Mandarin Oriental, Doha Becomes First Hotel in Qatar to Achieve GSTC Certification

United Certification Systems Limited (UCSL) is proud to announce that Mandarin Oriental, Doha has become the first hotel in Qatar to achieve GSTC certification as a sustainable property. The recognition follows an extensive and thorough assessment conducted by UCSL, ensuring that the hotel meets the stringent Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Criteria.

The GSTC Criteria represent the global gold standard for sustainability in travel and tourism, offering the highest level of assurance and credibility. Mandarin Oriental, Doha excelled in every aspect of these rigorous Criteria, demonstrating its strong commitment to responsible stewardship of the environment and community while delivering world-class luxury experiences. Becoming the first GSTC-certified hotel in Qatar marks a landmark achievement for both Mandarin Oriental, Doha, and the region's hospitality industry.

Thomas Kinsperger, General Manager at Mandarin Oriental, Doha, commented on the certification: “We are proud and grateful to have received the GSTC certification as the first hotel in Qatar. This recognition reflects our ongoing efforts towards sustainability, which have been made possible by the dedication of our entire team. At Mandarin Oriental, we strive to integrate sustainability into every aspect of our operations, and this certification encourages us to keep improving. We sincerely thank UCSL for their guidance and support throughout this rigorous process.”

Alton Hutton, Director of Engineering and Sustainability Champion at Mandarin Oriental, Doha, added: "Sustainability is an ongoing effort, and this certification is an important step for us. Working with UCSL has helped us improve how we operate and communicate our sustainability goals with both our guests and staff. We see this recognition as encouragement to keep doing better, both in providing great experiences for our guests and in taking care of our environment and community."

Mandarin Oriental, Doha’s sustainability efforts are deeply ingrained in its day-to-day operations and align with the broader sustainability goals of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, known for embracing the highest standards and its commitment to excellence. Gaining GSTC-Committed status earlier this year, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group recognizes the value of implementing the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Criteria as global standards for sustainable tourism and hospitality across their geographic scope of operations internally and with their suppliers and stakeholders.

Olga Shuvalova, CEO of UCSL: "Our collaboration with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is not only a privilege, it’s an opportunity to contribute to a real commitment to sustainability. We are proud to partner with leaders like Mandarin Oriental Doha, who share our vision of a sustainable future. For Mandarin Oriental’s team, sustainability isn't just a trend or compliance; it's a profound mission and philosophy. Their hard work, passion, and unwavering dedication are setting new standards and inspiring others to follow."

About Mandarin Oriental, Doha:

Mandarin Oriental, Doha is an intimate and stylish urban retreat located in the centre of Msheireb Downtown Doha, the new lifestyle and cultural heart of the city. The hotel blends chic and contemporary design with touches of Qatari heritage, bringing new levels of luxury to Qatar. Designed by the world-renowned David Collins Studio, the hotel’s 117 rooms, 41 suites and 91 serviced apartments blend an elegant, contemporary design with subtle elements of traditional Qatari heritage.

About UCSL:

United Certification Systems Limited (UCSL) is an independent certification body, headquartered in the EU and operating worldwide. Proud to be one of the first GSTC-Accredited certification bodies, we provide certification services that align with the highest standards in luxury hospitality, bringing unparalleled expertise to the forefront. Driven by a deep passion for sustainability, we transcend the traditional role of a certification body, emerging as pioneers in research and education, spearheading positive change within the tourism industry.

27/08/2024