In the newly-created role, Jimenez is responsible the commercial performance of Premier Inn’s 11 existing hotels the UAE and Qatar, and the revenue strategy for new properties in the pipeline.

Born and educated in Barcelona, Jimenez has more 15 years’ local and international experience in the hospitality sector. He began his career at a boutique Spanish hotel in London before moving on to international brands including Accor and Hilton. He has worked at various locations in the UK, Asia and UAE, where his previous roles include cluster commercial director for four Hilton hotels in Ras Al Khaimah.

The UK’s largest hospitality brand, Premier Inn currently operates seven hotels in Dubai, two in Abu Dhabi and to in Qatar. Its portfolio includes Premier Inn Ibn Battuta Mall, which, with nearly 600 rooms, is the largest Premier Inn in the region – and the second largest in the world. It’s newest property, Premier Inn Barsha Heights, opened in March with 100 per cent occupancy on its first night of operation.