Cheval Collection, the UK-based, award-winning luxury hospitality company, has appointed Robert Nicolas as cluster director of sales for its two luxury serviced apartment properties in Dubai.
With over two decades’ experience in hospitality, Robert leads sales at Cheval Maison – The Palm and Cheval Maison – Expo City which, collectively, have 282 keys.
Robert has a proven track record of accelerating growth and maximising return on investment in competitive markets.
Before joining Cheval, Robert held senior commercial roles at several luxury hotels and serviced residences in the UAE, including The Biltmore Hotel Villas in Dubai, Sharjah’s Chedi Al Bait and Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa, and a cluster of Anantara Hotels & Resorts in Abu Dhabi.
John Raffoul, cluster general manager, Cheval Collection Dubai, said: “Robert’s extensive experience and deep knowledge of the UAE hospitality sector is invaluable to Cheval’s properties on The Palm and at Expo City. It’s a pleasure to welcome him on board as we enter our busiest time of the year, with the UAE’s event season and peak travel period on the horizon.”
Commenting on his appointment, Nicolas added: “Having worked across many segments of the market, I am now adding the serviced apartment sector to my resume. Cheval Collection is renowned for its stunning properties, first-rate amenities and giving guests the privacy, time and attention to make them feel at home. I am delighted to be on board and look forward to being part of the company’s continued growth and success in the region.”
The luxury serviced apartment group, continues to grow its international portfolio through management contracts and recently moved into the branded residences sector with properties in London and Dubai.
The opening of the Cheval Maison – Expo City Dubai in March 2025 expanded Cheval Collection’s portfolio to more than 950 units. Cheval Ladun Living, the group’s first property in Saudi Arabia, is scheduled to open in Riyadh in 2027, followed by Cheval Maison Sulaymaniyah, located close to King Salman Park in the heart of Riyadh, in 2028. Additional properties, more properties, including ventures in new markets, will be announced soon.
