Marriott International, the world’s largest hotel company with nearly 8,900 properties across more than 30 brands in 141 countries and territories, set its sights on the Middle East. The area has seen rapid growth in tourism with big projects like Qatar hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup and Saudi Arabia’s new 22-island, Maldives-like Red Sea development. And Marriott has jumped on the opportunities, opening luxury properties like The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island in Doha and The St. Regis Red Sea Resort and Nujuma, a Ritz Carlton Reserve in Saudi.
One of the company’s key players leading the charge in the region is Sandeep Walia, Marriott’s COO, Middle East & Luxury Europe, Middle East & Africa. The hospitality veteran has more than 25 years in the business, assuming the COO role in 2021. We talked to Dubai-based Walia to find out his go-to spots in his city, the most awe-inspiring place he’s visited and his biggest accomplishments.
What culinary experiences do you recommend in Dubai?
Row on 45 by Jason Atherton. There are three acts within the restaurant, which features everything from a champagne lounge to an open kitchen setting. The presentation is as much about the theatricality of service as it is about the food.
What’s one dish everyone should try in Dubai?
Tuna pizza at Akira Back, W Dubai – The Palm.
Where’s the best place to enjoy Dubai’s art scene?
Dubai Design District, an area dedicated to fostering the growth of art, design and fashion.
Where do you go to relax in Dubai?
My home.
What was the most awe-inspiring natural wonder you’ve encountered while traveling?
Bhutan.
What destination can you return to again and again?
The world is a beautiful place, and I love trying different parts of it. Next on the bucket list: Northern Lights!
Favorite room view: beach, city or wilderness?
Wilderness.
What was your most memorable meal?
A restaurant run by the blind and in complete darkness. The warmth and hospitality truly came through without seeing anything in that room.
What’s your favorite hotel amenity?
Fresh fruits and nuts. And a memory foam pillow for my neck.
What’s your favorite room service order?
I enjoy restaurants more, but at times, dark chocolate ice cream.
What’s your go-to minibar snack?
Almonds and at times dark chocolate.
What’s your dream vacation?
Japan. It takes craftsmanship and detailing to another level.
Which city pleasantly surprised you the most during a visit there?
Many! Stockholm, Cape Town, Venice, Istanbul the list continues. Rightly said, “Travel is a book and those who do not travel, read only one page.” I want to read all.
How do you explore a new destination?
On foot exploring the different streets and corners or with a guide to get to know the city as much as possible in a short time.
What’s your favorite cocktail?
A simple Gin and Sonic — tonic and soda mixed.
What are your travel essentials?
My iPhone and eye drops.
Which movie can you watch endlessly on the plane?
James Bond.
What’s your on-the-road wellness routine?
A run, a walk or the gym.
Who do you most admire in the hospitality industry?
Mr. J.W. Marriott. From a root beer stand to the largest hotel company in the world with a philosophy of, “You look after your people, people will look after your guests and guests will keep coming back.”
What’s the worst hospitality trend you’ve seen?
A water menu from different parts of the world. Total opposite of sustainability.
What hospitality trend do you want to see more of?
Slow holidays, where travelers take their time, connect with the local culture, disconnect from technology and minimize their impact on the environment.
What’s an overrated culinary fad?
Activated charcoal.
What does hospitality mean to you?
To have the heart of an innkeeper and the mind of an entrepreneur.
What will be the biggest change in the industry in 10 years?
The upward trajectory speed of experience, and emotion-led hospitality.
If you could change one thing about the travel industry, what would it be?
A better traveler experience at airports internationally.
What destination is having a moment right now?
The road less traveled. People love to try new exclusive places and have access to experiences that money can’t buy.
What’s the last great book you read?
Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things by Adam Grant.
What’s the most underrated trait in a good leader?
Active listening and empathy.
What’s the best business advice you ever received?
“Leadership is a conversation,” and “Spoil guests with kindness.”
What’s been your biggest accomplishment?
I have been fortunate to have great mentors and sponsors who showed me the stairs to climb up and grow, and in turn, to do the same and give opportunities to leaders. There’s nothing like tapping leaders for their first general manager roles.
