Minor Hotels Promotes Amir Golbarg as CEO to Lead Middle East & Africa Operations

Minor Hotels has elevated Amir Golbarg to Chief Operating Officer for the Middle East and Africa region, effective 1 January 2026. The move reflects the company’s continued expansion across key regional markets and recognition of Golbarg’s long-standing contribution to operational growth.

Regional Growth Drives Leadership Expansion

The Middle East and Africa portfolio has emerged as a major contributor to Minor Hotels’ global performance. With increasing investment activity, new property signings, and rising tourism demand in markets such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt, the region has become central to the group’s long-term development strategy.

Golbarg’s appointment signals a structured approach to scaling operations while maintaining consistent service standards across diverse destinations.

A Career Built on Operational Excellence

Golbarg joined Minor Hotels more than a decade ago, initially focusing on operational development and hotel openings. Over time, he assumed wider regional responsibilities, including senior leadership roles overseeing properties in Qatar and other Middle Eastern markets.

In 2019, he took charge of operations across the Middle East and Africa, later expanding his oversight to include additional territories in Southern Africa and island destinations in the Indian Ocean. During this period, the portfolio strengthened its operational benchmarks and enhanced brand positioning within competitive markets.

Recognised Performance Across Key Properties

Several properties within the regional network have received international accolades in recent years, highlighting the group’s emphasis on service delivery, guest satisfaction, and asset optimisation. These recognitions reinforce the strategic direction adopted across both urban and resort destinations.

The region’s development pipeline continues to grow, supported by increasing demand for luxury, lifestyle, and branded residential concepts.

Experience Across Global Hospitality Markets

Before rejoining Minor Hotels in a regional capacity, Golbarg gained experience in senior operational roles across prominent hospitality groups in the Gulf. His professional foundation includes luxury hotel operations in Dubai and participation in high-profile development projects across the region.

He holds a degree from the Glion Institute of Higher Education in Switzerland and is based in Dubai, where Minor Hotels manages its Middle East operations.

Focus on the Next Phase of Expansion

Minor Hotels currently operates more than 640 hotels and branded residences worldwide across multiple brand segments. The Middle East and Africa remain priority growth regions as governments invest heavily in tourism infrastructure and destination development.

With Golbarg now leading the region at COO level, the company aims to strengthen operational alignment, accelerate expansion, and reinforce its position within high-growth hospitality markets.