
In 2025, the world is expected to take a paradigm shift towards innovation, sustainability and above all, adaptability. This holds true especially for the commercial cleaning industry, which is increasingly and rapidly shifting towards greener and more sustainable solutions. Across the Middle East, this sector has proven its resilience and commitment to enhancing hygiene standards, embracing cutting-edge technologies, and fostering a greener future.
The industry is on the brink of change and the stakeholders of the industry are bracing for it. This exclusive feature gathers insights from leading industry experts across the region to uncover their New Year resolutions. From prioritizing sustainable practices and leveraging artificial intelligence to redefining operational efficiencies and addressing workforce challenges, these resolutions highlight the evolving priorities and ambitions shaping the industry. Their resolutions not only reflect the challenges and opportunities of today but also set the tone for an inspiring and transformative year ahead.
Amites Bandyopadhyay, Business Head, Facilities & Hospitality Management Services.
As a new year begins, the commercial cleaning industry is setting ambitious resolutions to raise hygiene standards and adapt to evolving expectations.
Many companies have started pouring in money into sophisticated technologies such as autonomous cleaning robots and a plethora of monitoring systems in order to provide more efficient services to their clients.
Sustainability has held a prominent place in the list of priorities with businesses pledging to switch to greener cleaning solutions that reduce the usage of chemicals and considerable waste, alongside organic growth in numerous sectors across the globe.
Another pressing issue which has been addressed is employee training and how professionals in the field can be trained for technical shifts that arise with evolving hygiene protocols. Alongside this, the sector of healthcare and education and retail alongside hospitality have their own specific needs which combine to make it all the more complex.
With these resolutions, the industry aims to redefine standards for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future.
Dinesh Liyanarachchi, Executive Housekeeper, JW MARRIOTT HOTEL MUSCAT - OMAN
As an Executive Housekeeper in a luxurious hotel, my New Year's resolutions focus on elevating hygiene standards to ensure a safe and exceptional guest experience. This year, I pledge to:
Integrate advanced cleaning technologies such as UV-C sanitization and electrostatic sprayers to enhance efficiency and guest satisfaction.
Enhance staff training with ongoing programs emphasizing global hygiene protocols and attention to detail, fostering a culture of accountability and teamwork.
Collaborate closely with other departments to integrate cleanliness into every aspect of the guest journey, from arrival to departure.
Prioritize sustainability by using eco-friendly cleaning solutions to ensure safety, sustainability, and seamless guest trust in our services.
Set and track meaningful performance metrics to continuously improve our services and meet guest expectations.
By prioritizing these goals, we will redefine luxury through cleanliness and care, setting new benchmarks in hospitality hygiene and safety.
Ebenezer Ahimaz, Executive Housekeeper, Radisson Collection, Oman
As we step into the New Year, We the commercial cleaning industry Professionals are setting resolutions that focus on advancing hygiene practices and enhancing overall service.
Commitment to Sustainability
To integrate more sustainable cleaning practices by using eco-friendly products, reducing water and energy consumption, and minimizing plastic waste.
Goal: Implement a sustainability action plan with a measurable reduction in environmental impact by the end of the year.
Adopting New Cleaning Technologies
To embrace cutting-edge cleaning technologies such as robotic cleaners, ultraviolet (UV) devices for Room Inspections and Public area inspection to improve cleaning efficiency and effectiveness.
Goal: Pilot a new technology in specific facilities and evaluate its impact on cleaning results, staff productivity, and guest’s satisfaction.
Improving Staff Training Programs
To enhance staff training programs, ensuring that every team member is up-to-date on the latest hygiene protocols and safety standards.
Goal: Implement quarterly training sessions and certifications, with a focus on infection control practices and the proper use of chemicals.
Promoting Employee Well-Being
To focus on the well-being of cleaning staff by providing better work conditions, health benefits, and mental health support.
Goal: Initiate a wellness program for employees, including ergonomic training, regular health check-ups, and access to mental health resources.
Strengthening the Relationships with Guest
To enhance communication with guests regarding their specific cleaning needs and any new hygiene standards or requirements.
Goal: Create a feedback loop where guests can provide input on cleaning satisfaction, leading to stronger partnerships and more customized services.
Commitment to Transparency in Cleaning
To be more transparent with guests about cleaning practices, products used, and results.
Goal: Provide guests with detailed cleaning reports and documentation, ensuring clarity and trust in the services provided.
Increased Focus on Green Cleaning Certifications
To pursue or renew green cleaning certifications such as LEED, Green Key and Green Seal.
Goal: Achieve certification for a certain percentage of the company’s guests or operations by the end of the year.
Adopting More Inclusive Practices
To foster an inclusive workplace where diverse voices and perspectives are valued, ensuring that everyone’s ideas about effective cleaning practices are heard and considered.
Goal: Establish a diversity and inclusion committee within the cleaning organization to provide ongoing training, mentorship, and support.
Emphasizing the Importance of Mental Health in the Workplace
To create a healthier work environment by acknowledging and addressing the mental health needs of cleaning staff.
Goal: Launch mental health awareness campaigns, provide resources, and foster an open culture of communication within the workplace.
