The Middle East’s
6. Sandeep Walia
Designation: COO—Middle East & Africa (including Türkiye), Luxury, Europe, MEA - Global Leader, Design Hotels
Company: Marriott International
Established: 1927
Country: Global: US; Regional: UAE
Category: Travel & Tourism
Marriott’s Ritz-Carlton Dubai, JBR, runs a 40-square-meter sealed hydroponic farm, yielding up to 10 kilograms of pesticide-free produce daily while cutting water use by 90% compared with traditional farming. The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, also operates an on-site vertical farm supplying its restaurants and bars as part of carbon-reduction efforts. The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert composts food scraps monthly, feeding its chef's herb and vegetable garden. Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah has solar panels to heat water in guest rooms and the spa. In 2026, Walia’s position was expanded to oversee the company’s operations in Africa, as well as the Design Hotels’ portfolio.