Tucked away in the picturesque landscape of Egypt’s Red Sea coast is Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh. I sat down with Leon Baum, the resort's General Manager to learn what sets this stunning destination apart.
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“What makes Sharm El Sheikh unique?” I asked Leon. “It's the perfect antidote to stress,” he replied with a smile. Sharm El Sheikh offers a very different proposition to other Egyptian destinations, he explains, adding, “After exploring Cairo and Luxor, this is where you come to unwind and relax. The Red Sea, lush green gardens, and Egyptian hospitality create a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal haven for those seeking serenity.”
With two properties in Cairo, one in Alexandria, and this gem in Sharm El Sheikh, Four Seasons has firmly established itself in Egypt. “Our staff is our greatest asset,” Leon emphasised. “60% of our workforce has been with us for over 15 years, delivering exceptional service that’s genuine, warm, and personalised. We inject local warmth and generosity into every interaction. Our staff makes guests feel welcome and comfortable.”
I was curious about the cultural elements that make this resort truly Egyptian. Leon explained, “It’s the Egyptian people’s natural ability to make you feel at ease that truly enhances the Four Seasons experience.”
As a seasoned hotelier, Leon has worked in various destinations worldwide. I asked what drew him to Sharm El Sheikh. “I love the charisma and passion of the Egyptian people,” he says. “This resort is a hidden gem, with incredible facilities and beautiful surroundings matched by exceptional service. It’s a real privilege to work alongside some of the very best in the region – a team of passionate hoteliers who thoroughly enjoy and love what they are doing.”
What sets Four Seasons apart from other luxury properties? Leon’s response was prompt: “Our people. We live by the golden rule: treat others as you wish to be treated. We don’t have robots; we have individuals who can inject their own personal touch into interactions. It’s the human touch that creates unforgettable memories.”
Sustainability is a growing concern in the hospitality industry. Leon outlined the resort’s initiatives: “We desalinate water, are exploring solar farms, and have eliminated single-use plastics. Our electric vehicle fleet is expanding, and we are working closely with our ESG department to ensure a sustainable future.”
As we strolled through the resort’s lush gardens, I noticed the numerous club cars. Leon shared, “We have around 85 club cars, transitioning to long-life lithium batteries to reduce our environmental footprint.”
The resort’s 90 acres of land are thoughtfully designed, with 65% dedicated to gardens and landscapes. Leon revealed: “The remaining space is occupied by our hotel, residential structures, and employee accommodations. We are committed to preserving the natural beauty of our surroundings.”
As a wedding destination, Sharm El Sheikh offers unparalleled charm. Leon highlighted, “We cater to local social events and destination weddings, leveraging our beautiful event spaces, talented team, and exceptional F&B concepts. Whether it's an intimate gathering or grand celebration, we create unforgettable experiences.”
The resort’s visitor demographics are diverse, with strong representation from the UK, Europe, Russia, Ukraine, and the GCC. Leon noted, “We are also exploring new markets, including South America, China, and India. Our goal is to showcase the best of Egyptian hospitality to the world,” he signed off.
