Accor has named Raki Phillips as Regional President for its Premium, Midscale & Economy (PME) division across the Middle East, Africa, and Türkiye, a key leadership move that underscores the group’s long-term commitment to one of its most strategically important regions. Phillips will officially take on the role in November 2025, succeeding Paul Stevens.
In his new position, Phillips will be responsible for overseeing the performance of hotel operations across more than 250 properties in 27 countries, and will also manage the pipeline of 85+ upcoming hotel openings across the region. He will report directly to Duncan O’Rourke, CEO of Accor’s Premium, Midscale & Economy division for the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific.
The appointment comes at a time of significant growth and momentum for Accor in the region, with a portfolio comprising over 350 hotels (92,000 rooms) and a pipeline of 140 hotels (31,000 rooms) under development. The PME division continues to post strong year-on-year growth, with UAE, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia among the standout performers in both operations and new development.
A highly respected tourism leader
Raki Phillips brings with him over 20 years of global hospitality and tourism leadership, and is widely regarded as one of the Middle East’s most dynamic and forward-thinking figures in the sector. Most recently, he served as CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), where he played a pivotal role in transforming the Emirate into one of the region’s fastest-growing and most progressive tourism destinations.
During his tenure at RAKTDA, the Emirate saw tourism revenues triple, expanded international airlift, and secured major investments—including the landmark Wynn Resorts deal, the largest foreign direct investment in Ras Al Khaimah’s history. Phillips also championed a number of sustainability-focused initiatives, contributing to the Emirate’s growing reputation as a responsible and innovative destination.
A deep hospitality background
Prior to his role at RAKTDA, Phillips held senior commercial positions at Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, where he contributed to global brand expansion and brought operational insight to complex hospitality projects. His contributions included the ramp-up of the Fairmont, Raffles and Swissôtel Makkah Complex and the development of Fairmont properties across the Middle East and India.
His career also includes leadership roles with Ritz-Carlton and Universal Studios Orlando, equipping him with a well-rounded mix of operational and commercial expertise. In recent years, he has been consistently recognised among the Middle East’s top travel and tourism executives, known for his results-driven leadership, community engagement, and innovation-focused mindset.
Accor: local leadership with regional impact
Welcoming the appointment, Duncan O’Rourke, CEO of the Premium, Midscale & Economy division across the Middle East, Africa & Asia Pacific, stated:
“Raki brings a rare combination of commercial agility, regional knowledge, and purpose-led leadership. As we move into the next stage of growth in the Middle East, Africa and Türkiye, it’s important we strengthen our leadership presence locally. With his deep understanding of the region, and strong relationships across both public and private sectors, Raki is perfectly positioned to deepen our community ties, accelerate development, and continue to elevate the strength of our brands. His appointment reflects our long-term commitment to the region and our belief in the power of local leadership to drive impact.”
Based in Dubai, Phillips will oversee an extensive brand portfolio, including Swissôtel, Pullman, Mövenpick, Novotel, Mercure, and ibis. He will also support Accor’s hotel owners and partners in unlocking long-term value and guest loyalty, particularly as demand for diverse hospitality experiences continues to rise in key markets.
A transition shaped by legacy
Phillips takes over from Paul Stevens, who will depart in October after nearly 30 years with Accor. Under Stevens’ leadership, the PME division witnessed significant growth, operational excellence, and a strong cultural transformation.
A champion of purpose and inclusion, Stevens spearheaded several standout initiatives including Choir Games, Think Like an Owner, and Race to Survive, raising millions for children’s health and community causes. He also led the implementation of DIA, Purpose Week, Accor’s Purpose Statement, and the localised rollout of RiiSE and SheLeads across Africa, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye. His impact earned him multiple global recognitions, including Best Business Unit and several Bernache Awards for ESG and business performance.
Looking ahead
Phillips’ appointment comes at a moment when Accor’s ambitions in the region are accelerating. With strong brand equity, a robust pipeline, and increasing demand across the Premium, Midscale & Economy segments, his leadership is set to play a defining role in the next chapter of growth for Accor in the Middle East, Africa and Türkiye.
As Accor deepens its investment in local leadership and community engagement, Phillips’ arrival signals not only a strategic handover but a continued commitment to long-term regional impact.
…
Photo top of page: ACCOR
…
Read also: Exclusive interview @ ILTM 2024: Sébastien Bazin, CEO of Accor Group
