Gulf Hotels Group in Bahrain recently bid farewell to Aqeel Raees, who has retired from his position as the group's chief official officer, after over 42 years of continuous service with the company.

The farewell reception was held on November 29 at Al Dana Ballroom in Gulf Convention Center and was attended by a number of senior officials and businessmen.

Raees began his career in Bahrain Petroleum Company “Bapco”, where he worked for about 10 years as a clerk in the Accounting Department. He then moved to the hospitality and tourism sector when he joined the Gulf Hotel in 1974, holding many positions in his 42-long tenure with the group, including becoming the CEO of Gulf Hotels Group in 2002.

“Aqeel’s hard work and experience led to his promotion to the position of CEO in 2002 and the company saw rapid changes under his leadership. The Gulf Hotel became the Gulf Hotel Group, registering a jump of 145 per cent in its turnover. Our net profits increased by 260 per cent (18.6 per cent annually) and Gulf Hotel Group took over Bahrain Tourism Company. Moreover, our plans for the Dubai operation is also on track,” said Mohamed Hussain Yateem, director and chairman of the Board Executive Committee of the Gulf Hotels Group.

He further stated: “Aqeel had a major role in achieving all these milestones. As a result, the Gulf Hotel Group today manages five properties with the sixth on the way.  Internationally Aqeel was recognized for his leadership qualities when he was awarded World Hotels leadership award 2013.”
 
Raees is one of the pioneers of the hospitality and tourism industry in Bahrain. His outstanding and inspirational leadership within the group has greatly contributed to the growth of the company to become what it is today, the group said in a statement. - TradeArabia News Service