Spotlight on Women's Leadership in Dubai Hospitality

Press release – Dubai, UAE – March 6, 2024 - With this week’s spotlight on diversity and inclusion in light of International Women’s Day, Marriott Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments, Al Jaddaf and Marriott Executive Apartments, Dubai Creek proudly celebrate the leadership of three remarkable women at the forefront of the hospitality industry who’ve recently joined their executive committee: Polina Kaminskaya, Karin Cohen and Farheen Khan.

Since joining in October 2023, Polina and Karin have achieved promising results through their dynamic and quality-centred efforts, and visionary leadership. Farheen, having joined the cluster in February, has already begun mapping out strategies to enhance the work culture in 2024, building on Marriott’s people-centric legacy. With diverse backgrounds and experiences that collectively span across Europe, Middle East, Asia and USA, they are tasked with elevating the guest experience, driving business growth, and inspiring teams across all properties. Together they make up 50% of the Executive Committee team of Marriott Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments, Al Jaddaf and Marriott Executive Apartments, Dubai Creek.

Polina Kaminskaya, Multi-Property Director of Sales & Distribution, brings with her a wealth of experience garnered from 12 years in the hospitality industry, including six years with Marriott International during which time she has achieved remarkable results for the hotel group. Her dedication to excellence and commitment to fostering a collaborative work environment have been instrumental in shaping the commercial success of the property cluster since her joining in the last quarter of 2023.

Commenting on the topic of women in leadership, Polina Kaminskaya says, "Reflecting on my 12-year journey in hospitality, including six incredible years with Marriott International, I am so proud to have worked with and to be currently working with some truly remarkable women in positions of leadership. It is a unique journey for each and every one of us, and it is heart-warming to witness the support we offer one another and to celebrate our successes together. In my current role overseeing Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf, Marriott Executive Apartments Al Jaddaf, and Marriott Executive Apartments Dubai Creek, I have the honour of leading a dynamic sales and distribution team, the majority of whom are talented female associates.”

Speaking on her goals for 2024, Polina adds: “As I look ahead to 2024, my primary objective remains to drive optimal results for the hotels, while at the same time motivating and inspiring our associates, to grow the future leaders, and to help the new generation of hoteliers shape their careers to elevate the sales and distribution landscape of hospitality to unprecedented heights.”

Karin Cohen, Multi-Property Director of Marketing & PR, is a trailblazer known for her strategic vision and unwavering determination. Karin brings nearly two decades of experience in the hospitality industry – namely within the F&B segment-, with the past 12 years dedicated to integrated brand, marketing, and communications. Her extensive background includes launching 13 multi-award-winning F&B concepts across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the USA, collaborating closely with Michelin-starred chefs and top-ranking bartenders from the World's 50 Best Bars. Since joining the cluster in October last year Karin has played a pivotal role in the recent repositioning of Marriott Hotel, Al Jaddaf as a preferred destination for discerning travellers seeking an elevated five star stay anchored in local culture and heritage.

Commenting on her new role, Karin Cohen stated, "I am absolutely thrilled to have joined the Marriott Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments at Al Jaddaf and Marriott Executive Apartments, Dubai Creek team in October last year as Multi-property Director of Marketing & PR. My goal is to build on the properties’ existing reputations and brand legacies while leveraging my expertise in brand marketing and consumer communications to make our properties stand out in the crowded market." Shining light on female leadership, Karin adds: “Throughout my career in marketing and PR, I have had the privilege to learn from some immensely talented and thought-provoking women. In the same way these women have inspired me, I hope to inspire the next generations of female leaders in hospitality to be fearless and push boundaries at every given opportunity.”

Farheen Khan - Multi-Property Director of Human Resources, embodies the spirit of innovation and inclusivity. She comes to Marriott with a wealth of experience boasting an impressive career in hospitality. Previously associated with renowned brands such as Hilton, Hyatt, IHG and Carlson group, she has a proven track record of exceptional leadership and innovative approach to talent development. In her previous role, Khan spearheaded diversity and inclusion with initiatives that led to a notable rise in female representation within the property, with a 30% female workforce.

Commenting on her appointment, Farheen Khan said, "I am thrilled to join the Marriott family and take on the role of Multi-Property Director of Human Resources. I look forward to collaborating with the talented teams at Marriott Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments at Al Jaddaf, Marriott Executive Apartments, Dubai Creek, and Element, Al Jaddaf to drive employee engagement and foster a culture of inclusion.”

Adding a personal note on women in leadership, Farheen adds: “As we celebrate International Women's Day, I'm reminded of the incredible journey of women in leadership. From breaking barriers to shattering glass ceilings, they've paved the way with resilience, grace, and unwavering determination. Today, and every day, let's honor and uplift the trailblazers, the mentors, and the changemakers among us. Here's to celebrating the remarkable women leaders who light the path forward “

Together, these three leaders exemplify their hotels’ commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion at every level of the organization. Their leadership not only enriches the guest experience but also cultivates a culture of empowerment and belonging among associates.

"I am immensely proud to have Polina, Karin and Farheen become integral members of our executive team since each of them joining the cluster in recent months," says Saad Al-Ghamdi, Multi-Property General Manager at Marriott Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments, Al Jaddaf and Marriott Executive Apartments, Dubai Creek, "Their passion, commitment, and visionary leadership are instrumental as we head into 2024 with goals bigger and bolder than ever before."

Marriott Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments, Al Jaddaf and Marriott Executive Apartments, Dubai Creek remain dedicated to championing women in leadership roles and creating opportunities for professional growth and development, and will continue to nurture a diverse talent pipeline that reflects the rich tapestry of our global community.

For more information, call 04 317 7777 or follow @marriottaljaddaf.