International Hotel Technology Forum Middle East & North Africa 2025 (IHTFMENA)

Introducing IHTFME: the latest addition in the IHTF series. Discover the latest end-to-end solutions to enhance guest experience, increase revenue and improve operational efficiency.

11 - 12

February

2025
  • JW Marriott Marina, Dubai
  • Complimentary
  • Why attend?
  • Agenda
  • Speakers
  • Plan Your Visit
  • Event Gallery
  • Sponsors
  • Media Centre
  • Contact Us
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Why attend?

IHTFME 2025 - WHAT TO EXPECT?

200+

Attendees to meet each year

30+

Exhibitors to meet each year

80%

Attendees at Director+ level

200+

Attendees to meet each year

30+

Exhibitors to meet each year

80%

Attendees at Director+ level

IHTF Europe 2024

Agenda

  • 11 Feb 2025
  • 12 Feb 2025
Expand All

Streams

Stream one

Stream A

Stream two

Stream B

SESSION 1 – F&B DIRECTOR’S SUMMIT

10:15 AM

anel Discussion: Balancing Digital and Human Touchpoints in the Restaurant – From Theory to Practice

11 AM

Presentation: Fostering a Healthy Kitchen Culture for Innovative Success

11:20 AM

Panel Discussion: Elevate Your Menu – Embrace Sustainable Dining with Plant-based Innovation, Alternative Proteins, and Farm to Fork Innovation!

SESSION 2 – F&B DIRECTOR’S SUMMIT

2 PM

Panel Discussion: Transforming Your Hotel Dining – Elevate Guest Experience with Authentic Cuisine, Wellness-Focused Menus, and Tailored Culinary Experiences!

Speakers

Luigi Vespero
Cluster Director of F&B Experiences, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

2:40 PM

Presentation: Supercharge Your Hotel’s F&B Revenue – Unleash Dynamic Pricing, Menu Innovation, and Tech-Driven Efficiency for Maximum Profitability!

3:20 PM

Meet the Tech Disruptors in F&B!

7:30 AM

Registration

8:20 AM

Setting the Scene & Welcome to the Forum

Speakers

Nicholas Wyatt
Head of R&A, Travel & Tourism, GlobalData

SESSION 1: Market Trends

8:30 AM

Trends of Today… Trends of Tomorrow? Investigating Digital Transformation Trends in the Middle East and North Africa

A dynamic exploration of MENA's hotel industry’s digital revolution, spotlighting AI-driven service, IoT-powered rooms, and data-fueled personalisation. Navigate regional hurdles, showcase success stories, and forecast tech trends, equipping hoteliers with tools to reshape the industry across the Middle East and North Africa.

Speakers

Nicholas Wyatt
Head of R&A, Travel & Tourism, GlobalData

8:50 AM

Industry Panel Discussion: Navigating Current Critical Tech Choices for Guest- Facing Hotel Success

Unlock the secrets to staying ahead in today's tech-driven market. Discover how to leverage cutting-edge technologies to boost your brand's performance, outpace competitors, and drive unprecedented growth. From AI to blockchain, learn which innovations are worth your investment and how to implement them for maximum impact.

Speakers

Ted Horner
Owner, E Horner & Associates
Lijeesh Rajan
Corporate Director of IT Strategy & Services, Rotana Hotel Management Corporation PJSC
Nuran Kilani
Corporate Commercial Director, TIME Hotels
Tariq Valani
Global Senior Vice President Support Services, Accor
Jamey Ford
Global Head of Engineering, Kerzner International

9:20 AM

Digital Disruption or Digital Delight? Current Trends in Hotel Cybersecurity

Gain crucial insights into the latest tools and techniques employed by cybercriminals targeting hotels. Take a deep dive into cutting-edge social engineering tactics, revealing how threat actors exploit human psychology to breach your defenses. Discover state-of-the-art approaches to detect and neutralise threats before they compromise your guest’s trust. From front desk to back office, learn how to fortify every aspect of your operations against increasingly sophisticated attacks.

