Speaker: Glenn Mandziuk, Chief Executive Officer, World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance
How is the future looking for Saudi Arabia's hospitality sector?
Glenn Mandziuk: My name is Glenn Mandziuk, CEO for the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance. The Saudi hospitality market is predicted to grow approximately 10% up until 2026. This is due to the phenomenal influx of international hotel brands along with the expansion of domestic hotel chains. And here at the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, we are engaged with a number of new members based right here in Saudi who are committed to reaching net positive hospitality in the region. Sustainability has become the heart of all business plans especially within the hospitality sector and we can see this throughout the region where brands are putting destination first.
Any advice for businesses that would like to setup in Saudi Arabia?
Glenn Mandziuk: Firstly, remember the unique ecosystem that is Saudi. How is your business going to add to the kingdom rather than take? Every business must be thinking in terms of net positive. Saudi is committed to transforming the region sustainably. Therefore, all business plans must put this at the heart of their plan. Secondly, you must be future thinking. Saudi is ahead of the game. In terms of transforming ideas into reality. Hundreds of new hotels are set to open over the next decade, all of which are without a doubt setting the bar in terms of luxury, technology, and sustainability. And thirdly, relationships are key to succeeding in any business and given the nature of our industry, you must understand the culture of Saudi and its people and you'll be en route to success.
What excites you about FHS, and how do you see it influencing the hospitality industry in Saudi Arabia?
Glenn Mandziuk: The lineup of speakers at FHS is truly inspiring for everyone attending. I can see there's a big focus on A.I. and innovation. And of course, I'm really excited about the discussions that will take place on the future of sustainability within the sector. It's fantastic to also see this taking center stage. I'm very pleased to see the engagement with the local community. As FHS has reached out and offered free access to female Saudi nationals working in the hospitality industry. We must be working with the local employees who are the foundation of our industry. So I'm keen to see their involvement in the summit. Collaboration, is at the heart of everything we do at the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, we bring together engaged hospitality companies and the wider hospitality value chain along with strategic partners to address the key challenges affecting our planet, people and places from around the world. Here at the Future Hospitality Summit is also creating collaboration for the Saudi hospitality industry, which is key to driving transformative change.
