Dubai’s Emaar appoints new CEO for its hospitality unit

Dubai developer Emaar Properties announced on Tuesday that it has appointed Olivier Harnisch as the chief executive officer of its hospitality and leisure business – Emaar Hospitality Group.

Harnisch was previously chief operating officer of the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group in Brussels, where he was responsible for a portfolio of over 350 leased, managed and franchised hotels in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

He also worked with Hilton Worldwide for over 14 years where he served as vice president for Northern and Central Europe.

Mohamed Alabbar, chairman of Emaar Properties, said: “We are now taking the operations of our hospitality group to the next level, to meet the aspirations of the next generation of travellers, and to drive Dubai’s growth as a global tourism hub.”

Harnisch added: “Going forward, we will focus on further enhancing guest experiences, implementing new strategies that create long-term value for all stakeholders, and expanding our footprint within and outside the UAE.”

Emaar Hospitality Group has three brands – The Address Hotels + Resorts – a luxury hotel and residences brand, Vida Hotels and Resorts – an upscale boutique lifestyle hotel and residences brand, and Rove Hotels – a midscale hotel and residences brand.

The company has over 35 new hotels and serviced residences in the development pipeline in the UAE and international markets.

Read: Emaar Hospitality reveals plans for 35 new hotels, residences

The leisure assets of Emaar Hospitality Group include Arabian Ranches Golf Club, Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club and Dubai Marina Yacht Club.