Senior Representative, ThreatSpike Labs

9:50 AM

Refreshments & Networking Break

10:15 AM

Business meeting 1

10:50 AM

Business meeting 2

11:25 AM

Business meeting 3

12 PM

Lunch & Networking Break

SESSION 2: The Hotel Tech Den

2 PM

Business meeting 4

2:35 PM

Business meeting 5

3:10 PM

Business meeting 6

3:40 PM

Refreshments & Networking Break

SESSION 3: Designing Hotels of the Future

4:10 PM

Industry Panel Discussion: Eco-Smart Hospitality – From Sustainable Sourcing to Supply Chain Hospitality Management

This session will cover how data analytics revolutionise hotel energy management, slashing costs and waste. Through real-world case studies and actionable strategies, learn to optimise energy use, reduce environmental impact, boost operational efficiency in your properties, and source local products.

Speakers

Ted Horner
Owner, E Horner & Associates
Daniel Alvarez Roses
Design and Construction Director, Earth Hotels
Kelly Timmins
Director Marine Animal Operations & Sustainability, Atlantis Resorts

4:40 PM

Integrating IT Management Systems to Managing the Journey not just the Destination

Discover how a hotel’s external design is as important as its internal IT system design. Transform your property into a tech-savvy masterpiece without compromising its aesthetic appeal. Learn the art of concealing cutting-edge systems within architectural features through smart IT management systems. Your journey to the future of hotel design starts here!

Senior Representative, Six Star Global

5:10 PM

Industry Panel Discussion: ‘Let the Site be the Hero’ – Can Hotel Heritage Sites Increase Tourism?

Uncover how architectural gems can become your destination's star attraction, drawing history buffs and luxury seekers alike. Discuss how to turn centuries-old charm into 21st-century profits by seamlessly blend historical charm with cutting- edge luxury, creating unforgettable guest experiences that drive bookings through the roof. Discover the secrets of sustainable retrofitting, adaptive reuse, tech integration, and marketing strategies that respect the past while embracing the future.

Speakers

Ted Horner
Owner, E Horner & Associates
Imran Changezi
Executive Director Hospitality Development, Diriyah Company
Hakan Ozkasikci
Executive Vice President, Global Design & Technical Services, Kerzner International

5:40 PM

Chair’s Closing Remarks

5:45 PM

Six Star Global Drinks Reception

Streams

Stream one

Stream A

Stream two

Stream B

SESSION 1 – Wellness Leaders Summit

10:40 AM

Panel Discussion: High Tech Wellness for High Tech Guests – Technology and AI Trends in the Wellness Industry

11:20 AM

Case Study – How are National Tourist Boards Supporting Wellness Tourism in Hotels?

11:40 AM

Panel Discussion: Uncovering Shifts in Tourist Behaviour – Is Nutrition the New Wellness Trend?

Speakers

Ilija Shivachev
Director of Recreation, Ritz Carlton Bahrain

SESSION 2 – Wellness Leaders Summit

2 PM

Panel Discussion – Challenges & Opportunities in Personalising Guest’s Wellness Preferences

Speakers

Maja Corridon
Director of Spa and Recreation, Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
Mirza Ibracevic
Complex Director of Recreation & Spa, Le Méridien Dubai Hotel + Conference Centre
Mohamed Abdelsamiea
Head of Leisure & Sports, Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts

2:40 PM

Case Study – Practical Applications of AI for your Wellness Portfolio

3 PM

Meet the Wellness Tech Disruptors

8 AM

Registration & Breakfast Roundtables

Roundtable 1) Service vs Staff – Navigating Talent Retention Strategies and Challenges – Do we Sacrifice Staff for Technology?

Moderator:

Roundtable 2) Challenges with Implementing AI into Hotel Operations – Where do we Start?

Moderator:

Roundtable 3) How has Technology Impacted Hotel’s ESG Duty?

