Accor Names Raki Phillips Regional President of Premium, Midscale & Economy for Middle East, Africa & Türkiye

Raki Phillips, Regional President of Premium, Midscale & Economy at Accor for the Middle East, Africa & Türkiye

A new chapter of regional leadership, innovation and hospitality excellence begins in November 2025

Accor is pleased to announce the appointment of Raki Phillips as Regional President for its Premium, Midscale & Economy (PME) division across the Middle East, Africa, and Türkiye, effective November 2025. Phillips succeeds Paul Stevens in one of the group’s most strategically significant regions, overseeing a network of more than 250 operating hotels in 27 countries, with 85+ new properties in the pipeline.

Leadership with a Proven Track Record in Hospitality Excellence

Recognized as one of the Middle East’s most influential tourism executives, Raki Phillips brings over two decades of experience across global hospitality and destination development. As CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), he led the Emirate’s transformation into a fast-growing tourism hub—tripling revenues, expanding international airlift, and securing landmark deals such as Wynn Resorts, the largest FDI in the Emirate’s history.

Driving Regional Growth Through Strategic Insight

Phillips' background includes senior roles at Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, where he led commercial strategy and supported the expansion of luxury brands like Fairmont, Raffles, and Swissôtel. He played a key role in ramping up operations at iconic properties in Makkah, India, and throughout the Middle East, combining operational depth with strategic growth vision. His early career with Ritz-Carlton and Universal Studios further underscores his ability to deliver results across diverse hospitality landscapes.

Innovation at the Heart of Accor’s Regional Strategy

Reporting to Duncan O'Rourke, CEO of PME for Middle East, Africa & Asia Pacific, Phillips takes on this role at a time of robust momentum for Accor in the region. With over 350 hotels open, 92,000 rooms, and 140 properties under development, his appointment reinforces Accor’s focus on innovation, localization, and demand-driven expansion in high-performing markets such as the UAE, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia.

Building on a Legacy of Purpose-Led Leadership

Phillips steps into the role following the departure of Paul Stevens, whose nearly 30-year tenure at Accor was defined by cultural transformation, business excellence, and people-first leadership. Stevens leaves behind a legacy of standout initiatives—Choir Games, Race to Survive, Purpose Week, and regional rollout of RiiSE and SheLeads—cementing Accor’s commitment to ESG, inclusion, and community impact.

Hospitality Excellence Rooted in Local Relevance

Based in Dubai, Phillips will lead a diverse portfolio of beloved brands including Swissôtel, Pullman, Mövenpick, Novotel, Mercure, and ibis. His focus will include driving hotel performance, supporting owner success, and cultivating long-term guest loyalty through experiences tailored to local markets and cultures.

With a unique blend of strategic vision, operational excellence, and purpose-driven leadership, Raki Phillips is poised to shape the next era of growth and innovation for Accor’s PME division across the Middle East, Africa, and Türkiye.