This title evolution recognizes the scope and significance of his leadership at one of the Maldives' most distinguished luxury destinations, as well as his continued contribution to the resort's positioning within the global luxury hospitality landscape. In his new role, Joulak will continue to oversee all aspects of the resort's operations and strategic direction. 

Since joining Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Joulak has played a defining role in shaping the resort's identity as a benchmark for experiential luxury in the Indian Ocean. Under his leadership, the resort has continued to elevate its guest offering through thoughtful innovation, refined service, and a commitment to creating deeply personal and memorable experiences. 

Commenting on the appointment, Joulak said: “It is a privilege to continue this journey with the exceptional team at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. Together, we remain committed to shaping experiences that are both meaningful and distinctive, while continuing to evolve what luxury hospitality represents for today's global traveler.” 

Joulak's leadership has also been recognized on the international stage. In 2025, he received the “Highly Successful General Manager” Award at the World GM Awards and was selected, for the third consecutive year, among the Top 100 Hotel General Managers of the World by Luxury Lifestyle Awards, in addition to multiple accolades earned throughout the past decade. He is also currently shortlisted for General Manager of the Year 2026 at the Hotelier Maldives Awards, a distinction that celebrates exceptional leadership, operational excellence, and strategic vision within the hospitality industry. 

- ENDS - 

CONTACT: 

Khaled Jarrah 

Marketing & Communications Manager 

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi 

+960 940 3163 

Khaled.jarrah@waldorfastoria.com 

About Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi 

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is an unforgettable island escape with a wealth of experiences to discover. The resort features 117 reef, beach, and overwater villas spanning across three interconnected islands, and the Maldives' largest private island, Ithaafushi - The Private Island, with dedicated staff and luxury amenities. Guests can experience culinary excellence through 11 distinctive dining venues, a world-class lifestyle spa sanctuary and fitness center, a children's club, watersports and diving center, and diversified activities for all generations. 

About Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts  

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning portfolio of 36 iconic properties, each embodying a distinct sense of place through sincerely elegant service, one-of-a-kind experiences, and culinary mastery in landmark destinations around the world. Waldorf Astoria New York is now open, marking a defining moment for the brand, reintroducing a legend while ushering in a new era of luxury. Inspired by their timeless environments, Waldorf Astoria hotels deliver an effortless experience seamlessly, creating a true sense of place for guests through stunning architecture, the famous Peacock Alley, refined art collections, Michelin-starred dining and elevated in-room amenities. In addition to the brand's world-class hotel offerings, Waldorf Astoria boasts a global residential portfolio that provides the comfort of a private home combined with unsurpassed amenities and high-touch service. Waldorf Astoria is part of Hilton, a leading global hospitality company. Experience an unforgettable stay at Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts by booking at waldorfastoria.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits Learn more about Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts at stories.hilton.com/waldorfastoria, and follow the brand on X and Instagram.      

About Hilton    

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 24 world-class brands comprising more than 8,800 properties and nearly 1.3 million rooms, in 139 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, was named the No. 1 World's Best Workplace by Great Place to Work and Fortune and has been recognized as a global leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. Hilton has introduced industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 226 million Hilton Honors members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can't buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit stories.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.