Tell us a little bit more about you and your career background.
Before joining Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, I served as a Teacher and Caregiver at Dar Zayed for Family Care, a sanctuary for orphans. For over five years, I nurtured children from primary to university level. Driven by my passion for people, I entered the hospitality field, joining Kempinski in 2007. Starting in the security department, I earned accolades like the ‘Best Smile’ award and ‘Employee of the Year’ in 2008, an accolade accompanied by the gift of a flight ticket to a destination of my choice. I decided to visit Berlin and specifically stay at Kempinski Berlin, a place that resonated deeply with me, given its role in hosting one of the most luxurious hotels chosen to grace my homeland.
Now, working as a Brand Ambassador in the Front Office, I am proud to be the first Emirati woman contributing to hospitality. My work reflects not just skills but also ethics and morals, guiding me in this remarkable journey.
What is your favourite aspect about your job?
I love the daily interactions in my hotel job, focusing on delivering exceptional customer service and ensuring guest satisfaction. One special moment involved assisting a newlywed couple on their honeymoon; they returned a year later with their daughter, named Fatma, in appreciation of my service. Another career highlight is organising celebrations for UAE National Day, bringing joy to our team with giveaways and cultural experiences. The camaraderie within the team and the anticipation for the annual celebration showcase the unity we’ve fostered.
How is Kempinski different from other places where you have worked?
Kempinski stands out for its profound sense of belonging and unwavering support among colleagues. The mutual respect and daily appreciation have left a lasting impact on my life. My role has taught me effective communication, emphasising equal treatment regardless of background. Excellence in hospitality involves individual growth, learning from each other and embracing teamwork. For me, luxury goes beyond top-tier service to embody impeccable manners.
What advice would you give to someone considering joining or someone who has recently joined Kempinski?
If you’re thinking of joining Kempinski, rest assured the team will welcome you warmly and treat you with genuine respect. Embrace the learning from everyone around you. The opportunities for personal and professional growth here are endless, with a strong support system. It’s rare to see an Emirati woman in hospitality, and guests often find that intriguing. Personally, I take pride in being the first to proudly wear the Kempinski Mall of the Emirates logo on my ‘Abaya’, the traditional attire for Emirati women, which also serves as my uniform, a tangible reminder of fond memories.
Any interesting facts about your hotel property?
Our hotel’s unique charm lies in creating a profound sense of belonging akin to the warmth of home. Guests eagerly anticipate return visits due to our commitment to genuine hospitality. We take pride in offering personalised service, going beyond mere provision to create genuine smiles—the essence of hospitality at its finest.