As Saudi Arabia continues to evolve into a global tourism and investment hub, Mövenpick Hotel Waad Al Shamal stands as a pioneering symbol of luxury and innovation in the Kingdom’s northern region. Officially opened in February 2025, the hotel has quickly gained recognition for its world-class facilities, refined Swiss-inspired service, and commitment to sustainable hospitality. We sat down with General Manager Naseer Thodi to discuss this milestone, his views on the future of Saudi luxury hospitality, and how Mövenpick Hotel Waad Al Shamal is shaping the region’s growing tourism landscape.

Alexander Chetchikov: Mr. Thodi, congratulations on Mövenpick Hotel Waad Al Shamal’s success. The property stands out as the first international upscale hotel in Northern Saudi Arabia, what inspired the decision to bring Mövenpick’s global standards of hospitality to the Waad Al Shamal region?

Naseer Thodi: Waad Al Shamal is a region of strategic significance, driven by major industrial investment and growing government infrastructure. When we first evaluated the destination, it was clear that professionals, investors, government stakeholders, and families traveling here deserved a hotel experience that matched the scale of the region’s ambitions. Mövenpick’s global standards of service and warmth aligned perfectly with that vision. Our goal was not only to open a 5 star upscale hotel, but to elevate the entire hospitality landscape of the Northern Province and contribute to the region’s transformation under Vision 2030.

AC: Hospitality excellence always begins with people. As General Manager, what leadership principles guide you in building a motivated and service-driven team?

NT: My leadership approach is rooted in trust, empowerment, and clear communication. I believe that when people feel valued, respected, and included, they naturally deliver outstanding service. Recently, Accor introduced the #SheLeads program to empower women in leadership roles, and we are actively participating, with development plans in place for high-potential candidates. We invest in continuous training, encourage Saudi talent to step into leadership positions, and maintain an environment where every team member understands that they are an essential part of our collective success. Hospitality is a culture, not just a job description.

AC: The hotel beautifully integrates Swiss hospitality with authentic Saudi warmth. How do you ensure this cultural balance feels genuine and memorable for your guests?

NT: We focus on authenticity. Our service foundation is Swiss precision—efficient, consistent, and detailed. But what truly defines the guest experience is the warm, generous, and heartfelt Saudi hospitality that reflects this region’s heritage. We integrate local culinary touches, storytelling elements, design influences, and community engagement to ensure guests feel both globally welcomed and culturally connected.

AC: Sustainability has become a cornerstone of modern luxury. Could you tell us more about your in-house water bottling project and how initiatives like this reflect your broader environmental and community goals?

NT: At Mövenpick Waad Al Shamal, we are committed to eliminating single-use plastics. Our in-house water bottling project, developed in partnership with Ecosense, allows us to produce filtered water in reusable glass bottles for guest rooms and restaurants—reducing waste and lowering carbon emissions. The bottling room is completed and paid for, and we are now awaiting final equipment installation before operation begins.

Our sustainability approach also focuses on community development. We have a signed agreement with HRSD Turaif to support employment for underprivileged Saudi nationals, resulting in 47% local Saudization. We partner with the Turaif Chamber of Commerce, Maaden, and Turaif Technical College to provide training programs and career pathways for local youth. Through our Green Team, we donate surplus food, support charitable organizations, and host community outreach events such as Iftar gatherings for orphans and hospital visits on Saudi National Day.

Sustainability for us means responsible operations and meaningful community impact.

AC: Mövenpick Waad Al Shamal features an impressive selection of leisure, wellness, and dining facilities. Which aspect of the guest experience best represents the hotel’s personality?

NT: Our dining experience truly reflects the hotel’s personality. The culinary program blends creative international dishes with flavors inspired by Northern Saudi Arabia. It is refined yet welcoming, elevated yet comforting. The interplay between global inspiration and local heritage is who we are.

AC: Being part of the Accor network gives the property strong international backing. How has this affiliation influenced the hotel’s growth and global visibility?

NT: Accor’s global reach allows us to tap into international marketing channels, corporate partnerships, and a worldwide loyalty base through ALL – Accor Live Limitless. This has significantly increased awareness of Waad Al Shamal as a destination and positioned our property as a trusted choice for global travelers, investors, and corporate groups.

AC: The northern region is rapidly developing under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. From your perspective, how is this transformation shaping the tourism and hospitality landscape in Waad Al Shamal?

NT: The region is evolving from being primarily an industrial and corporate hub to a more diversified destination, supported by growing cultural and community infrastructure. As investment continues, the demand for hospitality will expand—from business travel and long-stay accommodation to corporate events and family visits. We are at the beginning of a long-term transformation, and Mövenpick Waad Al Shamal is positioned to support and grow with this development.

AC: In the future, what would be your long-term vision for Mövenpick Hotel Waad Al Shamal, both as a hotel and as a contributor to the region’s luxury tourism growth?

NT: Our long-term vision is to become the benchmark for luxury hospitality in Northern Saudi Arabia—an iconic destination known for its service excellence, sustainability values, and meaningful community engagement. Beyond the hotel, we aim to develop local talent, support the cultural identity of the region, and play an active role in shaping Waad Al Shamal into a recognized tourism and lifestyle hub.

Thank you, Mr. Thodi, for sharing your thoughtful insights and reflections. It has been a pleasure to learn more about the vision and purpose of driving Mövenpick Hotel Waad Al Shamal. As the hotel continues to shape the identity of luxury hospitality in Northern Saudi Arabia, we look forward to witnessing its evolution into a benchmark for excellence, innovation, and cultural authenticity.

For reservations, insights, and exclusive updates from Mövenpick Hotel Waad Al Shamal, visit: https://movenpick.accor.com/en/middle-east/saudi-arabia/waad-al-shamal/movenpick-hotel-wa-ad-al-shamal.html.