#INTERVIEW: Elevating the Art of Luxury Welcomes at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk
.jpg)
Delna Mistry Anand: Luxury today isn’t oriented around opulence alone. How is Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk evolving to deliver an elevated guest experience?
Haytham Omar: At Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, we recognized early on that modern luxury is no longer defined by opulence but by meaning, connection and resonance. Today’s traveler seeks experiences that speak to the heart as much as the intellect, and our role is to anticipate and exceed those expectations.
We’ve reimagined the guest journey to place cultural authenticity, wellness and purposeful gastronomy at its core. At Sofitel Spa with L’Occitane, for instance, guests can embark on bespoke wellness journeys that blend ancient Egyptian beauty rituals with the latest in French cosmetology, each designed to restore balance and wellbeing.
Our restaurants are destinations in themselves; from the French flair of Brasserie Boulud to the sensorial Japanese experience at Taiko Cuisine & Bar, each offering a dialogue between heritage, creativity and the senses. By integrating authenticity and emotional depth into every detail, we create transformative experiences that stay with guests long after they leave.
With wellness travel booming globally, what according to you, are bespoke luxury travellers seeking in terms of wellbeing?
Wellness is at the heart of the luxury experience here. Our philosophy is to anticipate the needs of the modern traveler by creating a seamless approach that nurtures physical vitality, mental clarity and emotional balance.
At Sofitel Spa with L’Occitane, every journey is personalized. From immersive aromatherapy rituals to tailor-made facials and body treatments, we begin with a consultation to align with each guest’s wellness goals. Beyond the spa, Sofitel Fitness offers the latest Technogym innovations, expert personal trainers, and curated experiences like yoga, meditation, and mindful poolside sessions for complete rejuvenation.
Wellness flows through every stage of the stay; from nutritious menus using seasonal, organic ingredients at our award-winning restaurants to in-room amenities and curated sleep rituals in collaboration with Dubai’s top sleep experts. Guided by innovation and genuine connection, our close partnership with L’Occitane en Provence keeps us at the forefront of luxury wellness in the Middle East.
Your hotel offers a world under one roof, with award-winning restaurants, wellness sanctuaries and cultural experiences; how do you create a truly balanced and holistic stay for both leisure and business travellers?
True to our ethos, we offer a seamless blend of French art de vivre and contemporary elegance, curating an experience that speaks to cultural explorers, discerning business travelers, and families alike.
Culinary experiences are a highlight; from Michelin-rated Brasserie Boulud, to the innovative Japanese flavors of Taiko Cuisine & Bar, the British gastropub charm of The Nine and the signature “Le Goûter” at Bijou Patisserie. Each venue is immersive, reflecting global tastes, French sophistication and Dubai’s rich cultural fabric.
For business and events, our 2,300 square meters of adaptable meeting spaces, from a state-of-the-art ballroom to eco-conscious boardrooms, are enhanced by cutting-edge technology and our signature service, whether it’s for an international summit, a product launch or an intimate celebration.
Wellness remains integral, with Sofitel Spa and Sofitel Fitness providing sanctuaries for restoration, while Club Millésime offers elevated privileges and exclusivity. For families, our AstroKids Club, child-friendly menus, family suites and dedicated pools create a perfect setting for multigenerational stays.
By uniting exceptional gastronomy, transformative wellness, advanced business facilities, and family-focused experiences, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk delivers a complete luxury destination for the modern global traveler.
.jpg)
How has Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk’s positioning evolved over the years, and what does this reveal about shifts in the luxury market?
Since opening in 2020, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk has evolved into a flagship property in the Middle East, a design-forward landmark celebrated for its Art Deco elegance, panoramic skyline views and award-winning interiors.
It’s become a destination in itself, with rising demand for our signature suites, private events and Michelin Guide-recognized dining, reflecting the growing appetite for immersive, bespoke experiences. While staying true to Sofitel’s French heritage, we’ve focused on crafting personal, emotionally resonant moments. With the world’s highest Club Millésime, we continue to set the benchmark for modern sophistication in the region.
And lastly, what is your vision for Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk over the next five years?
Our vision is rooted in sustainable growth, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to elevating every touchpoint of the guest journey. The question we constantly ask ourselves is: how can we create, refine, and elevate experiences that set new benchmarks for luxury hospitality?
We’re proud to be part of global initiatives such as La Haute Croissanterie, Sofitel My Bed, and curated seasonal experiences that bring fresh meaning to the festive period each year, weaving French art de vivre with the richness of Emirati heritage and the elegance of Egyptian design.
Recognition is another focus: from sustainability certifications with Green Key International to accolades from the Michelin Guide and Gault & Millau, as we embrace “committed luxury,” balancing innovation with responsibility toward our people and the planet.
Ultimately, our goal is to inspire beyond the stay itself, ensuring every interaction leaves guests - whether first-time visitors or seasoned globetrotters, feeling seen, valued and immersed in an experience that evolves with their aspirations.
www.sofitel-dubai-theobelisk.com
