Unique Hotel & Resorts CEO recognised as Tourism Face of South Asia

Dhaka: Md Shakawath Hossain, CEO of Unique Hotel & Resorts PLC, has been honoured with the Tourism Face of South Asia Award at the prestigious 8th Edition of the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2024.

The award ceremony took place at Aloft Kathmandu, Nepal, on Friday (Sep 20)  recognising leaders across the region for their exceptional contributions to the growth and development of the South Asian tourism industry, read a press release.

The Coin Award was handed over by Nepal’s Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey.

With a career spanning over 20 years, Shakawath Hossain has been a driving force in shaping the hospitality industry in Bangladesh.

He is the only Bangladeshi hotelier who is an industry practitioner, academician, and researcher, pursuing a PhD in Tourism & Hospitality Management at the University of Dhaka and has been recognised with multiple national and international awards.

He is also the only hotelier in Bangladesh who has started his career at scratch level and worked in different leadership capacities with Starwood International & Marriott International.

Now as the CEO of Unique Hotel & Resorts, he looks after the company-owned The Westin Dhaka, Sheraton Dhaka, and HANSA Premium Residence.

Shakawath Hossain has been instrumental in elevating Bangladesh's hospitality and tourism sector, driving significant growth through his innovative strategies and commitment to excellence, read the release.

Under his stewardship, Unique Hotel & Resorts has solidified its position as a leader in the South Asian hospitality scene, with The Westin Dhaka, Sheraton Dhaka, and HANSA Premium Residence setting new benchmarks for luxury, customer service, and sustainability in the region.

The Tourism Face of South Asia Award is one of the highest accolades at the SATA, highlighting individuals who have not only contributed to their own country’s tourism sector but also made a significant impact across the entire South Asian region.

This recognition further cements Shakawath’s legacy as a visionary leader in hospitality.

Commenting on his achievement, Shakawath said, “I am deeply honored to receive this prestigious recognition. This award is a testament of the trust and support that I have received from our Chairperson Ms Salina Ali, Managing Director Mr Mohd Noor Ali and the Board of Directors.

“Also, I would like to appreciate the collective efforts of my dedicated team and the continuous support from our partners, stakeholders, and the hospitality industry in Bangladesh.”

He added, “I remain committed to further innovating our country's tourism potential and contributing towards creating an inclusive environment in the South Asian Hospitality & Tourism Market.”

The South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) has been recognising the best of South Asia’s hospitality and travel industry since 2016.

The prestigious annual event honours stellar organisations and industry professionals in a wide array of categories, highlighting their contributions to the growth and promotion of tourism in South Asia.

This achievement reflects not only Shakawath Hossain’s personal dedication to excellence but also underscores Bangladesh’s growing prominence as a key player in the regional hospitality and tourism industry.

-B