FUELLED BY PASSION

Azar Saliba's Journey to Jumeirah Al Naseem

Jumeirah Al Naseem is often described as royal, luxurious, contemporary, and artistic, capturing the essence of a remarkable beachfront hotel. Nestled within Madinat Jumeirah, one of Dubai's largest resorts, it boasts breath taking views of the Arabian Gulf and is enveloped by lush gardens and serene waterways.

This exceptional destination stands out for its stunning location, showcasing the beauty of the seaside and the captivating surroundings. The contemporary design of Jumeirah Al Naseem adds to its allure, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape while exuding a sense of elegance and sophistication.

Guests at Jumeirah Al Naseem can delight in the extraordinary dining experiences offered. The hotel boasts a diverse selection of exceptional restaurants, where culinary masterpieces await to tantalise the taste buds and satisfy every palate.

The accommodations at Jumeirah Al Naseem are synonymous with luxury and comfort. From exquisitely furnished rooms to expansive suites, guests can indulge in a lavish retreat that reflects the highest standards of hospitality.

The hotel's world-class facilities further enhance the guest experience. Whether lounging by the pool, staying active at the fitness centre, or pampering oneself at the luxurious spa, Jumeirah Al Naseem offers an array of amenities that cater to every need.

Its proximity to popular attractions allows guests to easily explore and immerse themselves in Dubai's vibrant culture and experiences.

Azar Saliba, the General Manager of Jumeirah Al Naseem, leads from the forefront of this prestigious hotel within the Jumeirah Group. His journey with Jumeirah began when he joined as the director of rooms at Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Recognising his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication, he swiftly ascended the ranks, assuming the general manager role for Jumeirah Al Qasr and Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf.

Azar took on the significant responsibility of general manager at Jumeirah

Al Naseem, bringing his expertise and leadership to this esteemed property. Throughout his time with Jumeirah, Saliba has consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the hospitality industry. His extensive experience and proven track record make him a valuable asset to the Jumeirah brand. We had the opportunity to speak with Azar about his successful career in the hospitality industry and the achievements of Jumeirah Al Naseem thus far.

Azar's hospitality journey started during his early years when a profound wanderlust for exploring the globe took hold. This interest in travel guided his aspirations to build a career in the dynamic realm of hospitality. "With an eager spirit, I embarked on my expedition in the front office, eagerly delving into various facets of the hotel industry, eventually leading me to discover my distinctive niche within the expansive world of hospitality. This professional journey has moulded me into a seasoned hotelier, enriched by an array of experiences and an unwavering commitment to pursuing excellence. I consistently remind my team that, just as I started at the front office and ascended to the position of a General Manager, they too can achieve the extraordinary if they wholeheartedly dedicate themselves to the goal."

Dubai's vibrant and captivating tourism and hospitality sector is unlike anything else, and Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts' remarkable legacy and integral role in shaping this landscape caught Azar's attention. "Jumeirah felt like a natural fit. My journey started in 2008 as Director of Rooms at Jumeirah Beach Hotel. This position saw me take responsibility for the smooth running and operations of guest services, reservations, and concierge, among other departments. After succeeding in my first role, I was promoted to Executive Assistant Manager of Rooms before transitioning to Resident Manager.

I spent a year assisting the General Manager at the ultimate family destination. In 2010 I worked at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa. Then in 2011, I lent my expertise to Jumeirah Creekside Hotel during the pre-opening phase.

By 2012 I was appointed Hotel Manager of Jumeirah Mina A'Salam, the first hotel to open at Madinat Jumeirah in 2003, and a leader in the world of luxury travel. After successfully running the day-to-day management of Jumeirah Mina A'Salam, I joined sister hotels Jumeirah Al Qasr and Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf as Hotel Manager in 2013. I was later promoted to General Manager in 2015. And I am privileged to be the General Manager of Jumeirah Al Naseem today, a property that completed the Madinat Jumeirah tetralogy."

At Jumeirah Al Naseem, Azar and his dedicated team are driven by the goal of offering experiences and services that make guests feel as if they have found their second home. Through their collective efforts, they have achieved remarkable milestones, constantly raising the bar for guest satisfaction. Consequently, Jumeirah Al Naseem has garnered significant recognition and accolades over the years, affirming its status as a destination of unparalleled excellence.

“With Dubai ranked as the number one destination in TripAdvisor's 2023 Travelers' Choice Awards, we have witnessed a growing desire for exploration and travel, which has led to a successful first half of the year for our hotel. We are humbled by our surpassed expecta- tions across all performance indicators, showcasing our guests' renewed interest in creating unforgettable memories at Jumeirah Al Naseem. Every aspect of our guest's stay, from arrival to departure, is meticulously curated and looked after, enveloping guests in unparalleled comfort. As we look ahead, we confidently embrace the future, anticipating the potential for continued growth and success in the upcoming year.” Adds Azar.

Sustainable hospitality has emerged as the most vital conversation in the industry today.

With growing environmental concerns and a greater emphasis on social responsibility, adopting sustainable practices is paramount.

Jumeirah Al Naseem upholds sustainable and inclusive practices across the hotel, including initiatives such as eliminating single-use plastics across their supply chain and implementing innovative food waste management systems, and incorporating smart building and guestroom management systems to reduce waste and energy consumption optimising energy usage across all properties. Jumeirah Al Naseem is also home to the Turtle Lagoon, which monitors the progress and condition of rescued sea turtles before releasing them back into UAE waters. Together with Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP), the hotel plays a crucial role in wildlife preservation by hosting regular workshops educating communities and guests on marine biology and sea turtles' local and global plight. They have saved and rescued over 2,000 sea turtles and look forward to releasing more turtles on June 16th to celebrate World Sea Turtle Day (an event adored by the hotel's little guests).

