We are proud to announce that its Co-Founders, Mr. Nasser Al Nowais and Mr. Selim El Zyr, have been jointly honoured with the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Awards at the International Hospitality Awards, organised by Hospitality ON. The recognition marks a defining milestone for the company, celebrating the two founders’ visionary leadership and lasting impact on the global hospitality landscape.

Both leaders were recognised for their pioneering role in building Rotana into one of the Middle East’s most trusted and admired hotel management companies. Founded in 1992 with a vision to deliver world-class hospitality rooted in regional values, Rotana today operates 79 hotels across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Türkiye, with nearly 40 more under development. Their shared vision and dedication have shaped a brand synonymous with innovation, service excellence, and the authentic spirit of Arab hospitality.

Held at the InterContinental Paris Le Grand, France, the prestigious event, now in its 25th edition, recognises exceptional leadership and long-term contributions to the global hospitality industry. The awards are managed by Hospitality ON, a leading European hospitality organisation and organiser of the International Hospitality Awards, which for more than two decades has celebrated innovation and excellence across the global hotel sector.

Reflecting on the honour, our Chairman and Co-Founder Mr. Nasser Al Nowais said the recognition was a meaningful acknowledgment of a lifelong partnership built on a shared purpose. “When we founded Rotana over three decades ago, our goal was to create a brand that embodied the warmth, generosity, and spirit of our region,” he said. “Seeing how that vision has evolved into a company that now welcomes guests across continents is deeply rewarding, and a true testament to the dedication of every Rotana colleague who has carried our values forward with passion and pride.”

Our Vice Chairman and Co-Founder Mr. Selim El Zyr reflected on Rotana’s journey from its early beginnings to a global brand synonymous with innovation and authenticity. “This award is not only a celebration of the past, but a reminder of how far the industry has come,” he said. “From handwritten ledgers to cloud-based systems, the essence of hospitality has always remained the same; it is human, personal, and heartfelt. We built Rotana on that belief, and it continues to guide us today.”

During the ceremony, the two co-founders were invited to the stage together to receive individual trophies, accompanied by a short video tribute chronicling Rotana’s three-decade journey of innovation, expansion, and excellence.

From the opening of its first property, Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi, to the introduction of pioneering concepts such as Centro by Rotana, Rayhaan by Rotana, Arjaan by Rotana, The Residences by Rotana, and Edge by Rotana, the group has consistently set new benchmarks for quality and service in the region. With an expanding footprint and a constant commitment to delivering on its brand promise of Treasured Time, Rotana continues to build on the vision of its founders, growing from regional roots into a globally recognised hospitality leader.