Elias Saad’s journey in the hospitality industry is a testament to passion, perseverance, and purpose. From his very first day stepping onto a restaurant floor in 1999 with a tray in hand, nervous but full of hope, Elias knew he had found something deeper than a job. That first guest he served didn’t just receive a meal they unknowingly gave him a purpose. In that moment, Elias discovered the essence of emotional connection, realizing that hospitality isn’t about transactions; it’s about creating experiences that touch people’s lives.
A Humble Beginning That Sparked a Lifelong Passion
For Elias, the early days of working in restaurants were more than just a way to earn money they were a learning ground. Every shift became a classroom, every guest an opportunity to understand what true service meant. These small interactions taught him the value of empathy, attention to detail, and emotional engagement. The first lesson he learned was simple but powerful: every gesture, no matter how small, carries the potential to leave a lasting impact.
Inspired by Human Connection
Elias was drawn to hospitality because of a fascination with human connection. He saw it as a platform to make meaningful differences in people’s lives. Even at a young age, he understood that a small act of kindness could brighten someone’s day or transform a simple stay into a lasting memory. This curiosity and empathy made hospitality a natural fit for him. Today, he continues to lead with the same philosophy: blending innovation with emotion, structure with spontaneity, and operations with inspiration.
Building a Career Grounded in Purpose
Elias’s professional journey has spanned some of the most renowned properties in the Middle East, including Le Royal Méridien, Emirates Palace, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, and Bab Al Qasr Hotel. Along the way, he has earned accolades for his leadership, including the Gold Award for F&B Director/Leader of the Year 2024. However, Elias measures success not only by awards or revenue but by the impact he has on his teams, guests, and the communities he serves.
Transforming Royal M Hotel by Gewan
One of Elias’s most notable achievements has been leading the transformation of Royal M Hotel by Gewan. Under his guidance, the property has evolved into a vibrant destination, not just for luxury but for authentic guest experiences and innovation. This transformation reflects more than business success it embodies a culture of empowerment, creativity, and purpose-driven leadership. The hotel has become a place where guests feel seen and valued, while staff are encouraged to take ownership and innovate.
Beyond guest experience, Elias has also implemented sustainability initiatives at the hotel, such as a reverse osmosis water plant, organic vegetable gardens, and support for a local dog shelter. These initiatives reflect his belief that leadership extends beyond business outcomes to nurturing the community and environment. For Elias, true success is measured in the growth, energy, and pride that radiate throughout his teams and the larger community.
Overcoming Early Challenges
Starting as a young waiter with no formal authority, Elias faced numerous challenges. It wasn’t the long hours or physical demands that tested him the most it was earning respect, building confidence, and proving that leadership isn’t about title but presence. He learned to lead without authority, influence through action, and stay resilient even when recognition was delayed. These early struggles shaped his leadership philosophy, which centers on empowerment, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to growth at all levels.
A Vision for the Future
Currently, Elias is leading a focused transformation at Royal M Hotel by Gewan. His vision emphasizes guest-centric innovation, operational excellence, and a culture of empowered leadership. Initiatives include personalized experiences for guests, unique dining concepts, and the integration of sustainability into daily operations. This aligns with his long-term goal of redefining hospitality leadership creating environments where service excellence meets innovation, trust, and team ownership.
Elias also envisions a future where hotels are not just places to stay, but hubs for meaningful experiences. By cultivating agile, people-first cultures, he ensures that employees feel valued, inspired, and empowered to deliver extraordinary experiences every day. This forward-thinking approach positions his properties as leaders in luxury, digital engagement, and sustainable hospitality.
The Power of Empowerment
The most valuable lesson Elias has learned is that empowerment leads to transformation. He discovered early in his career that leadership does not come from authority but from trust. When people are empowered, they take ownership, unlock creativity, and achieve beyond expectations. This principle shapes every decision he makes, from resolving operational challenges to launching innovative concepts that others initially deemed impossible.
Elias’s philosophy is simple: “Find the way.” Whether facing a crisis or seizing an opportunity, he believes that with the right mindset, determination, and team support, nothing is impossible. This unwavering belief in people and possibility continues to guide his work and inspire his teams.
Leaving a Lasting Impact
Elias hopes to leave a legacy in hospitality defined by purpose, empowerment, and authenticity. He wants to be remembered not only for business achievements but for the lives he touched, the teams he inspired, and the cultures he helped shape. His vision includes creating environments where employees feel valued, creativity is encouraged, and guest experiences feel deeply personal.
From launching innovative concepts to integrating sustainability initiatives, Elias demonstrates that leadership is most meaningful when it leaves a lasting impact on people and the community. Above all, he wants to be remembered as a leader who stood alongside his teams, inspired them, and helped them reach their full potential.
Advice to His Younger Self
Reflecting on his journey, Elias offers advice to his younger self: “Keep the passion in your eyes and the humility in your heart; they will carry you farther than any title ever will.” He emphasizes the importance of viewing challenges as opportunities and focusing on growth, impact, and authenticity rather than chasing success.
He also stresses resilience, encouraging his younger self to believe that there is always a way forward, even when doors close. Empower others, lead with empathy, and never underestimate the power of kindness or a bold idea. Finally, he advises embracing your journey as your brand wear it with pride, stay curious, and lead to inspire, not impress.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Today, Elias Saad continues to inspire the next generation of hospitality leaders. By reimagining luxury, redefining guest experiences, and nurturing talent, he is shaping a future where service, empathy, and innovation coexist. His story demonstrates that with dedication, heart, and vision, one can rise from a young waiter to an industry leader, leaving a lasting legacy of impact and inspiration.
Do follow him on Instagram
Read More: Samsung AI Earnings Outlook Brightens After Profit Slump
