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The Home of Saudi Hospitality 28
Aldert van Zyl, General Manager of Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention and Exhibition Center, explains how the hotel is redefining hospitality in the Saudi capital through a blend of innovation, personalized service, and commitment to local culture. As the new general manager of Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention and Exhibition Center, how do you plan to embrace the “Yes I Can!” service philosophy and create unforgettable experiences for guests in the heart of Saudi Arabia’s capital? I am committed to instilling a service culture that goes beyond the ordinary. Embracing the ‘Yes I Can!’ philosophy means empowering our team members to take ownership of guest experiences, anticipating their needs, and delivering personalized service with genuine care. I understand that today’s travelers seek more than just a place to stay; they crave unforgettable moments and connections that leave a lasting impression. That’s why we go above and beyond to curate experiences that exceed our guests’ expectations. Whether it’s surprising them with thoughtful gestures or customizing their stay based on their preferences, our goal is to create indelible memories. What sets Radisson Blu Hotel apart from other hotels in Riyadh? What truly sets us apart is our deep understanding of the local nuances and the ability to curate experiences that resonate with our guests on a personal level. At Radisson Blu, we take immense
Aldert van Zyl, General Manager of Radisson Blu Hotel Riyadh Convention and Exhibition Center
pride in our commitment to the local community. We have made it a priority to employ Saudi nationals, who bring rich cultural insights and warm hospitality to create unforgettable experiences. In fact, Saudi nationals make up the majority of our guest-facing team. By having a team that reflects the diversity and authenticity of Riyadh, we can recommend hidden gems in the city, organize cultural immersions, and showcase authentic Saudi Arabian cuisine. Every aspect of our guests’ stay is carefully crafted to reflect the essence of Riyadh and provide a genuine connection to the local culture.
The in this F Othoughts R B E S M I expressed D D L E E A S T.C O Madvertorial are those of the client.
Under your leadership, how will Radisson Blu showcase the rich heritage of Riyadh while looking to the future? We go beyond surface-level representation and instead seamlessly blend tradition with innovation. Our aim is to curate authentic experiences that bring the city’s historical landmarks, vibrant cultural festivals, and flavorful local cuisine to life. Our commitment to showcasing Riyadh’s rich heritage is not simply a marketing strategy; it is a genuine desire to connect our guests with the soul of the city. Through thoughtful collaborations with local business owners, cultural organizations, and community initiatives, we curate experiences that leave a lasting impression and create a meaningful connection to Riyadh’s vibrant past and promising future. For example, we are launching a brand collaboration with Nikon Middle East, giving Saudi Arabia’s emerging content creators a series of free workshops to highlight the spectacular history, architecture, and lifestyle of Riyadh. The goal is to also provide entrepreneurs with access to topnotch instructors and state-of-theart photography as well as equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to create impactful content that can help elevate their brands and grow their businesses.
JUNE 2023
