tourism

    Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2025 39:06


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Antonio López de Ávila Muñoz, Director of Innovation, Education and Investment at UN Tourism, joins host Son-Trang Nguyen to explore how education, innovation, and investment intersect to shape the future of global tourism. From developing accessible learning platforms and pioneering AI-driven tourism education, to helping Saudi Arabia and other nations become smart destinations, Antonio shares powerful insights on how the sector can build sustainable, community-led growth. He also unpacks Saudi Arabia's tourism transformation and the need to align local authenticity with technological progress.

    Episode 100: Elie Milky, Vice President Development, Radisson Hotel Group

    Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2025 29:21


    In this episode, Elie Milky, Vice President Development at Radisson Hotel Group, shares insights into Radisson's expansion strategy across Saudi Arabia, Greece, Pakistan, and beyond. He discusses the role of conversion-led growth, the rise of Radisson Collection and Art'otel, and the group's strong relationships with local investors. Elie highlights Radisson's commitment to the growth of branded residences, and how regional cities play a key role in long-term growth. From smart city hotels to mountain resorts, this is a conversation on growth rooted in pragmatism, partnership, and purpose.

    Episode 99: Steven Greenway, Chief Executive Officer, flyadeal

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 25:52


    In this FHS Podcast, Jonathan Worsley speaks with Steven Greenway, CEO of flyadeal, about the airline's rapid growth trajectory as Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 reshapes the aviation and tourism landscape. Steven reflects on his 25+ years in aviation, including past startup successes, and shares how flyadeal is building a commuter-friendly, tech-enabled network across the Kingdom and beyond. He discusses the rise of domestic and first-time flyers, female workforce inclusion, airport collaboration, and why AI and digitalisation will define the next wave of industry transformation.

    Episode 98: Benoît-Etienne Domenget, Chief Executive Officer, Sommet Education

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 32:34


    Benoît-Etienne Domenget, CEO of Sommet Education, joins the FHS Podcast to discuss the urgent need for talent development in the global hospitality sector. He outlines how Sommet's institutions—including Glion, Les Roches, and École Ducasse—are training future leaders through a combination of operational excellence, strategic foresight, and adaptability. With over 300,000 hotel management roles needed in the next five years and 100 million jobs expected to be created globally, Benoît-Etienne emphasizes the critical role of lifelong learning, upskilling, and ESG education. He also highlights initiatives in Saudi Arabia, where Sommet is training tens of thousands of professionals to meet Vision 2030's demands. The conversation explores how collaboration between industry and educators is not only essential—but transformational.

    Episode 97: Layla Alamri Education, Senior Manager, Red Sea Global

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 23:06


    Layla Alamri, Education Senior Manager at Red Sea Global, shares how the organisation is reshaping the future of luxury hospitality by investing in local talent. Through rigorous training, mentorship, and industry-aligned programs, RSG is empowering thousands of young Saudis, especially women, to pursue careers in tourism. Layla highlights key challenges, including shifting public perception and addressing language barriers, while reinforcing the role of cultural pride and personal growth. She also looks ahead to a future where Saudi Arabia becomes a global hub for luxury hospitality education.

    Episode 96: Maya Ziadeh, Accor

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 23:11


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Jonathan Worsley speaks with Maya Ziadeh, Chief Development Officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy Division for Middle East, Africa & Türkiye, Accor. They discuss Accor's expansive strategy in Saudi Arabia, including its 30-year legacy, plans to double its footprint by 2030, and a focus on both Giga projects and secondary cities. Maya shares insights on midscale and economy growth, Accor's “multi-local” development strategy, empowering women in hospitality through initiatives like RISE and She Leads, and how Accor fosters long-term, trust-driven investor partnerships.

    Episode 95: Bilal Ambikapathy, Partner, Wisefields

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2025 16:16


    Saudi Arabia's hotel investment market is undergoing a major shift. In this episode, Bilal Ambikapathy explains how recent regulatory changes have simplified foreign investments, especially in key cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, and clarified foreign ownership rules in Mecca and Medina through fund structures. He highlights the surge in domestic and regional investments, the rise of tier-two city opportunities like Asir province, and the outlook for Saudi Arabia as a dominant regional hub. With increasing transparency, strong regulatory frameworks, and impressive market performance (especially in Medina), Saudi Arabia is fast becoming a magnet for global hospitality investors.

    Episode 94: Maud Bailly, Chief Executive Officer, Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems

    Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2025 32:35


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Jonathan Worsley sits down with Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery, and Emblems. Maud shares her inspiring journey from serving the French government to spearheading Accor's luxury portfolio. The conversation explores her leadership philosophy rooted in pragmatism and emotional intelligence, the revival of Sofitel's brand identity through French zest and local culture integration, and bold sustainability goals like 100% eco-certification by 2025. Maud also highlights the importance of storytelling in ESG, the drive for gender diversity in leadership, and how Sofitel is adapting luxury experiences to Saudi Arabia while staying true to its values.

    Episode 93: Sean Hehir, President & CEO, Trinity Investments

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2025 19:37


    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Sean Hehir, President & CEO of Trinity Investments, joins Marina Franolic to share his insights on the dynamic world of hotel investments. Sean walks us through his 27-year journey with Trinity, explaining how the firm pivoted to focus exclusively on hospitality real estate, amassing over $6.3 billion in assets under management. He discusses favorite deals, missed opportunities, and Trinity's expanding footprint into Europe. Sean also highlights the lasting impact of COVID on travel trends, the rise of experiential tourism, the integration of AI in asset management, and the promising investment opportunities he sees in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.

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