Gabriel Escarrer, President and CEO of Meliá Hotels International, has been awarded the title of Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by His Majesty King Charles III of the United Kingdom. This recognition was granted in recognition of the Mallorcan hotelier’s dedication and commitment to promoting safe tourism among the millions of British visitors who travel to the Balearic Islands each year (3.5 million, nearly one-fifth of the total), particularly the younger demographic during the summer season. Escarrer shared this honor with José Luis Benítez, president of Spain Nightlife and director of institutional relations at Palladium Hotel Group, who was recognized for the same merits in receiving this distinction.
This was stated by the British Embassy in Spain, which, in a press release issued on Thursday, emphasized that this award is intended to recognize contributions to strengthening ties between Spain and the United Kingdom. In this regard, it highlights Escarrer’s contribution to promoting responsible tourism initiatives in the Balearic Islands. One example has been his support for the British government’s “Stick With Your Mates” campaign, which is specifically aimed at raising awareness among young tourists about the risks of inappropriate and extremely dangerous behavior, especially when combined with alcohol.
In fact, Meliá has played a leading role in the Balearic Islands’ hotel industry’s fight—particularly in the municipality of Calvià, which attracts the largest number of British visitors to the islands—against anti-social behavior, with a special focus on “balconing.” This practice has declined significantly in recent years. The commitment of hotel establishments—which have been enforcing strict safety protocols all along—has been key to controlling this scourge and curbing it until it has been virtually eradicated.
Furthermore, the British Embassy has also highlighted Escarrer’s commitment to the British economy throughout Meliá Hotels International’s more than 25 years of operations in the United Kingdom. During this period, the hotel company has invested more than 400 million pounds and has helped create thousands of jobs in the country
.”Gabriel Escarrer has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the safety of British citizens visiting Spain and to strengthening the ties between our two countries. Thanks to his leadership and vision, destinations such as the Balearic Islands are now safer places for millions of visitors. It is a pleasure to recognize his contribution with this appointment as an Honorary Member of the Order of the British Empire,” said the United Kingdom’s Ambassador to Spain, Alex Ellis.
For his part, Escarrer expressed his gratitude for receiving this distinction. He also emphasized that the United Kingdom has played “a fundamental role in the history and growth” of the hotel chain. “Personally, I feel a very special affection for this country and its citizens, whose trust has accompanied us for decades. This recognition reflects the relationship of respect and admiration we have built over the years and serves as an incentive to continue strengthening our ties,” he remarked.
For his part, José Luis Benítez has also been recognized for his long-term commitment to the safety of British visitors on the island of Ibiza. In this regard, it is noted that he has promoted the implementation of measures to prevent sexual harassment, assaults, and cases of chemical submission. Furthermore, as former president of the International Nightlife Association, he has helped to extend these safety standards internationally.
Similarly, the Embassy highlights key contributions such as worker training, the strengthening of security measures, and leadership in the sector. In this regard, Ellis emphasized that “Benítez’s dedication to visitor safety has helped make Ibiza a safer destination for the millions of British tourists who travel to the island each year. His leadership and close collaboration with the authorities and the tourism sector have driven lasting improvements in visitor safety.”
Benítez expressed his gratitude for the gesture and emphasized that “working with the British government to ensure that its citizens can enjoy their vacations and, above all, return home safe and sound to the arms of their loved ones is a deeply rewarding experience.”
