Resilience, Vision & Tailored Experiences with Mohamed Mahmoud

With 25 years of experience across the Middle East, Mohamed Mahmoud, Cluster General Manager at Intercontinental Residences Dubai Business Bay and Kimpton Dubai, has shaped his career on a foundation of resilience, vision, and people-centred leadership. From opening flagship Intercontinental properties to leading pre-openings of new hotels in Dubai, Mohamed embodies how passion, creativity, and a focus on culture drive excellence in luxury hospitality. 

He recently shared his journey on Leading a New Era, IHG’s podcast that goes behind the doors of iconic hotels and into the minds of the General Managers who lead them. Hosted by David Littlewood and Eunice Clements-Tweedie, the series features Mohamed as a guest, exploring the pivotal moments, leadership philosophies, and personal insights that have defined his career. 

Leading multiple high-profile properties in Dubai demonstrates what it takes to succeed as a GM and offers valuable lessons for those aspiring to leadership roles in luxury hospitality. 

How did Mohamed Mahmoud’s journey in luxury hospitality begin? 

Mohamed’s career with IHG spans a remarkable 25 years, beginning as a receptionist and evolving through roles across the Middle East, including Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Fujairah, and the UAE. Each step offered growth, challenges, and opportunities to learn. “It’s kind of a marriage - two-way,” he reflects. “IHG gave me opportunities, and I gave my commitment. That relationship has inspired many young leaders along the way.” 

From launching flagship properties to shaping new brands like Kimpton Dubai, Mohamed credits his early experiences - particularly his longest-held role as Duty Manager - for developing his approach to leadership. “It’s not how long you stay in a role, but what you learn while you’re there. That foundation prepared me for bigger responsibilities.” 

What defines leadership at Intercontinental Residences Dubai and Kimpton Dubai?  

For Mohamed, leadership is deeply rooted in people and culture. He prioritises tailored experiences for both guests and colleagues. “Every guest comes for a purpose, whether business or leisure, and we tailor every touchpoint for them - from amenities to culinary offerings,” he explains. This attention to detail has earned his property recognition for excellence, with many guests returning repeatedly. 

Similarly, Mohamed fosters a strong culture within his inclusive team. With over 40 nationalities represented in his staff, he ensures every team member feels valued, empowered, and connected. “We invest in personal development, listen to feedback, and bring fun into the workplace. It’s about building a family culture where everyone can thrive.” 

Resilience, Balance & Personal Inspiration in Luxury Hospitality 

Mohamed’s colleagues describe him as resilient, visionary, and charismatic, but he identifies resilience as his defining quality. “Opening hotels comes with risks and opportunities. You must adapt, capture opportunities, and lead with situational awareness,” he says. His commitment to consistency ensures that tailored experiences and emotional connections are delivered every day, maintaining Dubai’s high standard for luxury hospitality. 

 

At the same time, Mohamed views work-life balance as integration rather than separation. “Life includes work. Enjoy your work, have fun, and stay close to family. That’s the balance,” he explains. Personal passions, such as fitness and travel, inspire him to bring new ideas into his hotels - from culinary innovations to design touches - ensuring each property evolves while reflecting his personal vision.  

What makes the properties stand out? 

Intercontinental Residences Dubai Business Bay: Mohamed highlights the quality of the hotel’s product, waterfront views, and the terrace overlooking Dubai Canal and Burj Khalifa as standout features. But above all, he treasures the culture of connection with guests and colleagues, which defines the property’s success. 

Kimpton Dubai: The pre-opening property, shaped by Mohamed’s vision, will be the city’s first Kimpton. From its diamond-shaped facade to the sundowner pool area and social hours, the hotel emphasises authentic connection, style, and inclusivity.

“Kimpton is a lifestyle brand where guests come as they are. Social hour is about bringing people together- solo travellers, families, and teams alike - to create lasting connections.” 

 

What’s next for luxury hospitality and Mohamed’s vision? 

Looking forward, Mohamed sees luxury hospitality evolving toward ultra-personalised, unique experiences. “Luxury is no longer just about opulence - it’s about tailored, meaningful experiences. Guests are seeking memories they can cherish, and we must deliver on that every day.” 

Reflecting on his travels, he shares that destinations like Da Nang, Vietnam, have inspired him to seek out undiscovered, authentic experiences that can be brought back into the guest journey at IHG properties. 

 

Inspired by Mohamed’s story? 

Mohamed Mahmoud’s journey demonstrates that success in luxury hospitality is built on resilience, dedication, and a people-first philosophy. From early roles to leading multiple iconic properties, his story offers lessons in leadership, culture, and creating Room to Belong. Aspiring GMs can learn from his example: embrace challenges, cultivate team potential, and lead with heart. 

At IHG, we’re shaping the future of luxury and lifestyle hospitality, always seeking leaders ready to take on their next chapter. Explore General Manager opportunities across our portfolio and discover how you can bring your vision to life, just like Mohamed. And to hear his story in full, tune in to the third episode of our Leading a New Era podcast here.