Growing up in a country built on the convergence of cultures from around the world, Amna Al Raeesi has always intrinsically known how to make visitors feel welcome. This means that a career in hospitality came naturally to her, and she emerged to the fore in December last year as the VIP Services Manager at Atlantis Resorts, one of the UAE’s most luxurious destinations.

Amna joined the team at a fitting time, as they were gearing up for the launch of the most anticipated property, Atlantis The Royal. Eight years in the making, the instantly iconic address opened in January this year with a live performance by Beyoncé that riveted global attention. “The opening ceremony was at par with the grandeur of Dubai,” she says. “It was a memorable evening that people will talk about for years to come.”

A key focus for Amna has been to incorporate local culture into the resort’s offerings, so that guests can immerse themselves in both the modern and traditional sides of Dubai under one roof. “I wish to introduce cultural elements to the location’s visual vocabulary, so that visitors can get a well-rounded experience the moment they set foot in the property,” notes Amna. “I also want to create a booklet as part of the VIP Services department, which will give them the chance to familiarise themselves with the UAE’s rich cultural heritage.”

Having previously worked at the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, and DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah Waterfront Hotel & Residences, Amna has great insight into what guests find most palatable. “With a resurgence in the luxury hotel industry and an increasing number of travellers seeking first-rate stay experiences, I believe it’s key to ensure a high hospitality quotient across the ranks.”

Photography by Aasiya Jagadeesh

This article was originally published in Villa 88’s Summer 2023 edition. Subscribe here.