TravTalk Middle East Online Magazine
Located in close proximity to the business and leisure precincts of the International Media Production Zone (IMPZ), Ghaya Grand prides itself in being one of the pioneer properties in the area to offer unique services and facilities to guests.
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In recent times, Ghaya Grand Hotel has become one of the most sought-after places for locals, expats and tourists from all over the world. Located just a few minutes away from the Dubai Miracle Garden and Dubai Autodrome, the hotel’s vast inventory of rooms and apartment options drives a lot of GCC clientele, especially during long weekends. General Manager Olwin Desouza shared that their financial figures depict an upward trend as 2017 proved to be a good year.
Ghaya Grand has a total of 765 rooms which are categorised such as Deluxe, Executive, Ghaya Club Floor, Ghaya Suite, Ambassador Suite and Senator Suite. The agenda for 2018 will be on MICE activities as the location provides an ideal venue for business meetings and social occasions. Desouza says, “We believe in the value of creating unforgettable experiences that excite and engage the senses. The conference room offers functional and technologically advanced meeting facilities, with a total capacity of 200 and four breakout rooms with a total capacity of 10 to 40 each.”
He further states, “The distinct, luxury hotel is inspired by the culture of modern Emirati society, where attentive service meets modern design. Through our unique ambience, personalised service and energising amenities, Ghaya Grand Hotel’s goal is to create an awakening experience that helps refresh and de-stress your mind and body. We have three outlets in our hotel which offer a wide variety of cuisine with spectacular dining experiences. We have recently introduced theme nights such as Arabic street food night, movie night at the Al Mawal Terrace, seafood night and Friday brunch in Fusion Restaurant.”
According to Desouza, guests at the hotel usually spend an average of five days, indulging in recreational and wellness facilities which include spa treatments, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, gym and pool access. The hotel also has convenient access to retail, beach and sports attractions with great quality service to the satisfaction of guests.
Ossama Kachkouche, Director – Sales and Marketing, stated, “Ghaya Grand Hotel’s main feeder market are the long-term corporate and government contracts of six months to one year. The flow of our groups is throughout the year, though the peak season is between October to May when we host tourists from Russia, China, Germany and the Netherlands.
Travel agents play a pivotal role in bringing the majority of business to Ghaya Grand. Their attractive offers for various value additions on spa or meals and various other incentives to not only traditional travel agents but also OTAs ensure regular flow from both parties. However, direct bookings from travellers are minimal, stated Kachkouche. “Most clients prefer to book through travel agencies or online channels. Direct bookings are not more than 5 per cent of our business mix.” In terms of the new markets, he explained, “this year, we are targeting African, Indian and Iranian market. Our dedicated sales team will also ensure strong presence in the Swiss, French and Scandinavian market too.” Like most partners, Ghaya Grand too has exposure in international travel trade exhibitions to obtain more business from ATM in Dubai, ITB in Germany and WTM in London in the coming year.
Food and beverage is an important part of the hotel experience apart from other facilities. Executive Chef Amgad Zaki with his 24 years of experience in different hotel chains in Dubai joined Ghaya Grand as the pre-opening team and ensures that he offers different cuisine to his clients. Having started his career with Cairo Marriott Hotel, Amgad moved to Dubai in 1993 to join JW Marriott. For over 20 years, he has worked with different chains like Marriott, Renaissance and Crowne Plaza before joining Ghaya Grand Hotel. He explains the reason for his entry to the industry, “I am very passionate about learning different cuisines and making people experience. It has been the most challenging and exciting job for me. I enjoy the process of creating, licensing and promoting beautiful lifestyle and kitchen products which reflect my diverse experience both in and out of the kitchen.”
In the hospitality industry, being passionate about one’s work is very crucial as it is about providing services to guests. Amgad joined Ghaya Grand because he wanted to experience his dreams in reality just like Ghaya Grand’s vision. He says, “I want to explore myself against the world and I think this industry is the best way to do so as we have to interact with a variety of people! In 2018, I will be focusing more on signature dishes in the outlets and on introducing new theme nights to attract the local market.”
