Sean Hehir, President & CEO of Trinity Investments, discusses his firm's journey in building a $6.3 billion hospitality-focused portfolio, how COVID accelerated the shift toward experiential travel, the role of AI in making asset management more strategic, and why he's excited about the investment opportunities emerging in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.

Listen

In this Episode of the FHS Podcast, Dr. Fabien Fresnel, CEO of the Riyadh School of Tourism and Hospitality, shares how Saudi Arabia is building a new hospitality education ecosystem to meet its goal of training up to 2 million young Saudis. From fast-tracking education with technology to embedding ESG in culture, he discusses the scale, urgency, and innovation needed to drive the Kingdom’s tourism future.

Listen

Muin Serhan, CEO of Amsa Hospitality, reveals how the company is expanding mid-market hospitality across Saudi Arabia through strategic partnerships, local talent development, and a 10,000-key pipeline. From sustainability to AI-driven innovation, Amsa is helping shape the future of the Kingdom’s hotel sector. Get exclusive Insights in this episode of the FHS Podcast.

Listen

Michael Acton Smith, Co-Founder of Calm, dives into how burnout led to founding the world's most popular meditation app. He shares Calm's evolution—from a digital platform to physical wellness experiences—and hints at future ventures in hospitality, including Calm-branded products, residences, and a potential Calm Island.

Listen

In this episode, Amani, an AI designed for the Future Hospitality Summit, explores the future of travel through the lens of innovation, sustainability, and smart investment. From enhancing guest experiences with data-driven insights to navigating challenges like tariffs and shifting traveler behavior, Amani offers a forward-looking perspective—reminding us that tech and human connection can thrive side by side.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Adeline Phua, Managing Lyf Partner, The Ascott Limited, shares how the co-living brand has grown from an idea in 2016 to 35+ properties across Asia-Pacific and Europe. Built for digital nomads and modern travellers, Lyf blends design, data, and community — with experiences like yoga, pet adoption drives, and “Ambassadors of Buzz.” Adeline also touches on expansion into the Middle East, investor interest, and surprising guest preferences.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Jake Haupert, Co-Founder of the Transformational Travel Council, explores how travel can go beyond relaxation to become a catalyst for personal growth and cultural connection. From rethinking hospitality spaces to embracing regenerative tourism and AI, Jake shares how the future of travel lies in intention, community, and transformation—for both guests and hosts alike.

Listen

BAAN Holding, formerly Al Hokair Group, is redefining hospitality and entertainment in Saudi Arabia with 23 hotels, 78 entertainment brands, and a rapidly growing catering business. With Vision 2030 driving tourism growth, the company is expanding beyond traditional hospitality, entering new sectors to counter seasonality and boost long-term sustainability. Fahad Alubailan discusses the rebranding strategy, the company’s focus on build, innovate, and grow, and investment opportunities for international players in Saudi Arabia’s booming tourism landscape.

Listen

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.

Listen

Nikolina Angelkova, former Minister of Tourism of Bulgaria and advisor to the Saudi Ministry of Investment, shares how strategic planning and stakeholder collaboration can fuel a sustainable tourism economy. She discusses Bulgaria’s tourism boom, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, and global best practices for investment-driven growth.

Listen

In this must-listen podcast, you'll step inside the minds of one of the largest private real estate proprietors and developers in Saudi Arabia. From the Golden Triangle in Jeddah to the breathtaking leisure destinations in Taif, Mounib reveals the stories behind the most exciting recent developments. Imagine walking through projects that aren't just buildings, but entire ecosystems of innovation. Al Nahla Group isn't just investing SAR 300 million – they're crafting Saudi Arabia's future, turning Vision 2030 from a dream into a stunning reality.

Listen

James White, Co-Founder of MAWD, discusses the firm’s expansion into Dubai, their work in luxury residential and hospitality design, and the importance of understanding local demographics. He also touches on sustainability and future projects in the Middle East.

