TT Bureau: How have the landmark concerts of Diljit Dosanjh and Arijit Singh at JECC solidified its position as a premier entertainment venue and marked a significant milestone in its growth trajectory?

Manuj Ralhan: The Jaipur Exhibition & Convention Centre (JECC), managed by Accor, has rapidly evolved into one of India’s most sought-after event venues, catering to a diverse range of events, from large-scale concerts to summits with global leaders. The landmark concerts of Diljit Dosanjh and Arijit Singh at JECC were defining moments that solidified our reputation as a premier entertainment venue.

Diljit Dosanjh’s concert was a high-energy spectacle that brought as many as 28,000 fans together, while Arijit Singh’s soulful performance created an unforgettable experience for music lovers. These concerts were not just about music; they were about delivering world-class entertainment with seamless event execution, robust security, and an exceptional guest experience.

What made these concerts particularly significant was the scale on which they were conducted. JECC provided the ideal setting with its expansive space and ability to manage large crowds efficiently. With multiple entry and exit points and well-coordinated logistics, ensured that both events were executed flawlessly.

Additionally, the success of these concerts demonstrated our capability to host globally recognized artists and handle massive audience turnouts, reinforcing our position as a venue that meets international standards. The overwhelming response from attendees and the seamless coordination with event organizers further validated JECC as the go-to destination for large-scale concerts in India.

These events have not only strengthened our credibility in the entertainment industry but have also positioned Jaipur as a major hub for live entertainment. The ripple effect of these concerts extends beyond the venue itself, benefiting local businesses, tourism, and hospitality in the city.

TT Bureau: With the Jaipur Exhibition & Convention Centre now hosting some of the country’s most prestigious summits, like the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit 2024, which had PM Narendra Modi in attendance, what do you think makes it stand out as a top-tier convention venue in India?

Manuj Ralhan: JECC has built a reputation for hosting some of the most high-profile MICE events in the country, setting new standards in the industry year after year. When the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit 2024 brought Prime Minister Narendra Modi to our venue, it was yet another testament to our ability to handle large-scale, prestigious gatherings with seamless efficiency.

What makes the property truly stand out is a mix of scale, world-class infrastructure, a prime location, and the added advantage of having the Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre within the same complex. Spread across 42 acres, it’s one of the largest convention centers in India, designed to accommodate everything from corporate conferences to massive trade exhibitions.

One of our biggest strengths is our pillarless exhibition halls—two massive spaces covering over 1 lakh sq. ft. each. The unobstructed layout gives organizers the flexibility to set up large trade shows, summits, and conferences without any structural limitations. An additional asset is the Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre, located right next door, offering 226 well-appointed rooms, ensuring that guests and delegates enjoy a seamless experience from check-in to check-out.

Flexibility is key when it comes to events, and that’s where Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre truly shines. The hotel offers 14 different event venues, including Mugdha, a grand 11,543 sq. ft. pillarless convention hall with an equally spacious pre-function area of 11,771 sq. ft. Plus, with a VIP lounge on-site, we’re well-equipped to host top business leaders and dignitaries in a secure, private setting.

Beyond infrastructure and logistics, we’re committed to a sustainable future. From energy-efficient lighting to EV charging stations and waste management systems, we’re integrating eco-friendly initiatives to ensure that every event hosted here is both impactful and responsible.

At JECC, it is our goal to create experiences that define the future of business, networking, and innovation.

TT Bureau: IIFA has largely been an international event. How do you think hosting it at the Jaipur Exhibition & Convention Centre changes the perception of India as a global entertainment hub? What features make it the ideal location for an event of IIFA’s magnitude?

Manuj Ralhan: IIFA has always been a grand celebration of Indian cinema on an international stage, with past editions hosted in destinations like New York, London, Madrid, and Dubai. Bringing IIFA to JECC is a momentous occasion that not only elevates the status of our venue but also shifts the global perception of India as a premier entertainment hub.

Traditionally, IIFA’s international presence highlighted Bollywood’s global appeal. Hosting it in Jaipur showcases India’s world-class infrastructure, proving that we are capable of organizing and delivering large-scale international events.

Jaipur is known for its heritage and tourism, but IIFA presents the city in a new light—as a modern, event-ready metropolis. The international attention this event brings will further boost tourism, business collaborations, and Jaipur’s position on the world stage. Also, this sets a precedent for future award shows, film festivals, and global music tours to consider Indian venues over international ones.