Moderator:

8:55 AM

Welcome to the Forum

Speakers

Nicholas Wyatt
Head of R&A, Travel & Tourism, GlobalData

SESSION 1: Guest Facing Technology

9 AM

Case study: Check-In to the Virtual, Where Your Room Key Unlocks Both Doors… and Dimensions – An Exploration into AR, VR, and the Metaverse in Guest Facing Operations

As AR, VR, and the Metaverse become the next global trends, take a look at implementation opportunities within the hotel industry.

Speakers

Amro Khoudeir
Senior Vice President Digital & Distribution - Middle East, Africa, Turkey & Asia- Pacific, Accor

9:20 AM

Industry Panel Discussion: App-solutely Essential Guest Tech – Personalising Guest Experiences in Real Time

According to GlobalData, 78% of travelers are more likely to book with properties that offer personalised experiences, with 50% willing to share necessary personal data to promote an personalised stay (Key Trends in Luxury Travel, 2024, p.10). Discover ways technology adoption can strengthen brand image and foster customer loyalty in this evolving industry.

Speakers

Ted Horner
Owner, E Horner & Associates
Oliver Stutz
Digital & Innovation Marketing Project Manager, Atlantis Dubai
Amro Khoudeir
Senior Vice President Digital & Distribution - Middle East, Africa, Turkey & Asia- Pacific, Accor
Mahmood Ahmed
Head - IT Ops, Media One Hotel

9:50 AM

Case Study: Next Level Guest & Employee Experience, Powered by AI

Address key challenges, present milestones and innovations to create maximum added value for guests and employees when deploying AI technology. Participate in a live demo on how you can improve your experience management.

 

Senior Representative, Like Magic

10:20 AM

Refreshments & Networking Break

10:40 AM

Business meeting 7

11:15 AM

Business meeting 8

11:50 AM

Business meeting 9

12:20 PM

Lunch & Networking Break

SESSION 2: Industry Deep Dive Panel

1:20 PM

Industry Panel Discussion: Empowering Your Team, Elevating Your Brand: How Tech-Savvy Staff Drive Hotel Differentiation

Unlock your hotel's unique edge through employee-centric technological innovation

Speakers

Ted Horner
Owner, E Horner & Associates
Elias Saad
Hotel Manager, Gewan Hotels & Resorts
JS Anand
Founder & CEO, Leva Hotels
Amila Udana Karunaratne
Director of IT, The First Group
Mahmood Ahmed
Head - IT Ops, Media One Hotel
Natalie Litowtschik
Commercial Director, Waldorf Astoria

2 PM

Business meeting 10

2:35 PM

Business meeting 11

3:10 PM

Business meeting 12

3:40 PM

Refreshments & Networking Break

SESSION 3: Harnessing Data and AI For Technological Excellence

4:10 PM

From AI Anxiety to Innovation – A Story of How Fear becomes Technological Empowerment in Hospitality

In this uncertain new age of AI, many of us worry how our careers will be affected by this technology - how much will my job change? Will I be replaced? How will my industry look in the future? Demonstrate how embracing technological change can transform industries and create new opportunities in guest service, though a fusion of human emotional intelligence and AI.

 

Senior Representative, Everguest

4:40 PM

Industry Panel Discussion: Transforming Guest Loyalty: Why AI is a game- changer for CX

In today's hospitality landscape, guest loyalty is the key to sustainable growth and profitability. This session reveals how cutting-edge AI technology is revolutionising the way hotels engage with guests, boosting lifetime value and satisfaction. Discover how industry leaders are leveraging AI-powered insights to:

  • Transform pre-arrival interactions into powerful revenue drivers
  • Seamlessly integrate digital and physical touchpoints for a frictionless guest journey
  • Personalise experiences at scale, setting new benchmarks in guest satisfaction

Speakers

Ted Horner
Owner, E Horner & Associates
Nitesh Matlani
Director of Rooms, Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas
JS Anand
Founder & CEO, Leva Hotels

5:10 PM

Using AI to Think Like a Concierge

Harnessing big-data and actionable insights to personalise advertising and make it relevant for guests. Accurately predict what customers want through data personsalisation, to get a higher share of the guest wallet.

