The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi has announced the appointment of Sahil Arora as its new executive chef. With an illustrious career spanning over 22 years, Arora has been an integral part of some of the world’s most renowned luxury hospitality brands. His expertise and passion for culinary innovation are set to elevate the hotel’s dining experience, making it a standout destination in East Delhi.

Arora began his culinary journey in 1999 as a prep chef at Hyatt Regency New Delhi. Over the years, he has taken on key leadership roles at The Imperial New Delhi, Shangri-La, and various Marriott properties. Most recently, he was instrumental in the pre-opening of Hyatt Regency Dehradun, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the hotel's gastronomic identity.

His extensive experience in global cuisines, combined with his commitment to excellence, aligns perfectly with The Leela’s reputation for delivering exceptional hospitality. Speaking on the appointment, Harkaran Singh, General Manager, The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi, said:

"We are thrilled to welcome Chef Sahil to our team. His rich experience, commitment to innovation, and dedication to creating elevated dining experiences will strengthen our culinary offerings and enhance our vision of delivering the finest hospitality. With one of the largest event spaces in the capital, our hotel continues to be the preferred destination for hosting some of the most prestigious events in the city, and Chef Sahil's expertise will further enrich our bespoke culinary experiences for these grand occasions."

A native of Dehradun, Arora finds inspiration in his travels, having explored countries like Japan, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Vietnam. His culinary philosophy is deeply influenced by global flavors, with a particular fondness for Thailand’s vibrant street food culture. Outside the kitchen, he enjoys spending quality time with his daughter, Naisha, exploring scenic destinations, and capturing moments through photography.

With his extensive knowledge and passion for redefining fine dining, Chef Sahil Arora is set to take The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi’s culinary landscape to new heights.

Sun Siyam Resorts has announced the promotion of Ahmed Naufal to Group Director of Business Development, effective immediately. Having previously served as the Group Director of Sales & Marketing, Naufal’s outstanding performance and strategic leadership have earned him this expanded role. In his new position, he will spearhead key initiatives aimed at fostering long-term growth and strengthening Sun Siyam Resorts’ market presence. Working closely with cross-functional teams, Naufal will develop innovative strategies, enhance operational efficiencies, and support the company’s expansion into new markets while reinforcing the brand’s presence across its luxury properties in the Maldives and Sri Lanka.

Deepak Booneady, CEO of Sun Siyam Resorts, expressed his confidence in Naufal’s leadership, stating, "We are proud to promote Naufal, whose passion and strategic vision have significantly contributed to the success of our resorts. His leadership and deep understanding of the hospitality industry make him the perfect fit to guide us through the next phase of our growth. We are excited about the future under his actions, and confident his expertise will continue to take Sun Siyam Resorts to new heights."

Naufal began his journey with Sun Siyam Resorts in 2021 as Director of Sales & Marketing at Sun Siyam Olhuveli, where he quickly demonstrated his ability to drive business success. His exceptional contributions led to his promotion as Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing in 2023, overseeing sales activities across multiple key resorts. By early 2024, he advanced to Group Director of Sales & Marketing, managing the sales strategy for Sun Siyam Resorts’ six properties in the Maldives and Sri Lanka. His 18-year career in the hospitality industry includes leadership roles at prestigious resorts such as One&Only Kanuhura, Baros Maldives, and Raffles Maldives Meradhoo.

A seasoned professional, Naufal holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Tourism Management from the Maldives National University and has further honed his expertise with courses in Business Strategy and Revenue Management from Cornell University.

Since launching its first resort, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, in 1998, Sun Siyam Resorts has expanded its portfolio to include six private-island properties, with its latest addition, Siyam World, opening in October 2021. The collection features one four-star resort, Sun Siyam Olhuveli, and four five-star properties in the Maldives—Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, and Siyam World—along with a boutique beach retreat in Sri Lanka, Sun Siyam Pasikudah. Each resort embodies the warmth of Maldivian hospitality, offering bespoke island and underwater experiences, from international chef residencies to ocean adventures. Sun Siyam Resorts is owned and managed by the Sun Siyam Group, a privately-owned company founded in 1990 by visionary entrepreneur Ahmed Siyam Mohamed.

For more information, visit www.sunsiyam.com or follow Sun Siyam Resorts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Tarek Beheiry, a seasoned hospitality professional with over two decades of experience across Asia, Africa, and Australasia, has been appointed as the General Manager of INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit.

In his new role, Beheiry will oversee the 208-room hotel, a 34-floor property in Bangkok’s trendy On Nut neighborhood. With its transparent infinity pool, rooftop tapas bar, and co-working spaces, the hotel is a favorite among modern travelers.

A Career Built on Global Expertise

Beheiry’s appointment marks his first role with Meliá Hotels International, a globally renowned Spanish hotel group that has been expanding its presence in Asia. Before this, he served as Regional General Manager of Ennismore New Zealand and General Manager at SO/ Auckland. He has also held leadership positions at Mondrian Seoul Itaewon, W Koh Samui, Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, and Pullman Bangkok Hotel G.

After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism and Hotel Management from Helwan University, Cairo, Beheiry worked for Sofitel in Egypt, Australia, and Singapore before stepping into senior management roles.

Vision for the Future

Ignacio Martin, Managing Director – Asia Pacific at Meliá Hotels International, described Beheiry as a collaborative, dynamic, and intuitive leader, making him the perfect fit for the award-winning INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit.

Beheiry shared his excitement about the role, saying:
"As Thailand’s first INNSiDE by Meliá hotel, we have achieved so much since our debut in July 2023. My goal is to continue leading by example, focusing on our people, facilities, and unique guest experiences."

About INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit

Part of Meliá Hotels International, INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit belongs to a collection of 48 INNSiDE properties worldwide, designed for modern travelers blending work and leisure. Known for sustainability-focused hospitality, stylish design, and innovative lifestyle experiences, the hotel has quickly become a sought-after destination in Bangkok.

For reservations, visit melia.com or call +66 2 340 5499.