In an exclusive interview with ElleMaraa’s Magazine, Elias Saad spoke with the Editor-in-Chief, Eva Makdessi, about his inspiring journey in the hospitality industry, revealing the secrets of his success and his vision for the future of the sector

From a Passion for Service to Executive Leadership

Elias Saad embarked on his hospitality journey in 1999 when he moved from Lebanon to Abu Dhabi, starting as a waiter at Hilton. At the time, he had no idea that this transition would unlock doors to leadership and success. His passion for exceptional guest experiences transformed a simple interaction with a customer into a defining moment that shaped his career. He quickly realized that hospitality is not just about serving food—it’s about creating unforgettable experiences.

Rising Through the Ranks: A Commitment to Excellence

Elias didn’t settle for daily operations; instead, he continuously developed himself.Received the Gold Winner award in the F&B Director/Leader of the Year category at the Hozpitality F&B Excellence Awards (Middle East) 2024, in recognition of his outstanding excellence in delivering unparalleled service in the food and beverage sector. Along his journey, he pursued academic excellence, earning a degree from Cardiff University in the UK, and he held the position of General Manager at Royal M Hotel By Gewan, where he focused on enhancing guest experiences, fostering innovation, and driving operational excellence.

Abu Dhabi: A Second Home and Source of Inspiration

For Elias, Abu Dhabi is more than just a workplace—it’s his second home. He has built his life there with his wife and twin daughters, Thea and Leah. He attributes his deep connection to the city to its inclusive culture and visionary development, inspired by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The supportive environment and strong sense of community in Abu Dhabi have reinforced his sense of belonging and commitment to giving back.

Leadership Through Empowerment and Innovation

Elias believes that true leadership lies in empowering others. His success is not only measured by individual achievements but by his ability to inspire his team and nurture the next generation of leaders. Throughout his career, he has championed innovation in hospitality, launching initiatives such as “Dine in the Dark” and driving digital transformation in guest experiences.

Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Change

Elias‘ journey was not without obstacles. Transitioning between leadership roles and managing diverse teams came with its challenges. One of the most pivotal moments in his career occurred when he introduced a guest experience enhancement strategy that did not initially succeed due to resistance to change. This taught him that effective leadership requires team engagement, clear communication, and alignment between vision and execution.

Shaping the Future of Hospitality

Currently, Elias is focused on strengthening the brand identity of Royal M Hotel by integrating creativity, sustainability, and excellence into its operations. He is also committed to implementing eco-friendly practices, ensuring a positive impact on both the local community and the environment.

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Today, Elias Saad continues to shape the future of hospitality with his innovative mindset and passion for excellence. He firmly believes that leadership is not just about management—it’s about fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous development. His vision extends beyond his personal success, aiming to inspire future leaders and drive positive transformation in the hospitality industry.

A Story of Passion, Perseverance, and Success

Elias Saad’s journey is a powerful success story, inspiring those who strive to achieve their dreams through determination, resilience, and a commitment to excellence.