Gerald Lawless

Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Consultant, Former Chair of the WTTC and Former President and CEO Jumeirah Group at .

Panellist

• Travel, Tourism, and Hospitality Consultant
• Former President and CEO of Jumeirah Group, currently serving on multiple advisory boards
• Former Chair of the WTTC 2016 to 2018

Gerald Lawless is a renowned figure in the global hospitality industry, best known for leading the Jumeirah Group as Group CEO, where he played a pivotal role in launching iconic properties like the Burj Al Arab. With over 40 years of experience, Gerald helped establish Jumeirah as a premier luxury hotel brand and later served in leadership roles at Dubai Holding.

He has held several key positions, including Chairman of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), and now acts as an International Ambassador for the organization. Gerald also serves on various advisory boards, including the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, Elaf Hotels Saudi Arabia, and Shannon College of Hotel Management.

Gerald holds multiple honorary doctorates and received the 2017 Presidential Distinguished Service Award for the Irish Abroad. He continues to influence the global tourism sector through his non-executive and advisory roles.