A Hotel General Manager holds a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless operation and overall success of the establishment. Apart from possessing a comprehensive understanding of the industry and taking charge of strategic direction, policy establishment, and guest satisfaction, their leadership and decision-making skills play a vital role in driving profitability and upholding the hotel's reputation.

According to Azar, a successful GM goes beyond personal achievements and focuses on the collective accomplishments of their team. Creating an environment where every team member's voice is heard fosters a culture of open communication, empowering individuals to surpass expectations with engagement and creativity.

Azar emphasizes that a GM's influence is reflected in the harmonious coordination of operations, guest satisfaction, and the enduring legacy they shape. By demonstrating dedication and compassionate leadership, a GM leaves a profound and lasting impact on both guests and colleagues, ultimately contributing to the hotel's long-term success.

Good leaders, like Azar, recognise the immense value of empowering their staff. Understanding that a motivated and engaged team is essential, Azar fosters an environment of support, trust, and autonomy. By nurturing a sense of ownership and accountability, he encourages his team to explore their creativity and embrace innovation. Through empowerment, staff members feel valued, leading to heightened productivity, job satisfaction, and overall success for the organisation. Azar's deep understanding of the power of empowerment drives his commitment to cultivating a team that thrives and achieves remarkable results.

"I have the pleasure of working with the most capable colleagues. To keep the team motivated, we initiated a series of initiatives; The Empowerment Programme enables colleagues to independently make decisions without relying on their line manager. Through training, colleagues gain the confidence to make sound decisions resulting in faster resolution of guests' inquiries.

The SPARK Team Building Programme is an inclusive sports activity that encourages camaraderie among colleagues through departmental competitions. It aims to strengthen the bond of the team and promote cross-departmental interaction. Every month, we have our GM Communications Meeting, an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate our colleague's contribution to the group's success and encourage open communication.

Many colleagues are recognised throughout the year, sometimes receiving gifts that immerse them in the luxury lifestyle they offer guests. Lastly, we initiated Tawasul Events to build a professional community for UAE National colleagues seeking career guidance. During the event, colleagues can interact with me to address concerns and elevate their working environment. It provides mentoring opportunities by their respective heads of Departments, resulting in career progression, and some have successfully transitioned to working in the public and private sectors with excellent positions. As leaders, it becomes our responsibility and privilege to foster the development of the upcoming generation of hoteliers. The hospitality industry is truly blessed, as it revolves around people and holds a promising future filled with endless potential."

Navigating the delicate balance between professional success and family life has its challenges, but for Azar, it has become a source of motivation in his role as a General Manager. Azar's professional drive is fuelled by a passion for tangible results, with a relentless pursuit of embracing new challenges that offer unparalleled growth opportunities. And while his career demands dedication and focus, he finds absolute joy and fulfilment in cherishing precious moments with his daughters, Thea, and Sophie, who are his ultimate source of happiness. They hold the central place in his world, serving as the catalyst behind his determination and the pride that propels his endeavours.

Their presence is a constant reminder of the importance of balance and the profound impact one can have on the lives of others.

After spending a decade and a half with the Group, Azar has witnessed the brand grow from strength to strength first-hand. "Jumeirah Group holds a special place in the hearts of many as we celebrated the Group's 25th-anniversary milestone last year, and since the inauguration of Jumeirah Beach Hotel, I have been honoured to witness the company's extraordinary growth and transformation. Today, it stands proudly as a pinnacle of luxury hospitality, with 13 exceptional properties in the United Arab Emirates, including breath taking beachfront hotels and distinguished city establishments. The journey was nothing short of inspiring. Jumeirah Group has evolved into a symbol of sophistication, embodying the essence of luxurious travel and genuine Arabian hospitality. It has also expanded its footprint across the globe, leaving a lasting mark on renowned destinations like Capri, the Maldives, Bali, and London. The distinctive fusion of luxury, comfort, and stunning surroundings that the properties offer continues to captivate travellers worldwide.

Moreover, Jumeirah Group remains committed to strengthening its presence in the GCC region, continually striving to extend its reach and influence. Over the past 18 months, it has successfully introduced exceptional resorts in Oman and Bahrain, solidifying its position as a leading provider of luxury hospitality in these countries.

By strategically entering these crucial markets, it has diversified its portfolio and responded to the growing demand for premium accommodation in these regions."

At the heart of Azar's aspirations lies a relentless dedication to achieving exceptional results alongside his team. Committed to high-quality standards, he envisions a continuous pursuit of excellence across all aspects of his work. While financial success is crucial for long-term growth, Azar's focus extends beyond profitability. He recognises the importance of cultivating a loyal customer base and crafting personalised experiences that cater to the evolving needs of today's luxury travellers.

By seamlessly blending modern interiors, award-winning cuisine, and a holistic approach to well-being, Azar aims to forge deep connections between individuals, cultures, and communities. His vision transcends conventional hospitality, aiming to curate unforgettable journeys that leave a lasting impact on guests around the globe.

DURING THE NEXT FEW MONTHS OF SUMMER, GUESTS CAN ENJOY AN 'EXCEPTIONAL STAYCATION' EXPERIENCE BY THE GROUP - AN EXCLUSIVE OFFER TO UAE RESIDENTS WHERE THEY CAN AVAIL UP TO 30% OFF THE JUMEIRAH FLEXIBLE RATE AND ENJOY AN ARRAY OF BENEFITS. INTERNATIONAL GUESTS CAN TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE 'SUMMER ESCAPES' OFFER WITH UP TO 25% SAVINGS, AND SUITE GUESTS CAN ENJOY USD 100 IN RESORT CREDIT, WITH EXCLUSIVE ACCESS TO SUMMERSALT BEACH CLUB AND MORE.