Face to Face with Mr. Aman Dhoundiyal, General Manager of the Hilton Garden Inn Mumbai International Airport
With nearly two decades of experience across some of the most iconic hospitality brands in India and abroad, Aman Dhoundiyal now takes charge as the General Manager of Hilton Garden Inn Mumbai International Airport. Under his leadership, this newly launched hotel – developed in partnership with Fariyas Hotels & Resorts – is set to redefine the upscale bleisure (business + leisure) experience in Mumbai.
The Property & Brand Vision
Q: Congratulations on the launch of Hilton Garden Inn Mumbai International Airport. What makes this property stand out in Mumbai’s hotel landscape?
Aman: Thank you! What sets us apart is our strategic blend of global hospitality excellence and deep local relevance. Located just minutes from Terminal 2, this hotel is designed for the modern traveler who seeks comfort, convenience, and connectivity. Our rooftop pool, ergonomic workspaces, and versatile dining at Together & Co. are all tailored to enhance the bleisure experience. This collaboration with Fariyas Hotels & Resorts brings together their regional expertise and Hilton’s global strength to deliver a truly elevated stay.
Q: How does this property fit into Hilton’s broader growth strategy in India?
Aman: This marks a significant step for Hilton in India. Mumbai is a gateway city with high business potential, and the launch of Hilton Garden Inn here underscores our commitment to tapping into key markets. We’re focused on providing value-driven, globally consistent experiences while remaining locally authentic – something this property does exceptionally well.
Q: What key amenities support the work-life balance of today’s traveler?
Aman: We’ve curated our offerings with balance in mind. Think high-speed internet, ergonomic desks, and 24/7 convenience at our &ToGo store for the work side – and a rooftop pool, wellness center, and flexible dining for the unwind moments. We also have meeting spaces designed for seamless transitions between business and leisure, making it ideal for today’s hybrid traveler.
Leadership & Operational Strategy
Q: How has your extensive background shaped your approach at Hilton Garden Inn Mumbai International Airport?
Aman: Having worked with brands like Marriott, Oberoi, InterContinental, and Starwood, I’ve learned that excellence comes from people. My focus here is to build a guest-first culture, empowered by training and trust. With Hilton’s systems and the operational strength of Fariyas Hotels, we’re laying the groundwork for a hotel experience that’s as heartfelt as it is efficient.
Q: What are your top priorities during this critical launch phase?
Aman: First, creating a unified team culture. Next, streamlining our pre-opening operations and aligning service delivery with both Hilton’s standards and Mumbai’s local hospitality ethos. Post-launch, my focus will shift to guest feedback, refining operations, and building corporate relationships.
Q: What guest experience innovations are you implementing?
Aman: We’re integrating technology with empathy. Digital Key access, mobile check-in, personalized service scripts, and tailored experiences for long-stay guests are all part of our design. But it’s our team’s warmth that will truly define our brand promise.
Market Trends & Strategic Outlook
Q: What are the key opportunities and challenges in Mumbai’s upscale hotel segment post-pandemic?
Aman: The demand for reliability and well-being has grown significantly. Our model – elevated yet value-driven – hits that sweet spot. The challenge is maintaining agility amid evolving guest expectations. But with our strategic location and brand value, we’re confident about our market position.
Q: How are you targeting business, transit, and extended-stay guests?
Aman: Our location makes us ideal for all three. Transit guests appreciate our proximity and comfort; business travelers benefit from our connectivity to BKC and Andheri; long-stay guests enjoy thoughtful amenities and consistent service. Each segment finds something tailor-made here.
Q: How is the hotel embracing sustainability, personalization, and tech trends?
Aman: We’ve incorporated eco-friendly systems, digital conveniences like Hilton Honors and app check-ins, and customizable guest preferences. It’s about offering efficiency with a personal touch – ensuring each stay feels easy, intuitive, and responsible.
Personal Philosophy & Vision
Q: Can you share a leadership moment that reflects your management style?
Aman: During a past hotel pre-opening, we faced major delays. Instead of pushing under pressure, we paused, regrouped, and came back stronger. That moment taught me that empathy fuels resilience and innovation. I bring that same mindset to every project.
Q: Music is a passion of yours. How does it shape your leadership?
Aman: Music teaches harmony, listening, and timing – essential qualities in hospitality. Whether managing a team or curating a guest experience, staying in sync is crucial. At Hilton Garden Inn Mumbai International Airport, I want every moment to feel orchestrated, yet effortless.
Q: What’s your long-term vision for the property?
Aman: I see Hilton Garden Inn Mumbai International Airport becoming the city’s most trusted bleisure destination. A place known not just for its location, but for its warmth, consistency, and care. I want this hotel to leave a legacy of genuine hospitality – one that our team takes pride in and our guests always return to.
With Aman Dhoundiyal at the helm, Hilton Garden Inn Mumbai International Airport is positioned to raise the bar for business-leisure travel in India’s financial capital. Blending global standards with local sensibilities, this hotel promises to deliver experiences that are consistent, comforting, and deeply memorable.
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