Accor Appoints Luxury Veteran Ugur Talayhan as General Manager of Fairmont The Palm, Dubai

Accor Appoints Industry Veteran Ugur Talayhan as General Manager of Fairmont The Palm, Dubai

DUBAI – In a significant leadership move, Accor has announced the appointment of Ugur Talayhan as the new General Manager of the iconic Fairmont The Palm, effective November 3, 2025. A distinguished hospitality executive with a career spanning over three decades across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, Talayhan brings a wealth of experience from some of the world's most prestigious luxury hotel brands.

This appointment underscores Accor's strategy of placing seasoned leaders with proven track records at the helm of its flagship properties to drive exceptional performance and guest experiences.

A Career Defined by Global Luxury Leadership

Ugur Talayhan's extensive career is a testament to his expertise in operational excellence and luxury guest service. His international journey encompasses leadership roles with renowned brands including IHG, Hilton, Marriott, FRHI, Accor, and Rotana.

A Proven Track Record from Beijing to The Bosphorus

Prior to his return to Accor and Fairmont, Talayhan served as Country Manager for Rotana Hotel Management Corporation, where he oversaw the operational performance of ten hotels and led development for new projects. His deep connection with Accor includes serving as Vice President of Operations at Accor in Turkey and as General Manager at the prestigious Swissôtel The Bosphorus.

His earlier career includes pivotal leadership roles at landmark properties such as The St. Regis Beijing, The Westin Xi’an, Raffles Hainan, and The Astor Hotel in Tianjin, which collectively honed his exceptional operational acumen and commitment to the highest standards of luxury.

Accolades and Industry Recognition

Ugur Talayhan's excellence in leadership has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, he was honoured with the prestigious Accor Bernache Award, personally presented by Sébastien Bazin, CEO of Accor. This award recognized his outstanding contribution to the group’s success and his impactful role in the broader luxury hospitality industry.

Leadership's Strategic Vision

The appointment is seen as a strategic decision to further strengthen the position of Fairmont The Palm in Dubai's competitive luxury resort market.

Rolf Lippuner, Vice President Operations, Raffles & Fairmont Middle East, commented on the appointment, stating, “Ugur’s appointment reflects our continued commitment to placing exceptional leadership at the forefront of our flagship properties. His proven record of operational excellence, strong owner relationships, and deep understanding of luxury hospitality will be instrumental in strengthening Fairmont The Palm’s position as one of Dubai’s leading resorts.”

A Honored Return to the Fairmont Family

Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Ugur Talayhan highlighted the significance of leading such an iconic property.

“I am honored to return to the Fairmont family and lead such an iconic property,” said Talayhan. “Fairmont The Palm represents the very essence of contemporary luxury in Dubai, and I look forward to working with the talented team to continue elevating the guest experience and delivering excellence in every aspect of our operations.”

With this key appointment, Accor reaffirms its commitment to nurturing world-class leadership and solidifying its stature at the pinnacle of the luxury hospitality landscape in the Middle East. Ugur Talayhan's leadership is expected to usher in a new chapter of excellence for Fairmont The Palm, building on its legacy as a premier destination for discerning travelers from around the globe.