In a candid reflection, the General Manager of Fort Arabesque opens up about the driving force behind his journey in hospitality, tracing it back to a dream born in his youth. "Everything starts with a dream," he says, recalling how a close relative's move to the United States sparked his desire to experience the vibrant life he had glimpsed in movies like Miami Vice. This early inspiration fueled his passion and ultimately led him to pursue a career in hospitality.
When asked about what motivates him in his current role, he smiles. "Love motivates me. I love what I do." He speaks with conviction, emphasizing the importance of believing in the product and staying committed to the work. For him, this passion is not something that requires extra effort to sustain—it’s simply a part of who he is. “This passion is my lifestyle,” he explains, adding that it keeps him energized every day.
Balancing the demands of a challenging industry is no easy task, but he approaches it with simplicity and practicality. "I achieve balance by not being afraid of working," he says matter-of-factly. His advice to others seeking the same? "Create a routine, and keep repeating it." For him, maintaining a rhythm in both personal and professional life is key to staying grounded.
As a leader, he values humility and common sense, believing these are the traits that make employees successful at Fort Arabesque. When it comes to launching new projects or making critical decisions, he draws from his wealth of experience. "I understand people’s comfort expectations because I see what's missing when I’m on vacation, observing what guests desire and need," he reflects. His ability to anticipate these needs and continually enhance the guest experience is what drives the hotel forward.
Looking to the future, he speaks with a clear vision and optimism. "This is a race, and there's no quitting," he says with confidence. He emphasizes the importance of fostering positive energy and steering clear of micromanagement. Trusting his team to be self-motivated has been a central part of his leadership style.
The road hasn’t been without its challenges, of course. He acknowledges that one of the biggest hurdles has been building and maintaining a strong sense of trust among the team while upholding the highest standards of quality. Yet, through perseverance and commitment, he believes that Fort Arabesque is on track to becoming the best hotel in the city.
As he reflects on what sets Fort Arabesque apart, he credits the team of friendly employees, the quality of service, the delicious and hygienic food, and, of course, the unparalleled beauty of the beach. "We have the best beach in the city," he says proudly, adding that cleanliness and guest satisfaction remain at the forefront of their efforts. He is also a firm believer in continuous improvement and development for his managers, emphasizing the importance of fostering growth within his leadership team. Alongside this, he strives to create an atmosphere of stability and harmony in the workplace, ensuring that his staff feels secure and motivated to contribute to the hotel's ongoing success.
When asked about the legacy he hopes to leave, his answer is clear: guest satisfaction and financial success. "Success is a team effort and a matter of mind gaming," he states, acknowledging the strategic thinking and hard work of the management teams in both Cairo and Hurghada. Ultimately, he hopes that his leadership will have contributed to the hotel's growth and enduring reputation.