Md Shakawath Hossain, chief executive officer of Unique Hotel and Resorts PLC (the owning company of The Westin Dhaka, Sheraton Dhaka, and HANSA Premium Residence) has been honored with the Tourism Face of South Asia Award at the prestigious eighth Edition of the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2024.
The award ceremony took place on Friday at Aloft Kathmandu, Nepal, recognizing leaders across the region for their exceptional contributions to the growth and development of the South Asian tourism industry.
Nepal's Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey handed over the award.
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 who is pursuing a PhD in Tourism and Hospitality Management at the University of Dhaka and has been recognized with multiple National and International awards.
He is also the only Hotelier in Bangladesh who has started his career at scratch level, worked in different leadership capacities with Starwood International and Marriott International and now as a CEO of Unique Hotel and Resorts PLC, he looks after The Westin Dhaka, Sheraton Dhaka, and HANSA Premium Residence.
Shakawath Hossain leadership has been instrumental in elevating Bangladesh's hospitality and tourism sector, driving significant growth through his innovative strategies and commitment to excellence. Under his stewardship, Unique Hotel and Resorts PLC 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 South Asian Travel Awards, 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, Md Shakawath Hossain 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 - Salina Ali, Managing Director - 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. I remain committed to further innovating our country's tourism potential and contributing towards creating an inclusive environment in the South Asian Hospitality and Tourism Market."
The South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) has been recognizing the best of South Asia’s hospitality and travel industry since 2016. The prestigious annual event honors stellar organizations 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 Md 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.
