Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya

Four Seasons Tenure

• Since 2012
• First Four Seasons Assignment: Four Seasons Hotel Baku, Azerbaijan

Employment History

• Four Seasons Hotel Baku, Azerbaijan; Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya, Kuwait; Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, UAE; Four Seasons Hotel Baku, Azerbaijan; Ramada Hotel, Baku, Azerbaijan

Education

• Baku State University, Azerbaijan – Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism and Hospitality

Birthplace

• Baku, Azerbaijan

Languages Spoken

• English, Azerbaijani, Russian, Turkish, Arabic (beginner)

Hospitality flows through Fariz Hajiyev’s veins. Born in Azerbaijan – a culture celebrated for its deep respect for guests – Fariz has an innate gift for making people feel at home. “Receiving visitors is an honour,” he says. “I love brightening someone’s day and creating a joyful environment.” It’s a passion that has driven Fariz’s extraordinary journey through the world of luxury hospitality. From bellman all the way to hotel manager, he has built a career rooted in meaningful connection.

Studies in tourism and hospitality refined Fariz’s intuitive talent for making people feel welcome and valued. Entering the luxury hotel industry, he rose rapidly through the ranks – bellman, receptionist, front office manager, concierge, guest services manager and rooms division manager. Throughout, his rare blend of warm people skills, creative adaptability and strategic vision shone. “Each step has been a learning experience,” he comments. “I take great pride in my journey, and in having mentored many team members while also being mentored along the way. Developing myself alongside helping others grow and succeed is one of the most rewarding parts of leadership.”

While Fariz enjoyed working across different departments, front office and guest experience remained his true passion: “It’s the heartbeat of any hotel, where first and last impressions are made. I love the dynamic nature of it – balancing operational efficiency with genuine hospitality, ensuring every guest feels special from the moment they arrive.”

Fariz joined the Four Seasons family in 2012 as Night Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Baku, Azerbaijan. Kuwait’s welcoming culture had a magnetic pull: first serving smiles as Front Office Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya in 2016, Fariz returned in 2022 as Director of Rooms. Today, he brings his expertise and insight into every aspect of hotel operations to his new role as Hotel Manager. It’s a natural fit: the Forbes Five-Star-rated hotel is renowned for its dazzling fusion of cutting-edge design and heartfelt hospitality rooted in Kuwaiti values. In this vibrant setting, Fariz’s sincere leadership style thrives. “Luxury hospitality for me is about personalisation, anticipation and emotional connection,” he muses. “True luxury is when a guest feels intuitively heard and valued beyond their expectations – something we can only create with genuine care. I’m excited about the opportunity to elevate our guest experience even further, so that every person who walks through our doors feels something unique – whether it’s their first stay or their tenth.”

This people-first mentality also extends to Fariz’s team management. His drive for excellence and strong work ethic foster a clear focus on accountability, high standards and attention to detail. Yet throughout, he emphasises the importance of communication, adding that “great leadership isn’t just about making decisions, optimising structure and enhancing efficiency; it’s about ensuring everyone feels heard and valued.”

Outside of his role at the hotel, Fariz loves to spend time with his family – “It’s my greatest way to unwind.” He also enjoys reading, playing football and travelling to experience different cultures, relishing the fresh perspectives it offers: “Travel deepens my understanding of people and places, bringing opportunities for connection that enrich my life in so many ways.”