Listen

Michael Grieve, Chief Brand Officer of Jumeirah, discusses the brand’s global expansion, maintaining luxury service standards, and how personalisation, sustainability, and AI are shaping the future of hospitality at Jumeirah.

Listen

In this episode, Sultan Alshehri, Chief of Investment at Aseer Development Authority, discusses Aseer’s plans to become a year-round sustainable tourism destination, highlighting infrastructure growth, investment opportunities, and efforts to preserve the region’s natural beauty.

Listen

Join Jonathan Worsley and Duncan O’Rourke as they discuss Accor’s growth in key markets, sustainable initiatives, and talent development. Hear how Accor is leading in responsible hospitality and the role of FHS in shaping industry trends.

Listen

In this episode, David Keen, CEO of Quo, talks about crafting unique brand cultures, tackling overtourism, and the future of experiential branding in hospitality.

Listen

Marina Franolic and Giuliano Gasparini discuss the evolving luxury hospitality market, the rise of ultra-luxury experiences, ESG, and the impact of specialized F&B operators on hotel value.

Listen

Bani Haddad discusses Aleph Hospitality’s owner-focused approach, the rise of franchise models, and the company’s growth across the Middle East and Africa, highlighting innovation, sustainability, and future expansion plans.

Listen

In this FHS Podcast episode, Judith Cartwright, Founder of BlackCoral Consulting and Naureen Ahmed, Founder, Inspiring Women in Hospitality discusses the evolution of hospitality asset management, highlighting the importance of revenue optimisation across all business units. She also shares insights on collaboration, driving growth, and mentoring women in the industry.

Listen

Wesam Okasha, MD of TUI BLUE Hotels & Resorts, discusses the brand's global expansion, innovative sustainability efforts, and plans to open 200 hotels in the next eight years. He also shares insights on TUI’s use of AI to reduce food waste and its partnership with FHS World.

Listen

In this episode, Jonathan Worsley and Turab Saleem discuss the rapid growth of hospitality in the Middle East, key trends like wellness tourism and AI, and the region's role as a global tourism hub.

Listen

Adeeb Ahamed, Managing Director of Twenty14 Holdings, discusses hospitality investment trends, the importance of storytelling in guest experiences, and future projects in India and Saudi Arabia.

Listen

In this FHS podcast, Elie Milky discusses Radisson Hotel Group’s growth plans, focusing on expansion in Saudi Arabia, hotel conversions, and the rise of lifestyle brands like Radisson RED and Art'otel. He also highlights the impact of Vision 2030 on regional tourism.

Listen

In this episode, Rotana CEO Philip Barnes discusses the company's regional growth, focus on guest experience, and sustainability initiatives, while sharing insights into the future of hospitality.

Listen

In this episode, Pascal Armoudom from Kearney discusses global hospitality trends, the impact of A.I, and sustainability in the industry with Michelle Turney. Get insights into the future of travel and upcoming innovations shaping the sector.

Listen

Ali Shahid and Tjalling van den Burger, VP Enterprise Sales, Adyen, discuss how Adyen's payment solutions are transforming guest experiences and operational efficiency in the hospitality industry. Learn about tech adoption challenges and the impact of AI on the future of hospitality.

Listen

Join Marloes Knippenberg, CEO of Kerten Hospitality, as she shares insights on redefining lifestyle hospitality, the importance of collaboration in Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, and empowering young talent for the future of the industry.

Listen

Jonathan Worsley and Jeff Tisdall explore the rise of branded residences, key market trends, and what to expect at the upcoming Branded Residences Forum at FHS.

Listen

Aseem Kapoor discusses ARK People Solutions' role in adapting to evolving workplace dynamics, balancing technology with human interaction, and the impact of Saudi Arabia's rapid development on hospitality.

Listen

Join Shaikha Al Nowais, Corporate VP of Owner Relationship Management at Rotana, as she shares insights on strategic hotel management, fostering strong owner relationships, and empowering women in the hospitality industry on the latest FHS podcast. Don't miss this engaging discussion on innovation and market adaptation in Saudi Arabia.

