PRESIDENT OF AMFORHT DISCUSSES THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING FOR THE GROWTH OF HOSPITALITY SECTOR

How do you perceive the shift from short-term operational concerns to longterm education and training within the hospitality industry?

It is crucial to assess the current situation after COVID-19. What has unfolded since then? Is the emphasis solely on the present or should we consider the future? For instance, the deal between AMSA Hospitality and Accor that happens at ATM, 2023 holds significant importance as it combines vision and strategy. Today, education and training are key to shaping the future, not just working to meet short-term needs like paying rent, car expenses, or debts.

AMFORHT, being a worldwide association representing 72 countries and encompassing over half a million students, teachers, and organizations, focuses on education and training. It's very important to highlight that today the main capital is not oil, gas, it's education and training. Personally, I am attending ATM to stay updated and witness the progress of the deal between AMSA Hospitality and Accor. This project is of great importance to me because it involves Accor, a global company with immense knowledge, collaborating with AMSA Hospitality that has the knowledge of Saudi Arabia, not only of the main big cities but also of all the possible tourism attractions across the country.

How important is education in the Hospitality industry?

Education and training serve as the primary key to success in the hospitality industry. Consider a scenario where you can venture to a financially disadvantaged country like Bangladesh. If you possess education, hospitality skills, and training, I am confident that Bangladesh or any other impoverished nation could experience development. Tourism is not something that should be only enjoyed by the people who have abundant wealth.

In Dubai, the focus often revolves around those who have wealth to come here—those with money. But for those who lack financial resources, they remain in their struggling home countries, which should not be the case. Countries need to concentrate their efforts on establishing peace to attract visitors, making the world a more peaceful place.

How is technology playing a role in today’s world?

What exactly is technology? It is merely a tool. A lot of countries are known for their technological advancements despite economic challenges. It is a tool that can be bought by any country with money. On the other hand, education is distinct, it involves cultivating respect. In each country that is popular for having tourists, hospitality serves as their language that brings respect and peace to the nation.

In the hospitality sector of the Middle East, which country is experiencing significant growth?

Having spent over 10 years in Saudi Arabia and being familiar with this region, I would say that hospitality is a natural aspect of the Middle East which comes effortlessly. The Middle East benefits from favorable conditions such as it is not densely populated. The key is understanding and respecting the local ways. For example, I may be in Saudi Arabia today, but I acknowledge the importance of starting with the local population. Education and training come first, and with financial resources, technology can be acquired later.