Senior Representative, Epteca

5:40 PM

Chair’s Closing Remarks

5:45 PM

Networking Reception

1 PM

A panel of the industry’s most sought-after solution providers. Set the scene with a 5-minute introduction and insight into their products and services. Visit the booths in the exhibition hall for more details and services!

A panel of the industry’s most sought-after solution providers. Set the scene with a 5-minute introduction and insight into their products and services. Visit the booths in the exhibition hall for more details and services!

Speakers

Ted Horner
Owner, E Horner & Associates

Speakers

Select a speaker to learn more

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Imran Changezi
Executive Director Hospitality Development, Diriyah Company

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: ‘Let the Site be the Hero’ – Can Hotel Heritage Sites Increase Tourism?

2025-02-11, 5:10 PM

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JS Anand
Founder & CEO, Leva Hotels

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Transforming Guest Loyalty: Why AI is a game- changer for CX

2025-02-12, 4:40 PM

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Empowering Your Team, Elevating Your Brand: How Tech-Savvy Staff Drive Hotel Differentiation

2025-02-12, 1:20 PM

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Amro Khoudeir
Senior Vice President Digital & Distribution - Middle East, Africa, Turkey & Asia- Pacific, Accor

Session Details:

Case study: Check-In to the Virtual, Where Your Room Key Unlocks Both Doors… and Dimensions – An Exploration into AR, VR, and the Metaverse in Guest Facing Operations

2025-02-12, 9:00 AM

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: App-solutely Essential Guest Tech – Personalising Guest Experiences in Real Time

2025-02-12, 9:20 AM

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Nicholas Wyatt
Head of R&A, Travel & Tourism, GlobalData

Nick has over 14 years of experience in the business intelligence industry with particular expertise in market sizing, competitive assessment, company strategy, and product management. He leads the development and content production of new and existing products within GlobalData’s Travel & Tourism business information division. He is responsible for ensuring the design, publication and delivery of market-leading content to a diverse client base in the travel & tourism sector including DMOs, airlines, hotels and consulting groups. He also supports sales and consulting teams by directly engaging with industry stakeholders to understand and fulfil their needs.

Session Details:

Trends of Today… Trends of Tomorrow? Investigating Digital Transformation Trends in the Middle East and North Africa

2025-02-11, 8:30 AM

Session Details:

Setting the Scene & Welcome to the Forum

2025-02-11, 8:20 AM

Session Details:

Welcome to the Forum

2025-02-12, 8:55 AM

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Ted Horner
Owner, E Horner & Associates

In 1989, he established E Horner & Associates Pty Ltd  a Consulting Practice specializing in Technology Consulting to the Hospitality Industry  and  he is  now widely respected as Australia's leading consultant in this area .

 

 

In 2002 he was a founding member of HTNG ( Hotel Technology Next Generation ) a not for profit body  which was established in the US  to promote open systems integrations between vendors in the industry and today he is an Executive Advisor to HTNG .

 

In 2004 he was the first non US person to be elected to  the HITEC Technology Hall of Fame for his contribution to the advancement of technology in the hospitality industry.

In 2014 was elected to the International Board of Directors of Hotel Technology Financial Professionals (HFTP ) who run  the largest hotel technology exhibition/conference in the world (HITEC ) and he served on this board for 3 years.

Has done consulting  assignments  in the following countries over the last 29  years Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, USA, Malaysia, Dubai, Papua New Guinea, and Fiji.

 

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: ‘Let the Site be the Hero’ – Can Hotel Heritage Sites Increase Tourism?

2025-02-11, 5:10 PM

Session Details:

A panel of the industry’s most sought-after solution providers. Set the scene with a 5-minute introduction and insight into their products and services. Visit the booths in the exhibition hall for more details and services!