Listen

Hassan Ahdab, Chief Hospitality Operations Officer at Taiba Investments discusses Taiba's strategic expansion, integration of AI and technology, and the future of hospitality in Saudi Arabia.

Listen

Jonathan Worsley and Eezan Shahul Hameed discuss the Maldives Fund Management Corporation's role in attracting investment and key tourism projects like the Han Kede integrated zone. They highlight sustainability, community involvement, and innovative tourism models.

Listen

Jonathan Worsley talks with Natalia Bayona, Executive Director of UN Tourism, about innovation in tourism, the importance of education, and tackling over-tourism. Natalia highlights support for SMEs, sustainable tourism, and the impact of UN Tourism's startup competitions.

Listen

In this FHS podcast episode, Jennifer Pettinger-Haines and Ashish Tulsian, CEO of Restroworks discuss his journey from telecom to restaurant tech, industry challenges, and digital transformation in the restaurant sector.

Listen

Join us on the 59th episode of the Future Hospitality Summit podcast as Jay Green sits down with Heidi Grimwood, VP of ElE|NA Spa, to explore her inspiring journey in wellness.

Listen

Jonathan Worsley sits down with Guy Hutchinson, CEO of Hilton Middle East and Africa to discuss Hilton's significant expansion in Saudi Arabia.

Listen

Matthew Weihs and Nicolas Nasra explore the rise of branded residences in Saudi Arabia, discussing luxury collaborations and investment opportunities.

Listen

Join Duncan O'Rourke as he discusses Accor's strategic expansion and sustainability efforts in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific regions. Discover how Accor's alignment with regional visions and integration of AI are setting new standards in the hospitality industry.

Listen

Join Gautam Sashittal as he discusses the transformation of the King Abdullah Financial District into a sustainable, mixed-use hub in Riyadh. Discover how KAFD integrates smart technologies and aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 to enhance urban living and business.

Listen

In this podcast, Jonathan Worsley discusses with Serena Lim from The Ascott Limited about their global expansion and innovative hospitality strategies. Serena highlights Ascott's focus on experience-led accommodations and plans for growing their presence in the Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS podcast, Jana Bader interviews Stefano Lopez from Baheej, who discusses their role in reshaping Saudi Arabia's tourism through community-focused projects. Stefano teases a new, culturally rich project in the Eastern Province, set to debut at the Future Hospitality Summit.

Listen

Join humanoid robot pop artist Desdemona on the FHS podcast as she explores AI's transformative role in hospitality. Discover how robotics enhances guest experiences with a personal touch and ethical AI integration. Tune in for insights on AI's future in the industry.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Jennifer Pettinger-Haines talks with Daniel Morgan about transforming Riyadh's underutilized spaces into the vibrant Al Mamlaka food hall. They discuss the design challenges, vendor selection, and the hall's impact on the local dining scene.

Listen

Discover the future of Saudi Arabia's luxury market in this FHS podcast episode, where experts discuss shifting consumer trends, the rise of homegrown brands, and government initiatives shaping the F&B industry.

Listen

Explore the transformative growth of tourism in Saudi Arabia with Hala Mata Choufany and Rosanna Chopra, focusing on Vision 2030's impact, the role of women in the industry, and the integration of cultural authenticity in luxury tourism. Discover how Saudi is shaping a sustainable and inclusive future in global tourism.

Listen

Louis Abboud interviews Christoph Hoffmann, founder of 25hours Hotels, exploring the brand's unique approach to hospitality and its expansion into Dubai and Saudi Arabia. Discover how 25hours is redefining hotel experiences with its creative and story-driven designs.

Listen

In this FHS Podcast episode, Susie Ellis explores the evolution of wellness tourism and its broader focus on community and environmental well-being. She discusses integrating wellness into business travel and the importance of staff wellness in hospitality, particularly in emerging markets like Saudi Arabia.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Jonathan Worsley and Fahad Kazim discuss Millennium Hotels & Resorts' growth, innovation, and sustainability efforts. They highlight the brand's integration of technology, commitment to local communities, and Kazim's perspective on transforming the hospitality industry.

