Interview with Fahad Hasan
CEO of Al Mashreq Hospitality
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Fahad Hasan
CEO of Al Mashreq Hospitality
Fahad Hasan is a distinguished hotelier and hospitality asset manager with extensive experience in strategic leadership, investment, and hospitality project development in Saudi Arabia. He currently serves as Chief Hospitality Officer at Tatweer Holding Group (Riyadh), where he is also CEO and Board Member of Al Mashreq Hospitality, overseeing landmark properties such as Al Mashreq Boutique Hotel, Conrad Riyadh Laysen Valley, and several projects under development.
He has held senior leadership roles in major international hotel chains including Hilton, Kempinski, Mövenpick, and Le Méridien, with a strong background in operations management and human resources.
Academically, he holds an Executive MBA from Quantic School of Business & Technology (U.S.) and advanced certificates in Hotel Real Estate Investments & Asset Management and Strategic Human Resources Practices from Cornell University. He is also an Affiliate Member of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
His profile stands out for his ability to combine operational excellence, organizational leadership, and financial vision, with a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation in the luxury hospitality sector.
Al Mashreq Hospitality represents a brand deeply rooted in modern Arab hospitality. How do you define the balance between tradition and modernity in the experience the chain offers its guests in Saudi Arabia?
By Integrating core our local hospitality values like generosity and communal gathering with modern amenities and designs that are accessible and appealing to both local and international guests. This approach, supported by Vision 2030, adapts traditional elements like majlis-style seating into contemporary settings such as luxury lounges, while also using technology to enhance cultural experiences. It is a "glocalization" strategy where global trends are adapted to local tastes without erasing heritage, such as offering modern drinks infused with traditional cardamom.
In an increasingly competitive hotel market, what differentiating elements position Al Mashreq Hospitality as a benchmark in luxury, authentic hospitality, and service excellence within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia?
Al Mashreq Hospitality is a benchmark in Saudi Arabia due to its individualistic architecture and high service standards, as exemplified by the Al Mashreq Boutique Hotel in Riyadh. Key differentiating elements include its unique design, commitment to personalized service, and authentic, immersive experiences like the Moroccan Hammam and international cuisine restaurant, which combine with its prime location to create a distinct luxury offering.
Saudi Arabia is experiencing a tourism boom under Vision 2030. What strategic role does Al Mashreq Hospitality play in transforming the country into a world-class global tourism destination?
Al Mashreq Hospitality plays a strategic role by setting up exacting standards of luxury and unique local experiences, which helps elevate the perception of Saudi Arabia's hospitality sector for international leisure travelers, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030. By running unique boutique hotels like the Al Mashreq Boutique Hotel, the company provides personalized service, exquisite design, and local cultural immersion, setting a benchmark for quality and attracting a new demographic of tourists beyond traditional business and religious visitors. Its strategic partnerships, such as the recent one with Hilton through Small Luxury Hotels of the World, further boost its global reach and credibility, positioning Saudi Arabia as a world-class destination.
How do you perceive the evolution of the traveler profile visiting Saudi Arabia in recent years, and how does Al Mashreq Hospitality adapt its offering to meet those new expectations and cultural sensibilities?
The traveler profile visiting Saudi Arabia has evolved from religious tourism to a diverse group seeking unique cultural and adventure experiences, driven by the country's opening through Vision 2030. Al Mashreq Hospitality, like other hospitality providers, must adapt by offering experiences that blend global trends like ecotourism and smart hotels with authentic local culture and the Kingdom's strong tradition of hospitality. Key adaptations include creating unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences, integrating local cultural elements into service, and implementing personalized, digital-first guest journeys that also respect Saudi cultural norms.
In your role as CEO, what do you consider the main challenges and opportunities facing the Saudi hotel sector regarding sustainability, technological innovation, and development of local talent?
The main challenges facing the Saudi hotel sector are the high first costs and complexity of sustainable technology, the need to build advanced local talent pipelines, and regulatory hurdles. However, significant opportunities exist through new constructions aligning with sustainability from the start, the push from Vision 2030 to drive economic growth and develop local talent, and the potential for technology to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency.
The architecture and design of Al Mashreq hotels reflect cultural identity and contemporary sophistication. What aesthetic philosophy guides the creation of spaces that combine modern luxury with the soul of Arab hospitality?
Aesthetic philosophy is a blend of cultural storytelling and modern luxury principles, which involves using techniques like reflexive modernism to integrate traditional elements with contemporary design. This approach combines the timelessness of Islamic patterns, natural materials, and regional color palettes with clean lines, minimalist layouts, and a focus on functionality and guest well-being.
Technology is redefining the guest experience. How does Al Mashreq Hospitality integrate digital tools, artificial intelligence, or automation without losing the human touch that characterizes traditional Saudi hospitality?
Al Mashreq Hospitality can integrate digital tools, AI, and automation by using them to oversee repetitive tasks, freeing up staff to focus on providing personalized and empathetic service. This is achieved by implementing AI for operational efficiency (like inventory management) and data analysis, while human staff are empowered to manage complex guest needs, build relationships, and create authentic, memorable experiences that keep the human touch of Saudi hospitality.
Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a hub for conferences, events, and business travel. What strategies are Al Mashreq Hospitality implementing to establish itself as a key player in this high-value segment?
