https://arab.news/mz98p
Saudi Arabia has been in a better position compared to other countries in terms of controlling the COVID-19 crisis, because of which the hospitality sector in Makkah will see a recovery in the second half of 2022. This is according to Kifah bin Hussein, general manager of Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah.
“Without a doubt, this crisis has a global impact, and what is happening in Makkah is not much different from what is happening in other countries of the world. The hotel and hospitality sector in Makkah was subjected to extensive damage in the year 2020, due to reduced occupancy rates and profits due to the pandemic. The suspension of international travel impacted the hotel, but as soon as the restrictions imposed on international travel are relaxed and the volume of demand for performing religious rituals increases, we expect a kind of recovery in the second half of 2022, because the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is in a better position compared to others in terms of controlling the crisis. Further, the speed at which the Kingdom is providing vaccines and healthcare services in general, and the quality of our digital infrastructure will help to attract guests,” bin Hussein said.
Ever since the start of the pandemic, the hotel has been adhering to all precautionary measures and health protocols to ensure the safety of everyone, in line with the directives of the ministries of health and tourism.
“We are proud that Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah has a great role and a clear imprint in serving the pilgrims. Despite all the challenges and changes that the hospitality sector has witnessed, we are determined to stay at the top through innovative and carefully prepared strategies and plans aimed at providing all the needs and requirements necessary to achieve the highest safety standards with comfort, sophistication and distinction,” bin Hussein said.
The hotel spans over 19 floors, featuring 656 rooms and 25 luxurious suites in addition to 18 villas and two penthouses. All rooms offer rich textures, designer decor, and fine contemporary furnishings as well as the latest services and facilities. Bin Hussein said each guestroom has been thoughtfully designed for the fulfillment of religious duties. The general manager said that Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah Hotel stands out from all other hotels because of “its excellent location within the Jabal Omar project, where it is just steps away from Al-Masjid Al-Haram with easy access to King Fahad Gate.”
The hotel has a chapel for men and another for women with views of the courtyards of the Grand Mosque, with direct audio transmission of all the prayers. Guests can also enjoy the shopping center, which consists of a number of retail stores and restaurants. The hotel also has a business center with the latest facilities in addition to a fitness center with separate sections for men and women.
“One of the most important features of the hotel is the professional staff — their commitment and flexibility to give the highest level of service. Despite wearing masks and not being able to show a smile, they are able to spread positivity by providing all kinds of support and assistance to the hotel’s guests and visitors,” Bin Hussein added.
Commenting on his management style, bin Hussein said that he believes in developing and nurturing talent. “I try to encourage my team members to excel in everything they do because nurturing ourselves and the people around us is the driving force of everything we believe in and do,” he said.