Fostering Professional Growth
To support the professional growth of staff by offering certification programs or opportunities for career advancement.
Goal: Ensure that at least 50% of cleaning staff members take part in a professional development program in the upcoming year.
Developing a Robust Emergency Cleaning Plan
To develop or update emergency cleaning protocols in the event of an outbreak, natural disaster, or other crisis situations.
Goal: Have an updated emergency cleaning plan in place for every guests, ensuring a swift and efficient response to unforeseen events.
Kunutkhan Pathan, Executive Housekeeper, Rotana Hotel Management Corporation, Centro Salama Hotel Jeddah, KSA
As 2025 begins, the Housekeeping, Laundry, and Facilities Management sectors are focused on innovation, sustainability, and excellence to meet evolving client expectations and global standards.
Commit to Sustainability
Eco-Friendly Cleaning: Prioritize biodegradable, non-toxic cleaning agents to reduce environmental impact.
Waste Reduction: Implement reusable tools and minimize the use of single-use plastics across operations.
Adopt Advanced Technology
Smart Systems: Utilize IoT-enabled devices to monitor cleanliness and supply levels in real-time.
Data Analytics: Leverage metrics to optimize cleaning schedules, enhance efficiency, and manage resources effectively.
Prioritize Health and Hygiene
Enhanced Disinfection: Incorporate UV-C light, electrostatic spraying, and antimicrobial coatings into cleaning protocols.
Staff Training: Ensure teams are certified and skilled in the latest health guidelines and cleaning techniques.
Support the Workforce
Competitive Pay: Recognize the critical contributions of staff with fair compensation.
Upskilling Opportunities: Offer training in both technical skills and safety measures to empower employees.
Build Guest and Client Trust
Tailored Services: Design customized solutions to address the unique needs of clients and guests.
Transparent Processes: Communicate cleaning methods, results, and value to build confidence.
Expand Service Offerings
Specialized Cleaning: Include advanced options such as biohazard cleanup, mold remediation, and post-construction cleaning.
Green Solutions: Introduce eco-friendly packages that cater to sustainability-focused clients.
Maisara Mohamed, Operations & Technical Manager, COMO Facilities Services, Qatar
As the new year unfolds, the commercial cleaning industry stands at an important moment, ready to redefine its role in a redefined world. The challenges and changes of recent years have reshaped the industry, prompting leaders and stakeholders to set ambitious resolutions for the future.
Here’s a look at the key areas the commercial cleaning sector is focusing on to make 2025 a year of progress and innovation.
Environmental sustainability has become a cornerstone of modern business operations, and the commercial cleaning industry is no exception. Companies are committing to adopting eco-friendly cleaning solutions, minimizing water and energy consumption, and reducing waste. The goal is to align with global sustainability goals while meeting clients' growing demands for greener cleaning practices.
The workforce is considered as the backbone of the cleaning industry, and ensuring their well-being has become a top priority. This year, companies are focusing on fair wages, comprehensive training programs, and improved working conditions. The aim is to create a more supportive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to excel.
Technology is transforming the way the industry operates. From automated cleaning robots to AI tools, companies are investing in advanced technologies to improve efficiency and consistency.
Understanding and exceeding client expectations is a key resolution for many businesses in the sector. Companies are prioritizing transparent communication, personalized services, and proactive problem-solving to build stronger relationships. A client-centric approach ensures long-term partnerships and mutual success.
As the industry evolves, so does the need for a skilled and knowledgeable workforce. Companies are investing in training programs that cover the latest techniques, technologies, and regulations. By nurturing talent and encouraging continuous learning, the industry is building a future-ready workforce.
In response to changing market demands, many cleaning companies are diversifying their service portfolios. From offering specialized services like medical facility cleaning to incorporating deep-cleaning solutions for residential clients, businesses are broadening their reach to stay competitive.
Beyond profit, the commercial cleaning industry is focusing on its role in the broader community. Many companies are pledging to support local initiatives, donate services to underserved communities, and actively participate in social responsibility programs.
The commercial cleaning industry’s resolutions for the new year reflect its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence. By addressing these priorities, the sector is not only meeting the demands of today but also laying the groundwork for a resilient and forward-thinking future.
Mohammed Saadeh, General Manager, Darwish Interserve FM, Qatar
As we enter 2025, Darwish Interserve Facility Management is focusing on three key resolutions:
Enhancing hygiene standards, embracing sustainability, and integrating innovative technology. Hygiene remains at the core of our services. For example, in collaboration with Qatar Museums, we've implemented enhanced cleaning protocols to ensure a safe environment for high-profile events. Sustainability is another priority. We’ve adopted green cleaning practices that reduce waste and use energy-efficient equipment, contributing to a more sustainable future. We’re also investing in our team through specialized training, ensuring they are equipped to handle the challenges of world-class venues. Furthermore, we’re committed to offering tailored cleaning solutions for clients, such as customizing schedules based on foot traffic, to maintain cleanliness during peak hours. Finally, we’re leveraging technology like the Air Duct Robot at Milaha Headquarters to enhance service efficiency. These resolutions reflect our commitment to excellence, innovation, and long-term client relationships.
