db Group appoints Thomas Fehlbier Director of Hotels – Luxury & Lifestyle amidst major expansion

db Group has announced the appointment of Thomas Fehlbier as Director of Hotels – Luxury & Lifestyle. The appointment comes at a time when the company is embarking on an ambitious expansion into the luxury hospitality sector, with a flagship five-star Hard Rock Hotel in Malta currently under development. In parallel, the group is actively engaged with various opportunities abroad in this sector.

Mr Fehlbier, a seasoned hospitality professional with extensive experience across luxury and lifestyle properties globally, will play a key strategic role. He has led high-profile projects in the Middle East, South East Asia, and the Caribbean. Most recently, he served as the Pre-Opening General Manager at Six Senses La Sagesse Grenada, overseeing the development of a world-class resort spanning 28 acres, with 71 Suites &Villas, two pristine beaches, and world-class spa facilities.

Prior to this, he successfully launched Six Senses Shaharut in Israel during the challenging 2021 pandemic, quickly establishing it as the “Best Resort in Israel,” with 60 suites, multiple dining venues, and a breathtaking desert spa.

Mr Fehlbier’s vast experience in the Middle East is particularly noteworthy, having managed five hotels in Qatar, three of which were full pre-opening projects. As COO for Samrya Hospitality in Doha, he played a pivotal role in the initial development (pre-COVID) of the The Plaza Qatar, gaining invaluable insights that bring large-scale visions to life.

Commenting on his new role at db Group, Mr Fehlbier said: ‘I am thrilled to join db Group at such a transformative time. The development of the Hard Rock Hotel Malta is a landmark project, one of several others in the pipeline, and I am excited to contribute my expertise in luxury hospitality to ensure the company’s success in Malta and beyond the island’s shores.’

db Group CEO Robert Debono said: ‘2025 will be a landmark year for the db Group as we continue to push the boundaries of excellence in hospitality and real estate. Our vision is to continue delivering world-class projects both in Malta and overseas. With people like Thomas Fehlbier joining our team, we are proud to be attracting the right global expertise to achieve our ambitious plans.’

The db Group has grown from a family-run business into Malta’s foremost corporate player in the tourism, hospitality and leisure sector and beyond. Its portfolio includes the Seabank Resort & Spa, the San Antonio Hotel & Spa, the Melior Boutique hotel, 11 independent restaurants, including LOA, Aki, Amami and Tora, as well as all the outlets of Hard Rock Cafe, Starbucks and GROM in Malta.