A Journey from Saudi Arabia to Times Square

Abdulrahman “Abdul” Alanazi, an international student from Saudi Arabia, is gaining valuable hospitality industry experience working as a guest service agent at the SpringHill Suites New York Manhattan Times Square.

Abdul, who recently graduated with a degree in tourism and hospitality management from Pace University in New York, is enrolled in the Optical Training Program for international students which provides temporary employment directly related to F-1 visa holders’ major area of study. Students can gain up to 12 months of employment experience either before or after completing their academic studies.

Abdul’s hospitality journey began long before his studies at Pace. He served as tour guide in his hometown of AlUla, a 2,000-year-old city in northwestern Saudi Arabia famous for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient archaeological sites and rich cultural heritage.

“In Saudi Arabia, especially in AlUla, hospitality is more than just a profession — it’s a way of life,” Abdul said. “We take great pride in welcoming guests and making them feel valued, and that mindset naturally shaped my passion for this industry.”

Abdul’s early experiences as a tour guide in AlUla allowed him to share the region’s history and culture with visitors, ensuring they had memorable and enriching experiences. His work as a tour guide solidified his love for hospitality, inspiring him to pursue further education in the field.

With a desire to deepen his knowledge and enhance his skills, Abdul moved to the United States to pursue his studies.  His hard work and dedication paid off. Abdul’s academic background, combined with his hands-on experience as a tour guide, made him a standout candidate for the program at the SpringHill Suites.

Abdul’s passion for hospitality, cultural values and desire to make people feel welcomed and valued made him an ideal fit for the role, according to Neil Genel, M&R talent acquisition manager. "Abdulrahman Alanazi is a great hire thanks to our ongoing efforts to find the best talent in hospitality schools. His strong work ethic and positive attitude have made him an excellent addition to the team.”

Brianna Gutierrez, SpringHill Suites guest services manager and Abdul’s supervisor, praised his contributions to the team, saying “Abdulrahman has been an excellent asset to our team. He really impressed me with his ambitious attitude and lighthearted personality—both of which are qualities you can’t teach.”

Abdul, who is presently transitioning from training to being at the front desk full-time after shadowing other guest service agents at the hotel, is growing more confident each day, according to Brianna.

“Abdul is quickly demonstrating what a fast learner he is,” she said. “He is very personable with guests and quick on his feet. His natural ability to make people feel welcome and comfortable is invaluable in this role. His adaptability and eagerness to learn stand out, and he’s proactive in ensuring guests have a smooth experience. I have no doubt he will continue to grow and succeed, and I can’t wait to see how he develops in this role.”

As Abdul continues to grow in his role, he is excited to build on the skills he has acquired and share his passion for hospitality with guests from around the world.

“What I enjoy most about this industry is the opportunity to create meaningful experiences for people,” he said. “Whether through exceptional service, well-planned events or simply making guests feel at home, I find fulfillment in upholding the values of hospitality that have always been a part of my culture.”