Spokesperson: Fabien Chesnais, General Manager, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island
Congratulations on completing three successful years at Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island. Could you walk us through some of the key milestones and achievements during this journey, especially in 2024–25?
Thank you. It’s remarkable how quickly time passes in hospitality you’re always moving from one season to the next. But when I pause and reflect, the past three years have truly been about building something consistent. Over the past year, we have seen more guests returning for their second and third visits, which has been incredibly encouraging.
On the recognition front, the resort was awarded the Green Key certification for sustainability and won the International Sustainability Award 2025. I was humbled to be recognised by Hotelier Middle East among the Top 10 GMs in the Resort Category General Managers Power List 2025, which I owe entirely to the team’s passion and dedication.
We also received multiple accolades at the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Excellence Awards 2025, hosted by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), including Outstanding General Manager Award, Platinum Green Hotel Sustainability Award, Platinum Excellence Corporate Award – Best Hotel 2025 And Culinary Artisan of the Year.
What I value most, however, is watching colleagues grow into leadership roles and seeing our service philosophy come to life through the positive feedback of our guests.
Indian travellers are increasingly choosing Ras Al Khaimah as a preferred destination. How has the resort catered to their evolving preferences, and what strategic initiatives are in place to deepen engagement with this market?
The Indian market is dynamic, curious and very relationship driven. And the Indian guests are very aware of what they want in terms of good service, Indian food options and all-inclusive packages. So, we try to fulfil those without overcomplicating it, not just in terms of food or amenities, but in how we personalize each stay. From Indian breakfast, options and kid-friendly activities to accommodating extended families in adjoining rooms and late-checkouts, we try to make it effortless. Strategically, we’re working closely with partners in India, hosting familiarization trips and refining our wedding and MICE offerings based on what the market requires. The interest is strong and we’re matching that with intent.
What differentiates Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island from other luxury resorts in the region, particularly for Indian families, FITs, MICE travellers, and honeymooners?
The location provides a sense of space and our team brings that extra level of warm hospitality that doesn’t feel forced. We don’t try to over-engineer the luxury experience. Kids love the Wibit floating water park and the Xscape Teen and Xplore Arcade Zone, while our Starfish Adventure Kids Club is always buzzing with creative energy. The buffet at The Market offers Indian favourites daily, which many families appreciate.
FITs find the beach and spa appealing at Citrine Spa. MICE operators appreciate how we adapt quickly to their needs, offer partial to full buyout options, on-ground support and all-inclusive packages. Honeymooners come for privacy and tend to stay for the food and romantic spaces such as Ula Beach Bar and Neo Skybar.
With Ras Al Khaimah gaining popularity as a destination wedding hub, how is Mövenpick positioned to meet the expectations of Indian couples? Could you share any memorable wedding experiences hosted at the resort?
Our ballroom is often the anchor point for larger functions and what couples appreciate is that it connects directly to a set of private rooms that work perfectly as green rooms for the bride, groom, or immediate family. It takes away a lot of the logistical stress. The beachfront is one of our most requested venues, ideal for pheras at sunset or a welcome dinner under the stars. One wedding that stood out had over 100 guests over three days.
The celebrations were spread across three days: a colourful haldi at the lawn, a mehendi brunch by the pool, a reception in the ballroom and pheras on the beach. The sangeet was hosted at Neo Sky Bar, overlooking the water and the vibe was just electric. Our role was to keep the energy flowing behind the scenes so the family could focus on enjoying every moment. That’s the kind of experience we try to create personal, seamless and joyful.
Sustainability plays a crucial role in today’s hospitality industry. What initiatives has Mövenpick implemented in this area, and how have they contributed to recent international recognitions?
Sustainability for us isn’t a trend, it’s a way of working. We have made consistent, thoughtful efforts such as replacing single-use plastics, introducing energy- and water-saving techniques, composting food waste, creating a chef’s garden at the resort, sourcing more ingredients locally and launching tree plantation initiatives. Every department has a role to play; it’s not something you can assign to just one team.
We didn’t set out to win awards, but these efforts have been recognized with accolades like the Green Key certification and the International Sustainability Award 2025, which is truly encouraging. More importantly, our guests notice these changes and often ask us about them and that’s where real impact begins.
How important is cultural sensitivity and personalization when catering to international guests, especially from India? What steps does your team take to ensure a tailored experience?
It’s incredibly important. When someone travels from another country especially for a holiday or a family celebration, they want to feel understood and cared for. Indian travellers appreciate that extra attention to detail, and they quickly notice when it’s missing.
That’s why we strive to anticipate their needs before they ask whether it’s vegetarian dining options, early check-ins, connecting rooms, or religious considerations. As I often say, “If a guest has to ask for something they expect, we’re already a step behind.” Some of our strongest guest relationships have been built on small, thoughtful touches and those moments make all the difference.
The Indian outbound market is vast and diverse. How does Mövenpick tailor its offerings for different segments, such as large families, honeymooners, and corporate groups from India?
One-size-fits-all does not work. For multi-generational families, we focus on room arrangements, meal flexibility and keeping the kids engaged. Honeymooners are looking for quiet, comfort and a bit of pampering, so we put together small surprises, sunset dinners, floating breakfast, couple spa sessions. For corporate groups, it’s about being sharp, smooth check-ins, efficient meeting rooms and team-building options that are fun, such as mini golf, water sports and group fitness sessions. We are constantly adapting based on what each group needs and has developed different ways of handling each.
What major trends do you see shaping the luxury travel and hospitality industry in 2025, both globally and within the UAE?
I think people are rethinking what “luxury” really means. It’s no longer just about how something looks; it’s about how it makes you feel. Guests are looking for clean design, intuitive service and time to themselves. They want to feel looked after and not overwhelmed. We are also seeing wellness go deeper, beyond massages to include sleep, mental wellbeing and even mindfulness. People are more aware of where their money goes, they ask questions about sustainability and social impact. In the UAE, Ras Al Khaimah is starting to attract people looking for slower, more natural pace of life. That shift is very real and I think it’s only going to grow.
Could you give us a glimpse into the upcoming developments, enhancements, or experiences planned at Mövenpick Al Marjan Island in the coming year?
Absolutely! We’re always looking for ways to elevate the guest experience and 2025 will be no exception. One of the highlights will be the introduction of private cabanas on our stunning overwater floating deck at Ula offering guests a truly exclusive and tranquil setting with uninterrupted sea views. We’re also enhancing our Chalet category with open-air jacuzzis on the terraces, bringing a new level of luxury and relaxation to our accommodation.
Additionally, we’re launching a new Family Experience Enhancement Project, focusing on personalized amenities, interactive activities and thoughtful touches that make family stays even more memorable. It’s all part of our ongoing commitment to innovation, comfort and creating meaningful moments for every guest.
What message would you like to share with Indian travellers and the travel trade community, considering Ras Al Khaimah and Mövenpick Resort for their next holiday, celebration, or corporate event?
If you are looking for a place that gives you space to breathe, a private beach that’s not crowded and service that feels personal, give Ras Al Khaimah a try. And at Mövenpick, we will make sure the experience feels effortless from the moment you arrive. Whether you’re here to celebrate, relax, or connect, we would love to host you.
Read more at TravelMail | Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | and Instagram for on-the-go news
