Hospitality Leaders - September 5, 2023

Staying Curious: An Interview With Hospitality Leader, Marco Den Ouden

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Bahrain Confidential speaks with the General Manager of Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa

What does it take to be a Hospitality Leader? In an industry that never slows down, it takes utmost dedication and a mindset for excellence to deliver quality guest experiences day in and day out. Each year, Bahrain Confidential highlights leaders across the hospitality industry on the island to understand what’s new, what’s next, and what makes them the best.

What was the best-ever lesson in leadership that you learned?

Surround yourself with a challenge and you will improve. The people who challenge our ambitions solidify our path towards achieving our personal goals.

Do you have any major plans for the property?

Major change sits in the small details that we continue to improve. In terms of our facilities, we will have another signature restaurant and many outdoor activities & activations added at Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa in Q4 of 2023.

Since we met last, have there been any significant changes for you or the property?

We have added Zahrat Al Fayruz and Ousoul to our F&B offerings at the Resort along with our Watersports activities and Society 989, our Membership program.

What have been your biggest challenges (and successes) over the past few years?

Apart from the awards and recognitions we’ve received since opening the property, we have become an anchor point and a destination of choice for leisure travel in Bahrain. This, paired with massive events such as Formula 1, corporate off-sites, and weddings, is generating a buzz and massive awareness of our presence on the island. Seeing our guests come back and making us the preferred choice are testaments to the experience our team and property have to offer.

Other than a great team, is there one unique quality that makes your hotel stand out in Bahrain?

Our stunning location along the South West Coast of Bahrain is unique. This, paired with our 7 restaurants, 5 pools, a cinema, beachfront and an amazing spa and gym offers a much-deserved respite for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

What challenges and opportunities do you see for Bahrain’s hospitality industry in the coming years?

With key facilities such as the Bahrain International Circuit, Exhibition World Bahrain and Al Dana Amphitheatre along with new hospitality facilities coming up in Bahrain, we can be sure about the requirement of fresh Bahraini talent to amplify the uniqueness of our destination. I encourage more aspirants to join our industry and grow with it in the years to come. 

Is there a particular saying or motto that guides you?

Stay curious, improve and be comfortable with adding a valuable point of difference.


Read more about Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain

Interview with Marco Den Ouden: All About the People

A Luxurious Sanctuary Along the West Coast of Bahrain

Pictures: Exploring the Best of the Levant

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