2025-02-11, 1:00 PM

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Eco-Smart Hospitality – From Sustainable Sourcing to Supply Chain Hospitality Management

2025-02-11, 4:10 PM

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Transforming Guest Loyalty: Why AI is a game- changer for CX

2025-02-12, 4:40 PM

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Navigating Current Critical Tech Choices for Guest- Facing Hotel Success

2025-02-11, 8:50 AM

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: App-solutely Essential Guest Tech – Personalising Guest Experiences in Real Time

2025-02-12, 9:20 AM

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Empowering Your Team, Elevating Your Brand: How Tech-Savvy Staff Drive Hotel Differentiation

2025-02-12, 1:20 PM

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Lijeesh Rajan
Corporate Director of IT Strategy & Services, Rotana Hotel Management Corporation PJSC

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Navigating Current Critical Tech Choices for Guest- Facing Hotel Success

2025-02-11, 8:50 AM

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Hakan Ozkasikci
Executive Vice President, Global Design & Technical Services, Kerzner International

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: ‘Let the Site be the Hero’ – Can Hotel Heritage Sites Increase Tourism?

2025-02-11, 5:10 PM

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Tariq Valani
Global Senior Vice President Support Services, Accor

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Navigating Current Critical Tech Choices for Guest- Facing Hotel Success

2025-02-11, 8:50 AM

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Nuran Kilani
Corporate Commercial Director, TIME Hotels

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Navigating Current Critical Tech Choices for Guest- Facing Hotel Success

2025-02-11, 8:50 AM

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Daniel Alvarez Roses
Design and Construction Director, Earth Hotels

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Eco-Smart Hospitality – From Sustainable Sourcing to Supply Chain Hospitality Management

2025-02-11, 4:10 PM

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Oliver Stutz
Digital & Innovation Marketing Project Manager, Atlantis Dubai

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: App-solutely Essential Guest Tech – Personalising Guest Experiences in Real Time

2025-02-12, 9:20 AM

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Elias Saad
Hotel Manager, Gewan Hotels & Resorts

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Empowering Your Team, Elevating Your Brand: How Tech-Savvy Staff Drive Hotel Differentiation

2025-02-12, 1:20 PM

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Nitesh Matlani
Director of Rooms, Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Transforming Guest Loyalty: Why AI is a game- changer for CX

2025-02-12, 4:40 PM

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Jamey Ford
Global Head of Engineering, Kerzner International

Jamey Ford is the Global Head of Engineering for Kerzner International, the owner and operator of four distinctive brands - the iconic Atlantis Resorts and Residences, ultra-luxury One&Only Resorts, Rare Finds and SIRO Hotels. Jamey leads Asset & Facilities Management and Engineering for the Company across the existing collection of award-winning, globally renowned resorts and spearheads the development and implementation of MEP from standards, design and construction, through to new property openings and on to operations, ensuring the highest standards. He drives continuous innovation to fulfil the Company’s core vision of creating Amazing Experiences and Everlasting Memories for each and every guest.

An engineering expert with over 30 years of international experience, Jamey has worked for various global hotel operators, opening and managing hotels across several continents.

During his time at Kerzner International, Jamey has been the champion of the Global Sustainability Programme, implementing across all resorts within the portfolio while driving performance and raising awareness.

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Navigating Current Critical Tech Choices for Guest- Facing Hotel Success

2025-02-11, 8:50 AM

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Amila Udana Karunaratne
Director of IT, The First Group
For over two decades, I have been at the forefront of the hospitality industry's technological evolution since 2004. Originating as a digital transformation pioneer in Sri Lanka's hospitality industry, my journey spans across retail, education, and government, showcasing a consistent commitment to innovation and excellence.
With a proven track record in IT project management, solutions delivery, and IT service management, I have orchestrated successful outcomes for complex projects and IT service lifecycles. My expertise extends to hotel pre-openings, ERP systems, CCTV security, cloud technologies, and IT infrastructure, coupled with a nuanced understanding of IT compliance and user/application support.
Currently serving as the Director of IT - Hospitality for The First Group's hospitality portfolio, I lead strategic initiatives that define the future outcomes of the IT department. From crafting new IT strategies to streamlining operations and introducing innovative solutions that elevate our hotel operations and guest experience to managing high-performing teams, I ensure project delivery remains timely and budget-conscious. Collaborating with the corporate IT security team, I conduct risk assessments and oversee project management for pre-openings and ongoing hotel operations.
I’m a visionary tech expert with a keen business sense, I foster innovation, implement smart spending, and provide crucial IT consulting for new builds. Currently overseeing operations for eight hotels, two Beach clubs, and five amazing upcoming projects, including the iconic Ciel Tower, the tallest hotel in the world.

