In an exclusive interview led by Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, Anwar Hajjar, General Manager of Wyndham Grand Manama, shares his perspectives on luxury and navigating the ever-evolving hospitality industry. Recently recognized as one of the TOP 100 Hotel General Managers of the World by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards, Hajjar has played a pivotal role in earning the hotel prestigious accolades and cementing its reputation as a premier destination in Bahrain. 

Alexander Chetchikov: As a celebrated leader in the hospitality industry, what does this recognition in the TOP 100 mean to you and your team? 

Anwar Hajjar: This recognition is not just about me—it’s a reflection of the incredible synergy between Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Ahmad Al Qaed Group, and the talented team at Wyndham Grand Manama. I’ve had the privilege of gaining most of my senior leadership experience with the Ahmad Al Qaed Group, and this year marks my 8th incredible anniversary with them. I’m deeply grateful to both Wyndham and our owners for their unwavering support and for creating an environment where I could grow and excel. I’d also like to thank my family, whose constant support and encouragement have been crucial to my success. This achievement reflects the commitment to excellence and innovation that has paved the way for my journey.

AC: What inspired your journey from gastronomy to hospitality leadership, and how has your background influenced your management approach? 

AH: My early experience in gastronomy taught me the value of creativity, attention to detail, and guest satisfaction—qualities that resonate deeply with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ philosophy of creating memorable guest experiences. Transitioning to hospitality leadership allowed me to bring these principles to a larger scale, focusing on operational excellence and guest-centric service at Wyndham Grand Manama.

AC: How do you define luxury in today’s world, and how do you ensure your property delivers this consistently? 

AH: Luxury is no longer about opulence alone—it’s about crafting personalized experiences that leave lasting impressions. At Wyndham Grand Manama, under the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts umbrella, we’ve redefined luxury as a blend of modern sophistication, cultural authenticity, and proactive service. This means anticipating guest needs before they arise, offering bespoke services, and creating moments that connect emotionally with our guests.

AC: What innovative strategies have you implemented to keep Wyndham Grand Manama ahead in an increasingly competitive market? 

AH: Our strategies are guided by Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ global standards. At Wyndham Grand Manama, we leverage cutting-edge technology, such as enhanced digital check-ins and AI-driven guest preference systems, to elevate service delivery. We also draw inspiration from Bahrain’s rich culture, incorporating local flavors and traditions into our culinary offerings and events. Dynamic marketing campaigns and exclusive loyalty programs within the Wyndham Rewards ecosystem further ensure we stay ahead in a competitive market.

AC: In your opinion, how is sustainability shaping the future of luxury hospitality? 

AH: Sustainability is at the core of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ global commitment. Through the Wyndham Green initiative, we’ve implemented energy-efficient systems, waste reduction programs, and sustainable sourcing practices at Wyndham Grand Manama. This not only meets the expectations of today’s conscious travelers but also solidifies our long-term sustainability goals.

AC: What steps do you take to personalize guest experiences and create lasting impressions? 

AH: At Wyndham Grand Manama, personalization is deeply ingrained in everything we do. With the resources of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, we create customized guest profiles to understand individual preferences. Beyond that, we focus on delivering unexpected ‘WOW’ moments—like personalized surprises for special occasions or curated experiences that showcase Bahrain’s hidden gems. These efforts ensure every guest leaves with lasting memories.

AC: What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the hospitality industry today? 

AH: With the support of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and our talented star team we’re able to turn industry challenges into opportunities. For example, while labor shortages and rising costs are real concerns, we leverage Wyndham’s global training programs with a commitment to investing in talent development. Additionally, we’re embracing technology to streamline operations and focusing on sustainability initiatives to attract conscious luxury travelers. Emerging markets like Bahrain present unique opportunities, and our strong local and global partnerships position us perfectly to capitalize on these.

AC: How do you foster a culture of excellence within your team while maintaining high levels of motivation and engagement? 

AH: Creating a culture of excellence starts with a shared vision, and at Wyndham Grand Manama, that vision is shaped by the standards of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and the leadership of Ahmad Al Qaed Group. We prioritize professional development through training programs, foster open communication, and celebrate achievements, no matter how small. With the support of a globally recognized brand and an ownership group that values innovation and collaboration, we’ve built a team culture that thrives on delivering excellence every day.

AC: Any new project in the pipeline? 

AH: We are thrilled to announce the upcoming addition to our portfolio—a luxurious resort currently under construction, which will also be part of the Wyndham brand and owned by Ahmad Al Qaed Group. This new project complements Wyndham Grand Manama’s legacy and is designed to redefine luxury in the region. The resort will feature a stunning beachfront location, state-of-the-art facilities, and immersive experiences, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. This expansion enhances our offerings while further solidifying our position as a premier destination in Bahrain. 

Thank you, Anwar, for sharing your valuable insights and experiences. To learn more about the Wyndham Grand Manama, visit their website https://www.wyndhamgrandmanama.com/ 

https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/en-uk/wyndham-grand/manama-bahrain/wyndham-grand-manama/overview 

To follow Anwar’s journey, visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/anwar-hajjar-1901ab14/