Profile

Klaus Assmann

Chief Operating Officer - Middle East, Southeast Asia & India
United Hospitality Management

With nearly four decades of leadership in the hospitality industry, Klaus Assmann is an accomplished executive with deep expertise in luxury hotel management, asset management, retail and large-scale mixed-use operations. His global experience spans UK, USA, Germany, the Philippines, Thailand, the UAE, and the broader Asian subcontinent, making him a seasoned leader with a truly international perspective. He was instrumental in the launch of Madinat Jumeirah, where he oversaw its extensive food & beverage operations, helping establish its reputation as one of Dubai’s most renowned luxury destinations. He also led the pre-opening and operations of the Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, The Meydan Hotel, The Sofitel Dubai Downtown, Jumeirah Phuket and the New York Essex House. Additionally, Klaus opened many hotels under his owner Asset Management mandate. As CEO of Aldar Hotels & Hospitality, Klaus managed a vast portfolio of 25 business units, including luxury hotels, marinas, golf courses, and beach clubs. He oversaw 4,500 operational rooms while leading a development pipeline of 3,000 additional rooms across both managed and franchised properties, demonstrating his ability to drive profitable growth and asset value across multiple hospitality segments. His career includes leadership roles at some of the world’s most prestigious luxury hospitality brands, including Fairmont, Sofitel, Jumeirah, Shangri-La, Park Hyatt, and Nikko Hotels. As Cluster General Manager for Fairmont The Palm, General Manager at Sofitel Dubai Downtown, and Senior Vice President of Hospitality, Events, Retail & Dining at Dubai Parks & Resorts, he led diverse teams and played a key role in integrating hotel operations with food & beverage, retail, and entertainment offerings—a crucial element in today’s evolving hospitality landscape. He lead the Sales & Marketing efforts during his management roles in London and Germany which reiterates his all-round expertise in Hospitality Management.