Dominik Strobel, the distinguished General Manager of Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi under the prestigious Hyatt brand, has been notably recognized among Luxury Lifestyle Awards’ TOP 100 Hotel General Managers of the World in 2023.

Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, a part of Hyatt’s distinctive concepts, offers luxury accommodation within Abu Dhabi’s iconic leaning Capital Gate building. With stylish rooms, panoramic views, diverse dining, a modern fitness center, and a lavish spa, this hotel is known for personalized service, innovative design, and a prime location, making it a top choice for a luxurious and authentic Abu Dhabi experience.

Hailing from Bavaria, Strobel’s formative years were steeped in the ethos of hospitality, inspired by his father’s dedication to the industry.

Dominik’s journey in the realm of luxury hotels traces back through an illustrious career that spans across various Hyatt properties globally. With a deep loyalty to personalized guest experiences, Strobel’s extensive international expertise fortifies his vision of hospitality as an art form grounded in individuality and exceptional service.

Let’s learn more about Dominik Strobel and his award-winning work.

Luxury Lifestyle Awards: Congratulations on being recognized as one of Luxury Lifestyle Awards’ TOP 100 Hotel General Managers of the World for 2023. How has this recognition impacted your approach or vision as a general manager at Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi?

Dominik Strobel: Thank you for acknowledging my achievement as one of the TOP 100 Hotel General Managers of the World for 2023 by Luxury Lifestyle Awards. This recognition has significantly influenced my perspective and approach as the General Manager at Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi. Receiving such an accolade is truly an honor, and having it under the spotlight at the recent Hyatt Global Leadership Summit adds to the joy of being recognized among the top hotel general managers globally.

LLA: You have an extensive background in various Hyatt properties across different countries. How have these diverse experiences shaped your leadership style, particularly in your current role?

DS: My leadership style has been influenced by my extensive exposure to diverse cultures and beliefs across various Hyatt properties worldwide. These experiences have instilled in me adaptability, an open-minded approach, and a deep commitment to Hyatt’s core purpose of caring for people, enabling them to thrive and be at their best.

LLA: As the hospitality landscape continually evolves, what innovative strategies do you employ at Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi to maintain a balance between financial performance and delivering exceptional guest experiences?

DS: In navigating the dynamic changes within the hospitality industry, we at Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi prioritize people-centric approaches and emphasize the importance of consistency as the cornerstone for achieving a harmonious equilibrium between financial successes and providing unparalleled guest experiences.

LLA: In your opinion, how does Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi differentiate itself in the luxury hospitality market, and what aspects contribute most significantly to its unique positioning?

DS: Luxury is redefined at Andaz, where self-expression, experimentation and adventure form the foundation of the experience. Just like the unique structure of leaning tower in Abu Dhabi, every experience at Andaz promises the not-so-sophisticated yet opulent urban escape tailored to each unique persona of our curious-minded explorers!

LLA: You mentioned “Check-in Conversations” as a dynamic approach to engaging with associates. Could you elaborate on how these conversations contribute to fostering a cohesive team culture and enhancing guest services at your property?

DS: Engaging in ‘Check-in Conversations’ provides a direct path for associates, ensuring their individual needs and suggestions are addressed in a personalized manner. This approach significantly elevates associate morale, leading to enhanced productivity in serving guests with excellence. Moreover, it fosters a tighter-knit team culture, uniting everyone toward the common goal of delivering exceptional guest experiences.

LLA: In today’s technologically driven world, how do you integrate cutting-edge innovations without compromising the personalized guest experience that defines luxury hospitality?

DS: Embracing the rapid advancements in automation and AI is undeniable across various sectors. However, my standpoint aligns with the central idea that, despite the surge in technological influence, the heart of the hospitality industry remains rooted in the genuine care extended by and for people. Technology may advance, yet it cannot diminish the fundamental essence of personalized care that defines luxury hospitality.

LLA: Sustainability and responsible practices have become focal points in various industries. How does Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi incorporate these values into its operations and guest offerings?

DS: Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi integrates sustainability and responsible practices into its operations and guest offerings in alignment with the UAE 2030 Sustainability vision and Together by Hyatt initiative. This commitment is underscored by the hotel’s recent attainment of the Hotel Sustainability Basics certification from WTTC, reflecting its dedication to supporting the region’s vision for sustainability.

LLA: With your experience, what advice would you give to aspiring hotel managers aiming to excel in the luxury hospitality sector?

DS: “In the realm of luxury hospitality, success thrives on a personal touch. My advice to aspiring hotel managers aiming for excellence would be to prioritize listening, active engagement, and encouragement. Embrace new challenges willingly, step out of your comfort zone, and foster an entrepreneurial spirit while staying grounded in core values.”

LLA: Looking ahead, what new trends or shifts do you foresee in the luxury hospitality industry, and how is Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi preparing to adapt to these changes while maintaining its core values?

DS: Anticipated trends in luxury hospitality involve prioritizing sustainability and offering personalized, region-specific experiences, with a greater emphasis on the destination rather than solely the brand. Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi is gearing up to embrace these changes by implementing eco-friendly initiatives and curating more customized and authentic experiences that deeply resonate with the local culture and surroundings, while remaining committed to its core values.

Thank you for sharing your time with us, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for you and Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi.

Learn more at https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/abdcc-andaz-capital-gate-abu-dhabi