Prabhat Shukla, Director of Housekeeping & Quality, InterContinental Doha The City, Qatar
In 2025, the commercial cleaning industry is gearing up for a transformative year focused on high-quality and eco-friendly solutions. With a strong commitment to innovation and unwavering sanitization standards, the industry is set to redefine cleanliness for a sustainable future.
Embracing the principles of Green Cleaning, the sector is dedicated to advancing methods, products, and technologies to promote environmental health. This includes initiatives such as water and energy conservation, biodegradable materials, and reducing carbon footprint to ensure a greener approach to cleaning practices.
Amidst a heightened emphasis on hygiene post-pandemic, there is a projected increase in demand for commercial cleaning services. The industry is poised to explore autonomous cleaning, tech-driven sanitization, and eco-friendly products to meet evolving needs. Goals centred around Intelligent Cleaning Equipment (ICE) and data-driven cleaning aim to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
By prioritizing the harmony between cleanliness and sustainability, the industry is moving towards eliminating harsh chemicals and adopting eco-friendly measures to minimize environmental impact. The focus is not just on aesthetic cleanliness but also on preserving the planet for future generations.
As we journey through the year, anticipate a transformation towards comprehensive cleanliness, innovative practices, and eco-conscious methods in commercial cleaning. Let's commit to cleaning not just for appearances but for the well-being of our Earth and future generations, making 2025 a year marked by sustainability and cleanliness. Together, we can strive to make it the greenest and cleanest year yet!
Shujat Khan, Consultant -Housekeeping Specialist, NEOM, KSA
As we step into the New Year, it’s an ideal time for businesses to reflect on their current practices and set goals for improvement. One crucial area often overlooked is cleanliness. Here’s highlighting my hygiene resolutions for the coming year:
Conduct a Comprehensive Deep Clean
Start the year with a thorough deep cleaning of your entire business premises. This process goes beyond regular cleaning routines, targeting areas that may have been neglected over time.
Establish Regular Cleaning Schedules
Consistency is key to maintaining a clean workplace. Develop a cleaning schedule that outlines daily, weekly, and monthly tasks.
Implement Sustainability Practices (Go Green)
Utilize eco-friendly cleaning products that are free from harsh chemicals and consider practices such as recycling and reducing waste.
Invest in Professional Cleaning Services
Professional cleaning services offer expertise and thoroughness that ensure high standards of cleanliness. Services such as carpet cleaning, window washing, and floor maintenance require specialized equipment and skills.
Educate and Involve Employees
Maintaining a clean workplace is a collective responsibility. Educate your staff on the importance of cleanliness and hygiene, providing training on proper cleaning practices and the correct use of cleaning products.
Regularly Review and Update Cleaning Protocols
The needs of a workplace can change over time, necessitating adjustments to cleaning protocols. Regularly review your cleaning schedules and practices to ensure they remain effective and relevant.
Vijay Kavasseri, Operations Director, Musanadah Facilities Management (Saudi Arabia)
Our commitment to learning and development initiatives remains steadfast, as we aim to increase BICSc-accredited training by over 20 percent at our three LEAD Training Centers across Saudi Arabia in 2025. This will empower more of our team with the skills needed to uphold our high soft services standards. In addition, we are proud to announce the launch of specialist ISSA training tailored to healthcare and hospital standards. This initiative, supported by new hospital ward mock-up training rooms, will enable us to better serve our growing healthcare client base in the Kingdom by meeting the sector's unique and regulatory demands.
Our client-first philosophy continues to drive everything we do. By constantlyadapting our SOPs and cleaning plans to our client’s evolving needs, we ensure the level of customer-centric, personalized and effective service delivery that Musanadah has become known for.
At Musanadah, our commitment to excellence is strengthened by our digital transformation initiatives, including the implementation of a cutting-edge CaFM system. This technology enhances connectivity among our team members, providing real-time metrics and actionable insights for supervisors. By leveraging this data-driven approach, we will ensure more efficient operations, quicker response times, and higher service quality for our clients in 2025.
In combination with these advancements, we remain steadfast in our dedication to sustainability, continuously sourcing eco-friendly and sustainable cleaning products wherever possible.
Through these efforts, we remain committed to maintaining world-class soft services standards across all our client sites in Saudi Arabia, delivering excellence with every interaction throughout 2025.
Vinod Pillai, Manager - Facilities Management, Al Mouj Muscat
As we bid farewell to 2024 and embrace 2025, our pivotal role remains in ensuring & enhancing the well-being of our Residents. As a team we work tirelessly to create a safe, clean and fully operational living environment. To achieve this, we follow a range of best practices as detailed below.
First and foremost, we are committed to adopt sustainable high quality cleaning products with the goal of achieving net-zero emissions. This is achieved through product selections based on ingredient list. We recognize that right tools and supplies can make a significant difference in our upkeep efforts. Secondly, our focus is to implement advanced cleaning technologies such as data driven insights and surface imaging. Last but foremost, maintaining good air quality via assets related to HVAC are well managed using IoT devices which provides accurate details on system performance. Such practices can help reduce the concentration of airborne Contaminants.