2024 marked another successful year for the stunning equestrian-inspired urban resort, with impressive growth in RevPAR driven by better rates and occupancy, enhanced sustainability efforts, and elevated F&B experiences, all thanks to the efforts and expertise of its exceptional team
Dubai, UAE -: As 2024 comes to an end, the leadership team at Al Habtoor Polo Resort reflects on another remarkable year. Behind the resort’s success is a powerhouse of diverse talent, with members hailing from Austria, Egypt, Tunisia, the Philippines, Peru, India, Russia, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Pakistan. Together, this diverse team has gained a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives to deliver exceptional guest experiences and uphold the highest standards of hospitality.
Among this year’s milestones, the resort increased its overall guest footfall, resulting into over 3,000 vehicles on weekends and further solidified its reputation as a culinary hotspot by diversifying its F&B offerings, launching a new Clubhouse, and introducing ‘Party at the Polo’, a lively brunch concept, averaging 450 people every event. Additionally, by strengthening ties with local sports clubs and residential communities, the resort cemented its role as a vibrant hub for dining, leisure, and entertainment. Meanwhile, sustainability remained a top priority, with initiatives like energy-efficient lighting, reduced food waste, and eco-conscious guest practices driving its efforts towards a greener future.
General Manager – Lukas Tremmel
Lukas Tremmel, General Manager at Al Habtoor Polo Resort, has focused on fostering a collaborative and inclusive culture since joining the resort two years ago. Overseeing the 55-hectare property, which includes 126 guest rooms, 20 private pool villas, and 10 F&B venues, Lukas has worked closely with his team to enhance the guest experience and build a sense of community. Through strategic partnerships with organizations like Dubai Sharks and the Irish Football Club, as well as introducing diverse F&B offerings, the resort has become a vibrant destination for dining and events. His emphasis on teamwork and collaboration has helped increase footfall, strengthen team engagement, and deliver positive results for the resort and its stakeholders.
Director of Rooms – Osama Esmat
As Director of Rooms at Al Habtoor Polo Resort since 2019, Osama Esmat has extensive experience in hotel management and operations, previously at JA Hotels & Resorts. In his current position, he oversees front office, housekeeping and other related sub departments, ensuring exceptional service and seamless guest experiences. Known for his leadership and result-focused & hands-on approach, Osama drives revenue through upselling, optimises occupancy, and regularly evaluates guest satisfaction to identify areas for improvement.
Cluster Financial Controller – Ashish Aggarwal
Over the last six years with Habtoor Hospitality, Ashish Aggarwal has risen from Chief Accountant to Cluster Financial Controller. In this role, he oversees financial operations across multiple business units, focusing on cost optimisation, tax compliance, and streamlining internal controls. In the past 12 months, his strategic leadership ensured the resort was supported financially from all perspectives for development and successfully identified new revenue opportunities, driving sustainable growth and innovation.
Director of Sales – Elizaveta Miroshnichenko
Elizaveta Miroshnichenko, Director of Sales at Al Habtoor Polo Resort, combines her wealth of expertise, shaped by her experience at renowned properties like SLS and Armani Hotel Burj Khalifa, with a passion for building strong client relationships. She has developed a high-performing sales team, expertly tailored to key market segments, ensuring budgets are consistently met while driving growth in international markets. Under her leadership, the resort has achieved a 94% increase in wholesale revenue, over 40% growth in group travel, and established itself as a premier wedding destination.
Cluster Marketing Manager – Diana Penas Garcia
Blending innovation with a deep understanding of the resort’s unique heritage, Diana Penas Garcia, the Cluster Marketing Manager, has significantly elevated the brand’s visibility and revenue. In 2024, she successfully organised and hosted an array of high-profile live sports screenings at the property. Additionally, through strategic collaborations with brands like Fitness First, Neera, and IFZA, she broadened the resort’s reach, securing features in prestigious publications while supporting activations across sales, rooms, and F&B departments.
