The Hotelier Power 50 list 2014 will be published next week. The Hotelier Power 50 list 2014 will be published next week.

The Hotelier Middle East Power 50 list will be published next week in our September issue of the magazine.

The list will reveal the 50 most influential hoteliers in the region, with the ranking judged from a hotel management perspective, rather than ownership or consultancy.

In 2013, Rudi Jagersbacher, president Hilton Worldwide Middle East & Africa took the top spot, so the question on every hotelier's lips is: "Who will make number one in 2014?"

This year’s list highlights those hoteliers that are setting and maintaining the highest standards in operational properties, while securing deals to expand their companies’ portfolios throughout the region.

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Additionally, those individuals from companies that are homegrown have been given special weighting due to their particular signifance to the development of the industry in the Middle East, and often to its reputation overseas.

Spearheading development trends in the region, including expansion of mid-market and long-stay brands has been acknowledged, and those individuals who have driven new initiatives, such as sustainability or digital trends have also been highly considered.

As compared to just eight new entrants on the Hotelier MIddle East Power 50 2013, 21 newcomers will be revealed in the 2014 list, highlighting the increasingly transient nature of the job market post-financial crisis.

Additionally, this reflects the number of new companies investing in the region that are beginning to make their marks on the hotel landscape of the Middle East.

In June, the Middle East & Africa pipeline was reported to be 589 properties, according to STR Global.

However, while newcomers to the list must be congratulated, there are also 29 hoteliers who have maintained a spot on the list, reflecting their commitment to the continued development and success of the Middle East hospitality industry.

A number of those featuring for a second year or more have jumped up the list by one place or more, with one individual moving 18 places and another moving up by eight places.

We hope that all of the hoteliers profiled in the Hotelier Middle East Power 50 list are delighted with their rankings this year and we look forward to receiving your feedback once the list is published.

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