Inside the Vision of Julio Rafael Driving Brand Excellence at Jannah Hotels and Resorts
Julio Rafael, Marketing and Communications Director at Jannah Hotels and Resorts, is playing a central role in strengthening the group’s brand positioning and driving digital-led growth across its expanding hospitality portfolio in the UAE.
With nearly a decade of experience in luxury hospitality marketing, Rafael oversees marketing strategy for the EDGE Hotels portfolio, managing branding and communications across six hotels, 12 restaurants, and 24 luxury villas located in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Ras Al Khaimah. His remit also includes leadership of a large in-house team covering social media, content creation, photography and videography, graphic design, digital marketing, and web development.
Rafael’s work has earned significant industry recognition. In 2025, he was named the Winner of the Hotelier Marketing Power List, following earlier recognition as one of the Top 30 Sales and Marketing Leaders in the Middle East in 2023. These accolades reflect his focus on measurable brand growth, strategic storytelling, and long-term market relevance.
At Jannah Hotels and Resorts, Rafael has led multiple pre-opening initiatives, brand activations, and digital platform enhancements, delivering integrated campaigns designed to improve visibility and commercial performance. Under his leadership, social media and influencer programmes have driven sustained growth in engagement and brand awareness, earning nominations and awards from leading publications including What’s On, Time Out, Fact Magazine, Forbes, Hoteliers, Arabian Hospitality, and World Luxurious Hotels.
A key aspect of his role involves managing strategic partnerships with airlines, travel agencies, banks, and major global events such as Formula 1 Abu Dhabi, UFC, NBA, and International Basketball Week, aligning hospitality offerings with high-profile lifestyle and entertainment platforms.
Prior to joining Jannah Hotels and Resorts, Rafael served as Cluster Marketing Manager at Capital Motion and Marketing Manager at Al Forsan International Sports Resort. During this period, he delivered award-winning campaigns and led record-breaking events, including a Guinness World Record, significantly expanding brand reach and audience engagement.
Known for his results-driven approach and innovative marketing strategies, Rafael continues to guide Jannah Hotels and Resorts through digital innovation, experiential marketing, and regional expansion, supporting sustainable growth while enhancing guest experiences across the group’s hospitality assets.
