Ever wondered what a GM does before the first guest arrives? Stefan Viard, GM of ME by Meliá in Dubai, knows all about that. The iconic building, which will host offices, internationally-recognised restaurant outlets and nightlife, in addition to the luxury lifestyle hotel, is slated to open in the third quarter of 2017, but Stefan has been on-site since March of 2016.

Stefan, who started his career in F&B, worked in Europe before moving to the UAE nearly 10 years ago. Aside from a stint in Langkawi, he has established himself in Dubai. Familiar with pre-openings in the F&B division, Stefan moved into hotel management in 2010, and the new ME by Meliá will be his first opening as a GM. His key responsibilities over the last year have included managing the space allocation to ensure the final details of the hotel are on track, recruitment of employees, and overseeing projects to guarantee that ME by Meliá is presenting the best product possible in Dubai (– will there be a rooftop bar?).

Watch the video to learn more about the first Five Star Spanish branded property to open in the Middle East.