Mark Kirby charts global growth for One&Only Resorts

Transition from regional leadership to a global role

Luxury hospitality executive Mark Kirby has taken on a global leadership role with One&Only Resorts, part of Kerzner International. His move marks an important step in a career spanning more than two decades in the international hotel industry.

Kirby previously held senior leadership roles with Emaar Hospitality Group, where he contributed to the development and expansion of several flagship luxury hospitality brands and properties in the Middle East and beyond.

Driving growth and brand expansion at Emaar

During his tenure at Emaar Hospitality Group, Kirby played a major role in expanding the company’s portfolio of hotels and resorts. Under his leadership, the group grew its property count from around 14 to more than 26 properties across the region.

He was closely involved in developing landmark hospitality projects such as the Armani Hotel Dubai and the growth of brands including Address Hotels + Resorts and Vida Hotels and Resorts.

The group also expanded internationally during this period, opening properties such as Address Istanbul and Vida Marassi Al Bahrain.

Elevating service standards after the pandemic

Kirby emphasised the importance of refining guest experiences following the global pandemic. During this period, hospitality operators had the opportunity to reassess service standards, operational systems, and digital engagement with guests.

At Emaar Hospitality Group, initiatives were introduced to enhance the guest journey from the planning stage of travel through the entire hotel stay. The company also focused on improving technology platforms, operational processes, and food and beverage offerings to strengthen its luxury positioning.

Leading One&Only’s next phase of expansion

In his new role at Kerzner International, Kirby now oversees the global development strategy for One&Only Resorts, a brand recognised for its destination-driven luxury resorts.

The brand currently operates some of the most distinctive luxury resorts worldwide and continues to expand into new markets. One of the most anticipated developments is the upcoming One&Only Big Sky in Montana, which will mark the brand’s first resort in the United States.

The property will feature guest accommodations alongside private residences and will offer year-round outdoor experiences including skiing, hiking, fishing, and mountain biking.

Expanding into new luxury destinations

Beyond the United States, One&Only Resorts is also expanding its global portfolio with upcoming developments in destinations such as Hudson Valley, Antigua, and Fiji.

The Fiji project will represent the brand’s first entry into the South Pacific and is expected to combine resort accommodations with private luxury residences.

Each One&Only resort is designed as a unique destination rather than following a standardised model. Architects and designers integrate local culture, landscape, and heritage into each project, ensuring every property offers a distinct guest experience.

Focus on personalised experiences and wellness

A key part of the One&Only philosophy is the creation of emotional connections between guests and resort teams. The brand emphasises personalised service, privacy, and curated experiences tailored to individual guest preferences.

Wellness is also an important pillar of the brand’s strategy. Many resorts feature specialised wellness facilities and partnerships with globally recognised wellness and beauty brands to deliver premium spa and longevity experiences.

A global vision rooted in hospitality excellence

Although Kirby now operates on a global scale, his leadership philosophy continues to reflect the service standards and guest-centric culture that define the hospitality sector in the UAE.

With new projects planned across multiple continents, the One&Only brand aims to maintain carefully curated growth while continuing to deliver distinctive luxury travel experiences around the world.