Ready to play again? Squid Game arrives in Saudi Arabia  The Pink Guards are here, and they’re turning the terminal into their playground!

Ready to play again? Squid Game arrives in Saudi Arabia The Pink Guards are here, and they’re turning the terminal into their playground!

11 December 2024 - 01:21

written : رشاد اسكندراني

hotel_booking

Rashad Iskandrni

 

Excitement and mystery took over Jeddah Airport today as travelers were in for a thrilling surprise with the arrival of the ‘Pink Guards’ from the hit Netflix series ‘Squid Game’ at the terminals. 

Ahead of the much anticipated launch of Squid Game Season 2 which is set to premier on December 26, the arrival of the ‘Pink Guards’ transported fans into the adrenaline-charged world of the games. Masked figures were seen moving in coordination

 through the baggage claim area and then the arrivals gate, as a crowd of captivated travelers grabbed their phones to record the dramatic entrance. 

While lucky fans at the airport scored an exclusive preview of what’s to come, the games don’t end here. Set to take over Saudi Arabia, the Pink Guards will be making a stop at major landmarks in Saudi Arabia in the lead-up to the launch of the second

 season. The journey starts off on 11th December at Al Balad which is followed by a quick stop at the iconic Al Ula on the 12th, Abha on the 17th, Al Khobar on 19th and finally comes to a conclusion at the ever bustling Boulevard World on 20th December.

Fans will also have an exciting opportunity to experience the riveting games and immerse themselves in the world of Squid Game at U-walk Mall in Riyadh from 11-12th December, free of cost. 

The countdown is on! Squid Game Season 2 debuts globally on December 26, only on Netflix. Let the new games begin.

-ENDS-

About Netflix:

Netflix is one of the world's leading entertainment services, with 283 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, films, and games across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause, and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time.

 Snap Coverage 

https://snapchat.com/t/ZtF48seK

For press inquiries or any further information, please contact:

Jamal Odeh - Jodeh@netflix.com 

Atteline - netflixpublicity@atteline.com 

 

مواضيع ذات صلة

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DORITOS AND MDLBEAST RADIO LAUNCH PROJECT TRIANGLE: SAUDI ARABIA'S BOLDEST HIP HOP TALENT COMPETITION


One-of-a-kind diverse program provides emerging artists, producers, and dancers with professional production resources and national platform

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia - November 4, 2025 - MDLBEAST Radio, in partnership with Doritos, announced the launch of Doritos Presents Project Triangle, powered by MDLBEAST Radio – an innovative eight-week Hip Hop talent development and competition program designed to elevate Saudi Arabia's most promising creative talent.

The groundbreaking initiative invites Hip Hop Artists, Music Producers, and Dancers aged 21 and above from across the Kingdom to form "Triangle Crews" – three-person teams representing the complete spectrum of Hip Hop culture: musical artistry, production excellence, and performance energy. Three selected crews will receive comprehensive professional support including studio recording, music video production, industry mentorship, and a national platform to showcase their work.

"Project Triangle represents more than a competition, it's a cultural movement that celebrates bold self-expression and breaks conventional boundaries," said Rohit Jayakaran, Head of Radio, MDLBEAST. "In partnership with Doritos, we're providing Saudi Arabia's emerging Hip Hop talent with world-class resources and the platform they deserve."

The program culminates in a live finale showdown on December 20, 2025 at Beast House in Riyadh, where all three crews will premiere their work and compete for the title of Saudi Arabia's boldest creators, with fans determining the winner through interactive voting. Winners will receive extended promotional support, music distribution through MDLBEAST Records, airplay on MDLBEAST Radio, and consideration for future MDLBEAST opportunities.

"Doritos has always championed those who dare to be different," said Ibrahim Zein, Chief Marketing Officer at PepsiCo Middle East. "Project Triangle embodies our commitment to empowering bold self-expression and supporting the next generation of Saudi creative talent."

Throughout the program, participants will be featured in behind-the-scenes video content and weekly radio capsules on MDLBEAST Radio, documenting their creative journey from concept to finale. 

Applications are now open at www.projecttriangleksa.com. Interested participants can also find more information on MDLBEAST Radio & Doritos Arabia's social media channels @mdlbeastradio and @doritosarabia.

