With over four decades in the UAE, Berkeley Services has built a reputation for operational excellence, innovation, and trusted client partnerships. Karl-Heinz Otto Mair, CEO of Berkeley Services and (CEO International) for Klüh Multiservices, shares how the company is leveraging technology and sustainability to shape the future of integrated facilities management.
For Karl-Heinz Otto Mair, CEO of Berkeley Services and CEO International of Klüh Multiservices, the future of facilities management lies in creating smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable environments. Drawing on Berkeley’s deep-rooted presence in the UAE and Klüh’s international expertise, he outlines the strategic priorities that will shape the next phase of growth for facilities management in the region.
How has Berkeley established and sustained its leadership position in the region?
Berkeley has established and sustained its leadership position in the region by consistently combining operational excellence, innovation and a deep understanding of the evolving needs of the built environment. With over four decades of experience in the UAE, Berkeley has built long-standing client relationships by delivering reliable, integrated facilities management solutions across diverse sectors. Our focus has evolved beyond service delivery to becoming a strategic partner for our clients-helping them improve efficiency, enhance asset performance and create safer, more sustainable workplaces. We continue to invest in technology, people and sustainable practices, while embracing solutions such as smart facilities management, data-driven operations and ESG initiatives.
Most importantly, our leadership is built on our people and our commitment to continuously improve. By combining local expertise with global best practices through the Klüh Multiservices network, Berkeley remains focused on delivering measurable value and shaping the future of facilities management in the region.
How do you leverage this multinational presence to drive innovation locally?
Being part of a multinational legacy organisation gives Berkeley access to more than 115 years of international expertise across Germany, the United Arab Emirates, the Netherlands, Poland, Turkey & China. This multinational network enables us to exchange best practices, adopt emerging technologies and implement proven operational models that are tailored to local requirements.
In the UAE, we combine this global knowledge with regional insight to introduce AI-enabled solutions, smart CAFM systems, IoT-based monitoring and predictive maintenance strategies.
What is managing and maintaining operational excellence across diverse functions like?
Operational excellence is achieved through a disciplined approach that combines experienced people, standardised processes and intelligent technology. Across our integrated portfolio, we leverage digital platforms, real-time analytics and AI-driven innovations to enhance performance and improve decision-making. Our recent EcoVadis Silver Medal achievement, a globally recognised sustainability rating, reflects the progress we have made in strengthening our environmental, social and governance performance while continuously raising operational standards.
What are the key growth areas and priorities now for Berkeley in the region?
We will continue investing in AI, automation, smart building technologies and predictive analytics to deliver greater efficiency and enhanced client experiences. Equally important is accelerating our sustainability journey by supporting clients in achieving their net-zero goals through innovative, resource-efficient solutions. As we believe, innovation, sustainability and strategic partnerships are not separate ambitions; they are fundamental to how we create long-term value. With the backing of our global organisation and our strong UAE legacy, Berkeley is well positioned for its next phase of growth.
