DUBAI, UAE - The InterContinental Dubai Festival City recently served as the grand stage for the highly anticipated IHG GM Impact Awards. The prestigious event brought together top regional leaders to honor the extraordinary individuals actively shaping the future of the hospitality industry. At the heart of the ceremony was a powerful celebration of UAE-based hoteliers whose milestones reflect unparalleled dedication, collaborative culture, and industry-defining excellence across IHG Hotels & Resorts.
Championing the Future Workforce: Antje Sahling
Antje Sahling was distinguished as the recipient of the Talent Growth Leader Award.
Serving as the General Manager of the InterContinental Dubai Marina, Sahling has been a driving force behind innovative workforce development.
Under her leadership, her hotel has partnered extensively with the Evolvin' organization since 2022 to employ and empower young professionals across various operational roles.
Her commitment ensures that emerging talents are equipped with not only technical proficiency but also the confidence and resilience required to succeed in a highly competitive market.
Pioneering Sustainable Excellence: Sylvia Matei
Sylvia Matei was honored with the GM of the Year – Mainstream & Suites Award (Franchised Estate).
Operating as the Cluster General Manager for Holiday Inn & Staybridge Al Maktoum, Matei has integrated profound environmental and operational changes within her properties.
She is a vocal advocate for IHG's "Journey to Tomorrow" initiative, spearheading green investments such as solar-efficient systems, bamboo keycards, and aggressive paperless documentation strategies.
Her strategic alignment of operational efficiency with environmental responsibility previously earned her properties the esteemed 2024 Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp.
A Legacy of Strategic Leadership: Mahak Sharma
Mahak Sharma was celebrated as a recipient of the GM of the Year – Mainstream & Suites Award.
With over 18 years of global hospitality experience, Sharma has built a robust reputation for enhancing guest satisfaction and streamlining operations.
Currently leading as General Manager at Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi, she consistently drives sustainable commercial growth and elevates brand standards.
Her career trajectory, spanning multiple elite brands and properties, showcases a steadfast dedication to cultivating high-performing teams and delivering exceptional service.
Driving Excellence Forward
The collective recognition of Sahling, Matei, and Sharma highlights a core tenet of the UAE's hospitality ethos: a relentless commitment to developing people and fostering an environment of collaboration. As noted by the award organizers, these strategic successes not only celebrate individual brilliance but also set the stage for continued, profound impact across the entire Middle Eastern region.
A Message to Our Valued Guests
At InterContinental Dubai Festival City, every award represents more than recognition-it reflects our promise to deliver unforgettable guest experiences. The same passion, professionalism, and commitment celebrated at the IHG GM Impact Awards are the values our team brings to every guest, every stay, and every moment.
As we celebrate these remarkable achievements, we remain dedicated to setting new benchmarks in luxury hospitality, creating exceptional experiences, and welcoming guests from around the world with excellence, warmth, and genuine care.
"Where exceptional people create exceptional experiences."
