IHG to Launch Two Luxury Hotels in Riyadh's King Abdullah Financial District by 2027

IHG to Launch Two Luxury Hotels in Riyadh's King Abdullah Financial District by 2027

By Author

Published on March 12, 2024

IHG Hotels & Resorts, a global leader in the hospitality industry, is set to further expand its luxury hotel portfolio in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, through a strategic management agreement with the King Abdullah Financial District Management and Development Company (KAFD DMC). This collaboration heralds the development of two prestigious luxury hotels, the Regent Riyadh KAFD and the InterContinental Riyadh KAFD, both slated for opening in 2027 in the heart of the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), a premier business and lifestyle hub in the Saudi capital.

The introduction of the Regent Riyadh KAFD marks the debut of the Regent brand in Riyadh, offering 250 rooms equipped with state-of-the-art amenities. The hotel is designed to provide an unparalleled guest experience, featuring a signature restaurant, two specialty restaurants, a tea lounge, and two cafes. In addition, the Regent Riyadh KAFD will offer comprehensive fitness facilities, a spa, a ballroom, and meeting rooms, addressing the needs of both business and leisure travellers seeking luxury and comfort.

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Complementing the Regent, the InterContinental Riyadh KAFD will boast 400 rooms and a diverse range of dining options, including a signature restaurant, two specialty restaurants, and a lobby lounge. The hotel will also cater to the business community with its advanced conferencing facilities. Leisure guests will enjoy the spa, swimming pool, and indoor recreation area, enhancing the overall guest experience within the vibrant KAFD.

Haitham Mattar, Managing Director for India, the Middle East, and Africa at IHG Hotels and Resorts, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "Riyadh is undergoing a massive transformation, and locations like KAFD increase the number of investments into the city and the wider kingdom. At IHG, we remain committed to the kingdom’s visionary ambitions through our expanding portfolio of hotels. We are ever confident in our partnership with KAFD to cater to the growing demand for luxury guest experiences in the region with Regent Riyadh and InterContinental Riyadh KAFD."

Guests staying at either hotel will have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of IHG’s loyalty program, IHG One Rewards, which offers a range of perks including suite upgrades, annual lounge memberships, and extended check-outs.

With the addition of these two luxury establishments, IHG continues to strengthen its presence in Saudi Arabia. The group currently operates 43 hotels across six brands in the country and has a pipeline of 32 hotels expected to open between 2024 and 2028, signalling a robust commitment to enhancing Saudi Arabia's hospitality landscape and meeting the sophisticated demands of its travellers.


Essentia Hotels & Resorts Expands Footprint with Upcoming Nagpur Property

Essentia Hotels & Resorts Expands Footprint with Upcoming Nagpur Property

By Hariharan U

Published on April 16, 2026

Essentia Hotels & Resorts is set to expand its growing portfolio with a new property in Nagpur, marking its entry into one of Central India’s emerging hospitality markets.

Known for its thoughtfully curated hospitality experiences, Essentia aims to introduce a property that blends contemporary elegance with functional design. The upcoming hotel is envisioned to cater to both business and leisure travellers, offering a refined yet welcoming stay experience aligned with modern expectations.

Often regarded as the heart of India, Nagpur is steadily evolving into a dynamic urban centre where cultural heritage meets modern development. With its serene lakes, spiritual landmarks, and historical attractions, the city presents a balanced mix of vibrancy and calmmaking it an attractive destination for both corporate and leisure travel.

Bringing its signature philosophy of “distinctive destination experience” to the city, Essentia’s new property will focus on combining contemporary sensibilities with intuitive service. The development aims to create a space that reflects comfort, sophistication, and attention to detail, while remaining rooted in a deep understanding of evolving guest preferences.

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Commenting on the expansion, Mohammed Parvez said, “Nagpur represents a compelling growth story, and we are delighted to be part of its evolving narrative. Our vision has always been to create destinations that resonate with their surroundings while offering a sense of familiarity and comfort that today’s travellers seek.”

With this move, Essentia continues to align its growth strategy with emerging Indian cities that are redefining the country’s hospitality landscape. The Nagpur property is expected to reflect the brand’s commitment to “Affordable Luxury,” delivering thoughtfully designed spaces, sincere service, and meaningful guest experiences.

