From lifeguard to leader, creating joy and safety across resorts

1. Medhat, can you briefly introduce yourself and your journey into the world of recreation and hospitality?
I started my journey in hospitality as a lifeguard in Savoy Hotels in Sharm El-Sheikh in 2010. Three years later, I moved to the United Arab Emirates as a lifeguard at Le Meridien Mina Seyahi in Dubai. My passion and dedication helped me grow into a Recreation Supervisor in 2013, then Assistant Recreation Manager, and eventually Cluster Recreation Manager at Coral Beach Resort Sharjah and Ajman Palace Hotel. I later joined Kempinski Royal Maxim Palace in Cairo as Recreation Manager and now serve as Recreation Manager at Rixos Premium Seagate in Sharm El-Sheikh. I graduated from the Faculty of Education at Assiut University in 2007, but my heart has always been in the recreation and leisure field.

2. In your own words, how would you define the role of the Recreation Department in a resort today?
The Recreation Department plays a pivotal role in enhancing guest experiences. It is responsible for designing and delivering leisure activities that enrich the stay. Whether organizing outdoor adventures, maintaining fitness spaces, or coordinating cultural programs, this department helps create a dynamic and engaging environment. It fosters relaxation, entertainment, and wellness, ultimately contributing to guest satisfaction and the success of the property.

3. How large is the team you currently lead, and what’s your strategy for keeping them aligned and motivated?
I currently manage around 60 team members across a large property with 1,200 rooms, 14 swimming pools, a 500-meter beach with a jetty, three fitness centers, and two tennis courts. My strategy includes implementing high safety standards, clear SOPs, and a loyalty program that rewards both colleagues and guests.

4. Why do you believe standard operating procedures (SOPs) are critical for the success of a recreation department?
SOPs are the daily, weekly, and monthly roadmap. They allow you to measure goals clearly and understand where your team stands every single day.

5. What role do regular trainings play in maintaining high service standards and team consistency?
Training is the foundation of teamwork and confidence. It builds knowledge, shapes behavior, and especially in lifeguarding, helps the team stay ready and safe in emergency situations.

6. You’ve worked in multiple resorts across Egypt and the UAE, what key experiences shaped your leadership approach?
My experience in both countries helped me develop a leadership style built on leading by example. What the team sees, they replicate. Daily situations during operations teach them how a leader responds. I also encourage creativity, which has become a secret ingredient to our team’s success.

7. What are your top three favorite activities for adults, and which three do kids enjoy the most under your programs?
For adults, snorkeling in the Red Sea, gym workouts (indoor and outdoor), and tennis sessions are the most popular. For kids, our tennis academy program, creative pool games, and structured outdoor activities lead the list.

8. Safety is everything, how do you ensure both poolside and beachfront areas meet the highest safety standards?
Safety comes first. I focus on trained team members and proper equipment. We implement hazard analysis based on ISO standards and SafeHotels SOPs. We cover all blind spots using a zoning system, rotating lifeguards with the international 10-20 rule (10 minutes scanning, 20 seconds response). Rescue gear is always accessible, and proper communication channels are in place.

9. What core responsibilities do you assign to your lifeguards to maintain both guest safety and service excellence?
Their main responsibility is guest safety. Preventing accidents is the goal. Recognizing weak swimmers quickly helps prevent drowning. Lifeguards must always stay alert and never wait for hazards to occur — they must act before they arise.

10. We’ve heard you’re launching a Mermaid Academy, can you tell us more about it and who it’s designed for?
The Mermaid Academy, for both kids and adults, is currently under review. It involves mermaid costumes and photo sessions in the Red Sea with coral reefs and beautiful marine life. It’s a unique experience combining fantasy with the natural underwater world of Sharm El-Sheikh.

11. When it comes to creating memorable birthday surprises for guests, what’s your secret ingredient?
With help from the front office, we identify celebrating guests. We surprise them with towel art, balloons, and team celebrations involving lifeguards, F&B staff, and pool attendants. These shared moments leave unforgettable memories for our guests.

12. What makes your tennis academy special, and how has it become something you’re proud of at the resort?
The children’s tennis academy is a highlight. Led by experienced coaches, we host regular sessions and award certificates and medals. It creates joy and builds lasting memories for young guests who love the sport.