The influx of celebrities, media, and tourists for IIFA is expected to have a direct economic impact, benefiting the hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors. The global media coverage of IIFA in Jaipur will further boost India’s reputation as a vibrant and capable host for world-class events. IIFA’s execution at JECC will set a new standard for how India and Jaipur, in particular, can host entertainment events with grandeur and precision.

As to what makes JECC an ideal location for IIFA,  the fact is that JECC is built for events like IIFA—big, bold, and full of energy. With massive pillarless halls and over 8 lakh sq. ft. of outdoor concert space, we’ve got everything needed for grand stage setups, red carpet moments, VIP lounges, and media enclosures. Handling celebrities, dignitaries, and industry leaders takes top-notch security, smooth logistics, and world-class hospitality. With Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre right next door, guests get the best of both—seamless event hosting and premium stays, all in one place.

And it’s not just about the glitz—we care about the planet, too. Our venue integrates energy-efficient lighting, EV charging stations, advanced water conservation systems, and sustainable waste management practices to ensure an environmentally responsible event. This year, we’re backing the IIFA Green Challenge, where the organisers, along with celebrities, are planting as many as 15,000 trees in and around our premises. The IIFA Garden will be a lasting reminder of our commitment to a greener future.

Read More: Today’s Traveller Interviews

Industry experts shared fresh perspectives and valuable insights on business travel trends, evolving traveler behavior, technology, and meetings & events.

The day-long event featured meaningful conversations in thought-provoking sessions that addressed key topics, including the future of business travel in Asia, the impact of content on travel programs, the transformative role of AI in enhancing the end-to-end customer experience, and the ways technology and innovation drive scalability and improve experiences in meetings and events.

Centered around the theme “Customer Experience Redefined: Tech Driven, People Focused,” the corporate travel summit provided attendees with an in-depth perspective on business travel spending in India. 

According to GBTA’s Business Travel Index (BTI) report, presented by Elle Ng-Darmawan, GBTA’s Regional Director for APAC, business travel spending in India stood at an estimated US$38.3 billion, making the country the 8th largest market in the world for travel spending in 2024.

“India is currently in an exciting phase. The economy is robust, corporate earnings are strong, and there’s a growing demand for face-to-face meetings. Domestic capacity has increased by nearly 13 per cent compared to pre-pandemic, a significant change from the past year. 

“Hotel occupancies in the organised sector are at record levels, reaching almost 68 per cent with Average Room Rates (ARRs) hitting US$100. This positivity is largely driven by strong economic growth and performance across most industries,” said Sunny Sodhi, Managing Director of FCM Travel India.

According to the GBTA, India is the fourth largest market in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, accounting for 6.2 per cent of business travel spending.

“We are observing significant growth coming from national markets and the SME segment, which has been a major driver of regional expansion. The meetings and events sector is also robust in India, clearly showing steady growth,” said Bertrand Saillet, Managing Director of FCM Travel Asia.

Technology has also become one of the key discussion points. As per a GBTA survey, 63 per cent of APAC buyers revealed AI was their top priority for 2025, the highest globally. 

“Flight Centre Travel Group has established an AI Centre of Excellence, dedicated to advancing artificial intelligence capabilities. The focus is on two main areas: empowering our people to deliver superior service, and enhancing the traveler experience by providing timely, relevant information and ensuring travelers can engage with us anytime,” said Bertrand Saillet, Managing Director of FCM Travel Asia.

The FCM Meetings & Events team of experts also explored the concepts of return on investment versus return on engagement.

“When considering return on investment, it’s essential to recognise the role of technology and tools in driving engagement with content. These resources deliver highly personalised experiences, helping attendees stay engaged with the event’s objectives and purpose throughout the entire customer journey,” said Simone Seiler, Global Leader of FCM Meetings & Events.

“The outlook for business travel in 2025 is very promising, and it is expected to be a pivotal year as business travel enters its next era. However, we must also take into account economic developments, as travel costs and budgets will play a major role. Technological advancements, particularly in AI, along with the ongoing evolution of sustainability, will continue to shape our industry,” said Ng-Darmawan.

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Set within 100,000 square metres of lush tropical greenery on Sentosa Island, this exceptional resort, created in collaboration with the Royal Group, thoughtfully blends natural beauty with impeccable hospitality, building on the rich legacy of the storied Raffles brand, which was founded in Singapore in 1887.

