Cheval Collection appoints cluster DOS Dubai

UAE: Luxury serviced apartment operator Cheval Collection has appointed Robert Nicolas as cluster director of sales for its two Dubai properties. 

Nicolas brings over two decades of experience in hospitality to the role. He will oversee sales at Cheval Maison – The Palm and Cheval Maison – Expo City, which collectively have 282 keys.

Before Cheval, Nicolas held senior commercial roles at several luxury hotels and serviced residences in the UAE, including The Biltmore Hotel Villas in Dubai, Sharjah’s Chedi Al Bait, and Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa, alongside a cluster of Anantara Hotels & Resorts in Abu Dhabi. 

“Having worked across many segments of the market, I am now adding the serviced apartment sector to my resume,” said Nicolas. “Cheval Collection is renowned for its stunning properties, first-rate amenities and giving guests the privacy, time and attention to make them feel at home. I am delighted to be on board and look forward to being part of the company’s continued growth and success in the region.”

John Raffoul, cluster general manager, Cheval Collection Dubai, said: “Robert’s extensive experience and deep knowledge of the UAE hospitality sector is invaluable to Cheval’s properties on The Palm and at Expo City. It’s a pleasure to welcome him on board as we enter our busiest time of the year, with the UAE’s event season and peak travel period on the horizon.”

Cheval Ladun Living, the group’s first property in Saudi Arabia, is scheduled to open in Riyadh in 2027, followed by Cheval Maison Sulaymaniyah, located close to King Salman Park, in 2028.

Highlights:

• Luxury accommodation operator Cheval Collection has appointed Robert Nicolas as cluster director of sales across its UAE properties.
• Nicolas brings more than 20 years of commercial hospitality experience in the UAE, having previously held senior sales roles with The Biltmore Hotel Villas, The Chedi Al Bait, Sheraton, and Anantara.
• Working alongside cluster general manager John Raffoul, Nicolas will oversee commercial operations for 282 keys between Cheval Maison – The Palm and Cheval Maison – Expo City.
• The strategic appointment supports Cheval’s Middle East pipeline, which includes upcoming Saudi Arabia openings in Riyadh—Cheval Ladun Living in 2027 and Cheval Maison Sulaymaniyah in 2028.