In the kaleidoscope of the Maldives hospitality industry, Mohamed Sobhaa shines as a passionate and committed leader. As General Manager of COMO Maalifushi, he embodies the spirit of excellence and service that characterizes this luxurious resort in Thaa Atoll. Sobhaa’s journey from young ambitious to seasoned leader is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the art of hospitality.
Sober’s hospitality adventure began early in his career, straight after graduating from school. He got his start in the industry at Paradise Island Resort where he imbibed the core principles of guest service and operational excellence. However, his trajectory took a decisive turn in 2002 when he was offered the opportunity to join the front office team at COMO Cocoa Island.
Sobha subsequently rose through the ranks within COMO Hotels & Resorts through various leadership roles including Duty Manager, Assistant Front Office Manager and Front Office Manager in 2011. In 2013, he embarked on a key chapter in his career when he joined the pre-opening team of COMO Maalifushi and in recognition of his astute leadership and unwavering dedication, he was promoted to Director of Rooms in 2017.
By 2020, Sobhaa had taken over the responsibilities of Resort Manager and Acting General Manager, ably and acumenically leading the operations of COMO Maalifushi. His journey culminated in February 2022 when he was appointed General Manager, marking a historic moment for him as one of the first Maldivians to hold such a prestigious position within an international hotel chain.
Throughout Sobha’s illustrious career, COMO Hotels & Resorts has provided him with invaluable opportunities for professional growth, including international cross-exposure and participation in renowned training programs. In 2010, Sobha completed his hotel management training program at COMO The Halkin and COMO Metropolitan in London, laying a strong foundation for his subsequent achievements. Among his most notable achievements is earning a Master’s in Hospitality Management from Cornell University, where he honed his skills in leadership, revenue management and financial acumen. He also further developed his management skills with an MBA from Maldives Business School.
At the heart of Sobha’s philosophy is the relentless pursuit of superior guest service and continuous improvement. He drives a culture of excellence within COMO Maalifushi, emphasising the importance of motivating and empowering team members. Additionally, Sobha highlights that sustainability is essential for both the resort and the wider hospitality industry in the Maldives.
COMO Maalifushi’s commitment to sustainability resonates deeply with Sobha, who actively engages guests in conservation by spearheading various environmental initiatives such as coral propagation. Sobha firmly believes that sustainable practices are essential to safeguarding the untouched natural beauty of the Maldives for future generations.
Sobha said: “My career journey has been guided by my passion for hospitality and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As a Maldivian, I am immensely proud to lead COMO Maalifushi and contribute to the growth of tourism in this beautiful country. Sustainability is not just a choice but a responsibility, and I am committed to ensuring COMO Maalifushi sets the benchmark for eco-friendly luxury. COMO Hotels & Resorts shares this commitment to excellence and fosters a culture that supports and nurtures our team members to develop into future leaders, ensuring a bright future for hospitality in the Maldives. We believe investing in our people is vital to our long-term success.”
Sobha offers sage advice to aspiring hoteliers, emphasizing the importance of dedication, continuous learning and a true passion for service. He encourages young professionals to embrace challenges, seize opportunities for growth and never lose sight of the profound impact they can have in shaping memorable guest experiences.
Sobha further added, “In the dynamic landscape of the hospitality industry, adaptability and innovation are key. It is imperative to stay tuned to changing guest preferences and industry trends while maintaining our core values of authenticity and excellence.”
Mohamed Sobha’s journey from up-and-coming figure in the hospitality industry to celebrated leader of COMO Maalifushi is a perfect example of the transformative power of passion, perseverance and purpose. His unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with an unwavering dedication to sustainability, has cemented his position as a pioneer in the Maldives’ vibrant hospitality industry. Under Sobha’s leadership, COMO Maalifushi continues to redefine luxury hospitality, staying true to its vision of providing heartfelt, immersive experiences set in the splendor of the Maldives’ azure waters.
