This month, OHLALA chatted with Maryam Jahrami, Cluster Director of Marketing at Royal Saray Resort and Sevens Holding, for an insight into the business of making people feel welcome.
The most successful marketers are those who listen closely,
stay curious and build stories rooted in insight rather than hype.
– Maryam Jahrami
OHLALA – Marketing seems to be a passion of yours. Have you always wanted to work in this field? Why and what attracted you to this area?
Maryam Jahrami – Marketing wasn’t something I set out to pursue intentionally, but it quickly became the space where strategy, creativity and cultural storytelling came together for me. My early exposure to global luxury brands during my time with LVMH in New York shaped my understanding of how powerful storytelling can be when grounded in authenticity and purpose. What ultimately drew me to the field is its ability to shape perception and build meaningful connections. Marketing, when done well, goes beyond campaigns and visuals – it becomes a bridge between people, places and experiences. In tourism, the challenge is not just to attract visitors, but to tell a story that reflects the soul of a destination. I see marketing not simply as a profession, but as a responsibility. Contributing to Bahrain’s journey on the global stage – shaping how it is seen, felt and understood – is what keeps me deeply connected to this field and passionate about the work I do.
OHLALA – You’ve worked in different types of businesses and are now mainly working in hospitality-driven ventures. What do you like most about it? What does hospitality offer that no other areas do?
Maryam – At its heart, hospitality is the business of making people feel welcome. I find myself drawn to hospitality because it allows me to turn identity, generosity and pride into a profession. As a Bahraini, investing in tourism is not just about attracting visitors – it’s about inviting the world into Bahrain, on Bahrain’s terms. Our hospitality mirrors deeply rooted cultural values of generosity and togetherness through making guests feel at home on our little island.
OHLALA – Can you tell us more about the Sevens Holding Group? What businesses are under it and what’s the group’s vision?
Maryam – Sevens Holding is a leading investment group in the GCC, specialising in luxury hospitality and premium real estate. Led by H.E. Shaikh Khalifa bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Chairman and CEO, the group seamlessly blends local heritage with international standards, playing a pivotal role in elevating Bahrain and the region’s tourism and lifestyle landscape. Its portfolio includes flagship destinations such as Royal Saray Resort, OPA, Scalini, Black Tap, The Royal Spa by Clarins, AlMassarah Pool Club, Mood Rooftop and STAGE, alongside landmark developments like City Walk Riffa and the forthcoming Elite Waves project. A pipeline of exclusive hospitality concepts and iconic lifestyle destinations further underscores Sevens Holding’s commitment to refined growth and enduring value.
OHLALA – Royal Saray Resort is one of the enterprises under Sevens Holding. What makes this resort stand out? What does it offer that makes it a place to stay and dine?
Maryam – The Royal Saray Resort is without a doubt the most luxurious and exclusive destination in Bahrain. With a prime beachfront location that is easily accessible, luxury accommodation offering a range of amenities, featuring the largest resort rooms in the country and a social and lifestyle hub with world-class culinary and recreational experiences, the resort offers a blend of local warmth with global standards of elegance.
OHLALA – When it comes to dining and experiences, can you tell us more about the new venue, Royal Marrakech, opening soon?
Maryam – Royal Marrakech is an opulent, Moroccan-inspired upscale dining and lounge experience set in the Royal Saray Resort. Boasting contemporary Moroccan cuisine that highlights cultural roots while also blending a fusion of flavours to bring the souk to your palate. The space is designed to embody a sensory-driven ambience with rich textures, exotic f lavours and traditional yet modern entertainment, inviting guests to experience tales from the heart of Morocco.
OHLALA – Royal Saray Resort has an exclusive membership plan. Can you tell us more about it? What are the benefits?
Maryam – The Royal Saray Membership is a distinguished private members’ club designed to unlock a year-round lifestyle of refined luxury and exclusivity. Members and their families enjoy privileged access to the resort’s seven-star amenities, including a private beach, Bahrain’s iconic Al Hadiqa infinity pool, family-friendly pools at AlMassarah, The Royal Spa by Clarins, T he Royal Gym and 10 world-class dining destinations. Membership also grants priority access to exclusive events, curated experiences and preferred privileges extended to members and their families. Complemented by a calendar of bespoke community gatherings, Royal Saray Resort is elevated beyond a destination – becoming a refined sanctuary for leisure, connection and sophisticated social living.
OHLALA – If you could give one piece of advice to someone who wants to succeed in the marketing field, what would it be?
Maryam – I would say: learn to understand people before platforms. Tools, algorithms and trends will constantly change, but human behaviour, emotion and motivation are what truly drive great marketing. The most successful marketers are those who listen closely, stay curious and build stories rooted in insight rather than hype. When you focus on genuinely understanding your audience and delivering value with authenticity, the strategy and results naturally follow. And most importantly, never say no to any opportunities life presents to you.
OHLALA – As a Bahraini, what do you like most about your country?
Maryam – What I love most about Bahrain is its sense of warmth and authenticity. Despite being a small country, it carries a rich history, a deep rooted culture and an openness that makes people feel genuinely welcome. T here’s an ease in how tradition and modernity coexist here – from our heritage sites and family values to our progressive outlook and creative energy. For me, it’s the people above all else: their generosity, resilience and pride in where they come from. That human connection is what gives the Kingdom its soul and makes it truly special.