Minor Hotels has officially appointed Michael Robinson as the new General Manager of Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, effective June 30, 2025. The announcement coincides with the resort’s entry into a bold transformation phase, marked by an ambitious multi-million-dollar upgrade to solidify its standing as a premier luxury destination in the Middle East.
Robinson brings over 15 years of extensive experience in global hospitality management to his new leadership role, having served across diverse markets including the United States, Middle East, and Southeast Asia. His most recent role was General Manager of Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, where he led a strategic repositioning initiative that enhanced guest satisfaction and significantly improved operational metrics.
The appointment reflects Minor Hotels’ strategic commitment to strengthening its leadership talent across flagship properties as part of its global growth and innovation agenda. With a portfolio spanning over 560 properties in 57 countries, the Bangkok-based hospitality group is renowned for its Anantara, Avani, Tivoli, and NH brands, all focused on offering immersive luxury experiences.
Elevating Guest Experience During a Landmark Renovation
Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort is currently undergoing a comprehensive transformation that includes upgraded guest accommodations, the addition of a new adults-only section, and a revamp of its food and beverage outlets. The enhancements aim to offer a more curated and exclusive experience for luxury travelers seeking refined stays on Palm Jumeirah, one of Dubai’s most iconic destinations.
Speaking on his appointment, Michael Robinson expressed enthusiasm for returning to the UAE:
“It’s a privilege to come back to Dubai and lead one of the city’s most renowned luxury resorts. Anantara The Palm is uniquely positioned within the region’s hospitality landscape, and I look forward to working with the talented team to shape the resort’s next chapter of excellence,” he said.
The resort, which opened in 2013, has become a standout in Dubai’s luxury hospitality market due to its distinct Thai-inspired design, overwater villas, and beachfront location. The upcoming renovations will elevate the guest journey further, aligning with Dubai’s wider goals of enhancing visitor experiences as outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the size of the emirate’s economy and strengthen its global tourism appeal.
Michael Robinson: Global Perspective, Local Insight
Michael Robinson is known for his collaborative leadership style, cultural sensitivity, and passion for delivering high-impact guest experiences. Prior to his time in Bangkok, he successfully guided FCC Angkor by Avani in Cambodia through a post-pandemic recovery, reestablishing the boutique resort as a competitive player in the market.
His earlier career includes key management roles at Hyatt Hotels, notably at Grand Hyatt Doha and Park Hyatt Dubai, where he refined his operational and strategic capabilities in luxury hotel settings. Robinson holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Hotel Management from the International College of Hotel Management in Adelaide, Australia, along with a Diploma from the Swiss Hotel Association.
According to David Todd, Vice President of Operations for Minor Hotels Middle East, Robinson’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment:
“We are delighted to welcome Michael to Anantara The Palm Dubai. His deep industry knowledge and commitment to excellence will be instrumental in enhancing our guest experience during this transformative period.”
Reimagining Luxury on Palm Jumeirah
The resort’s transformation arrives as Dubai continues to break tourism records. According to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the emirate welcomed 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2024, nearing pre-pandemic levels. With tourism playing a critical role in the UAE’s non-oil economy, investments in hotel infrastructure and leadership are viewed as key enablers of sustained growth.
Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort’s strategic location on the eastern crescent of Palm Jumeirah makes it a highly sought-after destination for both leisure and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) travelers. The resort’s planned upgrades aim to appeal to discerning international guests, especially from markets like the UK, Germany, Saudi Arabia, China, and India — all of which represent strong inbound tourism sectors for Dubai.
Looking Ahead
With Michael Robinson now at the helm, the resort is poised to redefine what luxury hospitality looks like in the post-pandemic era — balancing innovation, cultural authenticity, and operational excellence.
As Dubai continues positioning itself as a year-round global destination, leadership changes like this underscore the hospitality sector’s readiness to meet evolving traveler expectations.
Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort’s revitalization, under Robinson’s direction, is expected to set a new benchmark for luxury hospitality not just in the UAE, but across the wider Middle East region.
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