SimplyAbuDhabi XLIII

R ixos Hotels is a global luxury hotel chain with properties in some of the most sought-after destinations around the world. We had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Ali Ozbay, the Head of Marketing and Communications for the Gulf Region at Rixos. He graciously shared with us what life is like in his role at the prestigious brand, and what makes Rixos so special. Simply Abu Dhabi: As the esteemed Head of Marketing & Communications for the Gulf Region at Rixos, overseeing such a luxurious brand must entail a dynamic and challenging role. Could you share a glimpse into what a day in your life looks like, surrounded by the opulence and grandeur of Rixos Hotels? Ali Ozbay Rixos: A typical day? It unfolds like a game of luxury Monopoly – traversing from boardroom strategies with views better than a postcard, to the ‘Go’ of gala events without ever passing ‘Jail’. I’m sometimes a curator, ensuring each hotel sings harmoniously with our brand’s opulent tune. Other times, I’m an alchemist, transforming the lead of expectation into the gold of guest satisfaction. In the realm of Rixos, every handshake is a promise, every nod a symphony, and every evening’s sunset is the standing ovation to our day’s performance. It’s a role where, for one minute, I whisper to the algorithm gods of digital marketing, and then, I orchestrate the grand waltz of guest experiences. Indeed, surrounded by the splendour of Rixos Hotels, my life is less about counting the hours and more about making the hours count, with a touch of flair, a dash of grandeur, and an occasional hat-tip to the unexpected joys of Turkish coffee brewed to perfection – because, in the end, every marketer needs their muse! Your journey in the hospitality and luxury industry is both inspiring and fascinating. What ignited your passion for this sector, and how has it influenced your career trajectory at Rixos? To me, the allure of hospitality is akin to crafting a masterpiece where each brushstroke matters. My journey with Rixos began with a vision to create not just hotels but destinations that tell a story inspired by the rich tapestry of our heritage and the endless possibilities of tomorrow. This passion is my compass, guiding our brand to redefine the paradigms of luxury and all-inclusive excellence, crafting experiences that linger long after our guests have departed.​ The epiphany struck me amidst the ruins of an ancient civilization: the concept of ‘hospitality’ is timeless. As I stepped through history, I realised our ancestors were the first hoteliers, welcoming travellers with open arms. The allure of creating living legends, not merely lodgings, seduced me into hospitality. At Rixos, I’ve found the canvas to paint with broader strokes of innovation and legacy, curating stories that guests can walk into and become part of. Our hotels are not just buildings; they’re modern-day caravanserais where stories of the past meet the innovations of tomorrow, creating a tapestry of experiences that celebrate the very essence of wanderlust and welcome. In your esteemed position, you play a pivotal role in maintaining the allure and prestige of all Rixos properties throughout the GCC. From your personal viewpoint, what innovative strategies have proven most effective in preserving their status as premier destinations in the UAE? Innovation at Rixos is not just a buzzword; it’s our ethos. Our secret sauce? A relentless focus on personalised, all-inclusive luxury that promises not just a stay but a mesmerising experience. Each offering is meticulously crafted to surpass expectations, from immersive dining adventures to bespoke wellness journeys. Our flagship properties, Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island and Rixos The Palm, stand as testaments to our commitment to innovation, embodying the spirit of luxury and exclusivity in every detail​.​ It’s not just about being at the forefront; it’s about creating a new forefront altogether. By infusing each stay with personalised touches that resonate with the individual narrative of our guests, we’ve sculpted an environment where the stay becomes a coveted destination. It’s the art of crafting memories that are as exclusive as a fingerprint, ensuring that Rixos remains a beacon of unrivalled experiences. Ali Ozbay Head of Marketing and Communications Simply Abu Dhabi | 241