CEO Insights Magazine

It’s easy to look at successful business leaders and marvel at their accomplishments. Yet, these achievers don’t just appear out of thin air; they work towards success with humble beginnings beyond all obstacles, to becoming successful with dedication and effort. CEO Insights’ exclusive team rendezvous with one such persevering, high-achieving business leader, Abdul Shukoor (CEO, Aurora Hotels International) who has been hustling in the global hospitality space from the beginning of his journey, grinding from the lowest ranks of Food & Beverage to the top managing luxurious property portfolios.

Abdul has been pushing boundaries in the hospitality industry for 21 years, from setting up iconic hotels and resorts to creating trendy  hotspots on four different continents. He thrives on challenges and revels in thinking outside the box to shake up business models. At Aurora Hotels International, with his true passion for the industry and determined vision and strategic direction, Abdul has been able to contribute significantly to business development and strategic leadership of brand creation and positioning. And has cultivated a forward-thinking, inclusive, and performance-oriented business culture to lead the industry in innovation and push progress.

Let’s hear it from Abdul as he speaks volumes about his journey and more.

You have more than twenty-one years of experience. Could you please share your path to success and your success mantra?

I see myself as a student of life, always hungry for knowledge and constantly striving to stay relevant in a world that's always shifting. My success isn't tied to the years I have put in but to the lessons I have learned and the way I have adapted. I learn from everyone – even my youngest employees and my kid because this game is all about building people and communities and making those connections count. Throughout my journey, I have collaborated with some reputed names in the industry like

Mandarin Oriental Singapore, Swissotel Krasnye Holmy Moscow Russia, Kempinski Ishtar Dead-Sea Jordan, Katara Hospitality’s luxurious properties and The Pearl Island in Qatar. But at the end of the day, my drive comes from living purposefully. It's all about knowing that the grind is creating something meaningful not just for me, but for the people in my life – my family, friends, and team.

How would you define Aurora Hotels International as an organization and its current position in the market?

Aurora Hotels International is a rising hospitality group, spearheading the development of fresh & innovative hotel concepts across South East Asia. We are new in this market and we are here to make waves. We have got our core principles – our vision, mission, and values – and these will not bend no matter the pressure, except for our operational strategies which are flexible. We will change our strategies and adapt based on market conditions, location, and cultural shifts.

Tell us about your flagship offerings and what are the value additions that customers can expect from your offerings.

Every brand under Aurora Hotels International (AHI) has its own DNA. Take Aurora One, it's a boutique hotel where our guests pay for what matters. We focus on the essentials – comfy beds, high-speed Wi- Fi, top-notch coffee, and no unnecessary formalities. Then there's Aurora Suites, for those looking for a home away from home. And Infinite by Aurora is people’s go-to for resort living with top-tier branded experiences. But what ties everything together is our commitment to breaking the mould. We don't play by the book; we write our own rules based on careful research to create unique and meaningful experiences for every guest.

What is your leadership approach?

Leadership to me is all about walking the walk. It's about setting the tone, and showing the way, just like Simon Sinek puts it – 'Leaders eat last', that is the code I live by.

What is the future destination you are heading towards?

With the vision to expand and grow our business, we have got our eyes on some pretty exciting horizons like Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Africa. And we are always on the lookout for innovative investors and partners who share our vision.

In light of your strong experience within the industry, what advice would you give to budding industry leaders?

I would advise budding leaders to foster a culture of openness and transparency. They must make their team's work experience rewarding and fulfilling, recognize their accomplishments, help them grow, and create opportunities for them to advance. This, I believe, is the true meaning of being a leader.

Abdul Shukoor, CEO, Aurora Hotels International

Having an MBA from Preston University, Abdul brings 21 years of leadership in Hotels and Resorts, Residences, Malls, High-End Retail, and F&B industries along with an entrepreneurial, forward-thinking mindset and demonstrated track record of accomplishments in the global hospitality industry.

Hobbies: Traveling, exploring African Contemporary Arts, or hunting for rare gems

Favorite Cuisine: Vegetarian Italian, Indian, or Chinese

Favorite Book: The Book of Wisdom, The Holy Quran

Favorite Travel Destination: China, Japan, and South Africa

Awards & Recognition: Recognized with over 20 Tourism Industry Awards worldwide