Head-to-Head: Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar

What makes Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort a unique property?

Darren Darwin: Perched at 2,000 metres above sea level, the resort is the highest five-star resort in the Middle East and one of the highest in the world, which means we offer a completely different experience.

Gaspare Greco: I must say that it’s our varied collection of dining outlets and experiences that really make us stand out. With six restaurants and lounges, guests can sample a different cuisine each day.

How do the front-of-house and back-of-house teams at the F&B outlets support each other?

Darren Darwin: We recruit and train our teams to deliver excellent service and cuisine. Our front-of-house team is tasked with ensuring service is knowledgeable and intuitive. Meanwhile, our back-of-house teams work hard to source the finest ingredients to create simple yet flavoursome dishes.

Gaspare Greco: The front-of-house team is our eyes, we always rely on them to inform us on what our guests looking for and we make it happen. It’s vital that we’re always communicating with each other so we establish a good working relationship and deliver seamless service.

How do you ensure that the hotel’s outlets are busy and profitable?

Darren Darwin: It’s important that we continue to deliver an excellent product so they spread the word and we build upon our success. We’re constantly making tweaks and looking for ways to enhance the experience so our guests are surprised and delighted each time they visit.

Gaspare Greco: Since it opened, the resort has received a great deal of attention however it’s vital that we continue to sustain this by delivering an outstanding experience so guests return again and again. The food and service always play a large part in the holiday experience.

What are the biggest business challenges you face?

Darren Darwin: The logistics due to the resort’s location. We have to be organised, from planning daily trucks for water and fresh produce to ensuring the journey is as smooth as possible for our guests, and our onsite staff are provided with comfortable accommodation and amenities.

Gaspare Greco: The logistics of transporting supplies up the mountain certainly presents challenges. We have a store to receive goods in Birkat Al Mouz at the base of the mountain and have to arrange transport to ensure fresh produce is delivered each day.

What does the future hold for Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort?

Darren Darwin: We’re currently gearing up for a busy summer. With temperatures reaching a maximum of 32˚C, the mountain is significantly cooler than the rest of the Middle East so we’re expecting to attract a significant number of GCC residents who are looking to cool down.

Gaspare Greco: We are continuing to develop and evolve the culinary experience at the resort by introducing new menus and concepts. I’ve only recently joined the team and I’m already inspired to get creative so watch this space!