Ahmed Jarkass Appointed Director of Sales and Marketing at Raffles Jeddah to Lead Luxury Hotel’s Strategy Ahead of Grand Opening

Published on December 10, 2025

Raffles Jeddah, the highly anticipated luxury hotel overlooking the Red Sea, has announced the appointment of Ahmed Jarkass as its new Director of Sales and Marketing. This move comes ahead of the hotel’s grand opening and marks a significant step toward positioning Raffles Jeddah as a top-tier destination in the city’s burgeoning luxury hospitality market.

Jarkass brings with him more than two decades of regional expertise in the hospitality sector, having held senior roles across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). His career spans prestigious brands such as Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, and Rixos Hotels, where he has consistently driven commercial success and shaped market positioning strategies.

A Distinguished Career in Luxury Hospitality

Throughout his career, Jarkass has been recognized for his ability to craft innovative strategies that drive growth and build strong, sustainable market presence. His leadership style has earned him a reputation for being a collaborative and strategic thinker, qualities that have allowed him to excel in some of the region’s most competitive markets.

His deep understanding of the luxury hospitality landscape in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, as well as Egypt, has been pivotal in shaping his successful career. Jarkass is widely acknowledged for his exceptional commercial insight, particularly in the areas of sales, marketing, business development, and commercial planning.

In his most recent position as Chief Commercial Officer at Wujha Real Estate Development, Jarkass was instrumental in overseeing the commercial strategy for two major mixed-use developments. His leadership was key to achieving a remarkable 35% increase in sales, a testament to his data-driven approach, market expansion strategies, and commercial acumen.

Leading Raffles Jeddah’s Commercial Strategy

At Raffles Jeddah, Jarkass will be tasked with overseeing several key departments, including Sales, Marketing, Public Relations, Revenue, and Conference & Events. His primary role will be to lead the commercial strategy for the hotel, ensuring that Raffles Jeddah becomes not only a prominent luxury hotel in Jeddah but also a key player in the region’s luxury tourism sector.

Jarkass’s vision for Raffles Jeddah involves a strong focus on market penetration and creating innovative sales and marketing initiatives. He will also be responsible for building strategic partnerships that will position the hotel as Jeddah’s most distinguished waterfront destination. By leading the charge in these areas, Jarkass aims to elevate the hotel’s profile and drive long-term success.

Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

Jarkass’s appointment is also aligned with the broader goals of Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s ambitious blueprint to diversify its economy and develop its luxury hospitality industry. As Saudi Arabia continues to open its doors to international tourists, the hospitality sector is poised to play a central role in the country’s economic development.

Raffles Jeddah, with its prime location on the Red Sea and luxurious offerings, is expected to contribute significantly to the growth of the Kingdom’s hospitality sector. Jarkass’s leadership will be key in ensuring that the hotel meets the high expectations of global travelers while supporting the Vision 2030 initiative by creating a world-class guest experience that attracts visitors from around the globe.

By nurturing local talent and providing exceptional service, Jarkass will also contribute to the Kingdom’s evolving hospitality landscape. His strategic initiatives will help create a tourism environment that aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, enhancing cultural discovery and showcasing the rich heritage of Saudi Arabia to international visitors.

Crafting the Ultimate Luxury Experience

In his role, Jarkass will focus on maintaining the high standards that Raffles hotels are known for worldwide. Known for their refined service, thoughtful design, and transformative luxury experiences, Raffles Jeddah will set a new benchmark in the region’s hospitality scene. Under Jarkass’s leadership, the hotel is expected to offer an unparalleled combination of gastronomy, wellness, and design, ensuring that it caters to the needs and desires of both local and international guests.

Jarkass’s ability to inspire high-performing teams will be crucial in shaping the pre-opening momentum of Raffles Jeddah. His leadership will set the stage for what promises to be a remarkable launch, setting new standards in the region for luxury hospitality.

The Legacy of Raffles Jeddah

The opening of Raffles Jeddah marks a significant moment in the city’s luxury hospitality offerings. As a property that combines traditional elegance with modern luxury, Raffles Jeddah will introduce guests to a new world of experiences. The hotel will be a destination that offers a sense of sophistication and indulgence, with exceptional service and a commitment to creating lasting memories for guests.

With Jarkass at the helm of its Sales and Marketing efforts, Raffles Jeddah is set to make a lasting impact on the luxury hospitality sector in Saudi Arabia. The appointment of Jarkass signals the hotel’s dedication to building a world-class team that can deliver exceptional service while elevating the brand’s presence in one of the region’s most dynamic and competitive markets.

Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Luxury Hospitality

Ahmed Jarkass’s appointment as Director of Sales and Marketing at Raffles Jeddah is a strategic move that will significantly impact the property’s success. With his extensive experience, leadership skills, and deep understanding of the regional market, Jarkass is poised to lead Raffles Jeddah to new heights. His work will not only contribute to the hotel’s success but also support Saudi Vision 2030, positioning Saudi Arabia as a key player in the global luxury tourism industry.

As Raffles Jeddah prepares for its grand opening, Jarkass’s strategic vision will play a pivotal role in ensuring that the hotel delivers exceptional experiences, attracting global travelers and contributing to the continued growth of Saudi Arabia’s luxury hospitality sector.