John Raffoul Appointed Cluster General Manager for Cheval Collection Dubai

DUBAI, UAE – Cheval Collection has appointed John Raffoul as Cluster General Manager for its two serviced hotel apartment properties in Dubai, strengthening its leadership team as the UK-based luxury hospitality company continues its regional expansion.

Raffoul brings 23 years of hospitality experience in the Middle East to the role and will oversee the operations of Cheval Maison The Palm and Cheval Maison Expo City, which together comprise 282 keys.

He previously served as General Manager of Cheval Maison The Palm, which opened in 2023 and was named Best Debut Hotel Apartments the following year. The property has also received the 2026 Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Award. Cheval Maison Expo City, which opened in 2024, secured the Best Debut Hotel Apartments title in 2025.

The appointment comes as Cheval Collection enters a new phase of growth in the Middle East, with two luxury serviced apartment developments currently under construction in Riyadh. The company has also recently expanded into the branded residences sector with the launch of Cheval Residences Dubai Islands, its first branded residential project in the region.

Nick Pilbeam, Chief Commercial Officer at Cheval Collection, said: "John’s well-deserved appointment is a testament to his skills, performance and unwavering dedication, which are reflected in consistently high ratings in customer feedback and guest satisfaction. John is playing a key role in further elevating our brand, reputation and offering in the Middle East, and as we continue our regional expansion, we are delighted to have him at the helm of our stunning flagship properties at The Palm and Expo City.”

Cheval Maison The Palm and Cheval Maison Expo City offer pet-friendly accommodation with studios and one to three-bedroom serviced apartments, each featuring fully equipped kitchens and views across Dubai. Both properties also include rooftop swimming pools, fitness facilities and on-site dining venues.

The two properties have recently progressed from Bronze to Silver under Green Tourism's sustainability rating scheme, with the company targeting a Gold accreditation as part of its regional and global sustainability objectives.

Cheval Collection is also nearing completion of a major refurbishment programme at Cheval Maison The Palm, while several upgrades are currently under way at Cheval Maison Expo City.