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated nearly $92 billion in net revenue in 2024, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, and Quaker. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales. For more information, visit www.middleeast.pepsico.com, and follow on X (Twitter), InstagramFacebook, and LinkedIn @PepsiCoMiddleEast, @Doritosarabia

About MDLBEAST Radio

MDLBEAST Radio is the sonic heartbeat of the Middle East’s thriving music scene, championing both regional artists and global sounds. Broadcasting 24/7 across Riyadh (104.8 FM), Jeddah (98.1 FM), Dammam (97.4 FM), and Abha (87.6 FM), as well as online at mdlbeastradio.com, the station provides a powerful platform for emerging talent while connecting fans to the core of the international electronic music scene.

As a pioneer in the industry, MDLBEAST Radio amplifies creativity, fosters collaboration, and celebrates diversity through cutting-edge programming, exclusive mixes, and in-depth artist features. From the underground to the main stage, MDLBEAST Radio is more than just a station; it is a movement redefining music in the Middle East and beyond.

 


منذ 4 ساعات . News

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The Kia PV5 Cargo sets a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDSTM title: 693.38 kilometers on a single charge with maximum payload

 

 


 

The Kia PV5 Cargo sets a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDSTM for electric light commercial vehicles (eLCVs)
The model travelled 693.38 km (430.84 mi) on a single charge while carrying its maximum payload
The achievement highlights the efficiency, flexibility, and real-world practicality of Kia’s first Platform Beyond Vehicle

 

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, November 3, 2025: Kia has made history, setting a new global benchmark for all-electric range (AER). The Kia PV5 Cargo, the company’s first dedicated electric light commercial vehicle (eLCV) and part of its pioneering Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) line-up, has officially broke a GUINNESS WORLD RECORD™ title for achieving:

 

The greatest distance travelled by a light-duty battery-powered electric van with maximum payload on a single charge is 693.38 km (430.84 mi)”.

 

The PV5 Cargo Long Range 4-door variant, featuring a 71.2 kWh battery, was utilized for the trial with its maximum authorized payload of 665kgThe model covered 693.38 kmon a single charge, setting a new benchmark for efficiency and endurance in the eLCV segment. The record-breaking drive took place on 30 September 2025 under authentic, real-world conditions on public roads north of Frankfurt, Germany.

 

The Guinness World Record achieved by the PV5 Cargo is a milestone that embodies Kia’s vision of creating mobility solutions that go beyond transportation,” said Ho Sung Song, President and CEO, Kia Corporation. “This remarkable accomplishment proves that our Platform Beyond Vehicle is not only innovative in concept but also practical and efficient in the real world.”

 

AER record proves the Kia PV5’s everyday practicality

 

The record route was carefully designed to replicate the daily realities of delivery and logistics operations. Over a 58.2 kmurban and extra-urban loop, the PV5 Cargo faced traffic lights, intersections, roundabouts, and typical city traffic mirroring the conditions most fleet drivers encounter every day. On top of this, the van repeatedly tackled an elevation gain of approximately 370 m, completing the loop 12 times while carrying its full payload, and finally coming to a stop within the twelfth loop. These demanding conditions highlight the PV5 Cargo’s exceptional efficiency and reliability, making it an outstanding companion for sustainable urban mobility.

 

The heroes behind the wheel

 

At the wheel of the record-setting PV5 were George Barrow, a respected commercial vehicle journalist who specializes in vans and Christopher Nigemeier, a senior engineer at the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Center (HMETC). The award-winning journalist has more than 15 years of experience covering LCVs. He has also been on the jury of International Van of the Year (IVOTY) Award since 2016, representing the UK. Nigemeier, holds degrees in mechanical engineering and has been part of the PV5 development team.

 

I'm genuinely excited to have been part of this incredible GUINNESS WORLD RECORD titleit was a demanding but unforgettable journey,” said Barrow. “I was seriously impressed by how far the Kia PV5 can go: more than 69km on a single charge and with a full payload. That’s no small feat, and I have a feeling this record won’t be easy to beat! The PV5 and Christopher were great teammates for this challenge, and I’m proud to have been part of a record that pushes the boundaries for electric vans.”

 

As an engineer, this challenge was both technical and personal,” said Christopher Nigemeier, Senior Engineer at Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Center. “George brought an incredible amount of driving experience from testing other vans, while I had the advantage of knowing the PV5’s powertrain inside out. It became a friendly competition between us who could squeeze the most out of each kilowatt-hour. In the end, it was the vehicle itself that impressed us both.”

 

The record attempt was meticulously prepared. Inspectors from TÜV Hessen and buck Vermessung supervised the loading process and verified compliance with weight specifications. The drive was continuously recorded using GPS tracking and in-cabin cameras.  Before departure, the PV5’s battery was charged to 100% and both the charging port and cargo compartment were sealed until the end of the 22-hour, 30-minute journey.

