By Mohamed Saleem – Director of Food and Beverage, at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa
Mohamed Saleem’s entry into the hospitality industry was as unexpected as it was transformative. Initially aspiring to be an electrical engineer, he found himself working in a hotel to support his studies. What started as a temporary job quickly became a passion. “The moment I stepped into the hotel industry, I fell in love with it,” Saleem shares. The dynamic environment, filled with opportunities to interact with people from all over the world, captivated him. Today, he thrives on meeting new guests and guiding his team, making each day at work something to look forward to.
In the ever-evolving food and beverage sector, Saleem is at the helm of several key trends. Post-pandemic, industry has seen a significant shift toward health-conscious choices. “F&B trends are now centered on health,” he notes, emphasizing how menu planning has evolved to include healthier options and creative non-alcoholic beverages. The integration of AI technologies has also revolutionized operations, from digital menus that provide calorie counts to cashless tipping and streamlined inventory management. “AI is making our operations more efficient and effective,” Saleem adds.
For Saleem, the true essence of success in hospitality lies in its people. “If we look after our people, they will look after our business,” he believes. This commitment to his team is deeply ingrained in Marriott’s ethos, where investing in employee development and motivation is seen as crucial. Saleem regards his team as the industry’s greatest asset, and he is dedicated to fostering their growth.
Sustainability is another cornerstone of Saleem’s approach. In the Maldives, where natural beauty is a major draw for tourists, he sees the hotel industry as a key player in promoting sustainable practices. “We have to lead in sustainability, from energy efficiency to water conservation and sustainable sourcing,” he explains. By embracing innovative practices, Saleem is confident the industry can protect the environment while ensuring its long-term success.
Saleem also emphasizes the importance of community engagement, particularly in training young Maldivians for careers in hospitality. “We need to do more to train and motivate local talent,” he stresses. He advocates for stronger partnerships between hotels and local communities, not only to address environmental issues like littering but also to support local suppliers through sustainable sourcing. These initiatives, he believes, benefit both the community and the guest experience.
Looking ahead, Saleem remains committed to his own growth and to nurturing the next generation of hospitality professionals. “I’m proud to be part of this industry, and I will continue to support and develop local talent,” he affirms. His dedication to his team, his community, and the broader hospitality industry reflects his passion and determination to make a lasting impact.
The Arrival team extends heartfelt thanks to Mohamed Saleem for his insights and hospitality. His dedication to excellence in food and beverage at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is truly inspiring. Thank you, Saleem, for your time and for sharing your journey with us.