Andre Borg, general manager of Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas talks us through a spate of subjects – from the exciting features of the resort to pandemic lessons.
QH: Tell us five reasons for guests to choose your hotel in Doha.
Borg: Having recently joined Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, I’ve been captivated by its unique charm and welcoming ambience from the first moment I set foot on the property. Nestled along a pristine 3.5 km stretch of private beach, the resort offers 361 accommodations, ranging from stylish rooms to luxurious beachfront villas with private pools. With over 10 dining venues to choose from, our culinary offerings cater to every palate and preference, while the award-winning eforea Spa provides a serene sanctuary for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation. But the resort also has another side to it: young kids love being able to spot dolphins and they are endeared by the Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park, a world-class destination offering thrill and excitement.
QH: What are your unique brand values?
Borg: Our values are deeply rooted in providing unparalleled experiences while maintaining a steadfast dedication to sustainability. This commitment aligns with Hilton’s Travel with Purpose 2030 Goals, particularly the target to reduce food waste sent to landfills by 50 percent. A prime example of this dedication is our participation in ‘Green Ramadan,’ a global initiative by Hilton in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme West Asia, Winnow, and Goumbook. This initiative underscores our commitment to reducing food-related emissions by prioritising locally sourced produce and minimising food waste. We strive to integrate sustainability into every aspect of our operations, including the elimination of single-use plastics.
QH: What have been your expansions/refurbishments to your property in the past year?
Borg: We have completed renovations of the Desert Falls Waterpark, a focal point of excitement and leisure for our guests. Reopened in February 2024, the waterpark now boasts enhanced features and amenities. We are also amid a comprehensive upgrade to the facilities at the Salwa Sports Academy.
QH: Where do you see your property/brand in the next 2 years?
Borg: Our strategic focus will be on expanding our reach to international markets, inviting guests from around the globe to experience the beauty of our resort. We see immense potential in growing our already strong weddings business, with a particular emphasis on hosting large-scale Indian weddings, renowned for their grandeur and celebration. By offering tailored packages and exquisite venues, we aim to become a premier destination for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience.
Additionally, we foresee the further evolution of Salwa Sports Academy into a hub for professional sports teams, especially during winter months.
QH: Talk us through the timeless business lessons that the pandemic has taught.
Borg: Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas’ journey has been uniquely shaped by the circumstances of opening during the pandemic – that it even happened at all is a huge testament to the leadership team and everyone involved. Initially, with international travel restrictions in place, the focus was on catering exclusively to the local Qatari market, embedding the property deeply within the community fabric. As global travel restrictions eased, the strategy shifted to include international markets, capitalising on the opportunity to showcase the amenities and services to newer audiences.
Throughout the process, there were a lot of invaluable lessons: the importance of remaining agile and adaptable, ready to pivot the approach as circumstances evolve; fostering strong relationships with guests, staff, and the local community as a cornerstone of resilience; and the importance of diversifying revenue, exploring innovative solutions to sustain operations during periods of disruption.
Short Shots
Best book read in 2023: Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara
Best advice received: ‘You are only as good as your last performance’
Go-to unwinding method: Go jogging as often as possible
Favourite holiday destination: Sailing trips in the Mediterranean
Best hotel stayed in: Cape Grace in South Africa (honeymoon trip)
