INTERVIEW - JASON XUEREB, HOTEL MANAGER, THE ST. REGIS AL MOUJ MUSCAT RESORT: "WE ASPIRE TO BECOME A CHERISHED SOCIAL GATHERING PLACE" (Oman)
The opening of the St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort last June marked the arrival of Marriott International in Oman. Its hotel manager, Jason Xuereb, discusses the strategic challenges. |
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INTERVIEW - JASON XUEREB, HOTEL MANAGER, THE ST. REGIS AL MOUJ MUSCAT RESORT: "WE ASPIRE TO BECOME A CHERISHED SOCIAL GATHERING PLACE" (Oman)
The opening of the St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort last June marked the arrival of Marriott International in Oman. Its hotel manager, Jason Xuereb, discusses the strategic challenges. |
Category: Middle East - Oman - Industry economy
- Interviews and portraits
- Hotel opening - Interviews
Interview made by Sonia Taourghi on 2024-11-06
 Jason Xuereb, Hotel Manager, The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort
Photo credit © The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort
The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort, developed by Alfardan Group, features 250 guest rooms and suites, including one to three-bedroom duplexes. Each room features private balconies, walk-in closets, generous bathrooms, and views of the beach, golf course, or cityscape.
During the Grand opening ceremony on the 8th of October 2024, David Marriott, Chairman of the Board of Marriott International, expressed, “Together with the Alfardan Group, we are thrilled to celebrate the opening of The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort. Oman is a thriving leisure destination attracting global travellers to experience the country’s natural beauty and rich culture, and the resort perfectly blends Oman’s storied heritage with the brand’s timeless glamour. The debut of the St. Regis brand in Oman marks a significant milestone as we continue to support the country’s growing tourism sector.”
The new property also offers a new milestone in Jason's 16-year career. After five years in the area and expertise in F&B and Operations for Kempinski, Shangri-La, or Rotana, the hotelier is well-equipped to succeed in his first role as head of a hotel.
Journal des Palaces: What attracted you to a career in luxury hospitality?
Jason Xuereb: I was drawn to luxury hospitality because of my passion for creating memorable experiences and providing exceptional service. The dynamic environment allows me to connect with diverse cultures, and I admire the artistry and attention to detail in luxury settings. I find fulfilment in exceeding guests' expectations and am excited about the continuous learning and growth opportunities in this esteemed industry.
What would be the key milestones that shaped your career?
Every step in my career has been a new chapter, each filled with enriching experiences. A few defining milestones stand out: arriving in Oman in 2019 to take on a lead role as Executive Assistant Manager with Shangri-La, which paved the way for my current position as Hotel Manager during the pre-opening phase with St. Regis.
What excites you the most about the St Regis Al Mouj?
This project stands out for its introduction of international restaurant brands and nine diverse culinary experiences to Oman, a first for the region. Integrated into the Al Mouj community as part of an ambitious development initiative, we are well-positioned to serve a wide range of guests, from international travellers to local residents. The resort boasts a stunning beachfront, two swimming pools, extensive resort facilities, and a variety of restaurant brands, offering a comprehensive experience all in one location.
You have experience working in the Persian Gulf. What makes the area special, and what makes Oman and Muscat such great places for luxury hospitality (culture, strengths, clientele…)?
Oman is unique within the GCC, distinguished by its culture of hospitality. The Omani sense of welcome offers much to learn from. This country boasts a wealth of offerings, from cultural and artistic experiences, such as world-class performances at the Royal Opera House Muscat, to historical sites like the forts and Muttrah, and thrilling adventures for outdoor enthusiasts. Oman is actively pursuing a vision of developing luxury hospitality, making it a preferred destination for luxury travellers. We are honoured to contribute to this vision by adding a destination resort to the portfolio.
What clientele do you expect to attract at the St Regis Al Mouj?
European guests remain loyal to our destination and brands, serving as our key source market. Additionally, the GCC significantly contributes to our market, and we are seeing a growing interest from Russian travellers seeking luxury remote holidays. However, our primary focus is on our local community, as we aspire to become a cherished social gathering place where memories are created throughout the seasons.
What are you looking for in the talents you recruit?
Our Hosts are celebrated for their ability to ‘make the everyday exquisite’ for our guests. We seek authentic, passionate, connected, and timeless talents. At St. Regis, we pride ourselves as the Original House of Luxury. Our dedication to anticipatory service fosters guest loyalty, as we delight them with artfully, gracefully, and flawlessly delivered exquisite experiences.
What would be your best advice to someone starting a career in luxury hospitality?
My best advice for someone starting a career in luxury hospitality is to cultivate a genuine passion for service and a commitment to excellence. Focus on building strong interpersonal skills, as meaningful connections with guests and colleagues are essential. Embrace every learning opportunity, whether through formal training or hands-on experiences and always pay attention to detail, as it can make a significant difference in guest satisfaction. Lastly, remain adaptable and open-minded; the industry is constantly evolving, and a positive attitude will help you thrive in any situation.
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