10 Highest Paying Countries for Hotel Management: Top Companies & Avg Salary

The highest paying countries for hotel management are Switzerland, Norway, Luxembourg, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, UAE, USA, Germany and the UK. 

The global hospitality industry has experienced robust growth in the last few years due to the increased customer interest in luxury travel and personalised services. This trend has created demands for skilled hotel management professionals worldwide. 

As travellers seek out unique experiences, hotels around the globe expand their services, which leads to various job openings. This blog explores some of the best countries for hotel management pursuers. 

Do you know?

• The revenue of the hospitality industry is estimated to reach USD 916 billion in 2024. It is projected to grow annually at 3.99% through 2029, resulting in a market volume of USD 1,114 billion. [1]
• The hotel industry is expected to grow with the number of customers estimated to climb to 1,863 million by 2029. [2]

Quick Overview

Source:

• Cost of living: LivingCost (Refer to country-wise pages)

• Average Annual Base Salary: For Switzerland: https://ch.talent.com/en/salary?job=Hotel+Manager
• For the rest of the countries: Salary Expert (Refer to country-wise pages for hotel management)
• The rest of the sources are marked as comments.
• The cost of living in CHF was converted to USD using the Forbes Currency Converter on 08th Aug 2024.

10 highest paying countries for hotel management

1. Switzerland – Average annual salary (CHF 63,300)

Switzerland is a popular choice for hotel management careers. It is known as the birthplace of modern hospitality and has a strong tradition of excellence. The country’s emphasis on quality, service and exposure to diverse clientele provides a stimulating environment for professionals to thrive. This, coupled with competitive salaries, makes Switzerland a great place for hotel management jobs abroad. 

The average hotel manager’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level hotel managers – They can earn an annual salary of CHF 15,000.
• Experienced hotel manager – Experienced professionals can earn up to CHF 95,000 annually.

2. Norway – Average annual salary (NOK 1,252,041)

Norway’s natural beauty attracts millions of tourists annually. This has led to a consistent demand for skilled hotel management professionals. With the industry contributing over 6% to the nation’s GDP, the job security in the field and exposure to various work settings and clientele makes Norway a compelling option for hotel management professionals. 

The average hotel manager salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level hotel manager – Professionals can earn an annual salary of NOK 859,766.
• Experienced hotel manager – Professionals can earn up to NOK 1,564,137 annually. 

Also read: Common money mistakes to avoid when living abroad.

3. Luxembourg – Average annual salary (EUR 133,491)

Luxembourg is a thriving financial centre with diverse clients and offers dynamic opportunities and a rewarding work environment. Its strategic location attracts business and leisure travellers across Europe, creating a steady demand for hotel management professionals. 

The average hotel manager’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level hotel manager – Professionals at this level can earn an annual salary of EUR 91,667.
• Experienced hotel manager – Experienced professionals can earn up to EUR 166,766 annually.

4. Finland – Average annual salary (EUR 106,197)

Finland has a booming hotel management industry that caters to numerous travellers who want to enjoy the nation’s beauty. With the country’s emphasis on sustainable tourism, it is a great place for hotel management professionals to explore their field that goes beyond traditional practices. 

This, coupled with Finland’s distinctive culture and focus on employee well-being, creates a unique appeal for professionals looking for hotel management jobs abroad. 

The average hotel manager salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level hotel manager – One can earn an annual salary of EUR 72,793.
• Experienced hotel manager – Experienced professionals can earn up to EUR 132,430 annually.

Also read: Culture shock as an expat: What you need to know

5. Denmark – Average annual salary (DKK 973,906)

With a diverse clientele and progressive work culture, Denmark offers a compelling workspace for hotel management professionals. Moreover, the country’s emphasis on employee well-being and competitive salaries makes it a great choice for individuals seeking a balanced and rewarding career. 

The average hotel manager salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level hotel manager – Professionals can earn an annual salary of DKK 668,188.
• Experienced hotel manager – Professionals can earn up to DKK 1,215,608 annually. 

Also read: 10 tips to make your living abroad transition easier.

6. Sweden – Average annual salary (SEK 1,044,155)

Sweden’s natural beauty and vibrant cities attract thousands of visitors, creating ample opportunities for those in the hotel management industry. Additionally, Sweden’s progressive labour laws and competitive salaries make it a compelling choice for professionals looking for unique opportunities in the field. 

The average hotel manager’s salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level hotel manager – Entry-level managers can earn an annual salary of SEK 716,598.
• Experienced hotel manager – Experienced professionals can earn up to SEK 1,303,679 annually. 

7. United Arab Emirates – Average annual salary (AED 350,940)

The United Arab Emirates is a top hospitality hub with unique benefits, including lucrative salaries, no taxes, and global exposure. Its luxurious lifestyle and emphasis on innovation provide career growth opportunities. Moreover, the cultural similarities make the UAE an appealing country for jobs for Indians. 

The average hotel manager salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level hotel manager – Entry-level hotel managers can earn an annual salary of AED 24,000.
• Experienced hotel manager – Experienced hotel management professionals can earn up to AED 365,000 annually. 

8. USA – Average annual salary (USD 165,603)

The United States of America offers exposure to a dynamic and expansive industry and clientele in the hotel management sector. It offers unparalleled career opportunities in luxury resorts and casinos, with competitive salaries and a stimulating work environment. Despite fierce competition, it provides great rewards and professional development.

The average hotel manager salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level hotel manager – Entry-level professionals can earn an annual salary of USD 113,718.
• Experienced hotel manager – Experienced hotel management professionals can earn up to USD 206,883. 

Also read: Ultimate guide to understanding the cost of living in the USA.

