Pawan Kachroo: Building A Legacy In Global Hospitality

Dr. Pawan Kachroo’s journey in hospitality is a story of vision, resilience, and transformation. Over 2 decades, he has evolved from an unexpected career shift into one of the region’s most respected leaders, driving Khamas Hospitality into a powerhouse with a portfolio that spans the UAE, UK, and Italy.

Dr. Pawan path did not begin in hotels but in electronics, before a pivotal turn led him to the world of service. What started as a career shift soon became a calling, with hands-on roles across operations before he moved into development consultancy in the late 1990s. In 2001, he joined Khamas Group and began shaping the identity of its hospitality division. His vision was clear: hotels must go beyond providing accommodation—they must inspire, connect, and create lasting memories.

Expanding a Diverse Portfolio

Under his leadership, Khamas Hospitality has grown from a single property to a portfolio of landmark addresses. Its collection includes The Canvas Hotel by MGallery, DoubleTree by Hilton Al Jadaf, Mama Shelter Dubai—the first of the brand in the Middle East—as well as Seaview Hotel, Ascot and Royal Ascot in Dubai, Thornbury Castle in the UK, and the prestigious Grand Hotel Campione in Italy.

Looking ahead, the group’s pipeline reflects bold ambition, with The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Business Bay and Marriott Residences Jumeirah Village Circle set to elevate its global standing. Each development reflects Dr. Pawan’s strategy of creating destinations that blend culture, design, and guest-centric innovation.

A Legacy in Motion

Dr. Kachroo’s journey is no longer his alone. His son, Pratik Kachroo, now serves as Director of Operations, bringing a new generation’s energy to the group while upholding values of excellence and integrity. Together, they represent a synergy of experience and innovation, steering Khamas Hospitality into its next chapter.

Recognition & Impact

Honored with Top 40 Heavyweight in Hospitality 2025 in Hotel & Catering Middle East, and Top 30 Hospitality Leaders in the Middle East in 2023 and 2024, Dr. Kachroo’s influence extends beyond business metrics. In 2023, he received an honorary Ph.D. in Hospitality Management by the UNESCO-certified Ecole Supérieure Robert de Sorbon, a testament to his visionary role in shaping global hospitality.

Building What’s Next

As hospitality undergoes rapid change, Dr. Kachroo remains focused on anticipating evolving guest expectations, sustainability demands, and lifestyle trends. Whether through tech-driven experiences, innovative F&B concepts, or design rooted in sustainability, his mission is clear: to create places that resonate long after checkout.

“Leadership isn’t about being followed—it’s about creating a vision others can believe in.”

From humble beginnings in India to leading a portfolio that spans continents, Dr. Pawan Kachroo continues to prove that hospitality is the art of building trust, experiences, and legacies.