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Empowering Your Team, Elevating Your Brand: How Tech-Savvy Staff Drive Hotel Differentiation

2025-02-12, 1:20 PM

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Mahmood Ahmed
Head - IT Ops, Media One Hotel

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: App-solutely Essential Guest Tech – Personalising Guest Experiences in Real Time

2025-02-12, 9:20 AM

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Empowering Your Team, Elevating Your Brand: How Tech-Savvy Staff Drive Hotel Differentiation

2025-02-12, 1:20 PM

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Kelly Timmins
Director Marine Animal Operations & Sustainability, Atlantis Resorts

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Eco-Smart Hospitality – From Sustainable Sourcing to Supply Chain Hospitality Management

2025-02-11, 4:10 PM

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Natalie Litowtschik
Commercial Director, Waldorf Astoria

Session Details:

Industry Panel Discussion: Empowering Your Team, Elevating Your Brand: How Tech-Savvy Staff Drive Hotel Differentiation

2025-02-12, 1:20 PM

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Turab Saleem
Partner - Head of Hospitality, Tourism & Leisure - MENA Knight Frank Middle East
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Bryanne Tait
Global Senior Director Sustainability, Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts
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Maja Corridon
Director of Spa and Recreation, Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers

Maja Corridon is the Director of Spa and Recreation at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, a position she assumed in April 2024 after leaving Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai.
In her current role, she oversees the day-to-day operations of the 13 treatment room spa and recreation facilities, ensuring exceptional guest experiences while driving revenue and operational success. She also plays a key role in strategic planning, budget management, and staff development.
Before joining Conrad Abu Dhabi, Maja was the Director of Spa & Recreation at Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah. Dubai, where she oversaw the spa's operations, including gym facilities, the kids club, and pool and beach services. This role involved supervising the overall performance of these diverse areas, ensuring they aligned with the resort's high standards, and contributing to the resort's financial success. During her tenure at Marriott, she achieved significant milestones, including leading the pre-opening team and consistently surpassing revenue and performance targets.
She also contributed as a Marriott International EMEA Guest Experience Advisory Board Member for Abu Dhabi-based spas.
Maja brings extensive international experience, having worked in the USA, Middle East, and the Balkan Peninsula. Her journey into the spa industry began in Kuwait, where she started a small day spa that grew into a successful beauty retreat. She holds a B.A. from the College of Architecture at the University of Sarajevo and an Esthetician license from Denver, Colorado, USA.

Session Details:

Panel Discussion – Challenges & Opportunities in Personalising Guest’s Wellness Preferences

2025-02-12, 2:00 PM

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Luigi Vespero
Cluster Director of F&B Experiences, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

In a career spanning 25 years in the hospitality industry, Luigi brings with him extensive experience in culinary management and a passion for delivering exceptional dining experiences.
With a dynamic background, Luigi has honed his skills alongside renowned chefs with Michelin awards, including working at Gordon Ramsay Holdings in London, where he served as Senior Chef de Partie. His leadership journey continued as Director of F&B and Culinary Operations at the Waldorf Astoria, DIFC, Dubai in 2021, and as Cluster Head Chef at Jumeirah Emirates Towers in 2013 to 2016. Notably, Luigi also held the esteemed position of Group Director of F&B at Gargash Group in 2023, overseeing a diverse portfolio of brands across the UAE and UK, including The Artisan, Weslodge Saloon, Hotel Cartagena, and Farzi.
Throughout his career, Luigi has garnered significant recognition for his culinary success, earning accolades such as The Power List 'Executive Chef' in Hotelier Middle East 2021, and Most Commented Executive Chef of the Year in Hotelier Middle East 2020. Additionally, he has been honored with the Culinary Excellence Award in Hospitality Middle East 2019 and named Chef of the Year in BBC Good Food Middle East 2018, among numerous other prestigious awards. With his unparalleled expertise and distinguished track record, Luigi Vespero is set to make a lasting mark as the Cluster Director of Food and Beverage Experiences at Fairmont Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road, Ajman, and Fujairah.
As a dynamic leader, Luigi is committed to fostering a culture of excellence among staff members, ensuring that every guest experience surpasses expectations. He will oversee all aspects of F&B operations, innovative revenue strategies, and crafting seasonal offerings that resonate with the community's palate.
Luigi Vespero, with his visionary leadership and profound expertise, will play a pivotal role in propelling the hotels' F&B department towards new horizons of culinary innovation, guest satisfaction and operational excellence. His unwavering commitment to culinary excellence, coupled with his ability to oversee various aspects of F&B operations, positions him as an invaluable asset in steering Fairmont Hotels towards continued success.

