Hospitality design is more than aesthetics—it's about crafting seamless, memorable experiences. In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Johannes Torpe explores how authenticity, sensory design, and cultural integration are shaping the future of hospitality. From sustainable building materials to the evolving expectations of younger travelers, he shares insights on how destinations like Saudi Arabia can balance tradition, innovation, and sustainability to create truly immersive experiences.

In this episode of the FHS podcast, Jonathan Worsley speaks with Nikolina Angelkova, former Minister of Tourism of Bulgaria, about the power of strategic focus and investment in driving tourism growth. She shares how Bulgaria increased international arrivals by 35% despite a limited budget, the importance of public-private partnerships, and how Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is reshaping the region’s tourism sector. Nikolina discusses sustainable tourism practices, overcoming challenges like over-tourism and infrastructure gaps, and the crucial role of investment in building a competitive, future-proof tourism economy. Tune in to gain insights from her experience in global tourism policy and investment advisory.

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In this episode of the FHS podcast, Marina Franolic speaks with Mounib Hammoud, Mega Project Consultant at Al Nahla Group, about the group's ambitious hospitality and real estate developments in Saudi Arabia and beyond. Mounib shares insights into Al Nahla’s transformative projects like the Golden Triangle in Jeddah, Taif Park des Rochers Resort, and a mixed-use development near Medina's Quba Mosque.

Discover how Al Nahla is shaping the Kingdom’s tourism landscape in alignment with Vision 2030, supported by strategic partnerships with the Tourism Development Authority. Mounib also highlights the group’s investments in Egypt, including renowned hotels like the Intercontinental CityStars and upcoming Fairmont properties.

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In this episode of the FHS Podcast, host Jay Green speaks with James White, Co-Founder of March & White Design (MAWD).

James shares insights into MAWD’s recent expansion into Dubai, building on their success in London, New York, and Los Angeles. They discuss the firm’s experience with luxury residential and hospitality design, the importance of understanding local demographics and cultural nuances, and the growing demand for high-quality refurbishment projects in the Middle East. James also highlights MAWD’s work on private members clubs and their long-term commitment to delivering innovative, sustainable designs.

Tune in to hear about MAWD’s approach to creating spaces that emotionally resonate and their plans for future projects in Dubai and beyond.

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In this episode of the FHS podcast, Michael Grieve, Chief Brand Officer of Jumeirah, joins Daria Smith to discuss Jumeirah’s ambitious global expansion plans and its strategy to maintain exceptional service quality while doubling its portfolio.

Michael shares insights on how Jumeirah leverages its Arabian heritage and unique brand positioning to create distinctive luxury experiences. He highlights key pillars of the brand, including warmth, generosity, and joy, and discusses the importance of personalisation in luxury hospitality. The conversation also covers Jumeirah's approach to sustainability, thought leadership, and adapting to diverse cultural markets, alongside the role of AI in enhancing guest experiences.

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In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Jonathan Worsley converses with Eng. Sultan Alshehri, Chief of Investment at Aseer Development Authority, to explore the ambitious plans for developing the Aseer region in Saudi Arabia.

Sultan discusses Aseer’s unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, highlighting the region’s strategic goal of becoming a year-round sustainable tourism destination. He shares insights on infrastructure development, including the expansion of Abha Airport, and the importance of public-private partnerships in attracting foreign investment. The conversation also emphasises Aseer’s commitment to preserving its natural environment, with the creation of the Imam Faisal bin Turki Royal Reserve, and how sustainability is at the core of its future growth.

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In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Jonathan Worsley, Chairman & CEO of The Bench, sits down with Duncan O’Rourke, CEO of Accor for the Middle East, Africa & Asia Pacific. Duncan shares insights into his journey in hospitality, the strong post-pandemic performance of Accor, and the growth prospects in key markets like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and India. He discusses Accor’s strategy of balancing profit, people, and planet, emphasising sustainable initiatives like organic farming and community support. Duncan also highlights Accor’s focus on talent development, the importance of fostering a multicultural workforce, and the critical role of training in retaining staff. The episode wraps up with Duncan’s thoughts on the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) as an essential platform for industry leaders to connect, share insights, and shape the future of hospitality.

Tune in to hear how Accor is leading the way in responsible hospitality and innovation in the region.

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Join Jonathan Worsley, Chairman & CEO of The Bench, as he sits down with David Keen, CEO & Founder of Quo, to explore the power of experiential branding in hospitality. David shares insights on how Quo brings brand cultures to life, the challenges of overtourism, and the role of technology in shaping the future of branding. Discover how unique brand identities are crafted and the importance of creativity in the evolving world of travel and hospitality.

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