The Emirati Welcome

Mohammed Al Qassim, 32, talks to us about Emirati culture and being the perfect host

Tell us about your business – what inspired the idea and when did you start it?
I was inspired by the Emirati culture which offers a unique model of hospitality that combines modernity and authenticity. I thought that establishing a hotel near to the EXPO site would be the best opportunity to reflect my belief in the hospitality industry.

I really believe that as Emiratis we are natural hosts since it instilled in us since adolescence to honour our guests. The way we were raised gives us the advantage to raise the bar when embarking on such a business.

What do you consider to be your greatest personal and professional achievements?
I am so proud to see a hotel go f rom a sketch on paper to a completed building, to a successful hotel brand, with 250 hotel rooms, managed by qualified Emirati leadership.

Whilst the physical product is important as an Emirati business, we have always followed Dubai’s lead in setting the standard. As a small business, we certainly were able to punch above our weight. A key focus of ours was to adopt new technologies and be the first in paving the way for others to follow. Last year we were the first hotel in the region and one of the first in the world to accept cryptocurrencies. Achieving such a feat meant much work was done to adjust systems and our distribution and always ensuring any risk is mitigated.

I’m immensely proud to say that our model is being used internationally.

What are the keys to creating a profitable business?
I believe the main tents for a profitable business are passion, perseverance, effectiveness, and great business idea.

What advice were you given when you started and did it help?
Be prepared to make tough decisions and never overlook small details.

How do you manage the daily stress that comes with running a business?
I found a work-life balance. Spending some time with family and practising sports are crucial to keeping your energy up.

If you look back over your life and career, if you were given the opportunity to do anything differently, would you?
I would apply all the lessons learned through my life and business journey.

What is important to you?
With time, the importance of life balance became more pressing, especially with the birth of my kids.

Have your priorities changed as you have matured? If so, how?
I would say I am maturing because every day we mature and grow more, and the learning process has no end.

What inspires you?
I have always been inspired by historical figures who changed the course of history through grit, resolve and perseverance.

Do you prioritise your mental health, and how?
Yes, and that’s why, no matter what, I don’t compromise my daily sports sessions.

What 3 pieces of advice would you give to the younger generation that might want to follow in your footsteps?