Ali Sajwani, managing director of operations, finance and hospitality at DAMAC Properties, talks to Economy Middle East about how to gain an edge in a competitive market in Dubai, and beyond.
In Dubai’s fiercely competitive luxury hospitality market, what distinguishes DAMAC Hospitality?
We set ourselves apart in Dubai’s luxury hospitality scene by offering experiences that go far beyond traditional notions of luxury. For me, it’s not just about lavish spaces — it’s about creating unforgettable moments that truly resonate with our guests. We are constantly looking at how we can blend personalized service with innovative concepts that reflect the evolving tastes of today’s luxury traveler.
Whether it’s the design, the service, or the unique atmosphere we curate, every detail is crafted to ensure that each stay is not only distinctive, but deeply memorable. That’s how we continue to stand out in such a competitive market.
Read: DAMAC Properties launches Riverside Views, first development of 2025
Could you give us an overview of the current DAMAC Hospitality portfolio? How would you describe the customers that visit your properties?
Currently, we manage a portfolio of 10 hotel properties under leading brands including Radisson, Paramount Hotels & Resorts, Rotana, DAMAC Maison, Aykon, and an upcoming luxury resort in the Maldives, which will be operated by Mandarin Oriental. Our hospitality arm oversees over 6,000 serviced apartments. Catering to a broad yet discerning customer base, ranging from high-net-worth individuals to business and leisure travelers, we aim to align our offerings with evolving marketexpectations.
Our current portfolio reflects a strategic focus on premium experiences, long-stay convenience, and brand partnerships that enhance both operational excellence andguestappeal.
What defines the ‘ultimate luxury lifestyle experience’ at DAMAC Hotels & Resorts, and how is this consistently delivered across all properties?
At DAMAC Hotels & Resorts, the ultimate luxury lifestyle experience is not just built, it’s crafted through a fusion of thoughtful design, exceptional service, and an unwavering commitment to detail. While architectural excellence and premium amenities set the stage, it is the precision of execution and the human touch that truly define our offering. While this may sound cliché, attention to detail is a differentiator. It transforms a beautiful property into a memorable experience.
From remembering guest preferences and personal milestones to tailoring experiences around past stays, our teams are trained to deliver ultra personalized service that resonates beyond the visit. This consistency is made possible by a highly skilled team of professionals who bring the brand promise to life. It’s not just about luxury, it’s about knowing what matters most to our guests, and delivering it flawlessly, everytime.
How important is DAMAC’s hospitality business to its overall revenue diversification strategy, and how has it evolved since its launch in 2012?
Hospitality plays a crucial role in DAMAC’s revenue diversification strategy. DAMAC formally entered the hospitality sector in 2011, and with the opening of the Trump International Golf Club in DAMAC Hills in 2017 and subsequently the Paramount Hotel, we laid the foundation for a business that not only complements our core real estate portfolio but also reflects the spirit of the city we are born in — Dubai.
Since then,DAMAC has expanded its hospitality portfolio to include a range of luxury hotels and resorts, tapping into new revenue streams beyond residential and commercial development.
This strategic move has allowed the group to capitalize on the global tourism market while enhancing long-term financial stability. The continued evolution of DAMAC’s hospitality arm reflects a deliberate effort to build a well-balanced, future-ready portfolio that mitigates market risk and reinforces brand equity across sectors.
What markets or segments are next in focus for DAMAC Hospitality’s expansion plans?
Our direction is clear: We’re targeting destinations where demand for premium hospitality is on the rise. Every step we take is guided by meticulous market research and an unwavering dedication to creating properties that set new standards in luxury living. It’s all part of our broader ambition to expand our global footprint and redefine what exceptional hospitality means.
The timing couldn’t be better. Dubai itself continues to demonstrate remarkable strength as a travel destination, welcoming 1.94 million overnight visitors in January 2025 alone, a 9 percent increase over the previous year, according to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. On a global level, the hospitality market is booming, with a 6.1 percent compound annual growth rate.
These figures aren’t just impressive — they’re a powerful indicator of how vibrant and resilient our industry is. At DAMAC Hospitality, we see this as validation of our vision and a clear signal that the best is yet to come.
For more features, click here