“Through the debut of this resort, we are introducing an elegant all-villa offering on Sentosa Island, where guests can immerse themselves in nature while embracing tranquility and wellbeing. We look forward to creating magical moments in an exquisite setting, highlighting the beauty of this unique island destination while delivering exceptional hospitality,” said Omer Acar, CEO, Raffles Hotels & Resorts.

“This is a very special moment for us as we proudly launch Raffles Sentosa Singapore, the Republic’s first all-villa resort,” said Bobby Hiranandani, Co-Chairman of the Royal Group. “We are honoured to have been entrusted with continuing the distinguished Raffles legacy, particularly here in Singapore where this iconic brand was born and still has such a special place in everyone’s hearts.”  

Just a 15-minute drive from the city’s Central Business District, the resort is perched on a hilltop surrounded by the lush greenery of Sentosa Island, Asia’s first Global Sustainable Tourism Council-certified island destination. Designed by Yabu Pushelberg, Raffles Sentosa Singapore features 62 villas.

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This collaboration marks a significant step in strengthening the hotel’s presence in the Indian market, catering to the growing number of discerning travelers choosing London as a preferred destination.

Situated in the heart of Marylebone on the prestigious Portman Square, Nobu Hotel London Portman Square seamlessly blends modern luxury with timeless elegance. A perfect reflection of the Nobu brand’s philosophy of understated sophistication, the hotel offers an extraordinary experience for guests seeking an unforgettable stay in the capital.

This 243-room property is designed to cater to the highest standards of comfort and style, featuring meticulously curated interiors that exude contemporary Japanese aesthetics paired with London’s cosmopolitan charm.

Beyond dining, the hotel features Nobu Wellness and Nobu Pilates, offering bespoke fitness programs, rejuvenating treatments, and a state-of-the-art fitness area designed by TechnoGym. In-room treatments are also available, ensuring a holistic well-being experience for high-end travelers.

Perfectly positioned in one of London’s most desirable neighborhoods, guests can explore the charming boutiques, galleries, and cafés of Marylebone Village, or visit nearby landmarks like Hyde Park, Oxford Street, and the West End. An exclusive experience awaits those who request the key to Portman Square, allowing them private access to one of London’s hidden garden squares.

Hemant Mediratta, Founder & CEO of One Rep Global, commented on the partnership, stating: “Over the past year, London has welcomed more than 1,500 Indian travelers every single day—highlighting the city’s undeniable appeal among Indian globetrotters. With this number set to grow even further in 2025, London continues to be a preferred destination for Indian travelers, whether for leisure, business, or luxury shopping experiences.

Nobu Hotel London Portman Square is a seamless blend of Japanese elegance and London’s cosmopolitan charm, offering an immersive luxury experience. Beyond its globally acclaimed Nobu Restaurant, the hotel sets itself apart with four distinct dining destinations, a world-class wellness offering—including the first-ever Nobu Pilates studio—and a prime location in Marylebone that provides effortless access to both iconic landmarks and the city’s hidden gems. At One Rep Global, we are committed to leveraging our expertise and market insights to ensure that Nobu Hotel London Portman Square becomes the preferred London address for the discerning Indian traveler.”

Grant Campbell, General Manager of Nobu Hotel London Portman Square, shared his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to collaborate with the team at OneRep Global to introduce Nobu Hotel London Portman Square to the Indian market. We have closely followed the dynamic growth in this market and believe our hotel is an ideal destination for discerning travellers visiting London. Situated in a charming local neighbourhood at the heart of the city, our location offers easy access to iconic landmarks, the tranquil beauty of Hyde Park, and our private garden square. Guests can immerse themselves in a blend of independent shops, traditional luxury boutiques, and the best of British culture, all within walking distance.

Nobu Restaurant, renowned worldwide, has long been a favourite of the Indian community, celebrated for its vibrant flavours, diverse menu, and an exceptional selection of pescatarian and vegetarian dishes.”

With this partnership, One Rep Global will implement a targeted sales and marketing strategy to amplify awareness and drive bookings from the Indian market to Nobu Hotel London Portman Square. Through a combination of strategic brand positioning, influencer collaborations, and trade partnerships, One Rep Global aims to ensure that the hotel is the preferred choice for Indian travelers seeking an exclusive and immersive London experience.

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Etihad is increasing its flights to twice daily to Air Europa’s hub in Madrid from summer 2025, providing seamless access between Abu Dhabi and Spain. The partnership would further strengthen connectivity between Europe and Latin America, and the Middle East and Asia, creating seamless travel options across these key regions. 

Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial of Etihad Airways, said: “We are in discussions to establish a strategic partnership covering a range of activities, including deepening our codeshare and frequent flyer programme, enabling both airlines to expand into new frontiers, and a potential wet lease operation with an Air Europa aircraft between Madrid and Abu Dhabi. 

“Any partnership will work towards benefiting customers of both airlines, underscoring our commitment to providing our valued customers with a seamless travel experience and access to a wider network, including Air Europa’s leading Latin America Network.”

‘We are very pleased to expand our partnership with Etihad Airways into a scenario that will be even more rewarding for our customers. By initiating our operations between Madrid-Barajas and Abu Dhabi, it will further extend our reach to the Middle East and Asia, opening up more possibilities to connect both regions to the Americas via Europe, while offering the highest standards of quality,’ said Richard Clark, Air Europa’s General Manager.

Etihad and Air Europa already have a partnership that includes bilateral codesharing and allows members of their frequent flyer programmes to earn and redeem miles on each other’s flights. The enhanced collaboration would further solidify Air Europa’s footprint in the Middle East and Asia, leveraging Etihad’s Abu Dhabi hub to unlock greater connectivity for its customers.

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At this prestigious travel trade event, STA showcased its world-class tourism offerings—from rich cultural heritage and iconic destinations to diverse landscapes and exceptional experiences. The Saudi delegation, which included 14 stakeholders from DMOs, DMCs, and airline partners, played a key role in reinforcing the Saudi’s appeal to Indian travellers.

To further strengthen ties with the Indian travel trade, its delegation also hosted networking events in Bengaluru and Mumbai, engaging over 200 members of travel trade associations and OTAs. These events provided an opportunity to delve deeper into its major tourism initiatives and explore significant growth opportunities in the region.

Activating mega initiatives in India  

STA launched a series of key initiatives across MICE, destination weddings, and Group Inclusive Tours (GIT), positioning itself as a prime destination for large-scale conferences, corporate retreats, and exclusive events. A recent GIT familiarization trip allowed leading Indian travel professionals to experience its rich culture, warm hospitality, and stunning landscapes firsthand.

With world-class venues, luxurious accommodations, and bespoke experiences, it offers the perfect setting for Indian travellers looking to host their special occasions, whether for grand weddings or intimate celebrations.

Charting New Heights  

Saudi is also fast becoming a global hub for major sporting events. Since 2018, STA hosted over 100 international sporting events, including major boxing fights and Formula 1. Looking ahead, Saudi is set to host the World Rally Championship, the FIBA Basketball Asia Cup, the Esports World Cup, and the FIFA World Cup 2034, with its matches set to take place in iconic venues across Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, and Abha. These high-profile events are set to appeal to Indian sports enthusiasts, offering them unparalleled opportunities to experience world-class sporting action in an exciting new destination.

Ease of Access & Enhanced Connectivity  

Its growing status as a global sports and tourism powerhouse is backed by its enhanced connectivity, making travel more accessible than ever before. As of February 2025, inbound weekly flights from India have increased to 314, marking a 13.4% rise from the same period in 2024. This capacity is set to grow by an additional 14.5% this year, with expanded routes to 33 key gateways, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, catering to the rising demand for both business and leisure travel.

Currently, seven airlines operate between India and Saudi—Saudia, Flynas, IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air—offering seamless connectivity. Additionally, Indian travellers with a valid Schengen, UK, or US visa can now benefit from simplified visa procedures at 11 Tasheer Centres across India, making travel to Saudi even more convenient and accessible.

A Future of Opportunity  

At the heart of Arabia, Saudi continues to strengthen its position as a must-visit destination, driven by a clear vision and strategic efforts. With a focus on safety, hospitality, and diverse experiences, it offers something for every traveller—whether seeking adventure, luxury, or cultural immersion. As one of the key source markets, India plays an important role in its tourism growth and Vision 2030. 

Read more: News

The initiative continues to serve as a pivotal platform for engaging with Indian trade partners and strengthening tourism ties between the two nations. Taking place from 18th to 20th March, the event will be hosted across three key Indian cities – Delhi, Chennai, and Mumbai.

As one of South Africa’s top priority markets, with India remaining a key focus for tourism growth, this year’s roadshow will offer stakeholders valuable business opportunities, immersive experiences, and direct engagement with the country’s tourism industry leaders. Now in its 21st edition, the event will introduce a refreshed strategic vision for the Indian market, highlighting key trends and emerging opportunities.

