Ahmed Elwaseif joins Aman Resorts to drive Middle East growth
The ultra-exclusive Aman Resorts brand has hired a dedicated director of sales for Middle East and Africa as demand in those market soars. Ahmed Elwaseif has been chosen for the role, expected to pitch the global portfolio to wealthy MEA partners, as well as maximise the lauch of Aman’s trio of Saudi Arabia properties.
Elwaseif told Hotelier Middle East: “Aman has seen a consistent rise in travellers from the Middle East and Africa over the past few years across the entire portfolio and I therefore look forward to showcasing Aman within these markets, raising awareness of the distinguished brand. I will also assist guests should they need help arranging stays at any Aman property across the globe.”
Aman Resorts in Middle East
In Saudi Arabia, exact details on the hotels have not yet been shared. What is known is at least one of them will be Janu, Aman’s new sister brand. Janu, which is almost as equally high-end as Aman, is a little less secluded and 30 per cent more affordable. Janu launches with three forthcoming hotels which are already under construction.
Reflecting on the importance of KSA, Elwaseif added: “As a pioneering brand within the lifestyle industry, I have always kept a close eye on Aman and it’s growing portfolio of hotels and resorts. In my new position, I look forward to introducing Aman to an audience that may not yet have been exposed to the brand. As part of my role, I am excited to unveil future properties to my clients in the regions I look after including three properties in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, for both Aman and sister brand Janu.”
In terms of experience, Elwaseif began back in 2008 in Saudi Arabia. Following sales roles in Accor and IHG, he became director of sales with Al Mashreq Boutique Hotel, also in KSA in 2011. For six years, he worked with Marriott through numerous sales roles, taking on the post of account director of global sales in the Dubai office in 2018.
More recently, he was Kempinski’s global director of sales for the Middle East.
Source: Hotelier Middle East