Emily D'Silva

London

Writer and Editor at Freelance

Content writer and editor specialising in sustainability and tech innovation. Also an artist. All opinions expressed here are my own.

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Articles

The rise of wellness tourism: hospitality’s next growth frontier

2 weeks ago | hoteliermiddleeast.com | Emily D'Silva

“What we’re seeing is that people are trying to live better to prevent sickness. There are so many types of wellness trends in travellers – biohacking, retreats, fasting, aligning your diet with your blood type etc. People want to live longer and healthier – they’re mindful of longevity,” said Natthida Klangmontri, spa director at Banyan Tree Spa Dubai.
How do hospitality leaders begin their day?

2 weeks ago | hoteliermiddleeast.com | Emily D'Silva

The Middle East’s hospitality leaders are no different. Ahead of Global Wellness Day, keep reading and be inspired by how six GMs of leading hotels in the region begin their day. I start my day with a personal wellness routine at home, which includes a mix of running around Dubai Marina, swimming, or going to the gym, followed by a nutritious breakfast. This routine helps me set a positive tone for the day ahead.
Kempinski's Nadine Al Bulushi on embracing diversity and celebrating Omani culture

2 weeks ago | hoteliermiddleeast.com | Emily D'Silva

Having a diverse team is proven to lead to better decision-making and problem-solving, due to being able to draw from different perspectives. For Nadine Al Bulushi, GM at Kempinski Hotell Muscat, working with different nationalities and cultural backgrounds throughout her entire life has helped her to become more open and aware of many demographics.
Is bot traffic skewing your data?

2 weeks ago | hoteliermiddleeast.com | Emily D'Silva

Between November 2023 and September 2024, F5 Labs’ 2025 Advanced Persistent Bots Report analysed 207 billion web and API transactions. This included records from customers with existing bot defences in place, demonstrating how automated traffic operators behave when confronted with countermeasures.
What does luxury mean to the Middle East’s GMs? - Hotelier Middle East

2 weeks ago | hoteliermiddleeast.com | Emily D'Silva

“The most important trend for me currently is the shift towards hyper-personalisation. Long gone is the era of white-glove service, chandeliers, and marble restaurants. Today, luxury is about meaningful connections, attention to detail, and tailoring every experience to the individual. With the increasing influence of AI, this trend will accelerate further.
"Diverse teams are stronger and more successful"

1 month ago | hoteliermiddleeast.com | Emily D'Silva

Schamne’s management philosophy is deeply rooted in fostering an innovative, inclusive, and growth-oriented work environment. She is a fervent advocate for diversity and actively champions female leadership within the hospitality sector. When reflecting on opportunities for women in hospitality over the years, Schamne expresses how it’s not quite there yet, although things are progressing in the right direction.
Hotelier Middle East May 2025 issue out now

1 month ago | hoteliermiddleeast.com | Emily D'Silva

The cover feature, in partnership with TUMBI Hotels, showcases the brand’s opening on West Palm beach. Speaking with the owner, Ali Tumbi, we explore the hotel’s ethos and focus on wellbeing, luxury and quality guest experiences. As the first Tapestry Collection by Hilton in the UAE, the hotel provides an all-encompassing sensory experience to enhance the guest experience.
Rotana’s and Global Hotel Alliance’s CEOs discuss their partnership

1 month ago | hoteliermiddleeast.com | Emily D'Silva

This strategic move positions GHA among the top hospitality groups in the UAE, with an impressive portfolio of around 70 hotels offering an unrivalled choice of upscale and luxury hotels to the 30 million members of its GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme in this popular tourism destination.
IHG's regional GM on taking risks and being agile

2 months ago | hoteliermiddleeast.com | Emily D'Silva

Here, we get to know the regional GM a bit better. I grew up in an hotelier family, so from a young age, I already knew that I wanted to work in the hotel industry. Hospitality is a dynamic field where no two days are alike — you meet new people, face new challenges, and constantly evolve. Being an extrovert, I thrive on the interactions I have with guests and colleagues from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Designing Corinthia Dubai: set to be one of the world's tallest hotels

2 months ago | hoteliermiddleeast.com | Emily D'Silva

As lead architect and engineering consultant for this project, AtkinsRéalis will oversee the design concept and planning, MEP and structural development. We sat down with, Maxwell Connop, regional lead, architecture, Middle East at AtkinsRéalis to find out more about the new project. Drawing inspiration from the Art Deco era, the two-tower structure will feature a distinctive architectural language that emphasises the tower’s verticality.