MEET MOHAMMED WAZIR: A HOSPITALITY TITAN DRIVING SUCCESS AT BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA

MOHAMMED WAZIR is a seasoned hospitality expert with two decades of experience. He began his career as a ballroom striker, gradually rising to the position of General Manager, and managing luxury hotels and resorts across the globe. His adept leadership skills, flexibility, and unique ideas for customer satisfaction have earned him great acclaim. Under his wing, the island bagged the “No.10 in Best 50 Resorts in the World” and “No.3 in Best Resorts in the Middle East” in the Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2022 - the only resort in Doha to win such an accolade.

Mohammed gives QH an insight on what it takes to be at the helm of such prominent property.

How long have you been in Doha and how do you see the hospitality after the success of FIFA World Cup 2022?

Doha has always been a home away from home. I started working at Banana Island in 2015 and stayed here for two and a half years. After managing Anantara Siam in Bangkok and Al Baleed Resort in Salalah, Oman, I returned to Banana Island, which is very close to my heart.

Since the success of the FIFA World Cup 2022, Doha's hospitality industry has undergone significant changes with the emergence of luxury hotels and restaurants, making it a safe and exciting destination for families that offers a blend of modern and cultural experiences. I have seen many visitors enjoying their stay in Qatar.

Hospitality is a very demanding field; How do you balance your working and personal life?

I call it the 05:00 a.m. Club. It is my way of starting the day, with early prayers, meditation, a jog, and family time, saving time for myself. Balancing life is crucial in the hospitality industry, it is very important to look after one's health and well-being.

What is your strategy for success?

A crucial strategy for success in hospitality is prioritizing the guest experience and instilling a guest-centric mentality in your team. Additionally, investing time in developing your team and supporting their growth is essential.

What is one lesson you've learned in this industry that would serve as advice to your readers?

One of the valuable lessons I have learned from the industry is the importance of recognizing raw talent - those who embody a passion for hospitality, are dedicated, motivated, and inspired by serving others. Developing such talent is an act of leaving a legacy.

How do you uplift your coworkers’ morale in their time of need?

The simple formula is to stay connected with your team, be present on the floor with them, communicate with both team members and heads of departments, and discuss ways to inspire and motivate them daily.

If you could describe the resort in 3 words, what would they be? Family-friendly, luxurious, homeaway-from-home.

What are some exciting new things you’ll be implementing within the resort for loyal and new clients?

As summer approaches, our team has planned a plethora of exciting beach activities for the whole family to enjoy daily. The island experience will be elevated with a variety of exciting summer amenities that offer both vibrancy and relaxation.

Visitors are welcome to attend the upcoming ALOHA BRUNCH, which promises to exude a refreshing Hawaiian ambiance. The brunch encourages guests to dress in summer or floral attire and offers a dedicated "superheroes" area where children can enjoy activities like face painting.

Guests can further enhance their vacation by taking advantage of the hotel's latest offerings, such as the newly revamped Spice Spoons cooking class, the bespoke Dining By Design experience, the Arabian Shuwa Beach Experience, and a romantic sunset dinner on a pontoon boat. Soon, there will be a coconut shack operating by the beach.