Session Details:

Panel Discussion: Transforming Your Hotel Dining – Elevate Guest Experience with Authentic Cuisine, Wellness-Focused Menus, and Tailored Culinary Experiences!

2025-02-11, 2:00 PM

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Mirza Ibracevic
Complex Director of Recreation & Spa, Le Méridien Dubai Hotel + Conference Centre

Session Details:

Panel Discussion – Challenges & Opportunities in Personalising Guest’s Wellness Preferences

2025-02-12, 2:00 PM

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Ilija Shivachev
Director of Recreation, Ritz Carlton Bahrain

Director of Leisure, Memberships, and Marina at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, where he manages a diverse range of wellness, nutrition ,marina and child care services. His portfolio also includes sports tourism and the organization of special wellness events, ensuring that guests experience a holistic and luxurious approach to well-being. Ilija is known for integrating personalized fitness programs, children facilities, nutritional and recovery treatments into the spa experience, offering comprehensive wellness solutions.

With over a decade of experience in the Middle East, Ilija has developed a deep understanding of the region's luxury hospitality market. He previously served as Head of Recreation at The Ritz-Carlton, Abu Dhabi, where he enhanced the resort’s offerings with a focus on wellness and elite professional services. His career also includes significant roles at Dubai Lifestyle Hotels, Rosewood Abu Dhabi, and The Abu Dhabi Edition, where he crafted unique wellness, sports tourism, and recovery experiences.

Born in Skopje, Macedonia, Ilija discovered his passion for wellness, nutrition early in life, which has shaped his personal and professional journey. His ability to create innovative wellness journeys ; combining fitness, nutrition and recovery programs—has positioned him as a leader in guest well-being, contributing to the biggest and world-class standards of The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain that counts more than 2500 members.

Session Details:

Panel Discussion: Uncovering Shifts in Tourist Behaviour – Is Nutrition the New Wellness Trend?

2025-02-12, 11:40 AM

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Roger Tabbal
VP Global Guest Technology & Innovation – Tech for Hotels, Accor

Roger Tabbal was appointed Accor Tech VP Global Guest Technology & Innovation, Tech for Hotels in July 2022. Based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Roger is responsible for driving innovation and guest technology product evolution in 5,400 hotels worldwide, a key focus of Accor Tech’s strategy in creating the future of hospitality.

Roger joined Accor as Executive Director Customer Technology Services for IMEA from Movenpick Hotels & Resorts in 2019. With over 23 years’ IT experience in the hospitality industry, Roger has played an integral role in major tech rollout projects, including PMS Cloud, POS Cloud, Wi-Fi seamless experience, and Cloud Backup, ensuring hotels meet company IT standards and are able to benefit from the technological innovations that are transforming the hospitality industry.

Roger holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from Lebanese University, Lebanon, and is pursuing his Executive MBA with City University of London. He also holds certification in Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) and is a Certified Data Centre Professional (CDCP). Roger has completed Project Leadership & Systems Architecture courses from Cornell University.

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JW Marriott Hotel Marina

66 Al Marsa St - Dubai Marina - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

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