Listen

Shaikha Al Nowais, Corporate Vice President, Owner Relationship Management, Rotana highlights the remarkable progress in women's roles within the hospitality industry. She provides an expert female executive’s perspective on Saudi Arabia's dynamic changes alongside insights into Rotana’s commitment to fostering female talent, with women constituting 30% of their workforce in Saudi.

Listen

Henry Coutinho-Mason, a "reluctant futurist," shares insights on designing a people-first AI strategy in hospitality, encouraging leaders to embrace technology for enhanced human interaction and better guest experiences.

Listen

In this FHS Podcast episode, Jonathan Worsley and Hilton's Carlos Khneisser discuss Hilton's growth and sustainability in the Middle East, highlighting innovation and green initiatives shaping the future of hospitality.

Listen

In this episode, Ali Shahid, Marketing Director, The Bench and Tjalling Van Den Burger, VP Hospitality, Adyen explore how innovative payment solutions are revolutionizing hospitality, emphasizing tech-enabled personalized guest experiences for the future.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, at the Future Hospitality Summit 2023, Stephen Sackur, Presenter, HARDTalk talks with HE Mohamed Ali Rashed Alabbar, Founder & Managing Director of Emaar Properties | Founder & Director of Noon.com | Chairman of Eagle Hills | Chairman of Americana Group about his journey shaping Dubai's skyline, his global investment strategies, and commitment to sustainable development.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS podcast, Glenn Mandziuk, Chief Executive Officer, Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and Jonathan Worsley, Chairman, The Bench discuss net positive hospitality.

Listen

In this episode, William Heinecke, Founder & Chairman, Minor Hotels in conversation with Jennifer Pettinger-Haines from The Bench, discusses his passion for sustainability in the hospitality industry and how Minor has been involved in various ESG initiatives.

Listen

In this episode, Dr. Fahad bin Mushayt, Chief Executive Officer, ASFAR, and Jana Bader, General Manager – Saudi Arabia, The Bench come together to discuss ASFAR’s exciting journey, mission, and objectives.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS podcast, Elie Milky, VP Development, Radisson Hotel Group, and Jennifer Pettinger-Haines, Managing Director – Middle East, The Bench come together to discuss the exciting and ambitious journey Radisson has been on.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS podcast, Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Marriott International, and Jonathan Worsley, CEO and Founder, The Bench, illuminate Marriott’s exciting latest initiatives.

Listen

This episode of the FHS podcast focuses on F&B strategies and Millennium's exciting future. Tune in to listen to Fahad Abdulrahim Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Lakhraim Group & Millennium Hotels MEA, and Jennifer Pettinger-Haines, Managing Director of The Bench Middle East.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS podcast, listen to Jonathan Worsley, CEO and Founder, The Bench and Guy Hutchinson, President & CEO, Rotana dive into Rotana’s inspiring journey from a Middle Eastern brand to a global name and its expansion with sustainability at the core of its philosophy.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS podcast, Mubarak H. Al Shamisi, Director - Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau, Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, and Jennifer Pettinger-Haines Managing Director, Middle East, The Bench, talk about Abu Dhabi as a destination for large-scale regional and global events and how it is a leading tourism place for future visitors.

Listen

In this FHS Podcast episode, Nichola Beskine-Taylor, Partner, TGP International talks to Jennifer Pettinger-Haines Managing Director, Middle East, The Bench about sustainability and what it means in the world of hospitality.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Taghrid AlSaeed, Executive Director Group Communications & Destination Marketing, Miral, talks to Jennifer Pettinger-Haines Managing Director, Middle East, The Bench about YAS Island Abu Dhabi and its various destinations that are changing the landscape of hospitality and the experience of business.

