A Leader Transforming Hospitality Experiences

In Oman’s growing hospitality landscape, leaders who combine strategic insight, operational excellence, and people-focused leadership are shaping the future of the industry. Among them is Toufic Khattar, General Manager of IntercityHotel Nizwa, whose career spans more than two decades of hospitality leadership across the Middle East.

Known for his ability to transform hotel operations, inspire teams, and elevate guest experiences, Mr. Khattar has built a reputation as a dynamic executive who blends commercial performance with authentic service culture.

At IntercityHotel Nizwa, his leadership has strengthened the hotel’s market presence while cultivating an environment where people, performance, and purpose grow together.

“Great hospitality is not only about service. It is about creating meaningful experiences that connect people, culture, and community.”

A Leadership Philosophy Built on Purpose

Toufic Khattar’s leadership philosophy is guided by a clear principle:

Lead with purpose, execute with precision, and build cultures where people and performance thrive together.

His leadership approach integrates business intelligence with emotional intelligence, ensuring that operational decisions balance financial success with long-term human value.

Through this philosophy, he has created workplace environments that emphasize:

• Collaboration and accountability
• Professional growth and mentorship
• Guest-centric service culture
• Strategic operational discipline

This approach allows organizations under his leadership to achieve both commercial excellence and strong team engagement.

Driving Operational Excellence at IntercityHotel Nizwa

Since assuming the role of General Manager at IntercityHotel Nizwa, Mr. Khattar has focused on strengthening the property’s operational structure while delivering measurable financial growth.

Under his leadership in 2024, the hotel achieved significant performance milestones:

• Gross Operating Profit improved by 3.2 percent
• EBITDA increased by 1 percent year over year
• Labor costs reduced by 4 percent through operational efficiency strategies

These results reflect a management style centered on strategic planning, disciplined financial oversight, and continuous performance improvement.

Beyond financial performance, Mr. Khattar has enhanced cross-department collaboration and strengthened the hotel’s guest satisfaction standards, ensuring that service quality remains central to the property’s identity.

Supporting Hospitality Innovation and Pre-Opening Strategy

Mr. Khattar has also contributed to broader development initiatives within the hospitality sector.

He served as Consultant General Manager for the pre-opening phase of IntercityHotel Bawshar, overseeing contractor handover processes and supporting operational readiness to ensure a successful launch.

In addition, he worked with H World International to develop a specialty hospitality concept known as “The Breakery,” reflecting his commitment to introducing innovative food and beverage experiences that enhance brand identity and attract new audiences.

These initiatives demonstrate his ability to contribute not only to operational management but also to strategic concept development within the hospitality industry.

Building High-Performance Hospitality Teams

Central to Mr. Khattar’s leadership philosophy is the belief that strong teams are the foundation of exceptional hospitality.

Throughout his career, he has focused on creating workplace environments that empower employees through:

• Leadership mentoring and professional development
• Training and performance recognition programs
• Collaborative decision-making
• Clear accountability structures

By fostering a culture of continuous learning and ownership, he has consistently achieved higher employee engagement, stronger team performance, and improved service outcomes.

“When teams feel empowered, service excellence becomes a natural outcome.”

Championing Community Engagement in Nizwa

For Toufic Khattar, hospitality extends beyond hotel walls. He believes hotels should play a meaningful role within the communities they serve.

Under his leadership, IntercityHotel Nizwa actively participates in community initiatives, building relationships with local organizations, artisans, and social causes.

One of the most notable initiatives is the Pink Run in Nizwa, organized in collaboration with the Oman Cancer Association, raising awareness and support for breast cancer initiatives.

The hotel has also participated in Omani Women’s Day celebrations, recognizing and empowering women in the community through collaborative events presented by members of the Royal Family.

Through these initiatives, Mr. Khattar continues to demonstrate how hospitality can strengthen social engagement and community well-being.

A Global Career in Hospitality Leadership

Before joining IntercityHotel Nizwa, Mr. Khattar held several senior leadership roles across the Middle East hospitality sector.

His experience includes:

• Cluster Director of Food and Beverage at Rotana Hotels in Abu Dhabi
• General Manager – F&B at Foresights Consultancy in Dubai
• Chief Operating Officer at Rmal Hospitality
• General Manager at Everest Hospitality & Catering

During his tenure at Rotana, he successfully:

• Increased food and beverage revenue
• Expanded hospitality partnerships by
• Organized high-profile corporate events and conferences hosting

He has also played a key role in launching major hospitality concepts and international restaurant brands, including Wagamama restaurants in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, while supporting the development of new dining and entertainment concepts.

Academic and Professional Development

Toufic Khattar holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales, further strengthening his expertise in business strategy and organizational leadership.

He has also completed the Hotel Revenue Management Program at Cornell University, reflecting his commitment to continuous professional development within the hospitality sector.

Icons Oman Recognition

Icons Oman recognizes Toufic Khattar as a transformational hospitality leader whose strategic vision, operational excellence, and commitment to community engagement continue to strengthen Oman’s growing tourism and hospitality landscape.