How this British expat champions community spirit and sustainability in the UAE
Dubai: Collecting cans for recycling, supporting food waste reduction, and helping young hospitality professionals advance their careers are among the ways one Indian expatriate is giving back to the UAE. For Rajat Sabharwal, director of food and beverage at a luxury hotel resort in Dubai, these efforts have reflected a belief that success means more than professional progress. It also means…
Dubai: A British expat named Rajat Sabharwal has been actively involved in community initiatives and sustainability efforts in the UAE. Originally from New Delhi, India, Sabharwal moved to Dubai in 2018 to join a hotel's pre-opening team and has since made it his home. He believes that success extends beyond professional achievements and includes contributing to the community and helping others grow.
Sabharwal has been engaged in various initiatives focused on community engagement, inclusion, and environmental responsibility. These efforts have included collecting recyclable materials, supporting a gathering for people of determination, organizing an Iftar celebration during Ramadan, and participating in tree planting projects.
He emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for the resources one uses and the communities one is part of, believing that small actions can have a significant impact when people work together. In addition to community involvement, Sabharwal has also focused on tackling food waste. He has supported campaigns such as "One Million Meals from Surplus Food" and the "Zero Food Waste to Landfills" initiative by the UAE Food Bank in partnership with NEMA.
These efforts have helped collect and recycle surplus food, promoting responsible waste management. Furthermore, Sabharwal believes in mentoring young professionals and giving back by helping them develop their skills and advance their careers. He recognizes that hospitality brings together people from diverse backgrounds, and developing a strong team requires providing guidance, confidence, and opportunities for growth.
Sabharwal has found that seeing colleagues achieve promotions or discover their potential is a rewarding aspect of his professional journey. His experience in Dubai has also shaped his approach to leadership. The city's pace and diverse professional backgrounds have pushed him to adapt his leadership style, make decisions quickly, and bring people together around shared goals.
Sabharwal emphasizes that good leadership is about earning trust, understanding different perspectives, and being prepared to adapt oneself.
Written by urgent.news from Gulf News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.