Abdul Baaghil

Abdul Baaghil is the Co-Founder and Principal of the Lisbon-based hospitality group Harvest

Cotton Tale. Renowned for his dedication to authenticity, cultural depth, and the seamless

integration of local elements into the fabric of each property, Baaghil emphasizes creating guest

experiences deeply rooted in the traditions, craftsmanship, and spirit of the destinations they

inhabit.

Harvest Cotton Tale is the second-largest majority shareholder of the Michelin-recognized

Cavalarica restaurant group, a testament to Baaghil’s commitment to culinary excellence as an

integral part of hospitality. The group has also been involved in the concept development of

boutique hotels across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

Baaghil’s extensive track record includes roles with globally recognized brands such as Hyatt

Hotels & Resorts (San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington DC), Starwood Hotels & Resorts (St.

Regis, NYC), MGM Resorts (Las Vegas, Biloxi), and The Williamsburg Inn, Virginia. At The

Williamsburg Inn, Baaghil was tasked with the restoration and renovation of the historic property

and its food and beverage outlets, ensuring that the updates honored the hotel’s legacy while

elevating the guest experience.

Baaghil has also served as Head of the Advisory Board for Food and Beverage for The Ritz-Carlton

Hotel Company in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, as well as Hotel Manager of The Ritz-

Carlton, Financial Street, Beijing.

In 2011, Baaghil became Consultant and Managing Director of Campbell Gray Hotels in Beirut,

Lebanon. In 2013, he worked as Chief Executive Officer for a boutique hotel group (OB Hotels), a

subsidiary of the drilling company Challenger Limited, now Tap Oil, managing properties across

East and North Africa.

Abdul graduated with a Diploma in Hotel Management from Les Roches Hotel Management

School, Switzerland (Swiss Hotel Association), and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business

Administration from EU Business School in Montreux, Switzerland.