In this episode, David Thompson, from The First Group Hospitality, discusses the Kingdom’s rapid transformation, evolving investor sentiment, the realities of delivering large-scale hospitality projects, and the opportunities emerging across both major and secondary destinations. The conversation also explores how operators and developers can create sustainable value in an increasingly competitive market, and why collaboration between capital, brands, and government vision will define the next chapter of Saudi hospitality.

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In this episode, Fouad Awan, Partner & Managing Director, FSK & Partners, discusses the growing importance of ELV systems, building automation, and AI in modern hospitality development, and why these conversations need to happen from the earliest stages of a project. The discussion explores how technology infrastructure directly impacts guest experience, operational efficiency, and long-term asset value across hospitality projects in the Gulf, Africa, and Asia, while also touching on talent development, community impact, geopolitical pressures on business, and the role industry platforms like play in driving collaboration across the sector.

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In this episode of FHS Podcast, we talk about the attention economy of hospitality; it’s no longer enough to build beautiful spaces. The real challenge is creating moments that capture attention, spark emotion, and stay with people long after they leave. Joining us is Michael Cirino, Founder and Chief Creative Officer of House of Attention, an award-winning creative studio redefining what hospitality experiences can be. With over two decades of work at the intersection of storytelling, technology, and physical space, Michael has built immersive concepts that blur the lines between dining, entertainment, art, and brand.

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In this episode, we explore how global capital is being reshaped across hospitality and real estate, with a particular focus on the growing role of Chinese and Asian investors. From cross-border investment strategies to the development of REIT-style platforms in DIFC and ADGM, the conversation unpacks how firms like F.O.G Capital are working to bridge capital markets and unlock institutional investment.

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Institutional capital keeps circling Africa but seldom lands. The hesitation is not about opportunity. It is about trust. Global investors still price African tourism and hospitality as if they are betting on volatility rather than performance.

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Hotel revenues in the UAE surged past AED 26 billion in the first half of 2025, marking a 6.3% increase year-on-year, with occupancy rates hitting 80.5%. Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri attributed the growth to strong public-private collaboration, aligned with the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, which targets a AED 450 billion contribution to GDP by the next decade. Preparations are also underway for the UAE–Africa Tourism Investment Summit, part of FHS World 2025, which will bring together ministers and senior officials from 53 African nations.

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Advisory Board members offered a treasure trove of insights, recommendations, and strategic ideas aimed at shaping the upcoming event into an industry-defining gathering.

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The recent Advisory Board meeting for the Future Hospitality Summit - FHS World 2025 offered a treasure trove of insights, recommendations, and strategic ideas aimed at shaping the upcoming event into an industry-defining gathering.

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