Cultivating a Culture of Learning: A Blueprint for Success in Saudi Arabia’s Hospitality Sector

Mohamad Haj Hassan, Country Director for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

In the vibrant and rapidly evolving landscape of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the emerging hospitality industry epitomises opulence, luxury, and unparalleled service. As the Kingdom strides towards its Vision 2030 goals, aiming to diversify its economy and achieve sustainable growth, the hospitality sector is witnessing unprecedented expansion and opportunity.

Central to this growth is the promising potential of young Saudis entering the workforce, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to the industry. By embracing and nurturing this emerging talent, we can ensure that Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector not only meets but exceeds global standards of excellence. The introduction of young Saudis into this dynamic field is not just a necessity but an opportunity to create a culturally immersive and rewarding career path, reflecting the rich heritage and hospitality traditions of the Kingdom.

Having dedicated my career to best practices in the hospitality industry, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of a robust culture of learning. Creating an environment where knowledge-sharing is ingrained within the fabric of an organisation is crucial for sustained success. Here’s how fostering such a culture can propel Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector to new heights:

Enriching Onboarding Experiences

In Saudi Arabia, with its Vision 2030 initiatives aiming to diversify the economy and boost the tourism sector, it’s vital to create tailored onboarding experiences that consider individual strengths, aspirations, and the collective goal of providing exceptional guest experiences. This goes beyond paperwork and procedural introductions. It includes firsthand interactions with seasoned professionals, engaging workshops that bring the organisation’s core values to life, and an introduction to the heartbeat of the organisation – a commitment to service excellence. Such experiences facilitate the seamless integration of new team members into the hospitality family, fostering enthusiasm and dedication to the exceptional experiences we promise our guests.

Fostering Professional Growth

In a nation committed to Saudization and closing the skills gap, fostering a mindset that values continuous learning at every stage is crucial. The journey to excellence doesn’t end with a job title; it’s about continuous improvement and staying abreast of industry trends. By promoting this mentality, we create an environment where individuals are empowered to embark on a journey of perpetual professional development, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to their roles, which in turn contributes to the organisation’s overall success.

Empowering Training and Engagement

Engagement in Saudi Arabia’s bustling hospitality sector is more than a buzzword; it’s about recognising and celebrating the unique contributions of every member. In a collaborative atmosphere where voices are heard, ideas are valued, and individuals are empowered to take ownership of their growth, job satisfaction increases, and there is a clear correlation with elevated guest experiences. Training initiatives should extend beyond the basics, delving into the art of anticipating needs, nuances of cultural sensitivity, and the mastery of personalised service. By doing so, we don’t just empower employees; we elevate them into ambassadors of hospitality excellence.

Facilitating Innovation

Our success stories in innovation are not just about adopting the latest technology; they are about reimagining service delivery, enhancing sustainability practices, and embracing cultural nuances that define Saudi Arabian hospitality. It’s about creating an ecosystem where innovation is not a top-down directive, but a collective journey embraced by all. As we navigate the landscape of hospitality in the Kingdom together, our commitment to facilitating innovation is a testament to our belief that the future belongs to those who dare to innovate.

Promoting Continuous Development

In line with the ethos of Vision 2030, every day should be a school day. Continuous learning and skill development are not just job perks; they are pathways to professional growth. By investing in the development of employees at all levels, we drive individual success, promote loyalty, enhance productivity, and contribute significantly to a brand’s success.

As Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector continues to grow, driven by ambitious plans and a vision for a diversified economy, the importance of a culture of learning cannot be overstated. Investing in the development of employees is not just a noble pursuit but a strategic one. It drives individual success, promotes loyalty, enhances productivity, and contributes significantly to a brand’s enduring success.