Listen

Dimitris Manikis, President EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, joins Jana Bader, General Manager Saudi Arabia, The Bench on the FHS podcast to discuss the hospitality sector in the Middle East and Wyndham's positive experience during this period of massive change.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS podcast, get an inside scoop on HMH Hotel Group's strategic plans to expand its five brands in the booming Saudi Arabian hospitality market.

Listen

Gautam Sashittal, CEO, King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) and Jana Bader, General Manager - Saudi Arabia, The Bench explore Gautam's journey in hospitality and the impact he has created as CEO of KAFD.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS podcast, Mike Rigby, General Manager & Regional Vice President, Middle East & India talks to Ali Shahid, Marketing Director, The Bench about what WhiteWater is and what it has been up to recently.

Listen

Winnie Chiu, JP, President and Executive Director of Dorsett Hospitality International, recently spoke to Jennifer Pettinger-Haines, Managing Director Middle East, The Bench and Co-Founder Global Restaurant Investment Forum (GRIF) on the FHS podcast.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS podcast, Jana Bader, General Manager - Saudi Arabia, The Bench talks to Martin Berlin, Partner, Global Deals Real Estate Leader, PwC Middle East on the current hospitality investment landscape of Saudi Arabia and how the market is expected to shape in the coming years.

Listen

Richard Johnson, General Manager of Al Faisaliah Hotel joins the FHS podcast to talk to Jonathan Worsley, Chairman & CEO, The Bench to share his experience of working as the General Manager of the iconic Al Faisaliah Hotel, Riyadh.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS podcast, Jana Bader sits down with two special guests from Aleph Hospitality - Jad Shamseddin, COO, and Tariq Dowidar, Vice President for Saudi Arabia.

Listen

Amine E. Moukarzel recently joined the FHS Podcast with Jonathan Worsley to discuss the recent developments by Louvre Hotels Group in hospitality technology and operations. Amine also talks about what's happening in the hospitality investment landscape of Saudi Arabia, and what excites him about the region.

Listen

In this episode of the FHIS podcast, Jennifer Pettinger, Managing Director of The Bench Middle East and Co-Founder of Global Restaurant Investment Forum (GRIF), sits down with Tim Cordon, Area Senior Vice President for Radisson Hotel Group in the Middle East and Africa.

Listen

Dimitris Manikis, President EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, joins Jana Bader, General Manager Saudi Arabia, The Bench on the FHS podcast to discuss the hospitality sector in the Middle East and Wyndham's positive experience during this period of massive change.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS podcast, get an inside scoop on HMH Hotel Group's strategic plans to expand its five brands in the booming Saudi Arabian hospitality market.

Listen

Gautam Sashittal, CEO, King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) and Jana Bader, General Manager - Saudi Arabia, The Bench explore Gautam's journey in hospitality and the impact he has created as CEO of KAFD.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS podcast, Mike Rigby, General Manager & Regional Vice President, Middle East & India talks to Ali Shahid, Marketing Director, The Bench about what WhiteWater is and what it has been up to recently.

Listen

Winnie Chiu, JP, President and Executive Director of Dorsett Hospitality International, recently spoke to Jennifer Pettinger-Haines, Managing Director Middle East, The Bench and Co-Founder Global Restaurant Investment Forum (GRIF) on the FHS podcast.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS podcast, Jana Bader, General Manager - Saudi Arabia, The Bench talks to Martin Berlin, Partner, Global Deals Real Estate Leader, PwC Middle East on the current hospitality investment landscape of Saudi Arabia and how the market is expected to shape in the coming years.

Listen

Richard Johnson, General Manager of Al Faisaliah Hotel joins the FHS podcast to talk to Jonathan Worsley, Chairman & CEO, The Bench to share his experience of working as the General Manager of the iconic Al Faisaliah Hotel, Riyadh.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS podcast, Jana Bader sits down with two special guests from Aleph Hospitality - Jad Shamseddin, COO, and Tariq Dowidar, Vice President for Saudi Arabia.

