Future Hospitality Summit Podcast

In this insightful episode, we sit down with the visionary leader behind Aleph Hospitality to explore the journey of building one of the region’s most successful independent hotel management companies. From the inspiration behind Aleph’s founding to overcoming early challenges, the conversation delves into how the company has set itself apart from global hotel chains and rapidly expanded across Africa, the Middle East, and beyond.

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Marco Rentsch, Partner at PwC Middle East, joins us to explore the evolving landscape of hospitality investment and advisory. He shares insights on emerging market trends, key challenges and opportunities for investors, and how strategic guidance is shaping successful hotel developments across the Middle East and globally. Tune in for expert perspectives on navigating the hospitality investment landscape, maximizing returns, and driving sustainable growth in today’s competitive market.

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Dr. Achim Schmitt, Dean of EHL Hospitality Business School, joins us to explore how hospitality education is shaping the future of the industry. We discuss the evolving role of talent, innovation, and sustainability in global hospitality, and examine how visionary programs prepare the next generation of leaders. From emerging trends like AI, experiential travel, and branded residences to opportunities in high-growth regions such as the Middle East, Dr. Schmitt highlights how investing in people and knowledge drives the industry forward.

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Daria Smith sits down with Arjan Pit, Managing Director Middle East at UNStudio, to explore how visionary architecture is shaping the future of hospitality and urban development in the region. From leading landmark projects such as Wasl Tower and Expo City Dubai to discussing the balance between creative design and commercial viability, Arjan shares how bold ideas can influence investment decisions. Tune in to hear how Dubai and the wider Middle East are becoming global hubs for innovation, sustainability, and talent in hospitality design.

In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Eleonora Srugo, real estate broker at Douglas Elliman and star of Netflix’s Selling the City, shares her perspective on the rise of branded residences and their global appeal. Drawing on her 16 years in New York’s luxury market, she discusses why international investors trust brands, how markets like Dubai and Miami are reshaping the conversation, and the shifting demographics driving demand. From institutional investor interest to collaborations with fashion, wellness, and culinary brands, Eleonora offers practical insights into how branded residences are evolving and what this means for developers and investors alike.