With a dynamic career spanning over a decade in the highly competitive luxury hospitality sector, Mohammed Shihab Director of Commercial at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives has become a notable figure, particularly within the Maldivian market. His journey is marked by a series of high-profile achievements, from launching groundbreaking resort concepts to navigating complex commercial ventures. This extensive experience has provided a unique vantage point on the intricacies of blending strategic innovation with the operational excellence required to succeed in one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations.
In this exclusive interview, he shares the key milestones that have shaped his professional trajectory and explores his strategic vision for Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts. He also shares critical lessons learned from orchestrating large-scale projects, their approach to customer-centricity in a market defined by personalization, and their perspective on the future of luxury travel in the Maldives.
I began my hospitality career in 2011 with Crown & Champa Resorts, which I consider my foundational learning ground. Within four years, I progressed from a Sales and Marketing Supervisor to a Manager, where I focused on driving initiatives with innovative packages and business strategies that significantly improved the guest experience. My career then took me to Langkawi, Malaysia, where I joined Starwood, now Marriott International, and was part of the landmark merger between the two companies. In my role as Director of Catering & Conventions, I led the department and was responsible for the largest convention centre in the region, managing numerous high-profile MICE events.
Upon returning to the Maldives in 2019, I embraced several challenging roles to further prove my capabilities. This included spearheading the opening of the largest resort in the Maldives, successfully increasing key performance indicators like ADR and TREVPOR, pioneering the introduction of large-scale Indian weddings, executing the first-ever major property buyout in the nation, and launching unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. These milestones were instrumental in shaping my expertise in commercial strategy, innovation, and operational excellence, ultimately leading me to my current role as Director, Commercial for Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts.
A fundamental lesson I’ve learned is the importance of adaptability and bold decision-making. Opening the largest resort in the Maldives demanded not only logistical expertise but also an innovative marketing approach to differentiate our product in a competitive landscape. We shifted the focus from selling rooms to selling experiences, a strategy that resonated deeply with our guests. Similarly, executing a major property buyout taught me the immense value of collaboration and the necessity of aligning all stakeholders toward a shared vision. These high-stakes experiences reinforced the importance of maintaining composure under pressure, taking calculated risks, and consistently seeking opportunities to innovate, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Understanding guest expectations is at the very core of every commercial strategy I develop. In a luxury destination like the Maldives, personalization is not just a value-add—it is a fundamental expectation. Our approach is heavily reliant on data analytics, direct guest feedback, and meticulous market trend analysis to tailor offerings that cater to specific guest profiles and needs. These data-driven efforts, combined with a deep understanding of cultural nuances and evolving trends in our key source markets, ensure that our strategies remain consistently guest-centric and contribute to creating memorable stays.
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives differentiate themselves by offering unique experiences rooted in authenticity and innovation. We focus on creating distinct identities for each property that cater to specific passions and interests. For instance, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives is renowned globally for its exclusive access to the world-class Pasta Point surf break, making it a premier destination for surfers. Meanwhile, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, known for decades as a “Diver’s Paradise,” features one of the best house reefs in the world and masterfully combines this incredible natural asset with a strong commitment to sustainability and luxury.
The luxury travel industry is evolving toward a greater emphasis on sustainability, holistic wellness, and authentic local experiences. Today’s discerning guests are looking for more than just opulence; they seek meaning, purpose, and a genuine connection to the destination during their travels. They want the feeling and essence of the location to be intrinsically associated with the brand they choose. Cinnamon Maldives Resorts positions itself to lead this evolution by ensuring our properties not only deliver exceptional service but also serve as gateways to authentic Maldivian culture and nature, creating a profound and lasting sense of place for our guests.
Be fearless in your approach and refuse to settle for the status quo. Take calculated risks, embrace innovation, and never shy away from challenges, no matter how daunting they may seem. Build your expertise through a commitment to continuous learning, whether it involves understanding new market dynamics or mastering operational intricacies. Crucially, remain grounded and remember that true leadership is not defined by a title but by the ability to inspire others, take ownership, and consistently deliver value. Lastly, always aim to differentiate yourself by accomplishing what others consider impossible—that is how you create a lasting and meaningful impact in this industry.
