German hotelier Hans Schiller is intimately familiar with the intense competition prevalent in the luxurious hospitality sector of Saudi Arabia, specifically in Riyadh. Drawing from his impressive three-decade-long expertise, Schiller confidently asserts that Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences possesses all the necessary elements to thrive. In this exclusive interview with Economy Middle East, he graciously shares the exceptional qualities that render the hotel a beloved choice for both local and international guests.
Saudi Arabia is experiencing significant growth in its tourism industry. How has Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences adapted to cater to the changing needs and preferences of the growing number of tourists?
Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences has adeptly responded to the evolving needs and preferences of the burgeoning tourist population in Saudi Arabia. Through a comprehensive range of strategies, we have successfully elevated guest experiences by providing personalized services, integrating local cultural elements into our offerings, and tailoring amenities to cater to diverse types of travelers.
Furthermore, we have undertaken a series of impactful sustainable initiatives. Notably, our collaboration with the United Nations Environment Program West Asia and Winnow Solutions resulted in the implementation of the “Green Ramadan” campaign. This campaign entailed a thoughtfully curated dining experience at our renowned Amara Ramadan tent, where we showcased locally sourced produce from Nadec and Pure Harvest Smart Farms. Additionally, to further our commitment to waste reduction, we partnered with Black Cow to collect and compost Iftar leftovers, thereby generating organic fertilizers. Moreover, in alignment with our dedication to charitable giving, we collaborated with the Ita’am Food Bank, contributing 100 meals per day throughout the holy month.
What sets Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences apart from other luxury hotels in the city? How do you maintain a competitive edge in the market?
What distinguishes Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences from other luxury hotels in the city is our unwavering dedication to providing exceptional service and world-class hospitality. Our commitment to delivering unparalleled guest experiences, combined with our prime location, sets us apart and ensures our ongoing competitive edge. Moreover, we take pride in offering an extensive range of facilities and amenities that cater to the diverse needs of both leisure and business travelers.
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One standout feature of our hotel is the largest pillarless ballroom in the EMEA region, spanning an impressive 3,833 sqm, which allows us to host extraordinary business events and conferences. In addition, our hotel’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is commendable. We actively participate in initiatives such as Earth Hour, where we encourage both our team members and guests to conscientiously turn off non-essential lights and appliances to reduce energy consumption. Through our dedication to energy-saving measures, we have successfully reduced our energy consumption by 1.9 percent compared to 2022, as well as decreased our LPG and fuel use by 10.7 percent and water consumption by 24.5 percent, respectively.
How do you cater to the variety of needs and preferences of your guests considering the cultural diversity among travelers to Saudi Arabia?
At Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences, we prioritize the significance of addressing the diverse needs and preferences of our valued guests. As Saudi Arabia continues to attract travelers from across the globe, we have taken proactive measures to foster cultural sensitivity among our team members. Through comprehensive training programs, we strive to create a welcoming environment that not only respects but also celebrates different cultures.
Moreover, we offer a wide array of culinary options, carefully curated to cater to diverse palates. Our recreational activities are designed to engage guests with a range of interests and preferences, ensuring an enjoyable and fulfilling stay. Additionally, we provide thoughtful amenities that cater to the unique requirements of our diverse clientele.
Riyadh is known for its business and diplomatic activities. How do you accommodate the requirements of business travelers and maintain the hotel’s reputation as a premier business hotel?
Renowned as a prominent business and diplomatic hub, Riyadh has earned a distinguished reputation. At Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences, we take immense pride in our ability to cater to the specific needs of business travelers. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our cutting-edge meeting and conference facilities, boasting 23 spacious meeting rooms encompassing a total event space of 10,568 square meters.
With dedicated business services and a steadfast focus on efficiency and productivity, we have solidified our position as the premier choice for discerning business professionals. We place a paramount emphasis on upholding the highest standards of service to ensure that our valued business guests experience a seamless and highly productive stay. From streamlined check-in processes to attentive support throughout their visit, we spare no effort in ensuring their utmost satisfaction.
Saudi Arabia is embracing Vision 2030, a plan to diversify the economy and promote tourism. How does Hilton Riyadh align with this vision, and what role does it play in supporting the country’s tourism goals?
Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences embraces the principles outlined in Saudi Vision 2030. As a prominent establishment in the capital, we steadfastly endeavor to foster job creation and nurture talent development, while placing a strong emphasis on collaboration with local enterprises.
At the core of our operations lies a resolute commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, driving our active engagement in initiatives aimed at fostering environmental conservation and community involvement. We are dedicated to implementing eco-conscious solutions that effectively reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to the sustainable development of Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry.
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