In this exclusive interview, Recep Pamukcu, Resort Director of Ajman Hotel, shares insights into his career, the hotel’s recent transformation, and the future of hospitality in the UAE.
1. Can you tell us about your background in the tourism and hospitality industry?
I started my hospitality journey right after finishing high school. I worked at several five-star resorts in Turkey, which gave me great early experience. Later, I moved to Ireland and joined The Westbury in Dublin, part of The Doyle Collection. I stayed with the group for 10 years before taking the opportunity to become Deputy General Manager, and later General Manager, at Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa in County Roscommon. This beautiful property was well known for luxury weddings and wellness retreats. After four years, I joined Druids Glen Resort in County Wicklow as Resort Director. In 2016, I moved to Dubai to work with Damac Hotels as pre/post opening General Manager and have been based in the UAE ever since.
2. What are your thoughts on the future of the hospitality industry in the UAE and globally? Also, what are the new trends in the hospitality sector in Arab countries?
The future of hospitality in the UAE is very bright. The country continues to invest in tourism, build new hotels, and host big international events. While Dubai and Abu Dhabi remain strong leaders, other emirates like Ajman are also growing fast. Across the Arab region, we are seeing more interest in local culture, wellness, and sustainable tourism. Guests today want personal experiences, healthy food options, and technology that makes their stay easier—like mobile check-ins. The UAE is well-prepared to lead these trends and remain a top destination.
3. Can you describe the history of the Ajman Hotel?
Ajman Hotel & Villas by Blazon Hotels opened on 13 October 1997. It was previously managed by Kempinski Hotels until 2017 and became Ajman Hotel in 2018 under Blazon Hotels. The hotel is just 25 km from Dubai International Airport and 22.5 km from Sharjah International Airport. It sits on 58,000 sqm of land and offers Ajman’s longest private beach—400 meters long. Over the years, we’ve added 13 Executive Rooms and 13 Villas, plus an infinity pool and a lap pool.
Can you introduce the 13 new rooms and luxury villas and their interior design?
These new rooms are designed with floor-to-ceiling windows, offering beautiful views of the beach and pool. They include one king-size bed and two built-in Murphy beds, making them ideal for families. The rooms feature bright, fresh colors, the latest technologies, eco-friendly systems, and private balconies with outdoor seating.
Can you tell us about the transformation of the property?
Our transformation began in 2023. On 15 May, we opened Rosmarino Ristorante & Pizzeria, an authentic Italian dining spot. We also renovated all F&B outlets, followed by the opening of 13 new rooms in October 2023. In November 2024, we launched our private luxury villas along with a new infinity pool, a kids’ pool, a lap pool, and a pool bar.
Can you describe the renovations, current room count, and facilities?
We now have a total of 182 rooms and 13 luxury villas.
Room Types:
– 58 Superior Seaview Rooms (King & Twin)
– 50 Deluxe Seaview Rooms (King & Twin)
– 44 Signature Deluxe Seaview Rooms
– 5 Junior Suites
– 6 Deluxe Suites
– 1 Royal Suite
– 1 Wedding Suite
– 10 Executive Rooms (King + 2 Murphy beds)
– 2 Premium Suites (King + 2 Murphy beds)
– 1 Ocean Suite (King + 2 Murphy beds)
– 1-Bedroom Garden Villa
– 1-Bedroom Ocean Villa with Whirlpool
– 2-Bedroom Garden Villa with Private Pool
– 2-Bedroom Ocean Villa with Private Pool
– 1 Three-Bedroom Ocean Villa with Private Pool
Food & Beverage: 9 outlets including bars.
Wellness & Sports: Gym with sauna, spa, tennis, volleyball, padel court, water sports, bowling.
Entertainment: Live DJ every Saturday, pianist and saxophonist daily in different outlets.
4. What is the average number of overnight stays during high and low seasons?
During the high season, guests stay for a minimum of 7 nights. In the low season, the average stay is around 3 nights.
5. What are your main markets, and what marketing efforts are you focusing on?
Our key markets are the CIS countries, Europe, GCC, and domestic guests including staycations and destination weddings.
To reach them, we:
– Join roadshows in Europe, the UK, and CIS
– Work closely with tour operators
– Use social media campaigns
– Organize FAM trips
– Launch international marketing campaigns
6. Can you share your targets for the year 2025?
In 2025, my goal is to continue improving guest experiences at Ajman Hotel. We will focus on offering more personal and comfortable stays with the help of smart technology. We’re also committed to becoming more eco-friendly by reducing waste and saving energy. Supporting our team’s growth through training is a top priority, so we can always deliver excellent service. We plan to attract more guests from the global luxury market by highlighting the special charm and quality of Ajman Hotel. Lastly, we want to stay involved with the local community by supporting events and culture.