The Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria is a modern, luxury Dubai hotel, located on the Deira Corniche, overlooking the Persian Gulf at the mouth of Dubai Creek.  With 414 rooms and suites, a fitness centre, business centre, four restaurants, a discotheque and karaoke lounge as well as an array of bars the Front Desk certainly has it's work cut out. We talked to Jens Busch, Front Office Manager.

Jens, how long have you been in Dubai?

Whilst I’m far too young to be considered a veteran, having been in Dubai for more than five years I have certainly stayed longer than many European hoteliers! The time has passed so quickly, having been involved with the pre opening at Grand Hyatt Dubai where my focus was on establishing the Front Office Operation, then moving to Hyatt Regency Dubai as Front Office Manager in 2006 soon after the completion of a two-year renovation program. There are still plenty of experiences for me to gain here, and it’s great to be working with an amazing team of people in one of the world’s most fascinating cities.

What nationality are you originally?

German

What do you love most about working in Dubai?

I like the multicultural (work) environment and fast-paced growth of the city, coupled with a clear vision for the future. When I think back I’m still amazed at the changes I’ve seen in the relatively short space of five years!  Two new bridges across the Dubai Creek, development of a Mass rail transport network, new malls and tourist attractions, not to mention the new hotels!

What was your background before you became an FOH manager?

After graduating from hotel school in Vienna, Austria, my first assignment was a Hotel Management trainee in the United States with Little America Hotels & Resorts. Then I joined the Hyatt Carlton Tower in London as a Receptionist. After another assignment in London I moved to Dubai and joined the Grand Hyatt Dubai as Assistant Manager – Front Office during the pre-opening stage and was subsequently promoted to Assistant Front Office Manager.

What has been the most embarrassing moment of your FOH career so far?

Embarrassing moments do happen of course though then it is up to ones diplomatic approach and tactful mannerism to resolve the situation in an amicable manner for all involved – especially in situations with guests.

What has been the best moment of your FOH career so far?

There have been a number of great moments over the years with guests and with employees. It is always very rewarding to see a big smile on the face of a guest for a good service they have received. We recently had a very joyous occasion when our Guest Relations team won an Award at the Dubai Concierge competition; to see the smiles on the faces of the employees was a great moment!

Where do you go on holiday?

I like going to the East Coast of the United Arab Emirates to the Emirate of Fujairah and up north the Musandam Peninsula. The diving there is fantastic.

What do you think of Dubai as a place to live and work?

I would definitely recommend Dubai as a great place to live and work. There are a lot of opportunities for one to develop but it requires a certain degree of commitment, dedication and flexibility. It is often very fast paced and one has to be able to adapt to changing circumstances. At the same time Dubai has many places to go and unwind and relax and features a very vibrant Nightlife.

Visit the Hyatt Regency website, click here.