Led by Gcobani Mancotywa, Regional General Manager for Asia, Australasia, and the Middle East, South African Tourism, the roadshow aims to build on past successes and further accelerate Indian tourist arrivals. Strengthening ties with Indian trade buyers, the convention will feature over 40 prominent exhibitors from the Rainbow Nation, including 09 SMMEs, underscoring a commitment to inclusivity and business diversification. Notably, over 15 % of exhibitors will showcase new products and offerings, adding fresh dimensions to South Africa’s appeal.

Commenting on the occasion, Gcobani Mancotywa said, “Our journey in the Indian market has been nothing short of exceptional. Our 2024 roadshow led to over 12,000 trade meetings, generating more than 160,000 immediate leads—a testament to the strong demand for South Africa. In 2024, India recorded 75,541 tourist arrivals to South Africa, marking a 79% recovery from pre-COVID levels. With strong momentum, we are setting our sights on a 16% increase in arrivals in 2025. Through this roadshow, we aim to deepen engagement with Indian travel trade partners, equipping them with the insights and tools needed to accelerate tourism growth”.

India is not only a vital source market for South African Tourism but also a key partner in long-term bilateral travel and trade collaborations. Addressing accessibility, Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille recently announced the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, set to streamline visa applications for Indian travellers. Additionally, the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) portal now live will expedite group visa applications, facilitating a smoother travel process. Discussions are also ongoing to establish direct flight routes between India and South Africa, enhancing connectivity and boosting inbound tourism.

Looking ahead to 2025, South African Tourism remains focused on key consumer segments, including adventure seekers, luxury travellers, family vacationers, and MICE groups. India’s traveller demographic has evolved significantly, with an increase in visitors aged over 40 in 2024 and a rise in family travel to South Africa. The MICE segment remains a key priority, MICE and business travellers contributing to nearly 49.6% of Indian arrivals, out of which MICE alone attracts 20.2% of Indian visitors to SA and 29.4% Business Travellers.

As South Africa assumes the G20 Presidency in 2025, the nation is keen to strengthen global tourism alliances, promote sustainable travel, and expand enhanced cross-border opportunities. With growing accessibility, increased trade engagement, and innovative campaigns such as the ‘More & More’ brand initiative, South African Tourism remains committed to deepening its presence in the Indian market.

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This franchise agreement signifies IPCPL’s commitment to enhancing the property, upgrading its facilities, and delivering the high-quality service that Ramada is known for.

The ‘Ramada by Wyndham Ghaziabad Vasundhara’ will be a dynamic conversion hotel offering 160 keys. The hotel is currently undergoing renovation and expansion and is expected to open in 2025.

Located in the heart of the rapidly developing Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR), Ramada by Wyndham Ghaziabad Vasundhara is ideally situated between Noida’s thriving IT hub and the Sahibabad Industrial Zone. The property is conveniently located just 9 km from Hindon Airport and 30 km from Indira Gandhi International Airport, making it easily accessible for both business and leisure travelers. The hotel will feature a sleek, modern facade, elegant interiors, and an extensive range of services tailored to provide a seamless and comfortable stay for guests.

Expressing his excitement, Manish Kumar Bansal, Partner at I.P Constructions Pvt. Ltd., stated, “We are honoured to partner with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the largest hotel franchising company in the world, to bring the ‘Ramada’ brand in Vasundhara that is a prominent industrial and residential region in Ghaziabad.” 

“This marks our third hotel signing in Delhi-NCR under the Ramada by Wyndham brand, and our fourth hotel in the region overall. The hotel’s strategic location near industrial zones and cultural landmarks makes it an ideal choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience,” said Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director, Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.

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South Asia delivered a strong full-year performance, with RevPAR growth of 11%, led by ADR and occupancy. Key metropolitan markets such as Hyderabad, Gurugram, Bengaluru, and Mumbai were instrumental in driving ADR growth.

Marriott International President and Chief Executive Officer, Anthony Capuano reaffirmed the significance of the South Asia region in the company’s global growth strategy during his recent visit to India. Highlighting the region’s dynamic hospitality landscape and immense potential for expansion, he emphasized Marriott’s commitment to strengthening its presence and delivering exceptional experiences to guests.

