Our Insights at a Glance
- A behind-the-scenes look and candid thoughts from property magnate Dr. Allan Zeman at Phuket's evolving real estate landscape - from quiet beaches to booming beach clubs
- The developer shares his perspective on trust, responsibility, and why loyal buyers matter more than short-term profits, showing how exceeding expectations fosters lasting relationships in real estate
- Informed by decades in the global leisure and tourism industry, Dr. Allan Zeman shares why Phuket may be uniquely positioned to embrace casino-driven growth while preserving its high-end beach lifestyle
This interview features Dr. Allan Zeman, a globally renowned entrepreneur and visionary real estate developer celebrated as the “Father of Lan Kwai Fong” in Hong Kong. Born in Germany in 1949 and raised in Canada, Dr. Zeman built his first fortune in fashion-import before relocating to Hong Kong in 1975.
Global Real Estate Tycoon
Property Developer of Sudara
He established Lan Kwai Fong Holdings, transforming a narrow Central street into the city's premier entertainment and nightlife district, and later chaired Ocean Park Hong Kong, turning it from a deficit to a profitable tourism magnet.
Over 25 years in Phuket, Dr. Zeman has shaped the island's luxury landscape with projects like Andara, guided by a vision of beauty, trust, and long-term value. In this interview, he discusses reviving failed developments, the inspiration behind Sudara, and why exceeding expectations builds lasting customer loyalty.
You've had a long history in Phuket. What originally drew you to the island?
It all started about 25 years ago. I was supposed to go skiing in Whistler, but I wasn't feeling up to the cold. I told my wife, “Let's head somewhere warm,” and that's how we ended up in Phuket.
At the time, there weren't many luxury developments - Amanpuri was one of the only high-end resorts. We stumbled upon a beautiful piece of land, signed the contract, and began building what would become my first project here: Chandara. That was really the beginning of my journey in Phuket.
What was the vision behind Andara, and how did it come to life?
After Chandara, I saw potential in a failed hillside project nearby - unfinished concrete units on a bare slope. The original developers gave up, and I bought the land. I've always looked at what something could be, not just what it is.
So I cleared the site and started from scratch, designing Andara with a focus on space, elegance, and lasting quality. We began with a few villas, priced around $2 million. Years later, one sold for $15 million. That's the kind of value I aim to create - for buyers and for the destination.
How does your approach to development differ from others working in Phuket?
I never start with cost - I start with the product. I think about how to create something exceptional, and only then look at how to make it affordable.
Many developers do the opposite: they focus on margins first, then cut corners.
For me, it's about exceeding expectations. If you give people more than they pay for, they trust you. That trust builds loyalty - and loyal buyers are worth more than any quick profit.
Tell us about Sudara. What inspired this latest project near Bang Tao?
We've had that land in Bang Tao for a long time. Years ago, Surin was the hotspot, but over time Bang Tao became the place to be - with amazing beach clubs, restaurants, and a great vibe.
We felt it was the right moment to build something that was modern, elegant, and walkable to the beach. Sudara offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom condos, all designed in-house, with thoughtful touches and high-quality finishes - at a price point that delivers real value.
I look at things not for what they are, but what they could be"
What kind of lifestyle or experience did you want to offer to buyers at Sudara?
beautiful gym, spa, co-working space, even a buggy service to the beach. Everything's fully furnished - you can walk in with your suitcase and start living. Some people walking by even mistake it for a spa. That's the level of design and atmosphere we aimed for.
What are some of the key factors you've observed in real estate development over the years?
Trust is everything. When someone buys a property - especially from overseas - they're trusting you with their money, often from thousands of miles away. You have a responsibility to deliver. If you focus on quality, transparency, and doing the right thing, people notice. That's how you build long-term relationships, and in this business, that's more valuable than any single sale.
There's so much unhappiness in the world.
Why not create beauty and joy? That's my motto: Life is beautiful. Keep it that way"
How did your background in Hong Kong and Macau influence your work in Phuket?
My time in Hong Kong taught me how to recognize opportunity where others might see very little. Lan Kwai Fong is a great example. It started as a quiet backstreet - a service lane, really - but I saw potential. With the right energy, vision, and sense of place, it became the heartbeat of Hong Kong's nightlife.
That experience taught me how the right concept, in the right location, at the right time, can completely transform an area. When I look at a hillside or beachfront, I ask: how can we create something that adds value to the island and brings pride to the community?
So it's really about seeing opportunity where others might not?
Exactly. That mindset carried over to Macau as well. When I became Chairman of Wynn Macau, I witnessed how the gaming and hospitality industries - when handled professionally - could uplift an entire region.
Macau wasn't always the polished destination we know today. It had a troubled past, but with international brands, strong design, and a focus on experience, it became a tourism powerhouse. The results were clear: better infrastructure, jobs, international attention, and a stronger local economy. That experience shaped how I see Phuket.
You mentioned casinos - what's your view on Thailand's proposed casino plans and their potential impact on Phuket?
There's been talk of legalizing casinos in Thailand, with Phuket named as one possible location. From my experience, I've seen how a well-managed gaming industry can boost tourism, create jobs, and drive infrastructure.
If done right - like Singapore did - it could add a new layer to Phuket's appeal, especially with entertainment and lifestyle offerings. But it needs careful planning and the right controls to ensure it benefits the community.
Looking ahead, what excites you most about Phuket's future?
Phuket has undergone an incredible transformation over the past few decades. When I first arrived, it was relatively quiet - beautiful, yes, but still developing in terms of infrastructure and global appeal.
Now, it's a world-class destination with luxury resorts, vibrant beach clubs, fine dining, and international schools. But what excites me is that it's still evolving.
If you deliver more than people expect, you'll have a customer for life.
If you deliver more than people expect, you'll have a customer for life"
So even after all that growth, you think Phuket still has untapped potential?
Absolutely. There's a real shift happening - not just more development, but smarter, more thoughtful growth. People are looking for quality over quantity. You're seeing a greater emphasis on design, wellness, sustainability, and creating spaces that enhance lifestyle rather than just maximizing density.
I think Phuket is well-positioned to lead the way in Southeast Asia for integrated living - where tourism, investment, and long-term residency can all coexist in a balanced, beautiful environment. And that's what excites me - the opportunity to be part of shaping that next chapter.
What motivates you personally to keep building and creating after so many successful projects?
For me, it's never just about business - it's about creating something beautiful that brings joy to people's lives. I see land as a blank canvas, and I want to leave behind something meaningful. In a world that often feels chaotic, I believe we can make a difference by building places that feel inspiring, welcoming, and lasting. That's what drives me.
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