Hotelier – Beginning his hospitality career as a sales manager at Sheraton Kuwait, Belal Al Kadry has over 21 years of experience in leading hotels in the region. He joined Sheraton Grand Doha as hotel manager in 2015, followed by promotion to Sharq Village and Spa Resort as general manager in 2017. In 2019, he was back to the Sheraton Grand Doha family as GM.
You are part of the Marriott entity since 1998, tell us more about your journey as part of the group?
My hospitality career started as a Sales Manager at Sheraton Kuwait in 2000. Before joining to Sheraton Grand Doha as Hotel Manager in 2015, I had an experience in Marriott Doha, Ritz Carlton following the promotion to Sharq Village and Spa Resort as General Manager in 2017. With over 21 years of experience in the leading hotels across the region, I was back to the Sheraton Grand Doha- where I call as home- as a General Manager in 2019.
You are not new to Doha, how did all the previous experience in Qatar shaped your career?
All experience where the reason where I am right not. Being a part of the leading hospitality group of the world in Marriott international & Katara hospitality, have developed me as an associate and did developed my hospitality skills working through various departments starting from sales into rooms division to being the GM of iconic hotel in Qatar
All experiences were the reason where I am right now. Being a part of two leading hospitality groups of the world; Marriott international & Katara hospitality; is powerful – this has improved my role as an associate. Also, I’ve been developing my hospitality skills since my first day in the industry: Working through various departments starting from sales into rooms division to being the GM of an iconic hotel in Qatar.
Tell us more about joining an iconic property such as the Sheraton Grand Doha?
Joining Sheraton Grand Doha is like being a part of something invaluable: Like the jewel of hospitality.
Here, I have the opportunity to craft a team of hospitality specialists and like-minded enthusiasts, which, in my opinion, will be the greatest strength of Sheraton Grand Doha.
With the FIFA World Cup 2022 coming soon, how does the Sheraton Grand Doha is gearing for such an important event.?
Let me summarize this in a few points. Firstly, we will be ready with enough skilled team members to deliver the perfect service to travelers during this prestigious event. Also, we are taking part to gear up to be one of the caterers to the stadiums during the prestigious event. Considering that expectations will be very high – the hotel will be revamping the product in preparation for the big event.
How does the Sheraton Grand Doha contribute to the Qatar National Vision 2030?
The national vision aims to transform Qatar into an advanced country by 2030. As Sheraton, we contribute this vision by developing our associates to enable them to sustain a prosperous society, taking all measurements for environmental protections such as being a part of the Green Key initiative. Additionaly, as a part of the Social development pillar, we recently launched a platform exclusively for women, aiming to provide them a safe platform where they can share, discuss and witness each others’ journeys; in a safe and enriching way, we can support each other and start a more significant movement.
What is the secret, or the winning strategy behind the success, popularity and longevity of Sheraton Grand Doha amongst locals and expats alike?
Since Sheraton Grand Doha first opened its doors in 1982, the hotel instantly became home to the head of states, celebrities, royalty, and ministries. it is not simply just a hotel- it is a milestone in Qatar`s history and a popular landmark with its impressive style, opulent décor, and rich hospitality. Being home to generations through the years without ageing, we are a bridge that connects the past and the future; a vessel that holds countless memories. The hotel has a lot to offer for every age group with 9 award winning restaurants, luxury rooms, private beach & pool, Sheraton Fitness with football, tennis and padel courts. We consistency analyse our guests to offer the best service as per their age group. As Sheraton Grand Doha, our mission is being the ambassadors of Qatar hospitality and we will continue to be the destination for the most beautiful memories for decades to come.
What is coming up next for the Sheraton Grand Doha?
We aim to continuously work on our beloved brand and upgrade our product while maintaining our leader position in the market. We are aiming to continue to be the leaders and ambassadors of Arabic hospitality in Qatar as well as in the region. The most significant happening is coming on Feb 2022 as we will be celebrating our 40 year anniversary with a series of activities, stay tuned for more
How do you approach this new chapter of your career and what are you planning to achieve?
This chapter of my career is neither new, nor old. However, it all starts with the dedication and hard work I put into my work each day. Taking part in many social activities in Doha, having the right networking channels, developing my skills day by day – these are the main reasons for me to be where I am now. Earning the trust of my superiors and the owners of the company I work for have also added to my career.
What is your definition of luxury, what does luxury mean to you?
Luxury is basically delivering a service in a high standard and maintaining it.
What are the best qualities that a grand hotelier should have?
One of the most important things in the hospitality, finding something you love and doing it with all your heart. When you work in the hospitality with all your heart, it is the key to be a great host for the guests. Try to always keep track of the things that evoke your interest or bring you a feeling of excitement and enthusiasm and go figure out your boundaries to push them further
Talk us through your thinking process when faced with a challenging decision?
Consulting others. My team members have always been my first stop during my process of taking challenging decisions.
What is one piece of advice that you live by and who gave it to you?
Always believe in yourself! Working as a team and last walk to top. These are what I’ve learnt through my career.
Who are your inspirations in your life or career-wise?
My father, he was the biggest inspiration of my life. He inspired me to be who I am today.
Written by Narges Raiss