Sameer Aboobacker Recognized in Hozpitality's Best 30 HR Leaders Powerlist in the Middle East for 2025
Aboobacker brings a dynamic, people-first approach to leadership from "Skillfactory" to themed culinary events and standout team-building experiences, he’s redefined employee engagement. His four pillars—welfare, growth, balance, and fun—aren’t just values; they’re the heartbeat of the company culture.
Sameer Aboobacker has been distinguished as one of Hozpitality's Best 30 HR Leaders in the Middle East for 2025, celebrating his transformative leadership in shaping workplace cultures across RHotels' diverse portfolio. As Cluster HR Director overseeing three distinct properties, Aboobacker has redefined human resources as the cornerstone of business success through his innovative and people-first approach.
Since joining RHotels in 2016, Aboobacker has demonstrated exceptional skill in building robust HR foundations. His strategic vision was instrumental during the pre-opening of The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel, where he successfully onboarded 315 employees without external recruitment support. Recognizing the novelty of Dubai's first wellness hotel concept, he pioneered creative training videos that effectively educated staff about this unique hospitality model.
Aboobacker's operational excellence shone through when he managed the seamless transition of over 600 employees to new company-owned accommodations within an unprecedented two-week timeframe. This complex relocation, which included establishing in-house catering and laundry services, showcased his ability to execute large-scale initiatives while maintaining staff morale and operational continuity.
What truly sets Aboobacker apart is his holistic approach to employee wellbeing. Under his leadership, the hotels have implemented groundbreaking engagement programs including "Skillfactory" for talent development, themed culinary events, and unique team-building activities. His philosophy centers on four pillars: employee welfare, professional growth, work-life balance, and workplace enjoyment - principles that have become embedded in the organizational culture.
This recognition acknowledges Aboobacker's unique ability to translate strategic HR vision into tangible workplace happiness while driving business performance. His continued focus on innovative people solutions ensures RHotels remains at the forefront of hospitality excellence in Dubai's competitive market.
Its boring keeps popping up