Sun Multinational DMCC: Conquering business ventures in Africa

'Passionate' is how Rahul Sood, Group Managing Director - Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia, Sun Multinational DMCC, best describes himself, as he elaborates on his deeply embedded roots in the world of hospitality. He is at the helm of its regional business, playing a strong role in its core areas of expertise.
"I am a very passionate person - on both personal and professional levels. I further derive motivation from our very own employees. The hard work and dedication they give in order to drive our company is what motivates me to lead it every day in a successful manner," he said.
Sun Multinational DMCC is a conglomerate that manages 57 companies across 10 countries with headquarters in Dubai, UAE. Its main focus lies in Duty-Free, Hospitality, Automobiles, Jewellery, Mining, Real Estate, Commodities, Petroleum, Trading, Exports, Food Retail and Forex," he said. Furthermore, Sun Multinational DMCC also manages Hot Air Balloon Company in Africa - a unique experience where you can view exotic fauna and flora from high above.
"It is a luxury experience; something entirely different compared to other destinations," Sood said.
Personalised touch
Sun Multinational DMCC operates differently in each of its markets and industries, working alongside clientele to understand their demands and requirements.
"We work directly to acknowledge what is more important for the customers, rather than set a bulk of it. This is what makes us different. When you have similar products and services as many in the market, it is not just the value for money that sets you apart, but also the personalised touch you add," he added.
Future ventures
According to Sood, Sun Multinational DMCC is looking to expand further within the key sectors it is active in.
"We have just signed a brand-new duty free in Zambia that is scheduled to open in the first week of August. We are also looking at West Africa, where we plan to operate in duty-free and hospitality in Gambia, alongside a brand-new hotel that we recently signed up for in South Africa," he said.
While the UAE remains its headquarters, there are plans for expansion in Real Estate. Sood also shared that Sun Multinational DMCC aims to develop its existing hospitality brands in the coming months.
Recognition and achievements
Sun Multinational DMCC has received a number of accolades for its expertise. In 2018, it was recognised by a Lifestyle and Leisure magazine for running the best Luxury Lodges in Africa, with another nomination for the same category this year.
Furthermore, its Sun Africa Hotels was shortlisted by Haute Grandeur Global Hotel Awards and World Luxury Hotel Awards for the Best Hotel Management Company in Africa in 2019. Sood himself was nominated by CEOs magazine in Africa.
Rahul Sood is a young, well-accomplished, enterprising and dynamic global leader, motivator, and remains a passionate hotelier. He has many ambitions towards the growth and success of Sun Multinational, and affirms to lead the regional companies across Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia.
- farhana@khaleejtimes.com