With over 16 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Vipin Khattar inspires people in the art of living. Khattar joined Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights as the General Manager from his formerly held position at Hyatt Regency Sharm El Sheikh Resort where he was the youngest to be in that position. He also ventured into different opportunities, including his tenure at The Atlantis and now returned to the new Hyatt brand in Dubai. Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights opened in March 2015 and is the second Hyatt Regency property in Dubai. It is located in Healthcare City and offers 461 guestrooms and 405 residential units. A proud Hyatt hotelier, we speak to the connoisseur about his new vocation in Dubai, the changing trends, millennials and of course the prestigious brand. SG: Hyatt was one of the first hotels to have opened in the UAE. It is a trademark on its own. How has the journey been so far and can you tell us how Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights will carry on the legacy? Khattar: In the 80's Hyatt Regency Dubai was really one of the first landmarks and iconic hotels of Dubai. With competition now so fierce and hotels plentiful, carrying on a legacy is certainly not something for the faint-hearted. I have seen from experience that it's no longer the "hardware" that carries on a legacy, it's the people touch creating a lasting impression on the guests. I believe that this factor, combined with our work culture, will create an irrational loyalty with all our stakeholders in the years ahead. SG: How do you keep the hotel brand relevant? Khattar: Our team and their enthusiasm - we have and will bring a refreshing spirit to Dubai's buoyant hospitality market. Our vision seeks to redefine the guest experience in Dubai and offer a level of service excellence that is warm and engaging. SG: How do you keep up with the competition considering the dynamics of tourism in Dubai? What's most important to you? Khattar: Without a doubt guest satisfaction - the Hyatt Regency brand is an energizing hotel brand that connects travelers to who and what matters most to them. Dubai's tourism offering is leading the global scene and witnessing record breaking numbers of visitors and we are excited to be one of the many properties in the city to host travellers who flock here to experience our world-class hospitality. SG: How do you measure the success of your efforts in terms of guest satisfaction? What is the best feedback you have received? Khattar: We measure success by talking to our guests face to face and also learning from satisfaction sites such as TripAdvisor, Booking.com and our internal Hyatt surveys that are sent out to our guests. The feedback we receive has been very positive, especially considering we are still new in the market. We did notice a similar message appearing time and time again, that our staff is making a real difference to the guests' experience. It makes guests feel that they are at home. SG: What makes you a great hotelier? Khattar: I feel I show and act with a sense of care. I am a team person with an encouraging attitude that transcends down to the team; very determined to be the best in every aspect of the hospitality. Lastly I would add that I look for innovation for us as a hotel and team, to reach to new heights continuously. SG: Can you tell us about the role of your hotel in sustainability, community projects and how it is keeping up with the millennial generation? Khattar: We are very active in our community projects through our ‘Hyatt Thrive' initiatives. Over the last year we have distributed Ramadan care packages to taxi drivers at the hotel, walked in support of Diabetes awareness, and volunteered at Senses – a school which caters to children with special needs. For millennials we are flexible to their requests and involve in welcoming each one of them. They are tech savvy and reach out to us through numerous platforms which we have available. In addition to this, a large majority of our associates fall under the millennial age bracket, namely 60% of all our associates. This means that we do not only cater to their request; we have millennials serving millennials. SG: The hotel seems family orientated and attracts a lot of GCC families. What do you think makes it a destination hotel for Saudi families? Khattar: Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights is a combination of contemporary design and the warmth of a memorable experience, positioned at the crossroads of the bustling Dubai metropolis and the ancient charm of the old city. Those guests staying with us for leisure chose us for our ability to cater for larger groups and families in addition to our spa and dining offerings. Also, because of our ideal location, Saudi guests can take advantage of a vast array of Dubai activities and attractions, including Dubai Dolphinarium, shopping, golf, horse races, yachting and museums. For more information visit www.dubaicreek.regency.hyatt.com
