Assistant Banquet Manager (Arabic Speaker)

About the role

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, a 5-star beach resort in Abu Dhabi, is looking for an Assistant Banquet Manager who speaks Arabic. The role supports the Banquet Manager in overseeing all banquet operations, including weddings, corporate meetings, conferences, social gatherings and special events, and ensures they run smoothly in line with approved event orders, hotel standards and guest expectations.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate with Sales, Events, Culinary, Stewarding, Housekeeping and Engineering teams to meet event requirements.
• Monitor event setup, food and beverage service, table arrangements and presentation.
• Conduct pre-event briefings and supervise the smooth execution of events.
• Communicate professionally with Arabic-speaking and international guests, handle feedback and service recovery, and build relationships with clients and event organizers.
• Supervise, motivate and guide banquet colleagues; assist with training, coaching and performance monitoring.
• Prepare duty assignments, coordinate staffing and hold team briefings.
• Support cost control, labour productivity, food and beverage wastage and revenue optimization.
• Complete banquet checklists, event reports and other documentation accurately.
• Ensure compliance with hotel policies, food safety, hygiene and UAE health and safety requirements, and keep banquet areas clean and ready.

Required profile

• Diploma or degree in Hospitality Management, Hotel Administration or a related field preferred.
• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in banquet operations or F&B service in a luxury hotel; previous supervisory experience in banquets is essential.
• Experience with weddings, corporate functions, conferences and large events is highly desirable.
• Fluency in Arabic and English, written and spoken, is mandatory.
• Ability to work flexible shifts, including evenings, weekends and public holidays.

Required skills

• Strong knowledge of banquet service standards, event setups, F&B operations and guest service procedures.
• Strong communication, organizational, leadership and problem-solving skills.