The Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection has announced the promotion of Stefan Radstrom to Complex General Manager. In this new role, Radstrom, a seasoned hotelier with over 30 years of experience, will oversee Al Habtoor City Collection with its three distinct properties: Al Habtoor Palace, which offers a palatial retreat, V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton is an embodiment of fun and nightlife, and Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, which offers a family friendly stay.
The luxurious Al Habtoor Palace, home to some of the most exclusive experiences in the UAE including the award-winning World Cut Steakhouse, Silk Spa and one of the largest suites in Dubai, the 913 square-metre Sir Winston Churchill Suite, was recently welcomed into the very select Legend Collection of Preferred Hotels & Resorts.
“We are thrilled to become a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts, Legend Collection,” Radstrom says. “Together, we are poised to continuously create memorable moments and redefine the standards of luxury hospitality.”
Radstrom brings a wealth of international experience to his new position. Throughout his career, he has held leadership roles in prestigious hotels across Scandinavia, St. Petersburg, Doha, India, Istanbul, and more. Notably, he has been involved in numerous pre-openings of renowned properties around the world.
Don't try to be something for everyone, because then you end up being nothing to nobody
– Stefan Radstrom
“I am truly grateful for this incredible opportunity to serve as the Complex General Manager at Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection. It is an honour to lead such a remarkable collection of properties, each with its own distinct character and incredible potential. I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the hotel ownership for their trust and support. My commitment is to collaborate closely with our dedicated teams to elevate the guest experience, making each visit truly extraordinary. Al Habtoor City is not merely a destination; it embodies a lifestyle, and I look forward to playing a pivotal role in its bright future.”
Under Radstrom's leadership, the Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection is poised for exciting developments. The most recent addition to the city is Al Habtoor Tower, expected to be one of the biggest residential buildings in the world, when it opens with over 1,700 apartments. With a focus on exceptional guest experiences and establishing the properties as must-visit destinations, Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection is set to achieve even greater success in the coming years. Radstrom expresses optimism about the potential of markets like Brazil, China, Israel and Saudi Arabia, as well as the consistently positive impact of Emirates.
Perfectly located by the arterial Sheikh Zayed Road and on the banks of Dubai Water Canal, Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection is within the grasp conveniently via land through Sheikh Zayed Road and sea through the exclusive RTA water taxis. Guests can enjoy over 30 entertainment venues, ranging from casual to fine dine including bars and live music, two tranquilising spas, three rooftop pools to let off the summer heat, a kids’ club- so when the kids are away, the parents can experience some we-time, including the miraculous La Perle – a Las Vegas style extravagant world class water themed show by Dragone.
“I often say, if your tourists don’t wish to spend every day of their Dubai visit on the beach, send them over to Al Habtoor City, as we are in the centre of it all. Al Habtoor City is a complete destination where residents and guests can find everything they need without having to leave. What’s even better, you can also enjoy your day or two at the beach on our own properties – Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah and Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection.”
Radstrom highlights creating unique, personalised luxury experiences for guests at the Al Habtoor Palace property. This includes initiatives like recognising guests upon arrival, remembering their preferences, and delivering wow moments through live music and other experiences. “While we operate to Forbes standards, we need to be distinct and create experiences unique to us,” he says.
Maintaining consistency in service delivery is crucial, as is continuously challenging ourselves to raise the bar and achieve higher standards, Radstrom tells us. While listed on the Forbes Travel Guide, Al Habtoor Palace is also working towards a gold-level sustainability award, demonstrating its commitment to excellence. The recent hiring of a new luxury-focused hotel manager, Edoardo Buffin de Chosal, is expected to help elevate the property's offerings. “The property is obviously stunning, but it’s only the people and the team that can take it to the next level,” he says.
Radstrom also discusses the importance of being a globally recognised brand, especially in a cosmopolitan destination like Dubai.
Brand clarity is something that Radstrom and his team will be focusing on this year, he tells us. Maintaining, clearly communicating and even celebrating brand distinctiveness between his three different properties is key. “You have to be brutally honest with yourselves – who are you trying to target?
“Don't try to be something for everyone, because then you end up being nothing to nobody.”