Founded in 2018 under the aegis of Aaverina Hospitality Private Limited and headquartered in Bengaluru, Essentia Hotels & Resorts has been steadily building a reputation for delivering contemporary hospitality experiences rooted in design, service, and human connection.


Novotel Hyderabad Airport Secures Green Key Renewal for Third Consecutive Year

Novotel Hyderabad Airport Secures Green Key Renewal for Third Consecutive Year

By Hariharan U

Published on April 15, 2026

Novotel Hyderabad Airport has successfully renewed its Green Key Certification for the third consecutive year, reaffirming its long-term commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable hospitality. The hotel also holds the distinction of being the first in South India and the third in the country to receive this globally recognised eco-label.

Unlike one-time accolades, the Green Key renewal demands consistent year-on-year progress across key sustainability metrics. From energy efficiency and water conservation to waste management and community engagement, the certification reflects measurable impact and continuous improvement.

At the core of the hotel’s approach is a structured sustainability framework that integrates eco-conscious practices into daily operations, infrastructure, and guest experiences. Over time, the property has implemented several impactful initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint.

Energy efficiency measures include the use of 100% non-CFC coolants for air conditioning and the installation of over 6,000 LED bulbs across the property. Solar energy plays a significant role, with 200 solar panels powering water heating systems to meet the building’s requirements.

Water conservation remains a major focus area. With 1,500 aerators installed, the hotel saves up to 10,000 litres of water daily. Rainwater harvesting systems contribute to groundwater recharge, while treated water from the in-house sewage treatment plant is reused for landscaping, accounting for nearly 140 kilolitres per day.

The hotel has also embraced circular, low-waste practices. Its in-house water bottling plant using glass bottles helps eliminate nearly 30,000 plastic bottles each month. Organic waste is converted into manure for a 2,500 sq. ft. herb garden, which supports the hotel’s culinary operations and is maintained using recycled water.

In line with greener mobility, the property offers EV charging infrastructure and electric vehicles for guest transport, along with eco-friendly cycling options that encourage low-impact exploration.

Commenting on the milestone, Sukhbir Singh, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Airport, said, “Securing the Green Key renewal for the third year is a strong validation of our team's consistent work behind the scenes. At Novotel Hyderabad Airport, sustainability is part of how we design systems, manage resources, and engage with guests. Each year, we aim to refine our practices and create a hospitality environment that is efficient, responsible, and built for the long term.”

As sustainability continues to shape global hospitality standards, Novotel Hyderabad Airport remains focused on aligning its operations with evolving environmental expectations, demonstrating that guest comfort and long-term ecological responsibility can go hand in hand.


IHCL Expands Footprint with Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham Opening

IHCL Expands Footprint with Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham Opening

By Hariharan U

Published on April 15, 2026

Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced the opening of Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham, marking a significant addition to Gujarat’s evolving hospitality landscape. Spread across 17 acres, the hotel is positioned as a tranquil green retreat catering to both business and leisure travellers.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the location, Leah Tata, Vice President & Brand Leader, Gateway Hotels & Resorts, IHCL, noted that Gandhidham serves as a key urban hub supporting maritime trade and regional commerce. She added that the hotel is well placed to meet the rising demand driven by the region’s economic growth.

The 93-key property blends regional design influences with contemporary comfort. Surrounded by landscaped lawns and fountains, the hotel offers thoughtfully designed rooms that reflect local character while delivering a relaxed stay experience.

Dining at the hotel is anchored by Urban Masala, the all-day multi-cuisine restaurant that brings together local specialities and global favourites, along with chef-curated signature dishes. Guests can also enjoy a range of leisure amenities including a swimming pool, fitness centre, and spa.

For social and corporate gatherings, the hotel features versatile indoor and outdoor event spaces, making it suitable for celebrations, conferences, and business meetings alike.

Sandeep Makroo, General Manager, Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham, shared, “We look forward to welcoming guests to Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham and delivering a stay defined by comfort and warm hospitality.

With proximity to key attractions such as Rann of Kutch, Vijay Vilas Palace, and Mandvi Beach, the hotel also offers travellers an entry point to explore the cultural and natural richness of the region.

As part of IHCL’s expansive portfolio, the Gateway brand continues to strengthen its presence across emerging destinations, offering full-service hotels that combine comfort, accessibility, and authentic hospitality experiences.

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