“We had a record-breaking year in 2024 with unprecedented signings and strong business performance in South Asia, underscoring the region’s immense growth potential. With a robust pipeline of openings, Marriott remains committed to driving economic impact, creating job opportunities and supporting local economies. As we continue to broaden our brand portfolio, expand into new tertiary markets, and enhance our Marriott Bonvoy travel platform, our focus remains on meeting evolving traveler needs and delivering exceptional experiences. I am confident in our momentum as we lead the industry and bring people together through the transformative power of travel,” said Anthony Capuano, President and CEO, Marriott International.

Marriott’s 2024 pipeline highlights strong, diversified growth in the region, with 50% of rooms in Tier 1 and gateway cities, 26% in leisure destinations, and a significant share from portfolio deals. This reflects developer confidence and aligns with the growing demand for travel experiences in sought-after locations. Marriott International currently has a diverse portfolio of 168 properties across 17 distinct brands in South Asia and anticipates opening 14 hotels across the region in 2025.

Luxury and Premium Brands Propel Demand, Charting a Strong Growth Trajectory in South Asia

The luxury segment is driving demand in South Asia as affluent travelers seek tailored experiences, with a focus on premium amenities, experiences rooted in the destination, and exceptional service. Growing Marriott’s presence across both established and emerging destinations, 75% of the rooms signed in 2024 in South Asia were in the luxury and upper upscale segments. 

Known for its legendary service and refined design, The Ritz-Carlton will continue to set the standard for luxury, with anticipated openings in Jaipur, Udaipur, and Chennai. Meanwhile, Hyderabad is expected to welcome the market debut of two iconic brands—W Hotels and St. Regis Hotels & Resorts—slated to open in 2028 and 2031, respectively. JW Marriott also continues its expansion, with 6 new properties in the pipeline, bringing the total number of JW Marriott branded hotels in South Asia to 27; and the highly sought-after lifestyle brand EDITION Hotels will make its expected South Asia debut with the opening of The Mumbai EDITION in 2029. 

Marriott’s premium brands strengthened their foothold in India with the milestone opening of the country’s 150th property, Katra Marriott Resort & Spa, in 2024. Meanwhile, expansion into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities continues to gain momentum, with upcoming properties in Jaipur, Surat, Shimla, Jalandhar, and Coorg.

Select Service Portfolio Fuels Growth in Key Cities and Emerging Destinations

Select Service brands continued to strengthen Marriott’s expansion across the region, offering travellers the quality of international hospitality at accessible price points. As of YE 2024, these brands represent 31% of signed deals (representing 25% of rooms signed), driving growth in emerging destinations and key capital cities.

Moxy Hotels—designed for the next generation of travelers—became the 17th brand to join Marriott’s South Asia portfolio with the 2024 debut of Moxy Bengaluru Airport Prestige Tech Cloud. The brand is set to expand further, with upcoming openings in Kathmandu, Chennai, Mumbai (Dadar), and Bengaluru.

Expanding Best-in-Class Technology Workforce in the Region

In October of 2024, Marriott (Marriott International) established the company’s first global capability centre (GCC) in Hyderabad. Leveraging Hyderabad’s top tech talent, the Marriott Tech Accelerator is an expansion of the company’s global technology team and will support Marriott’s tech infrastructure, engineering capacity, next-gen solutions, and security capabilities across its global enterprise in 141 countries and territories.

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The company now has a total of 39 properties in Maharashtra, operational and opening shortly.

Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, expressed his pleasure at the group’s continued growth and promise to delivering unparalleled hospitality. Speaking on the occasion, he commented, “We are delighted to extend our presence in this culturally rich state, providing unique hospitality experiences that honour both the allure of Maharashtra and our dedication to sustainability. We look forward to welcoming visitors to Hatgad-Saputara and providing the exceptional service that The Fern Group is known for.”

Nestled in the serene hills of Hatgad-Saputara, The Fern Heaven on The Hills offers a luxurious escape that seamlessly blends comfort with natural beauty. The resort features 68 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each thoughtfully designed to provide a unique experience. Guests can enjoy stunning valley vistas or charming garden views, with select accommodations featuring private sitting gazebos for a tranquil retreat. Additionally, Jacuzzi-equipped suites offer the perfect setting to unwind while soaking in breathtaking panoramic landscapes. 

The Fern Heaven on The Hills offers the perfect blend of luxury and adventure, with easy access to the region’s stunning natural and cultural attractions. Guests can explore Hatgad Fort, Saputara Lake, Gira Falls and Girmal Waterfalls or visit the Saputara Tribal Museum, Purna Sanctuary, Vansda National Park and serene temples and gardens.

Read more: News