Bangladesh’s hospitality industry has reached a new milestone with Saifur Rahman Jabed, chief concierge at Radisson Blu Chattogram Bay View, becoming the first Bangladeshi to be inducted into the internationally recognised concierge association, Les Clefs d’Or (The Golden Keys).

Jabed received the distinction during the 19th Annual General Meeting and the 15th anniversary celebration of Les Clefs d’Or India, held at Udaipur Marriott Hotel in Udaipur, India, from June 15 to 17, 2026.

At the official induction ceremony on June 16, he was presented with the association’s iconic crossed Golden Keys pin, formally marking his membership. The achievement was recognised by concierge professionals from several countries. in the presence of concierge professionals from several countries.

Bangladesh does not currently have an independent national section of Les Clefs d’Or. As a result, Jabed obtained his membership through Les Clefs d’Or India, the organisation’s recognised section serving South Asia, making him the first representative from Bangladesh to join the global professional network.

Regarded as one of the hospitality industry’s highest professional distinctions, membership of Les Clefs d’Or is awarded only to experienced concierges who demonstrate exceptional guest service, professionalism, integrity and operational excellence.

Applicants are required to undergo a rigorous evaluation process that includes substantial experience at a reputable hotel, internationally recognised service standards, recommendations from existing members and a comprehensive professional assessment.

Members wear the association’s crossed Golden Keys badge on their uniforms, an internationally recognised symbol of premium guest service, trust and professional excellence.

Jabed said he wanted to use the recognition to contribute to the development of Bangladesh’s hospitality sector rather than view it solely as a personal achievement.

He said he planned to work towards raising service standards in hotels across the country, including in Cox’s Bazar, by sharing international best practices, developing skilled hospitality professionals and strengthening connections with global industry networks.

He added that ensuring world-class guest services in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh’s leading tourism destination, would further enhance international visitors’ confidence. He also stressed the importance of coordinated efforts among stakeholders and continued investment in professional training.

Industry observers hailed the achievement as a significant milestone for Bangladesh’s hotel and tourism sector, asserting that it would enhance the country’s global reputation for hospitality and motivate young professionals to pursue careers in international hospitality.

Saifur Rahman Jabed is originally from Kathaltali in Moulvibazar district and completed his education in Sreemangal. Although he is currently based in Chattogram because of his professional responsibilities, he continues to maintain close ties with his home district.

His induction into Les Clefs d’Or is widely considered an important step in enhancing Bangladesh’s profile in the international hospitality industry and opening new opportunities for professional collaboration and service excellence.

By Mohammad Morshed and Tareque Hasan

Photo: Tareque Hasan