IHG Hotels & Resorts has made a historic appointment in Oman. Yousuf Al Rahbi has been named General Manager of Crowne Plaza Duqm. He is the first Omani national to hold such a position with IHG in the Sultanate. His appointment highlights the group’s commitment to developing local leadership. It also shows Oman’s rising role in the region’s fast-growing hospitality industry.

A Milestone for IHG and Oman’s Hospitality Sector

Yousuf Al Rahbi’s appointment is more than just a career success. It is a milestone for IHG in Oman. For the first time, an Omani national has stepped into the general manager role for the group in the country. This move shows IHG’s trust in local talent. It also aligns with Oman’s wider vision of empowering its people in key industries. Duqm, a strategic coastal city, is central to Oman’s tourism plans. Having a local leader at the helm of Crowne Plaza Duqm brings cultural authenticity and deeper community connections to the resort’s operations.

Ten Years of Dedication with IHG

Al Rahbi’s journey to this appointment reflects a decade of growth and determination. He joined IHG in 2015 as Director of Human Resources at InterContinental Muscat. His leadership skills quickly earned recognition, and he became Area Director of HR for Oman. From there, he transitioned into hotel operations, taking on the role of Hotel Manager at InterContinental Muscat. Earlier in 2025, he was seconded to Crowne Plaza Duqm as part of a task force. His performance stood out, proving his ability to lead and deliver results. This progression shows the strength of IHG’s career pathways for local talent.

Journey to General Manager Programme Success

IHG has long invested in developing future leaders. Al Rahbi’s success is a direct outcome of the group’s Journey to General Manager programme. This leadership pathway is designed to prepare high-potential individuals for senior management roles. Through structured training, mentoring, and real-world assignments, the programme nurtures strong hotel leaders. Al Rahbi’s progression from HR to operations and now to General Manager proves the model’s effectiveness. His appointment sets an example for other aspiring Omani professionals who want to build successful careers in hospitality with IHG.

Driving Growth at Crowne Plaza Duqm

As General Manager, Al Rahbi will oversee all aspects of Crowne Plaza Duqm’s operations. This includes guest experience, financial performance, and strategic direction. The hotel plays a vital role in Duqm’s economic and tourism landscape, as the region continues to attract investment and international attention. With his experience, Al Rahbi is expected to elevate service standards and strengthen the resort’s reputation. His leadership is set to make the hotel a benchmark for quality hospitality in Oman. His focus on operational excellence and people development will bring long-term growth for the property.

Empowering Omani Talent Through Leadership

Beyond his career with IHG, Al Rahbi is an alumnus of Omran Group’s Lift Program. This national initiative supports Omani talent in tourism and hospitality leadership. As part of its first cohort, Al Rahbi has mentored and inspired young professionals across the sector. His new role at Crowne Plaza Duqm gives him a stronger platform to continue this work. For the Omani hospitality industry, his rise is a powerful symbol of what can be achieved when global brands and national initiatives work together to empower local talent.

A New Era for Omani Leadership in Hotels

Al Rahbi’s appointment reflects a wider trend in the Gulf’s tourism and hospitality sector. Countries are placing greater emphasis on national talent development. For Oman, this appointment is a step towards creating a generation of local leaders in the global hotel industry. With IHG’s support, Al Rahbi is now positioned to guide Crowne Plaza Duqm into a new era. His story shows that local leadership can drive global standards. It also shows how strategic talent development benefits both businesses and nations.

Conclusion
Yousuf Al Rahbi’s rise to General Manager of Crowne Plaza Duqm is a landmark for IHG and Oman. He is the first Omani national to hold such a role in the group’s history in the Sultanate. His appointment reflects a decade of hard work, IHG’s leadership development focus, and Oman’s vision for empowering its people. As he takes charge in Duqm, Al Rahbi will shape not only the future of the hotel but also inspire the next generation of Omani hospitality leaders. His story is one of growth, commitment, and opportunity — a true example of leadership in action.

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