Rixos Hotels is delighted to announce the appointment of Sherif Kasseb as Managing Director of Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North, where he will oversee the continued growth of one of the Middle East’s most distinctive integrated hospitality, lifestyle and entertainment destinations.
Bringing more than 30 years of international hospitality experience, Sherif returns to Qatar with an extensive track record of leading luxury resorts, driving commercial performance and developing high-performing teams across the Middle East. His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the destination as it continues to strengthen its position as a leading tourism and leisure hub in the region.
A familiar face within the Rixos family, Sherif has played a pivotal role in the success of several flagship properties across the brand’s portfolio. His Rixos journey includes senior leadership positions at Rixos Sharm El Sheikh, Rixos Premium Seagate Sharm El Sheikh, Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha and most recently, Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah.
Throughout his career, he has successfully led hotel pre-openings, brand transformations and award-winning properties, including the launch of Qatar’s first all-inclusive resort. Most recently, he spearheaded the successful repositioning of Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah, delivering record-breaking commercial performance and securing various recognitions for the resort in UAE and abroad.
Renowned for his people-centric leadership style, Sherif has consistently delivered exceptional guest and colleague satisfaction scores whilst developing high-performing teams and nurturing future hospitality leaders.
Prior to joining Rixos Hotels, Sherif held senior leadership positions with Marriott International, including Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai and Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, where he gained extensive experience in luxury hotel operations, pre-openings, stakeholder relations and strategic business management.
In his new role, Sherif will oversee the strategic direction and operations of Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North, Meryal Waterpark, and Azure Beach Doha, leading one of the region’s most distinctive destination ecosystems where luxury hospitality, entertainment, lifestyle and leisure experiences come together under one vision.
Leveraging his strong commercial expertise and strategic leadership, he will focus on driving sustainable business growth, operational excellence, exceptional guest experiences, talent development and stakeholder engagement, while further strengthening Qetaifan Island North’s position as a leading tourism and entertainment destination in the region.
Commenting on his appointment, Sherif Kasseb, Managing Director of Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North, said:
“I am honoured to return to Qatar and take on the leadership of such a unique destination. Having previously been part of the journey that introduced Qatar’s first all-inclusive resort, this opportunity holds special significance for me. Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North represents an exciting evolution of hospitality, bringing together luxury, entertainment and unforgettable experiences in one destination. I look forward to working alongside our talented teams to build on this strong foundation, continue elevating guest experiences and create lasting memories for travellers from around the world.””
Commenting on the appointment, Cenk Ünverdi, Chief Operating Officer of Rixos Hotels and All_Inclusive Collection, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Sherif back to Qatar and to the next chapter of his journey with Rixos. His extensive experience across several of our flagship properties, combined with his strong commercial understanding and passion for developing people, makes him ideally suited to lead Rixos Premium Qetaifan Island North, Meryal Waterpark and Azure Beach Doha. We look forward to seeing him build on the destination’s strong foundations and continue shaping one of the region’s most innovative hospitality and entertainment destinations.”.
As the destination enters its next phase of growth, Sherif’s appointment reinforces Rixos Hotels’ commitment to delivering world-class experiences, exceptional service and sustainable long-term success.
