Shaping Tomorrow’s Luxury: A Fireside Chat with Mandarin oriental’s Michael Koth
Stepping inside Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is a sensory experience—grandeur in every golden arch, thoughtful hospitality in every detail. But behind the scenes of one of the world’s most iconic hotels is a quietly magnetic leader shaping what luxury means today. We sat down with General Manager Michael Koth to hear about his journey through the world of hospitality, what it means to lead such an extraordinary property, and why Abu Dhabi is a city every event professional should have on their radar.
Emily, inVOYAGE: Michael, thank you so much for joining us—it’s a real pleasure to have you with us. Now before we talk about your property, let’s start at the beginning—what first drew you into the world of hospitality? Was there a defining moment or influence early in your journey?
Michael Koth: Thank you—it’s a pleasure to be here. Hospitality has always resonated with me on a deeply human level. As a fifth-generation hotelier, I guess the passion for the industry runs in my veins.
Growing up in Hamburg, Germany I was surrounded by a culture of warmth, precision and openness. But also fascinated by the cosmopolitan flare of the port and always drawn to explore what lies beyond the horizon. There was no singular moment, but rather a series of early encounters—watching my parents host guests for a living, travelling through Europe with my family—that made me realize the joy in creating memorable moments for others. Although a demanding ask, that spark has never left me.
Emily, inVOYAGE: From those early days to now leading one of the most iconic hotels in the world—how would you describe your path to Emirates Palace? Any standout lessons along the way?
Michael Koth: It has been a journey of curiosity, growth and gratitude. Over the last 45 years I’ve had the privilege of leading properties across Europe, the Middle East and Southeast Asia—from InterContinental Athens, Cairo and Vienna, to overseeing operations across the Levant, and managing resorts in Bali, Thailand, Malaysia and the Maldives. Every region taught me something new—finding gratitude and appreciation for the cultural differences without bias. The power of listening, seeing and the vision to unlock opportunities. Creating the fire in people to enlighten others and value each individual with their own journey. If there’s one lesson that stands out, it’s that leadership is not about perfection—it’s about consistency, empathy and clarity of purpose. Coming to Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental felt like the culmination of all those experiences, but also the beginning of a bold chapter ahead.
Emily, inVOYAGE: How would you describe the spirit of Emirates Palace today? Has that shifted with its transition into the Mandarin Oriental family?
Michael Koth: The spirit of Emirates Palace has always been rooted in grandeur, hospitality and generosity—since joining the Mandarin Oriental family, that aura has evolved into something more intimate, curated and intentional. We’ve embraced a quieter kind of luxury—one that doesn’t just impress but resonates. The way our experiences are brought to life, in the natural rhythm of our service, and in how sincerely we connect with our guests on an emotional level. By exceptional colleagues who feel confident being themselves and being part of the story they unfold.
Innovation and community have played a powerful role in that evolution. From launching contemporary dining concepts and wellness journeys that reflect a new era of travel, to inviting local voices and creatives into the Palace through partnerships and activations, we’ve become a cultural touchstone as much as a hospitality icon. The Palace today is not just a place to stay—it’s a place to feel something: belonging, wonder, discovery.
Emily, inVOYAGE: When guests leave, what’s the one feeling or memory you hope they take with them?
Michael Koth: A sense of wonder—and a sense of connection. I want guests to leave feeling both elevated and at ease. Whether they’ve stayed in one of our signature suites, dined beneath the stars or simply wandered through our gardens, I hope they carry a memory that feels uniquely theirs. Luxury is no longer about opulence—it’s about resonance. If a guest leaves feeling more inspired, more relaxed or more connected to the world around them, then we would like to think we have done our job.
Emily, inVOYAGE: Are there any experiences—perhaps a lesser-known detail or hidden moment—that you feel truly captures the soul of the property?
Michael Koth: There’s a moment I always cherish—standing in the Palace gardens at dusk, just as the golden hour softens the air and the birds begin to return to our 8,000 trees. It’s peaceful, untouched and entirely unexpected. Many guests don’t realise the extent of our biodiversity—from our date palms and beehives to the migratory birds that pass through the grounds. More often than not the stand-up paddlers in our private bay encounter being surrounded by a playful school of dolphins. Witnessing their excitement upon return is priceless. This quiet harmony between nature and architecture, tradition and modernity—that’s the soul of the Palace for me.
Emily, inVOYAGE: Mandarin Oriental is a brand synonymous with excellence. What does “excellence” look like to you in 2025?
Michael Koth: Excellence in 2025 is about creating experiences that feel personal, purposeful and emotionally intelligent. We bring this to life not only through world-class service but through meaningful action. Our team curates guest journeys that blend craftsmanship, culture and innovation—from progressive dining concepts like Strawfire by Chef Ross Shonhan to immersive wellness rituals rooted in the Palace’s natural surroundings. Every activation is designed to be memorable, but also mindful responding to the values of today’s travellers who seek connection, not just spectacle.
Emily, inVOYAGE: You’ll be welcoming the inVOYAGE community to Abu Dhabi this September. What excites you most about hosting some of the world’s top event professionals?
Michael Koth: What excites me most is the opportunity to share the multidimensional spirit of both the Palace and Abu Dhabi. This city is full of stories waiting to be discovered—rich in culture, innovation and authenticity. Hosting the inVOYAGE community is not just an honour; it’s a chance to show how the Palace is more than a venue—it’s a canvas. I look forward to inspiring conversations, fresh ideas, and unforgettable moments shared with passionate professionals who understand the transformative power of experience.
Emily, inVOYAGE: What makes Emirates Palace such a powerful setting for events and incentives at the highest level?
Michael Koth: The Palace offers a grandeur that few venues in the world can match, from our palatial auditorium and ballrooms to our private marina and beachfront. But what sets us apart is our ability to make even the most monumental event feel intimate and personal. Our team is deeply attuned to detail, creativity and discretion. Whether you're planning a high-level summit, an exclusive incentive trip or a cultural celebration, the Palace adapts to your vision while elevating it beyond expectation.
Emily, inVOYAGE: And finally, if you could give one piece of advice to event planners considering Abu Dhabi for their next big idea, what would it be?
Michael Koth: Lean into the unexpected. Abu Dhabi is a destination that surprises—rich in heritage, yet future-focused. It offers an extraordinary blend of artistry, adventure and authenticity. My advice? Don’t just plan an event—curate a journey. Work with partners who know how to tell a story through every touchpoint. And of course, come with curiosity—the city will take care of the rest.
Emily, inVOYAGE: Michael, thank you so much for taking the time to share your story with us. Your perspective on leadership, luxury, and the evolution of guest experiences offers so much inspiration—not just for fellow hoteliers, but for the global event community as well. We can’t wait to experience Emirates Palace through your eyes this September at inVOYAGE x Abu Dhabi.