CEO Insights Magazine

The tourism industry, characterized by its dynamic and ever-evolving nature, thrives under the guidance of visionary industry leaders. Armed with insightful perspectives and strategic acumen, these leaders navigate the intricacies of global travel trends, customer expectations, and sustainability imperatives. Their skill in adapting to shifting landscapes, combined with their dedication to crafting unforgettable experiences, profoundly shapes the trajectory of travel, enriching the lives of countless adventurers around the world.

Among these trailblazers, Mustafa Saifuddin stands out as a dynamic industry leader in tourism. His journey, which transitioned from cargo management to co-founding Rifaa Tours, epitomizes transformation and growth. His venture into the travel industry in 2016 was marked by a passion for knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Guided by a vision to create extraordinary journeys, Mustafa's leadership has propelled Rifaa Tours, firmly establishing it as a trusted name in the ever-evolving landscape of tourism. In an exclusive interaction with CEO Insights Asia, Mustafa Saifuddin sheds light on his professional attributes and provides deeper insights into the journey of Rifaa Tours.

Talk about your professional background and experiences and also what is the motivation that fuels your daily routine?

My journey commenced in the cargo industry back in 2013. For three years, I navigated the intricacies of cargo management, ensuring timely deliveries even under pressure. However, in 2016, I yearned for something new, a change that led me to the vibrant realm of Dubai's tourism industry. This move was a significant leap, but it exposed me to various cultures and ignited a passion for learning. Teaming up with a friend who had a decade of experience in the travel sector, I started Rifaa Tours. Over the years, we've established a strong presence, serving around 20,000 customers annually. My daily motivation comes from a thirst for learning and improvement. Every day, I aim to enhance my skills, witnessing my progress and the positive difference I can make.

How would you define Rifaa Tours as an organization and its current position in the market?

Rifaa Tours is a specialist in providing unparalleled travel and tourism services. Our offerings range from meticulously planned trips to seamless bookings, all with the goal of ensuring travelers have unforgettable experiences. With a proud track record of serving over 20,000 customers annually and a dedicated team, Rifaa Tours is positioned as a trusted name in the industry.

Rifaa Tours is designed to provide an exceptional travel service, which caters to a variety of preferences and interests. At Rifaa Tours, we pride ourselves on crafting experiences that leave a lasting impact. Our personalized itineraries, expert guidance, and seamless bookings set us apart. Cultural experiences are a hallmark, and our flexibility and value-for-money packages resonate with our customers. Our core focus remains passengers' security, while the lasting memories we create form the ultimate value addition.

What are the major challenges you have encountered initially while establishing yourself as a successful leader?

As a fledgling leader, building trust among customers and my team proved daunting. Gaining reliability was vital, and my commitment shone through my actions. Decision-making was a tightrope walk, where mistakes were unwelcome. Balancing responsibilities, time, and team leadership was like juggling. Delegation and prioritization emerged as my allies, allowing me to manage time effectively. Adapting to industry trends was crucial, prompting continuous learning and upskilling. Seeking guidance from mentors and colleagues, I fortified relationships, honed decision-making skills, and embraced my leadership role with greater confidence.

Could you elaborate on your leadership approach and principles?

My leadership approach centers on collaboration, fostering growth, and ensuring customer happiness. I paint a clear vision of our trajectory while empowering my team to steer tasks independently. Open communication is key, where every voice counts. Continuous learning is a cornerstone, and acknowledging the team's hard work is paramount. The happiness of our customers is our guiding principle, and I ensure that we maintain ethical practices. By nurturing these aspects, I aim to steer our team toward success and make our customers happy.

What is the future roadmap you have envisioned for yourself as well as for the company for the next five years?

The next five years hold exciting possibilities for Rifaa Tours. I envision our agency as a prominent name in the industry, harnessing cutting-edge technology to enhance travel experiences. Expanding our horizons to new destinations is on the horizon, while environmental consciousness and community impact will shape our operations. I aspire for Rifaa Tours to be the epitome of exceptional journeys and a trusted choice for explorers.

What advice do you have for emerging industry leaders?

To those embarking on their leadership journey - embrace adaptability, engagement, and innovation. Analyze your strategies, adapt to changing dynamics, and engage closely with your team and customers. Learn from experiences and consistently seek innovative solutions to address challenges. Growth in the dynamic travel industry hinges on continuous improvement and the ability to navigate change.

Mustafa Saifuddin, Business Owner, Rifaa Tours

Mustafa Saifuddin, an accomplished professional with diverse experience spanning both cargo and tourism industries, is the visionary behind Rifaa Tours. Transitioning from cargo intricacies to leading a dynamic travel agency serving 20,000 customers yearly, he's driven by a ceaseless passion for growth and excellence, guiding his team toward innovation in the evolving travel domain.

Quick Facts:

Hobbies:Traveling, Cycling, Movies, Studying about my industry, New products, Keeping note on world affairs

Favorite Cuisine: Indian

Awards and Recognitions: Recognized by the Sharjah tourism board for promoting Sharjah tourism