KARANBIR SINGH GULATI
Luxury Hospitality Operational Excellence | F&B Concept Development Revenue Optimisation | Project Management | Wine expertise & Food pairing | International Market experience | Profitability & Training | Industry Network Heritage
Coming from a legacy of hospitality, Karanbir is the second-generation hotelier following in the footsteps of his father, who successfully established Hotel Diplomat in Shimla. With a deep-rooted understanding of the hospitality industry, Karanbir has expanded upon this legacy by carving out a distinguished career in India & Internationally. Born and raised in Shimla Alumni of Bishop Cotton School BSc in Hospitality Management, IHM Shillong WMI – ITC’s Exclusive Management School.
Early competitive sports background in cricket, ice skating, and ice hockey at state levels - developing leadership, strategic thinking, and team management skills
17+ Years of Global Experience in Luxury Hospitality
Karanbir’s career spans over 17 years across renowned global hotel chains, including Starwood, Marriott, Accor, and FIVE Hotels & Resorts. His international exposure, especially in Dubai, has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of both the operational and financial frameworks of luxury hotels and F&B management.
Key Positions Held
-
Group Director -Food & Beverage at FIVE Hotels, Dubai, overseeing 15 F&B venues (Penthouse | Maiden Shanghai | Cinque). Launching Beach by FIVE, one of the largest beach clubs in the UAE with LUVYA Festival.
-
Progressive roles with ITC Luxury Collection Hotels
-
ITC Grand Central, Mumbai (Kebabs & Kurries, Shanghai Club, Dublin)
-
ITC Maurya, New Delhi (Bukhara & Dum Pukht, Beverage Portfolio)
-
ITC Welcome Hotel Dwarka (Head – Banquets & Events)
-
ITC Maratha, Mumbai
-
Managing Partner at Taste Studio Catering, Dubai
-
Director F&B, Renaissance Convention Centre & Marriott Executive Apartments, Mumbai
-
General Manager Luxury Brands, Massive Restaurants (Kode & Masala Library)
-
General Manager at Hotel Avasa, Hyderabad, managing a 217-room 5-star property


Achievements & Accolades WSET III Sommelier certification with Merit Panelist

Hotel Show Dubai 2022 Multiple Times Food Guide Awards for Bukhara and Kebabs & Kurries

Recognition in Meile Guide for Finest Indian Restaurant

Recognized at the 7th Indian Sommelier Championship for excellence inFood and wine pairing.

Led and executed large-scale international events,Including the LUVYA & Anjunadeep Festival in Dubai for 3,000 people.

INDUSTRY EXPERTISE
As a hospitality consultant Karanbir has worked with clients on asset management, project management, and concept development. His keen eye for detail and ability to align operational efficiencies with strategic goals make him a sought-after expert in the industry for strategic brand building, combined with his family’s deep heritage in the industry, makes him an invaluable asset to any hospitality venture.
OPERATIONAL & STRATEGIC EXPERTISE
Karanbir excels in F&B concept development, budgeting, P&L management, and large-scale project execution. Notable projects include the opening of Nonya, a contemporary Southeast Asian restaurant in Dubai, and overseeing the growth of Massive Restaurants, luxury brands such as Farzi Café and Masala Library.

OUR EXPERIENCE
DUBAI HOTEL SHOW-PANEL DISCUSSION
