Christian Hirt has been appointed by Accor as Managing Director of the soon-to-open Raffles and Fairmont hotels in Doha.
Hirt is a hospitality industry expert with more than 25 years of experience. His experience across three decades includes award-winning properties across Europe, Australia and the United States.
He will head an experienced, multi-national executive team with many members having been involved in the launch and relaunch of national landmark hotels and resorts.
“Overseeing the opening of these two distinct properties that share a common vision to deliver the ultimate guest experience is an exceptional opportunity, even more so when they represent a country’s aspiring tourism and hospitality strategy,” said Hirt.
“With Qatar set to be at the centre of the sporting world when it hosts the Middle East’s first FIFA World Cup 2022 later this year, this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Hirt moved to Qatar from Raffles Istanbul, where he spent six years as General Manager, built up an international clientele base and secured notable industry accolades.
“Christian has the passion, pedigree, innovation and cross-cultural expertise needed to inspire and deliver the exceptional levels of service associated with both brands: Fairmont and Raffles, which will become synonymous with this iconic building,” said Mark Willis, CEO India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey.
The project’s newly appointed Executive Team includes French/Lebanese hotelier Hani Akkari, who will serve as General Manager of the 362 rooms and suites at the Fairmont Doha.
German hospitality professional Bernd Frank Knaier will be Hotel Manager at the 132-suite Raffles Hotel and Residences Doha.
The towers are an architectural interpretation of Qatar’s national emblem of intertwined traditional scimitar swords.
They mark the entry of both the Fairmont and Raffles brands into Qatar, following an agreement between Katara Hospitality, and Accor.
The dual-branded properties will be housed within Qatar’s landmark Lusail Towers.
Both Raffles Hotel and Residences Doha and the Fairmont Doha are due to open in Q3 2022 ahead of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
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