Khalaf Al Habtoor wins lifetime achievement award

Khalaf Al Habtoor, chairman of the Al Habtoor Group was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference on May 6 2013. The award was presented by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates Airline and Group, who was also the key patron of AHIC.

Habtoor was chosen as the winner for his contribution to the UAE’s hospitality and tourism industry.

“AHIC has always been showing encouragement and recognition of significant leaders in this industry. I’m very delighted that the conference this year is showing appreciation and acknowledges Khalaf Al Habtoor’s remarkable achievements in the hospitality industry and beyond. Al Habtoor Group is one of the prominent business corporations in the region and it has a major contribution in diversifying the UAE economy.”

Commenting on his award, Khalaf Al Habtoor told attendees at AHIC, “I tried to work overseas, but whatever I did overseas I lost. Here is where I made my money. This country gave me energy. Gave me the push to participate and to give as well. I believe that Dubai will become the global safe haven for everybody in the world. Therefore, we have to protect it with our eyes and our heart.”

“Al Habtoor has distinguished himself through the outstanding projects, continued excellence, passion and commitment to be part of the rise of the UAE. It is a great pleasure for us to honour industry leaders who have contributed significantly in helping the hospitality industry grow in this country," said Jonathan Worsley, chairman of Bench Events which co-organises AHIC.

Habtoor Hotels owns and operates four hotels in Dubai and the Al Habtoor Group is currently developing the three-hotel and theatre complex on Sheikh Zayed Road, which will be managed by Starwood. The group is also developing the first Waldorf Astoria property in the UAE on Palm Jumeirah.