Rotana is proud to announce that Vice-Chairman and Co-Founder Selim El Zyr has received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Future Hospitality Summit World (FHS) today.

The Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by The Bench on behalf of the hotel investment industry, is a recognition of an individual’s outstanding achievements and dedication to shaping the future of the hospitality sector. Their visionary leadership, commitment to excellence, and significant contributions set them apart as a true pioneer in the industry.

Commenting on the achievement, Selim El Zyr, Vice-Chairman and Co-Founder of Rotana, said: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this award. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with incredibly talented teams and individuals who have inspired me every step of the way. From day one, our vision was to build an institution that could endure the test of time and evolve beyond individual contributions. That dream became a challenge - how to achieve success while maintaining our humanity. Dreams, ambitions, and aspirations have guided us since Rotana's inception. This recognition is a testimony and a reflection of the collective success we built at Rotana and the treasured moments we created along the way.”

A stalwart within the region’s hospitality landscape, El Zyr co-founded Rotana in 1992 and served as its President and CEO until December 2013. Under his leadership, several innovations were implemented, including the introduction of the “All Suites” concept in 1996, which was rebranded in March 2008 to Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana; the launch of the Rotana Rewards Loyalty Programme in 2005; the entry into the affordable business hotel category with Centro by Rotana in 2006; and the introduction of the alcohol-free brand Rayhaan by Rotana in 2008. He also forged key partnerships with some of the world’s most respected food and beverage franchises, in addition to developing the company’s own F&B concepts. As Vice Chairman, El Zyr currently looks after the company’s strategic development and is part of the Executive Committee.

Jonathan Worsley, Chairman & CEO of The Bench, said: “Throughout his career, Selim El Zyr has consistently exemplified the values of excellence and innovation, working to create exceptional guest experiences. El Zyr’s legacy in creating a successful home-grown brand that champions integrity and strong relationships with owners, staff, guests, and industry colleagues continues to inspire.”

As El Zyr continues to shape the future of the hospitality industry in the region and beyond, the award serves as a testament to a career built on passion, vision, and unwavering commitment to genuine hospitality, delivering on the promise of “Treasured Time” for each guest.

Rotana currently operates 82 hotels across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Türkiye, with a robust pipeline of new projects in Turkey and international markets.