Anantara Mina Al Arab resort hires its DOSM ahead of opening day

With the highly anticipated Anantara Mina Al Arab resort set to open this year, the Minor-operated hotel has appointed its director of sales and marketing. The hotel, first announced in 2015, is scheduled to open in Q4 of this year, with DOSM Sarah Hammond playing a pivotal role in its launch.

Described as a "Maldivian-inspired" hotel by developer RAK Properties, the Anantara brand has a strong presence and expertise in that part of the world.

Hailing from the UK, Hammond embarked on her career with Kuoni Travel Group in 1998 before joining Sandals & Beaches Resorts as a sales manager in 2000. She then moved to Kerzner International in 2002 and gained further experience as a sales manager with One & Only Resorts and Four Seasons, eventually becoming the director of sales FIT at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai.

In 2018, she joined Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts as the associate director of leisure sales and later, in 2020, took on the role of director of sales & marketing at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa in the Maldives. Following two years as the director of sales at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray in Dubai, she now joins Minor Hotels.

Hammond expressed her excitement about joining the pre-opening team at Anantara Mina al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort, highlighting the thrilling prospect of opening a new luxury property, particularly in the stunning surroundings of Mina Al Arab. She looks forward to sharing updates with key partners soon.

David Garner, VP Commercial Middle East, and Africa, warmly welcomed Sarah Hammond, praising her remarkable caliber and well-deserved reputation. He emphasized that the new property is set to redefine eco-luxury in Ras Al Khaimah, and Hammond's contribution as an integral team member will play a crucial role in generating and maintaining its industry-leading success.