The Cluster HR Manager
Barbara Alonso, who has gained over 12 years of Human Resources experience, which began in her home country, the Philippines, recently joined the Al Habtoor Group as Cluster HR Manager. With a people-focused approach and meticulous attention to detail, she has previously held key roles at several prestigious properties throughout Dubai. Now overseeing HR for Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Polo Club, Barbara is steadfast in recruiting top talent, fostering career growth, and implementing initiatives that enhance employee satisfaction and retention, aligning these efforts with the company’s mission and values.
F&B Manager – Eddie Johnson
Eddie Johnson, Food & Beverage Manager at Al Habtoor Polo Resort, brings nearly two decades of hospitality expertise to the role. Since joining in 2023, Eddie has driven record- F&B revenues, increased Iftar covers by 200% during the last Ramadan. Eddie has enhanced the guest experience by introducing vibrant summer pool brunches, which significantly boosted guest footfall. He also elevated the entertainment offerings at Horse & Hound, the neighbourhood hangout, with weekend DJ performances, live entertainment, and engaging Bingo and Quiz Nights.
Executive Chef – Anthony Reilly
Executive Chef Anthony Reilly also boasts a wealth of experience, having served as Head Chef in Michelin-star restaurants in both the UK and Dubai by the age of 24. Since joining the resort, he has transformed the culinary offerings, elevating food quality through innovative techniques and meticulous attention to detail. This year, his leadership not only earned a prestigious Gold Food Safety Rating from Dubai Municipality but also guided his team through comprehensive training and mentorship programs, ensuring excellence in both cuisine and service.
Front Office Manager – Maher Hkiri
As one of the team’s newest members, Front Office Manager Maher Hkiri, with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, has built his expertise through valuable roles at respected brands like IHG and Marriott. Maher currently oversees the entire front office team, concierge, valets, and telephone operators, introducing a fresh perspective and a keen eye for five-star service. By maintaining efficient communication between his team and collaborating with other departments, Maher ensures each aspect of operations runs smoothly, meaning every guest receives the highest quality of services.
Housekeeping Manager – Naizil Thobias
Holding a BSc in Hotel Management, Naizil Thobias Pinto has built an impressive career, gaining experience in prestigious hotels worldwide. Over the past decade in Dubai, he has held key leadership roles, and since joining Al Habtoor Polo Resort, Naizil has helped boost cleanliness ratings by 4.7% and improved TripAdvisor and Booking.com scores by 8.4%, while his financial expertise saved AED 30,000 on festive décor.
Chief Engineer – Anant Pandit
With over 15 years of experience in luxury hospitality engineering, Chief Engineer Anant Pandit expertly manages the resort’s facilities and operations, ensuring strict health, safety, and environmental standards compliance. Leading a multidisciplinary team, he successfully implemented an energy-efficiency program this year, achieving a significant reduction in energy consumption. Anant also oversaw the timely and budget-friendly completion of a major refurbishment project, enhancing guest facilities such as The Clubhouse and Kids’ Play Area.
Cluster Security Manager – Amjad Ali
Amjad Ali, Cluster Security Manager, ensures safety and seamless operations at the resort, boasting 12 years of experience and qualifications from the Dubai Police Academy. By streamlining security processes across the resort and club, he ensures a seamless experience for guests, residents, and visitors alike all while overseeing the increased footfall resulting from the resort’s recent enhancements. His achievements also include managing the flow of more than 3,000 vehicles each weekend, and earning a DCD certificate for conducting a successful fire drill in collaboration with the Department of Civil Defense.
Looking ahead, Al Habtoor Polo Resort aims to elevate guest experiences by expanding its F&B offerings and introducing even more innovative leisure activities. Exciting developments include the unveiling of a 700-square-meter terrace with a fresh dining concept, along with events like the “Party at the Polo” brunch. Focusing on reinvesting in its spaces, the resort is set to attract a growing number of visitors while strengthening its role as a hub for dining, entertainment, and community engagement.
Backed by a talented and visionary leadership team, the resort is well-positioned to continue driving growth and creativity in the hospitality space. Their collaborative approach and fresh ideas ensure Al Habtoor Polo Resort will remain a highly sought-after community and leisure destination for many years to come.
