Following its recognition as one of the TOP 100 Sustainable Hotels and Resorts of the World, ME Dubai by Meliá continues to set benchmarks at the intersection of design-led luxury and responsible hospitality. This exclusive interview is led by Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, and celebrates the hotel’s achievement with Luxury Lifestyle Awards, a global platform honoring excellence across the luxury sector. At the helm of this vision is General Manager Ms. Elsa Lahoude, whose leadership has guided ME Dubai toward meaningful innovation and sustainability-driven growth.

Alexander Chetchikov: ME Dubai is celebrated for blending avant-garde design with conscious living. How do you define modern luxury today, and how has that definition evolved in guest expectations?

Ms. Elsa Lahoude: Modern luxury today is defined not just by opulence and aesthetics but by a thoughtful integration of purpose and experience. It is no longer enough to offer just high-end amenities and design. Guests today are increasingly focused on authenticity, mindfulness, and sustainability. The definition has evolved from a focus on material wealth to a desire for experiences that align with personal values, well-being, and environmental consciousness.

AC: Luxury travellers increasingly value purpose alongside aesthetics. How do sustainable products, such as wooden room key cards and refillable dispensers, elevate the guest experience without compromising refinement?

EL: Sustainable products, such as wooden room key cards and refillable dispensers, enhance the guest experience by introducing thoughtful craftsmanship that complements the overall design. Guests value the intention behind these choices, recognizing them as meaningful expressions of the brand’s commitment to the planet.

These initiatives align with Meliá Hotels International’s Travel for Good, our responsible business (ESG) strategy, which advances our purpose of promoting sustainable tourism and becoming a better company for the world.

It is about offering elegance and functionality while reducing environmental impact. The goal is to ensure that sustainability feels integrated, not secondary.

AC: From glass water bottles to eco-friendly NFC cards, how do these details collectively reinforce ME Dubai’s identity as a design-forward luxury destination?

EL: At ME Dubai, every detail contributes to creating a space where guests feel immersed in an avant-garde yet responsible luxury experience. From eco-friendly NFC cards to glass water bottles, these elements are carefully curated to reinforce our design philosophy, which merges cutting-edge aesthetics with sustainability. Each product has been chosen to align with our values of elegance, innovation, and conscious living, ensuring guests experience a harmonious blend of style and responsibility.

AC: In a highly competitive market like Dubai, how does sustainable luxury become a differentiator rather than simply a responsibility?

EL: Sustainable luxury is a major differentiator in a market like Dubai, where the competition is fierce, and guests are becoming more discerning and value-driven. Sustainability is no longer seen as an optional add-on, but as an essential part of the luxury experience. At ME Dubai, it is about aligning luxury with a sense of responsibility; offering products and services that are as mindful of the planet as they are of guest satisfaction. In this sense, sustainable luxury not only helps us stand out, but it also builds long-term loyalty with guests who value authenticity and purpose.

AC: The hospitality industry is undergoing a rapid digital transition. How has minimizing paper waste and adopting digital solutions reshaped operational efficiency at ME Dubai?

EL: Minimizing paper waste and adopting digital solutions have had a significant impact on operational efficiency. By implementing digital check-ins, app-based   digital services, we have streamlined guest services while reducing waste. This has not only improved operational speed but also allowed us to create more personalized experiences for guests. It is a win-win: improved guest experience and reduced environmental footprint.

AC: Technologies such as GRMS, VITA Tronic, and Aqua Vita Life suggest a future-focused approach. How important is innovation when building a credible sustainability strategy?

EL: Innovation is essential. A credible sustainability strategy requires continuous evolution and the ability to anticipate future challenges and opportunities. At ME Dubai, we focus on integrating advanced technologies and automation systems such as the Building Management System (BMS) and Guest Room Management System (GRMS). We also implement innovative anti-pollution and wellness-focused technologies, including VITA Tronic and Aqua Vita Life, to reduce energy consumption, optimize resource management, and minimize waste. These forward-thinking solutions allow us to lead by example, demonstrating that sustainability can seamlessly coexist with luxury, modern design, and guest wellbeing.

AC: Local sourcing and structured waste management all point to long-term commitment, what challenges has the industry faced in implementing these systems at scale?

EL: Scaling sustainability across the hospitality industry presents several challenges, from the cost of sustainable products to the logistical complexities of sourcing materials. There is also the challenge of aligning multiple stakeholders and ensuring that sustainability practices are consistent across all areas of operations. At ME Dubai, we have faced these challenges head-on by fostering close relationships with local suppliers, investing in scalable technologies, and continuously educating our teams on the importance of sustainability. It is a journey, but one that is essential for long-term success.

AC: Looking ahead, how do you see sustainable initiatives and products influencing the broader hospitality industry over the next decade?

EL: Over the next decade, sustainability will become even more embedded in the DNA of luxury hospitality. It is no longer a trend but a fundamental expectation. We will see innovations in energy efficiency, waste management, and sustainable sourcing at scale. Eco-conscious design will continue to evolve, with smart technologies playing a central role in reducing the industry’s environmental impact. As guests demand more responsible travel options, we anticipate that those who don’t embrace sustainability will be left behind. The hospitality industry will need to become a leader in the fight against climate change, setting new standards for what it means to be luxurious and responsible.

Thank you, Ms. Lahoude, for sharing your insights and for offering a thoughtful perspective on how sustainability, innovation, and luxury can coexist with authenticity and impact.

To learn more, visit https://www.melia.com/en/hotels/united-arab-emirates/dubai/me-dubai.