Raffles Dubai, one of the city’s most iconic luxury hotels landmark, has announced the appointment of Safwan Abu Risheh as its new General Manager. With more than 25 years of global experience in the hospitality sector, Safwan Abu Risheh’s leadership marks an exciting new chapter in the history of the pyramids-inspired hotel in Dubai that has long been a symbol of refinement and a must-stay for those who travel to Dubai.
Safwan Abu Risheh’s Distinguished Career in Global Hospitality
Safwan Abu Risheh is widely recognized in the hospitality world as a seasoned hotelier and strategic visionary. His career spans over two decades and includes senior leadership roles across the Middle East, Europe, North America, and Mexico, with a proven record of enhancing guest experiences and driving operational excellence.
Before joining Raffles hotel in Dubai, he served as Managing Director of Rosewood Hotel Georgia in Vancouver. His work at globally renowned brands such as Four Seasons and Rosewood Hotels & Resorts has consistently showcased his ability to manage complex hotel operations while ensuring exceptional service. He previously served on the board of Destination Vancouver as well.
His experience includes overseeing five luxury hotel openings, spearheading large-scale renovations, and introducing immersive dining concepts that resonate with modern travellers. Under his leadership, properties have achieved elevated guest satisfaction scores, improved RevPAR (Revenue per Available Room), and long-term value creation.
Enthusiastic about his new role, Abu Risheh expressed:
“It is an honour to join Raffles hotel in Dubai, a property that has maintained the standard for luxury and personalised service in the region. I look forward to working alongside the talented team to build upon the hotel’s legacy, while embracing innovation and delivering memorable experiences that reflect the timeless elegance of the Raffles brand.”
Explore more: Best 5 Star Hotels in Dubai – Discover Ultimate Luxury here.
Safwan Abu Risheh’s Return to the Middle East
A Canadian national of Middle Eastern heritage, Safwan Abu Risheh brings not only international expertise but also cultural understanding to his new role. His return to the Middle East represents a meaningful step, combining his deep regional insight with 25+ years of global luxury hospitality experience. For Raffles Dubai, this appointment highlights the property’s commitment to remaining a leader in the city’s competitive luxury hotel market.
About Raffles Dubai
Raffles hotel in Dubai, located in Oud Metha, near Wafi City, is instantly recognisable for its striking pyramid-inspired architecture. Since opening, the hotel has been a destination in itself, making itself synonymous with timeless grandeur and contemporary elegance.
Guests can expect exceptionally spacious suites and rooms designed with Middle Eastern and Asian influences. There are award-winning restaurants offering world-class dining experiences, with international and regional cuisines. Then there is also the legendary Raffles Butler service, ensuring bespoke attention for every guest. Also discover Dubai’s finest 24-hour dining destinations offering Middle Eastern, Turkish, American, and international cuisines for every craving.
The hotel’s central location, which is just minutes from Dubai’s Downtown, Business Bay, and Dubai International Airport, makes it an ideal spot for both leisure and business travelers. Alongside, you can also explore the best restaurants in Dubai Airport (DXB). The hotel is not just known for its luxurious accommodations, but it is also a venue of choice for social events, weddings, and cultural gatherings, making it one of Dubai’s most sought-after hospitality addresses.
Explore more: Best restaurants in Dubai here.
About the Raffles Brand
Since Raffles’ foundation in Singapore in 1887, the brand has grown into one of the most prestigious names in global hospitality. Known for its gracious service, legendary storytelling, and cultural engagement, the brand today operates in major cities globally, including Paris, London, Boston, Doha, Bahrain, Singapore, Bali, and Istanbul. New openings are planned in more destinations like Jaipur, Sentosa in Singapore, and Saudi Arabia.
Raffles Dubai is a part of Accor, one of the world’s largest hospitality groups. It remains committed to luxury, cultural immersion, and environmental responsibility. The ethos of “arrive as guests, leave as friends, return as family” continues to define its enduring appeal.
Essential Information
- Location: Raffles Dubai, Sheikh Rashid Road, Wafi City, Dubai.
- Contact: +971 4 324 8888 | dining.dubai@raffles.com | BookUs.Dubai@raffles.com
- Website: www.raffles.com/dubai
- Social Media: Instagram | Facebook
FAQs
Q: What makes Raffles Dubai unique among luxury hotels in the city?
A: Its pyramid-inspired design, spacious suites, personalised butler service, and reputation for elegance set it apart from other properties in Dubai.
Q: Raffles Dubai suitable for both business and leisure travelers?
A: Yes. Its location near key business districts and Dubai International Airport makes it ideal for business guests, while its dining, wellness, and leisure offerings cater to tourists.
Q: Where is Raffles Dubai located?
A: Raffles Dubai is located centrally with easy access from Dubai’s Downtown, Business Bay, and Dubai International Airport.
Q: Where are Raffles’ hotels operating globally?
A: In addition to Dubai, Raffles currently operates in cities like Paris, London, Boston, Doha, Bahrain, Singapore, Bali, and Istanbul. There are plans to open new venues in Jaipur (India), Sentosa (Singapore), and Saudi Arabia.
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