Listen

Amine E. Moukarzel recently joined the FHS Podcast with Jonathan Worsley to discuss the recent developments by Louvre Hotels Group in hospitality technology and operations. Amine also talks about what's happening in the hospitality investment landscape of Saudi Arabia, and what excites him about the region.

Listen

In this episode of the FHIS podcast, Jennifer Pettinger, Managing Director of The Bench Middle East and Co-Founder of Global Restaurant Investment Forum (GRIF), sits down with Tim Cordon, Area Senior Vice President for Radisson Hotel Group in the Middle East and Africa.

Listen

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Amir Lababedi, Managing Director Development MENA, Hilton talks to Ali Shahid, Marketing Director, The Bench about his role and responsibilities at Hilton and what the operations look like for the hotels in Riyadh at this time of the year.

Listen

Martin Berlin, Partner, Global Deals Real Estate Leader, PwC Middle East talks to Matthew Weihs, Managing Director, The Bench about his role at PwC and his participation at the Future Hospitality Summit 2022.

Listen

Patrick Antaki, COO, Hospitality Management Holding (HMH) joins the FHS Podcast to talk to Jana Bader, General Manager KSA, The Bench about HMH's operations over the past few years.

Listen

Tim Cordon, Area SVP, Middle East & Africa, Radisson Hotel Group talks to Matthew Weihs, Managing Director, The Bench about Radisson's operations over the past few years and the difference in performance before and after the pandemic.

Listen

James Wrenn, Director - Head of Hotel Advisory, MENA Region, Colliers talks to Matthew Weihs, Managing Director, The Bench about the evolution of the hospitality investment market of the Middle East.

Listen

Guy Hutchinson, President & CEO, Rotana returns to the FHS Podcast to talk to Matthew Weihs, Managing Director, The Bench about Rotana's operations in the Middle East, Africa and Eastern Europe.

Listen

Tim Peck, Chairman, OBMI talks to Matthew Weihs, Managing Director, The Bench about the 85-year legacy of OBMI along with what the pipeline looks like now for the company.

Listen

Haitham Mattar, Managing Director IMEA, IHG Hotels & Resorts and Special Advisor, UNWTO returns to the FHS podcast to discuss sustainability, responsible tourism, and IHG's Journey to Tomorrow with Jana Bader, General Manager KSA, The Bench.

Listen

Sandeep Walia, Chief Operations Officer, Middle East, Marriott International talks to Ali Shahid, Marketing Director, The Bench about his reasons to be at the Future Hospitality Summit and what the event means for the industry.

Listen

Atul Chopra, Founder & CEO, Fresh on Table and Emma Banks, Vice-President, F&B Strategy and Development at Hilton talk about the impact of sourcing produce locally.

Listen

Rohan Ranade, Associate Vice President – Real Estate & Development, The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) speaks to Ali Shahid, Marketing Director, The Bench.

Listen

Noelle Homsy, Co-Founder, ENVI Lodges talks to Jonathan Worsley, Chairman & CEO, The Bench about how she feels being at the Future Hospitality Summit.

Listen

Federico J. González, Chief Executive Officer, Radisson Hotel Group speaks to Sarah Hedley Hymers, Editorial Director, Connecting Travel about what he thinks the future of hospitality is.

Listen

In this episode of the Future Hospitality Summit Podcast, Hassan Ahdab, President of Hotels Operations, Dur Hospitality talks to Jonathan Worsley, Chariman & CEO, The Bench about his participation at the Future Hospitality Summit.

Listen

Guy Hutchinson, President & CEO, Rotana, in conversation with Jonathan Worsley, Chairman & CEO, The Bench, shares his reasons for participating in FHS and his experience being on the CEOs panel at the Saudi edition of the summit.

Listen

Haitham Mattar, Managing Director IMEA, IHG Hotels & Resorts and Special Advisor, UNWTO in conversation with Jonathan Worsley, Chairman & CEO, The Bench.

Listen