 

The first member of Kia’s flexible PBV family

 

As the inaugural model in Kia’s PBV family, the PV5 is built on the innovative Electric-Global Modular Platform for Service (E-GMP.S) architecture and designed with a modular “building block” concept. This flexibility allows for multiple configurations  Cargo, Passenger, Chassis Cab and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle to suit a wide range of commercial and personal applications.

 

The PV5 Cargo variant offers up to 4.4 m3 of load space and a payload capacity of up to 790 kg. Customers can choose from several battery options 51.5 kWh, 71.2 kWh and a forthcoming 43.3 kWh tailored to their operational needs.

 

This record demonstrates the outstanding efficiency and reliability built into the PV5,” said Sangdae Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of PBV Division at Kia Corporation. “By combining long-range capability with real-world practicality, Kia PBVs are designed to empower businesses and individuals with smarter, more sustainable mobility solutions that enhance everyday productivity.”

 

With this Guinness World Record, Kia underscores its ongoing commitment to developing innovative, efficient, and practical solutions for the mobility of tomorrow. The record-breaking Kia PV5 Cargo will be on display at the SolutransTradeshow in Lyon (EurExpo) from 18 November 2025, Hall 5, Booth C130.

 

The Kia PV5 Cargo technical specifications

 

Variant

L2H1

Platform

Electric-Global Modular Platform for Service (E-GMP.S)

Length (mm)

4,695

Width (mm)

1,895

Height (mm)

1,899 w/o antenna

Wheelbase (mm)

2,995

Battery (kWh)

51.5

71.2

Power (kW)

89.4

120

Range (km, WLTP)

416 (with 71.2kWh battery)

Charging (H:min)

DC fast charging (10-80%)

0:30

 

11 kW AC charging 

(10-100%)

4:45

6:30

Tyres

215/65R16

0-100 km/h (seconds, w/ 71.2-kWH battery)

12.4

Turning radius (m)

5.5

Cargo space (m3)

4.4

Total mass (kg)

2,650kg (for all variants)

Payload (kg)

790 (3-door) / 745 (4-door)

690 (3-door) / 665 (4-door) 

Convenience features

Heated/Ventilated DR/PR seats, heated steering, multiple cabin storage compartments, V2L in cargo area, floor lashing points, Surround View Monitor

ADAS

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 1.5, Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control, and Lane Following Assist 2 with Hands-On Detection

 

 Specifications are based on the European model and may vary by market.

 

- END -

 

 

Kia Corporation – about us 

Kia (www.kia.com) is a global mobility brand with a vision to create sustainable mobility solutions for consumers, communities, and societies around the world. Founded in 1944, Kia has been providing mobility solutions for more than 80 years. With 52,000 employees worldwide, a presence in more than 190 markets, and manufacturing facilities in six countries, the company today sells around three million vehicles a year. Kia is spearheading the popularization of electrified and battery electric vehicles and developing a growing range of mobility services, encouraging millions of people around the world to explore the best ways of getting around. The company’s brand slogan – ‘Movement that inspires’ – reflects Kia’s commitment to inspire consumers through its products and services.

 

For more information, visit the Kia Global Media Center at www.kianewscenter.com

 

About Guiness World Records

What’s the fastest game bird in Europe? This was the question that inspired the founding of Guinness World Records back in 1955. Starting with a single book published from a room above a gym, GWR has grown to become a global multi-media brand, with offices in London, New York, Beijing, Tokyo and Dubai. Today, we deliver world-class content, not just through books, but via TV shows, social media and live events. Our in-house consultancy works closely with brands and businesses around the world to harness the power of record-breaking and deliver award-winning campaigns and business solutions. 

 

Through our in-house production arm, GWR Studios, we create standout content for broadcasters, brand partners and digital platforms. Our Entertainment Services division brings the best of the GWR brand to life in a diverse range of live experiences where visitors can discover and even attempt official world records. Whatever the medium, our ultimate purpose is to make the world a more interesting, fun and positive place. To join this record-breaking community – and find out the answer to that original question – visit http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/.

 

About TüV Hessen

TÜV Hessen stands for the safety and sustainability of products, plants and services and the safe interaction of people, technology and the environment. In technical testing and certification, TÜV Hessen is the market leader in Hesse, but also in demand throughout Germany and internationally successful. TÜV Hessen has more than 60 locations in Hesse and branches in four other German states. With their comprehensive expertise, many years of experience and high service quality, around 1,350 highly qualified employees are valuable partners - for both business and private customers. 