9. Germany – Average annual salary (EUR 121,272)

Germany’s strong tourism industry offers significant growth opportunities in hotel management. The country’s diverse international clientele, sustainable hospitality practices, and competitive salaries make it an attractive option for a rewarding career.

The average hotel manager salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level hotel manager – Entry-level professionals can earn an annual salary of EUR 83,276 in hotel management.
• Experienced hotel manager – Experienced professionals can earn up to EUR 151,501 annually. 

Also read: Average Salary in Germany in 2024 – An Ultimate Guide.

10. UK – Average annual salary (GBP 90,625)

The UK provides hotel management opportunities across a wide range of establishments, from luxurious city hotels to upscale countryside retreats. These roles offer exposure to diverse work environments and clientele. This, with the competitive salary packages, benefits and career scaling options, makes it an attractive choice for individuals pursuing hotel management jobs abroad. 

The average hotel manager salary based on experience is as follows:

• Entry-level hotel manager – Entry-level professionals can earn an annual salary of GBP 62,231.
• Experienced hotel manager – Experienced hotel management professionals can earn up to GBP 113,215 annually. 

Also read: Cost of living in the UK 

Country-wise salary

Note: The above table shows the average salaries for hotel management in the top 10 countries. All the currencies have been converted to USD (to create graphs) on 09th Aug 2024.

Currency conversion tool: 

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/in/money-transfer/currency-conversion-calculator/

Other emerging countries

With the hotel industry experiencing rapid growth, the demand for skilled hotel management professionals has been skyrocketing globally. This increase in job opportunities for hotel management has opened doors to attractive opportunities in countries offering compelling salary packages. Here are some rising job markets for hotel Management : 

• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia
• Austria
• Netherlands

Different types of hotel management jobs overseas

Note: The above table illustrates the national average salary for the United States of America.

Source: SalaryExpert

Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s

• Understand the culture of your target country. Cultural nuances aid well when dealing with guests. 
• Basic proficiency in the local language is important.
• Beyond the local language, having a basic understanding of other foreign languages can also help when dealing with foreign guests. 
• Build a good network within your industry, especially in your target country. 
• Pick up and polish transferable skills like adaptability and problem-solving. 
• Highlight any previous international work on your resume. 
• Be open to different roles and learning opportunities. 
• Keep yourself updated on the industry trends. 

Don’ts

• Expect the work environment or procedures to be the same as those in your home country. 
• Stay rigid to the standard of work you have previously done. Luxury establishments often require employees to display the best of their skills. 
• Expect immediate high-level positions. The hospitality industry often requires you to work in lower-level roles so that you can learn all the necessary basic skills. 
• Limit yourself to one country. This field offers unparalleled opportunities for travel and exposure to various work settings. Take advantage of this and improve your skills. 
• Underestimate cultural changes; every establishment and country will present new learning opportunities. 

Before you go…

The global hotel management industry offers unparalleled international job opportunities for hotel management professionals. Considering factors like the average hotel manager’s salary, cost of living in your target country and work-life balance, you can identify the ideal country to start your exciting career. 

However, apart from settling into your new job role and culture in a foreign country, you will also need to pay more attention to financial aspects, especially fund transfers. Whether you are a working professional or an international student looking to transfer funds overseas, Instarem offers fast* and affordable@ fund transfer services.

These services, when coupled with their competitive conversion rates, make Instarem an ideal choice for individuals who wish to transfer funds overseas.

Moreover, Instarem’s services are conveniently available via the Instarem App which can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play. This app ensures you easily transfer money whenever you need to. 

FAQs

Q. How to get a hotel management job in a foreign country?

Using international job portals like LinkedIn or Indeed for openings can help you get hotel management jobs abroad. 

Q. Which is the best country for hotel management with the highest pay?

Switzerland offers the highest annual salary for hotel managers, which ranges around CHF 63,300 (USD 73,063). 

Q. Which country is in demand for hotel management?

Countries like Switzerland, Norway, Luxembourg, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, the United Arab Emirates, the United States of America, Germany and the United Kingdom offer many compelling jobs for hotel management.

Q. Which company is the best for hotel management?

Top companies in Switzerland, such as Accor SA, InterContinental Hotel Group, Marriott International Inc. and Radisson Hotel Group, are some of the best companies for hotel management jobs abroad. 

Q. What is the starting hotel manager salary abroad for a fresher?

The salaries for hotel management jobs in foreign countries for freshers can vary significantly across countries. Switzerland, for example, offers CHF 60’000 for Entry-level hotel manager professionals.

Q. How secure are hotel management jobs abroad?

Hotel management jobs abroad have become increasingly secure due to the global surge in tourism and hospitality. 

Q. What is a hotel manager’s salary abroad per month?

On average, a hotel manager’s salary abroad can vary depending on factors like the country of employment, the job role, etc. In popular countries like Switzerland, hotel managers can expect to earn around CHF 5’275 (USD 6,094) per month. 

Q. What is the average hotel manager’s salary per hour?

The per-hour salary for hotel management jobs abroad (manager’s role)can vary depending on the country of employment, type of establishment and the job role. Countries like Switzerland offer around CHF 32.46 (USD 36.96)per hour. 

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Disclaimers:

This article is intended for informational purposes only. All details are accurate at the time of publishing. Instarem has no affiliation or relationship with the products or vendors mentioned.

*Fast meaning 75% of our transactions are completed in 15 minutes. Depending on the funding method.

@ When it comes to affordable exchange rates and fees, it’s worth noting that the cost will vary depending on how you choose to fund your transactions. Credit card funding and bank transfer fees can differ significantly. 

Note: Salary and cost of living are taken from different websites on 9th August 2024 and are subject to change.

Citations:

• [1]https://www.statista.com/outlook/mmo/travel-tourism/worldwide
• [2]https://www.statista.com/outlook/mmo/travel-tourism/worldwide