Sergio Magnaldi: Dubai’s larger-than-life hotelier passes away

Sergio Magnaldi: Dubai’s larger-than-life hotelier passes away

Tributes pour in for the man who ran popular desert retreat Hatta Fort Hotel

Published: Fri 11 Nov 2022, 8:53 AM Last updated: Fri 11 Nov 2022, 9:03 AM

Tributes have been pouring in for a much loved former UAE hotelier who passed away in the Isle of Man earlier this week.

Sergio Maglnadi was the heart and soul of the popular JA Hatta Fort Hotel which he ran for years having laid its cornerstone in the Seventies.

He is survived by wife Sandra and daughter Natalie who used to present the news on Dubai Channel those days.

The news of Sergio’s death has plunged his friends, and the UAE hospitality industry into mourning.

David Thompson, senior vice president at TFG Hospitality, the First Group, said he is saddened to learn about his old friend and colleague.

"Affectionately known to many as the Sheikh of Hatta, Sergio was a truly wonderful person with a fantastic sense of humour. There was never a dull moment with him," Thomposon said in a heartfelt LinkedIn post.

British businesswoman Josephine Finzi, 68, who hosted her wedding reception at Hatta Fort Hotel, described Sergio as a true legend.

"Rarely have I encountered a man with such enthusiasm and passion for his chosen role," Finzi