 

TÜV Hessen offers around 220 TÜV® services in the Auto Service,  Industrial Service, Real Estate, Life Service and Management Systems Business Streams. With the added value provided by our globally recognized, high-quality certificates and quality seals, our customers' products and services gain a clear competitive edge. TÜV Hessen is an associated company of TÜV SÜD AG (55 percent) and the State of Hesse (45 percent) and generated sales of around 171 million euros in 2021. Information and contacts at www.tuev-hessen.de

 

About buck Vermessung

buck Vermessung is one of Germany’s leading surveying companies, with more than 39 years of experience and offices in Kassel and Frankfurt am Main. Our team of over 70 experts provides comprehensive surveying services, including cadastral and engineering surveys, 3D laser scanning, drone surveying, and BIM-based solutions. As publicly appointed surveyors (ÖbVI), we are authorized to perform official cadastral surveys and deliver legally binding reports. Combining cutting-edge technology with precision and transparency, we are a trusted partner for developers, municipalities, architects, and private clients. For more information, visit: www.buck-vermessung.de

 

منذ 10 ساعات . News

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The End of the Upside Down Begins: One Last Strange Adventure in Hawkins


The series finale of Stranger Things begins this November

 


Stranger Things 5 will release on Netflix across three premiere dates with Volume 1 on November 26 (four episodes), Volume 2 on December 25 (three episodes), and The Finale on December 31. Each volume releases at 5 PM PT.


ABOUT STRANGER THINGS 5

The fall of 1987. Hawkins is scarred by the opening of the Rifts, and our heroes are united by a single goal: find and kill Vecna. But he has vanished — his whereabouts and plans unknown. Complicating their mission, the government has placed the town under military quarantine and intensified its hunt for Eleven, forcing her back into hiding. As the anniversary of Will’s disappearance approaches, so does a heavy, familiar dread. The final battle is looming — and with it, a darkness more powerful and more deadly than anything they’ve faced before. To end this nightmare, they’ll need everyone — the full party — standing together, one last time.




Stranger Things 5 will release on Netflix across three premiere dates with Volume 1 on November 26 (four episodes), Volume 2 on Christmas (three episodes) and The Finale on New Year’s Eve. Each volume releases at 5 PM PT.


Created by The Duffer Brothers STRANGER THINGS is produced by Upside Down Pictures & 21 Laps Entertainment with The Duffer Brothers serving as executive producers, alongside Shawn Levy of 21 Laps Entertainment and Dan Cohen.


The cast includes Winona Ryder (Joyce Byers), David Harbour (Jim Hopper), Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven), Finn Wolfhard (Mike Wheeler), Gaten Matarazzo (Dustin Henderson), Caleb McLaughlin (Lucas Sinclair), Noah Schnapp (Will Byers), Sadie Sink (Max Mayfield), Natalia Dyer (Nancy Wheeler), Charlie Heaton (Jonathan Byers), Joe Keery (Steve Harrington), Maya Hawke (Robin Buckley), Priah Ferguson (Erica Sinclair), Brett Gelman (Murray), Jamie Campbell Bower (Vecna), Cara Buono (Karen Wheeler), Amybeth McNulty (Vickie), Nell Fisher (Holly Wheeler), Jake Connelly (Derek Turnbow), Alex Breaux (Lt. Akers), and Linda Hamilton (Dr. Kay).


ABOUT THE SERIES

A love letter to the ‘80s classic genre films that captivated a generation, Stranger Things is a thrilling drama set in the seemingly normal Midwestern town of Hawkins, Indiana. After a boy vanishes into thin air, his close-knit group of friends and family search for answers and are pulled into a high-stakes and deadly series of events. Beneath the surface of their ordinary town lurks an extraordinary supernatural mystery, along with top-secret government experiments and a dangerous gateway that connects our world to a powerful yet sinister realm. Friendships will be tested and lives will be altered as what they discover will change Hawkins and possibly the world — forever.