Al Mashreq Hospitality is showing itself as a key player in the luxury segment by focusing on its unique, individualistic architecture, offering high-level service standards, and emphasizing exclusive, high-value experience. It differentiates itself through its brand building in the luxury boutique hotel space and by using its prominent location.
Saudi cuisine is gaining international recognition. How does Al Mashreq Hospitality promote local cuisine within its gastronomic proposition, and what role does culinary identity play in your concept of luxury?
Al Mashreq Hospitality promotes local cuisine through its various restaurant offerings, such as its authentic Lebanese weekend experience at Al Mashrabiya, and by creating an atmosphere that reflects regional identity. Culinary identity is integral to luxury for the brand as it provides a unique, culturally immersive experience that differentiates it from other hotels and adds value beyond typical opulent service. This focus creates a sense of place that enhances the overall guest experience and contributes to the concept of luxury by offering a unique connection to the local culture, which can lead to higher guest satisfaction and loyalty.
In a global environment increasingly oriented towards sustainability, what specific policies or projects are Al Mashreq Hospitality driving to reduce its environmental footprint and promote responsible practices across its operational chain?
The hospitality industry is reducing its environmental footprint through specific projects and policies focused on energy and water conservation, waste reduction, and sustainable sourcing. Key initiatives include installing energy-efficient appliances and solar panels, implementing water-saving technologies, and diverting waste via recycling and composting. Many companies also prioritize sustainable sourcing, employee training, guest engagement, and pursuing green certifications like the Green Key Certification.
From your leadership, how do you foster a corporate culture that combines excellence, ethical commitment, and a sense of belonging among Al Mashreq Hospitality teams in the context of international expansion?
To foster a corporate culture of excellence, ethical commitment, and belonging during international expansion, leadership must combine setting an unobstructed vision with concrete actions that inspire and empower teams. This involves leading with integrity, creating robust ethical frameworks, promoting a sense of belonging through inclusive practices, and consistently recognizing and rewarding excellence across diverse global teams.
What opportunities do you see in public-private collaboration to strengthen Saudi tourism, and how can Al Mashreq Hospitality contribute actively to those national tourism development objectives?
Opportunities in Saudi tourism include developing infrastructure and digital transformation, enhancing tourist experiences, and fostering economic diversification through initiatives like the Ministry of Tourism's partnerships. Al Mashreq Hospitality can actively contribute by focusing on its core ability: developing unique, high-quality hospitality experiences that reflect "Arabian authenticity" and support national development aims like job creation, human capital development, and attracting foreign investment. The company can also contribute to sustainability goals by incorporating environmentally friendly practices and educating guests.
Saudi Arabia is opening to international tourism with a more inclusive and diverse vision. How does Al Mashreq Hospitality manage cultural adaptation and the experience of visitors from different backgrounds and traditions?
Al Mashreq Hospitality manages cultural adaptation and the experience of visitors from diverse backgrounds by blending authentic Arabian heritage with international luxury standards, offering personalized services, and offering a diverse range of culturally relevant amenities and food options.
On a more personal note, what inspires you in your daily work as the leader of Al Mashreq Hospitality, and what personal values do you seek to instill in your team to leave a positive mark on Saudi hospitality?
The leader of Al Mashreq Hospitality is inspired by the opportunity to positively influence people and grow within the dynamic hospitality industry. They aim to instill values of excellence, effective communication, and a commitment to guest satisfaction in their team to make a positive mark on Saudi hospitality.
In a global environment increasingly oriented towards sustainability, what specific policies or projects are Al Mashreq Hospitality driving to reduce its environmental footprint and promote responsible practices across its operational chain?
The hospitality industry is reducing its environmental footprint through specific projects and policies focused on energy and water conservation, waste reduction, and sustainable sourcing. Key initiatives include installing energy-efficient appliances and solar panels, implementing water-saving technologies, and diverting waste via recycling and composting. Many companies also prioritize sustainable sourcing, employee training, guest engagement, and pursuing green certifications like the Green Key Certification.
From your leadership, how do you foster a corporate culture that combines excellence, ethical commitment, and a sense of belonging among Al Mashreq Hospitality teams in the context of international expansion?
To foster a corporate culture of excellence, ethical commitment, and belonging during international expansion, leadership must combine setting an unobstructed vision with concrete actions that inspire and empower teams. This involves leading with integrity, creating robust ethical frameworks, promoting a sense of belonging through inclusive practices, and consistently recognizing and rewarding excellence across diverse global teams.
We sincerely thank you for this interview, which has allowed us to discover a different and deeply inspiring vision of Saudi Arabia’s culture and hospitality. The reflections shared by the leader of Al Mashreq Hospitality reveal how tradition and modernity can coexist in perfect harmony, creating unique experiences that reflect the essence of the Saudi people — their generosity, elegance, and sense of respect.
This dialogue invites us to understand hospitality not merely as a service, but as an art and a cultural expression that unites people beyond borders. Thank you for offering us such a human and contemporary perspective on the Saudi spirit, and for contributing to a deeper global understanding of tourism as a bridge between cultures.
The authors are responsible for the choice and presentation of the facts contained in this document and for the opinions expressed therein, which are not necessarily those of Tourism and Society Think Tank and do not commit the Organization, and should not be attributed to TSTT or its members.
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