Bahrain Confidential interviews Tamer Farouk, General Manager of Hilton Bahrain — an upscale hotel and residences that will be opening soon!
Tell us a bit about yourself. What drew you to working for the hospitality industry?
In a gist? My name is Tamer Farouk. I have the honor of being appointed as the General Manager of Hilton Bahrain and I am in love with hospitality.
Even from my earlier years, apart from my passion for business, I have already been intrigued with culture and people. I knew the world is much bigger than what it appeared and I was determined to know and experience what the world has to offer. For me, hospitality is the ticket to achieving that. As a student, I worked in several local restaurants—in service and kitchen. This was my first step to the hospitality industry. At the age of 20, I had the opportunity to join one of the leading hospitality companies in the world, Hilton, and the rest, as they say, is history. I started in Front Office and worked my way to where I am now, leading Bahrain’s newest Hilton property.
I also love hospitality because of its challenging nature, its fast paced environment and the satisfaction you get after a job done right. That feeling of being responsible for someone’s successful celebration, vacation or even the daily needs of long-stay guests—the happy faces are what makes me go to work excited, inspired and grateful every day for being in hospitality. It’s truly rewarding.
What are your thoughts on the current state of the region’s hospitality market? Any key predictions for changes you expect?
I am very hopeful. The way Bahrain handled the pandemic is truly impressive, the government is instrumental to how fast the hospitality industry is getting back on its feet. Together with our neighbouring countries in the GCC, I’m very sure that we’d only see improvement and further flourishing in the industry. I also believe that the experience we had with the pandemic has just made us stronger in hospitality. We have adapted and found ways to protect our guest from the pandemic while delivering the same quality of service you would expect from a Hilton.
A great example is Hilton’s CleanStay program. It builds on our already rigorous cleaning standards to provide complete peace of mind when our guests stay with any of Hilton’s 18 brands. Together with the efficient management from the government, I’m sure Bahrain and the entire region are looking at a bright promising future.
Bahrain’s hospitality industry is very competitive – what do you think sets Hilton Bahrain apart?
We commit to upscale living. Hilton Bahrain is a modern, full-service hotel and residences. We offer families, long stay guests and business travellers a contemporary home with all the perks of staying in a hotel. It’s also an escape for residents looking for a getaway within the country. Our facilities, Wellness Centre and nine meetings rooms are perfect to meet any business or personal need. We also pride ourselves with 6 distinct restaurant and lounges that will not just satisfy but “wow” our guests. The themes and cuisines we have prepared will definitely set us apart from the already fabulous array of dining hubs in the area.
What are your main target markets?
We are located along Al Fateh Highway, making our property a very convenient destination to weekend travellers from Saudi Arabia, long stay guests, business travellers and everyone looking for a great time. Whether they’re staying in, dining in one of 6 amazing restaurants and lounges or relaxing at our Wellness Centre, Hilton Bahrain guarantees a quality and unforgettable experience.
What should guests look forward to at Hilton Bahrain? Any exciting news?
We are opening on the first quarter of 2022. We have a lot exciting stuff prepared for all of you—from spacious and fully furnished studio, one and two bedroom apartments to unforgettable dining experiences, spa moments and perfectly executed events in one of our 9 meeting spaces. Watch out for the newest Hilton in town! Follow us in our socials to stay updated with our latest happenings.