Created by The Duffer Brothers, Stranger Things debuted in 2016 and quickly became one of Netflix’s most popular television series ever, with its fourth season alone amassing over 140.7M views globally. Rooted in ‘80s nostalgia, it boosted Kate Bush’s track “Running Up That Hill” into the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time in its 38-year history. The series has also garnered over 70 awards worldwide including Emmys®️ and the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series, and has been nominated for over 230 awards. The highly anticipated fifth and final season will release later this year in three volumes at 5PM PT: four episodes on November 26, three episodes on Christmas and the finale on New Year’s Eve. The beloved franchise offers fans various ways to engage with the cultural phenomenon year-round, including: the Olivier and Tony-award winning stage play, Stranger Things: The First Shadow; a collection of books takes fans deeper into the story; the touring Stranger Things: The Experience which recently expanded to Brazil and Australia; Stranger Things: Escape the Dark; a brand new immersive experience set to open at Netflix House later this year; Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85, an animated series that will take fans back to Hawkins; fans celebrate November 6 — the day Will Byers went missing — as ‘Stranger Things Day;’ and they can follow @StrangerThings.Things for fun ways to bring the world into their everyday lives. 


For more on Stranger Things, visit the Netflix Media Center and the official social pages: Facebook, Instagram, and X


**We kindly ask that you please link back to www.netflix.com/StrangerThings in your coverage.**

منذ 4 أيام . News

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Arabian Nights Returns to Zaytoun at Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City for the 2025 Winter Season


 

30 October 2025, Dubai, UAE – As the cool winter breeze returns to Dubai, Zaytoun at Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City invites guests to experience the magic of the season with the return of its much-loved Arabian Nights, taking place every Thursday and Friday evening from 30 October 2025. Set against the backdrop of Dubai’s glittering skyline, this al fresco dining experience celebrates authentic Arabic flavours, warm hospitality, and live entertainment under the stars.

 

“Arabian Nights at Zaytoun has become a signature seasonal experience that our guests look forward to every year,” said Thomas Schmelter, Area General Manager for IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City. “It reflects our commitment to creating memorable dining moments that bring people together to celebrate the region’s rich culinary traditions and vibrant spirit of hospitality.”

 

Arabian Nights at Zaytoun invites guests to embark on a culinary journey that captures the region’s vibrant spirit. Begin the evening with an abundant selection of soups, freshly tossed salads, and a colourful assortment of traditional Arabic mezze. Then, head to the centrepiece of the experience – the open grill station, where chefs prepare succulent meats and the freshest seafood, grilled to perfection à la minute.

 

As the aroma of spices fills the air, the terrace comes alive with the soothing melodies of an oud player, creating an atmosphere that blends tradition and elegance. With sweeping views of the Dubai Creek and skyline, guests can unwind beneath the open sky, savouring every bite as the city sparkles in the distance.

 

To end the night on a sweet note, diners can indulge in an array of Arabic and international desserts, thoughtfully crafted to offer a perfect finale to the evening.

 

Details

 

Venue: Zaytoun at Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City

Days: Every Thursday & Friday (October – end of winter season)

Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Price:

• AED 195 per person (including soft beverages)
• AED 295 per person (including house beverages)
• AED 98 per child (6–12 years)
• Children aged 5 and below dine with our compliments

Extras: Shisha available upon request

Entertainment: Live oud player

 

An Enchanting Outdoor Setting

 

Overlooking Dubai’s iconic skyline, Zaytoun’s terrace provides a serene escape where culinary artistry meets ambiance. From the glow of the city lights to the gentle breeze off the Creek, every element is designed to create an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of Arabian evenings.

 


منذ 5 أيام . News

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Kempinski Hotels Appoints Paul Lonergan as Chief Operating and Asset Management Officer to Drive Strategic Shift in Performance




Kempinski Hotels has announced the appointment of industry veteran Paul Lonergan as Chief Operating and Asset Management Officer – a new role that will oversee the luxury hotel group’s operations and asset management strategy in EMEA, Americas and Asia Pacific (excluding China and Mongolia)


Paul’s appointment reflects Kempinski’s ongoing evolution as it focuses on elevating product and performance globally. Lonergan’s dual expertise in operations and asset management is central to the strategic shift and transformation that Kempinski is currently undergoing as Kempinski looks to strengthen its portfolio and refine its luxury appeal.


“As Kempinski continues to evolve from a traditional hotel operator into an agile, owner-aligned organisation, Paul’s appointment marks a pivotal step in that journey,” said Barbara Muckermann, Group Chief Executive Officer, Kempinski Hotels. “He combines the strategic insight of an asset manager with the operational rigour of a hotelier, and that dual perspective is exactly what we need to unlock the full potential of our portfolio. Paul has a proven record of elevating iconic properties and building value for owners while maintaining the spirit of exceptional service that defines a storied brand like Kempinski.”


