Leading a sustainable change in hospitality with innovative CSR initiatives

Khaleej Times

24-03-2025

Iftikhar Hamdani, Area General Manager - Norther Emirates, Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel and Coral Beach Resort Sharjah, continues to drive impactful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, setting new industry benchmarks for environmental conservation.
Hamdani, a trailblazer in sustainable hospitality, has achieved a major milestone by installing two advanced onsite water bottling plants, each utilising a different process but sharing the same mission — reducing single-use plastic bottles. With this initiative, Coral Beach Resort Sharjah and Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel are leading the way in eco-friendly water solutions in the Northern Emirates.
Hamdani has further strengthened his environmental initiatives with the introduction of compost machine at Coral Beach Resort Sharjah in 2025, reinforcing his long-standing commitment to waste reduction. The compost machine efficiently processes organic waste, including food scraps, converting them into nutrient-rich compost.
Excerpts from the interview:
You are an industry veteran with experience of over two decades. Please describe your corporate journey and contributions to society.
With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, my journey has been shaped by diverse experiences across front office, sales and marketing, reservations and general management. From delivering exceptional guest experiences to driving revenue growth, I have played a key role in enhancing hotel operations and brand positioning.
My career began with a deep-rooted interest in hospitality, leading me to work in various roles. Starting in the front office, I gained a deep understanding of guest service and operational efficiency. Transitioning into sales and marketing, I successfully positioned brands for growth, expanded market reach, and drove revenue. While in reservations, I implemented strategic booking solutions to maximise occupancy and profitability.
My experience in hotel development allowed me to oversee property launches, create brand identities and establish strong market presence. Climbing the leadership ladder to Executive Assistant Manager to General Manager position for a decade and half. I have led teams, improved operational efficiencies, and ensured top-tier guest experiences.
Beyond corporate success, I have mentored young professionals, supported hospitality education initiatives through trainings and championed sustainability in hotel operations. Moreover, on the CSR initiatives, I have focused on community engagement, environmental responsibility and promoting ethical tourism practices.
You have played a significant role in sustainability and environmental protection in the UAE. What do you have in the pipeline to further intensify this campaign?
The UAE has made remarkable progress in sustainability and environmental protection, especially within the hospitality sector. Looking ahead, the focus is on intensifying green initiatives through innovative solutions, stricter regulations, and industry-wide collaborations.
I have played a key role in transforming the hospitality industry with groundbreaking sustainability initiatives, particularly compost machines, advanced water filtration technology and air-to-water technology. The recent compost machine has been installed in Coral Beach Resort Sharjah early 2025, this follows my first sustainability project launched in 2012, marking over a decade of leadership in eco-friendly hotel operations. The compost machine efficiently processes organic waste, including food scraps, converting them into nutrient-rich compost.
I achieved a major milestone by installing two advanced onsite water bottling plants, each utilising a different process but sharing the same mission - reducing single-use plastic bottles. Such are the advanced water filtration technology, significantly reducing plastic waste by providing reusable glass bottles, preventing approximately 300,672 plastic bottles from entering the environment annually. Second is the integration of air-to-water technology, extracting moisture from the air and converting it into clean drinking water. The state-of-the-art bottling plant produces an impressive 365,000 litres of pure drinking water annually by harnessing atmospheric moisture and eliminating 431,304 plastic bottles.
To further intensify the environmental and sustainability campaign with initiatives like compost machines and advanced onsite water bottling plants, a multi-faceted approach is the key. Collaborating with local governments, industry players and environmental organizations to create a unified green strategy will facilitate the widespread implementation of these initiatives.
Additionally, incorporating ISO 14001:2015 into the environmental and sustainability campaign is a strategic move to intensify and formalise efforts which are on our pipeline.
What do you say on the eve of Pakistan Resolution Day? Any message for strengthening the UAE-Pakistan bilateral relations?
On the eve of Pakistan Resolution Day, we celebrate the spirit of determination and unity that shaped a nation. The UAE and Pakistan share deep-rooted ties built on mutual respect, economic cooperation, and cultural affinity.
The UAE stands as a beacon of safety, opportunity, and prosperity, welcoming people from all backgrounds to thrive. A nation that fosters dreams, rewards hard work and champions a sustainable future for all.
May this bond continue to strengthen, fostering new opportunities for collaboration and prosperity. Wishing our Pakistani friends a day filled with pride and progress.
Hospitality Industry to Thrive Despite Challenges
Iftikhar Hamdani, Area General Manager - Norther Emirates, Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel and Coral Beach Resort Sharjah, said the UAE's hospitality industry is set for significant growth over the next five years, driven by increasing tourism, luxury and experiential travel, sustainability initiatives, and smart hotel technology.
'The UAE continues to attract millions of visitors with world-class attractions, luxury shopping and cultural landmarks, while emerging eco-tourism and adventure travel,' he said.
The UAE's goal of welcoming 40 million guests by2031 is supported by visa reforms, increased airline connectivity, and major events such as Expo City Dubai, a global hub for sports and global conferences. Additionally, the rise of smart tourism - powered by AI, digital concierge services which intelligently communicate with guests over a communication platform such as a website chat window, mobile app, or text messaging; and immersive experiences - is enhancing visitor engagement.
'Sustainability is also at the forefront, with hotels, resorts and tourism operators adopting green initiatives to align with global environmental goals. As we promote the UAE as a global destination, our commitment to the CSR initiative remains in the lead, driving sustainability growth.'
Hamdani, a pioneer in sustainable hospitality, said the global hospitality industry faces several challenges, including economic uncertainty and sustainability pressures. Fluctuations in inflation and interest rates may impact travel demand. 'Growing regulatory and consumer expectations for sustainability push hotels to adopt eco-friendly practices, often at a high cost.'
Geopolitical instability, including travel restrictions, can disrupt tourism flows, while rapid technological advancements present both opportunities and cybersecurity risks. Additionally, changing consumer preferences favouring unique, experience-driven stays force hotels to continuously innovate,' he said.
Despite these hurdles, he said the industry remains resilient, with adaptability, innovation, and sustainability being key to long-term success. By continuously participating in the international trade fairs like WTM London, ITB Berlin and International Trade Fairs led by the local tourism, as well as UAE's biggest travel & tourism exhibition – Arabian Travel Market, the UAE strengthens its position as top destination, showcasing innovation, culture, and world-class hospitality. Keeping UAE globally updated in the market.