Courtesy/News Source: hoteliermiddleeast.com

Richard Haddad the CEO of Jannah Hotels and Resorts has worked in the hospitality industry and the Middle East for 27 years now, two of which he has spent with the group.

Haddad took over the role from previous CEO Nehme Imad Darwiche (who was part of the Power 50 list in 2018) last year.

This year Jannah hotels has jumped 14 places to be ranked 30 when compared to 44 last year. 

Currently, in the MENA region, the group operates 736 rooms and five hotels. The number of operating hotels have decreased by two this year. However, the group has seen an increase in their pipeline with four hotels and 1,000 rooms in the region.

In the last year, the group has expanded in Oman with the Dibba Sea View by Jannah in Oman property. The hotel offers a range of rooms and suites for adventure-seekers.

Currently, in the MENA region, the group operates 736 rooms and five hotels. The number of operating hotels have decreased by two this year. However, the group has seen an increase in their pipeline with four hotels and 1,000 rooms in the region.

Since Haddad took over, the group has signed new properties in Oman and Tajikistan and are in discussion for a couple of new emerging markets.

Haddad’s vision for the company is simple, he said: “We are aiming to keep our position as one of the leading halal brands in the Middle East and grow it globally while introducing three new sub brands to be able to cater to various consumer needs. We aim to reach 15% of direct hotel bookings in 2020.”

Currently heading 375 people, Haddad has introduced various performance enhancement initiatives such as a new centralised property management software, central reservation system and a training plan for the team at the property level as well as at corporate office among other things.

The group has performed well financially in the last 12 months. Haddad said: “This has been achieved by clustering some positions and improving a few third party contracts while ensuring no cost cutting is affected.”