Lonergan brings more than three decades of global hospitality experience, combining 20 years in senior operational leadership with 15 years in commercial hotel asset management. Recognised for his ability to align owner and operator interests, he has built a reputation for driving profitability, stabilising property values, and strengthening brands across diverse markets. He has executed the pre-opening and launch of iconic properties in Dubai Holding hospitality portfolio, and has managed multimillion dollar CAPEX programmes, executing large-scale revitalisation and refurbishment projects, and leading mixed-use retail and restaurant leasing strategies that enhance both guest experience and asset value.


“Kempinski’s heritage of timeless luxury is unique, and the opportunity now is to pair that heritage with performance-driven operating and asset strategies,” said Paul Lonergan. “Working closely with our hotel teams and ownership partners, we will focus on targeted CAPEX, precise operating levers and distinctive guest propositions, ensuring every property delivers on the Kempinski promise while growing long-term value.”


At Kempinski, Lonergan will oversee operations and asset management strategy in EMEA, Americas and Asia Pacific (excluding China and Mongolia), ensuring alignment between owners and operators while guiding capital investment decisions that enhance both guest experience and asset value.


Lonergan will work closely with veteran Kempinski executive, Manish Nambiar, who has been promoted to Senior Vice President Operations, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. In his expanded remit, Nambiar will drive operational performance and business growth across the group’s largest area, supported by corporate and regional teams.


A Kempinski veteran of more than 20 years, Manish joined the company in 2004 as an Area Executive Chef in Tanzania before progressing through multiple leadership roles. He led the openings of Kempinski Villa Rosa Nairobi and Kempinski Gold Coast City Accra, served as Area General Manager Africa, and most recently held the role of Vice President Operations Southeast Asia while managing the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok.


www.kempinski.com www.ghadiscovery.com

منذ 5 أيام . News

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Mohamad Ali Shaikh has been appointed Cluster Operations Manager for Accor Dubai Deira and Dubai Gold District Cluster




The Accor Waterfront Properties, Dubai Deira and Dubai Gold District is delighted to announce the appointment of Mohamad Ali Shaikh as Cluster Operations Manager, marking a significant milestone in the cluster’s continuing journey to elevate guest experience and operational excellence within Accor’s midscale portfolio in the UAE.

Commenting on his new role, Shaikh said, “I’m honoured to take on this leadership role at the Accor Waterfront Properties in Dubai Deira and Dubai Gold District. My goal is to build upon the cluster’s strong legacy of hospitality excellence. As Dubai’s hospitality landscape continues to evolve, I’m excited to work alongside our talented team to further enhance guest satisfaction, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth”.

 

A Proven Leader in Hospitality Operations

With nearly two decades of experience across leading Accor properties in the region, Mohamad Ali Shaikh brings a wealth of expertise in hotel operations, staff management, and revenue generation.

Most recently, as Director of Operations at Novotel Bur Dubai, Shaikh oversaw overall hotel operations, ensuring seamless coordination across all departments to enhance guest experience and operational performance.

Prior to that, as Rooms Division Manager at Novotel & Ibis Mall Avenue Dubai, he spearheaded several digital transformation initiatives, including Opera Cloud migration, achieving the Best Upselling Revenue Hotel title in Accor’s Northern Region for Q1 2024 with a 50% year-on-year increase.

His career also includes senior management roles at Pullman Hotel & Residence Deira City Centre, ibis Al Rigga and Novotel Suites & Ibis Hotel Mall of the Emirates, leading high-performing teams to record-breaking Guest Satisfaction and Brand Audit scores. His leadership contributed to multiple accolades, including TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards (2022 and 2023). 

Operational Excellence and Vision

Shaikh’s career has been defined by a hands-on, people-centric approach and a track record of driving performance across key departments such as Front Office, Housekeeping, and F&B. He has led two hotel pre-openings in India, spearheaded multiple re-openings in Dubai, and actively participated in Accor’s Future Hotel Managers Development Program (2023-24), underscoring his commitment to leadership growth.

In his new role, Shaikh will focus on strengthening the six properties within the Dubai Gold District and Dubai Deira cluster: Novotel Dubai Gold District, Mercure Dubai Gold District, Mercure Dubai Deira, ibis Styles Dubai Gold District, ibis Styles Dubai Deira, and Aparthotels Adagio Dubai Deira. His priorities include positioning the cluster as a preferred destination for both business and leisure travellers, optimizing operational efficiency, and reinforcing the hotels’ sustainability and digitalization initiatives.

Link to LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohamad-ali-shaikh-820572185/

منذ 5 أيام . News