EXCLUSIVE: Q&A with new GM of Ritz Carlton Riyadh

Adel Al Mahboob, the recently appointed general manager at the Ritz Carlton Riyadh shares his insights of the Saudi Arabia hospitality market:

What do you think of the Saudi market?

Riyadh is considered as one of the healthiest markets, and government is investing a lot in the economy and in different sectors that will attract lots of visitors from around the Globe to visit. In the past year, we have also seen demand from Europe and China beginning to grow when it comes to business related stays. We are expecting this increase to continue as we as seeing more European and Chinese businesses expanding to Saudi Arabia. Hotels in Saudi Arabia have performed well in 2013, with a bright outlook for 2014.

Have you noticed any key consumer trends recently?

For those in search of luxury in Saudi Arabia, what we have noticed is their eye for detail on the services provided more so than the actual place they stay. They do look for the refined ambience, but are even more concerned with the luxury of services provided. The kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a demanding market where any hotel company needs to relentlessly cater to the sophisticated needs of our valued guests. We are evolving towards our guests’ needs and trying to stay relevant in the market.

What are the opportunities and challenges in the industry for 2014?

The coming period will witness significant growth in various tourism sectors and this is due to the great support of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud for tourism investments and this is necessary due to the need of the Saudi market, especially in Riyadh and other major cities.